How the Patriots’ QB drama reflects a startling decline in performance

Patriots’ QB drama shows how far the mighty have fallen
originally appeared on
NBC Sports Boston

The New England Patriots are now a shadow of the team they used to be, with a 2-8 record and an average of only 14 points per game. The uncertainty around their quarterback situation has added to the drama as nobody, not the players, not the coaches, not the quarterbacks themselves, know which underwhelming option will start Sunday against the Giants. This has raised significant questions about what’s best for the football team, with some contemplating whether Bill Belichick is playing chess or if this is the beginning of the end for a once-mighty franchise.

It’s apparent that Belichick’s handling of the quarterback position has led to confusion and dissatisfaction. Splitting reps between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe isn’t ideal for getting someone ready to start a football game, and the lack of clarity surrounding the decision-making process is exacerbating the situation. While first-round quarterback Mac Jones is expected to absorb much of the criticism if he starts and the team loses, the potential ineptitude under Zappe will expose the mismanagement by Belichick.

Amidst this turmoil, there are fears that the team’s regard for Zappe is questionable, as indicated by their earlier decision to install Malik Cunningham as Jones’ backup against the Raiders, leaving Zappe inactive. The ongoing uncertainty regarding the Patriots’ starting quarterback has become a defining characteristic of their 2023 season and has created significant perplexity among both the fanbase and the sports community at large.

Looking back at the string of disappointing moments this season, the current weeklong uncertainty regarding the Patriots’ starting quarterback might just be the rock-bottom moment. What’s more, the lingering question remains – what’s best for the football team?

While the Patriots face the Giants, the rest of the league is immersed in midseason action. With a sense of impending doom, the prediction stands at: GIANTS 12, Patriots 9.

Prediction: GIANTS 12, Patriots 9