Tom Brady shook off an early and unusual turnover to throw for a record 517 yards, including a totally insane 99-yard touchdown pass to Wes Welker, as the Patriots topped the Miami Dolphins, 38-24, in Monday night’s season opener.

The New England offense looked in midseason form, with running backs totaling more than 100 yards on the ground and both Welker and versatile tight end Aaron Hernandez tallying triple digits through the air, ESPN reported.

But the defense had high and low points: While an improved defensive line ramped up the pressure, receivers Brandon Marshall and Davone Bess predictably exposed a mediocre secondary.

Here's a question: What were your takeaways from the Patriots season opener?