Patriots have a problem that Week 1 made impossible to ignore

The cornerbacks were all too soft against the Raiders, allowing Geno Smith to have a huge game. | Bob DeChiara-Imagn ImagesAfter what was such a hyped offseason, the Patriots were disappointing in their opening game against the Raiders, losing 20-13. While the offense was a central issue, another position looked weak for New England.

With Christian Gonzalez out due to injury, Carlton Davis and company couldn't keep pace with the Raiders' pass catchers and allowed Geno Smith to throw for 362 yards, the fifth-highest total in his career.

Given how impressive the run defense was, the cornerback play was especially disappointing. Despite the omission of Gonzalez from the game day roster, the team…