Patriots Stick with Brissett Despite Rough Start and Rising Pressure
Despite a disappointing 1-3 start to the season, the New England Patriots remain steadfast in their decision to start Jacoby Brissett at quarterback, even as their offense struggles to find its rhythm. This decision comes amid rising demands to give their first-round rookie, Drake Maye, an opportunity to lead the team.
The Patriots had high hopes entering the season with their fresh talent, selecting Maye with the No. 3 overall pick. However, thus far, Maye has been relegated to the sidelines, observing as Brissett commands the offense. Despite the early season setbacks, head coach Jerod Mayo has been firm in his commitment to Brissett.
"That's not the plan right now," Mayo stated unequivocally when asked about potentially starting Maye.
Brissett’s most recent performance against the San Francisco 49ers did little to dispel critics. In a game that ended in a 30-19 loss for New England, Brissett made several questionable decisions, including a costly interception returned for a touchdown. This game has added fuel to the fire, amplifying calls for a quarterback change. The Patriots’ offense has struggled to move the ball effectively and put points on the board, problems that have persisted since last season.
Bill Belichick, the former head coach of the Patriots who once mentored Brissett, is no longer privy to the team’s current developmental strategies. His insights, however, remain pertinent. Reflecting on the tumultuous tenure that saw constant quarterback switches between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe, Belichick noted, "There are a number of issues there. One is [they] can't move the ball and can't score."
During Belichick's final season, the Patriots experienced significant instability at the quarterback position, with Jones and Zappe each taking turns as the starter. This constant fluctuation eventually led to Jones being benched. In the current season, while the quarterback scenario is seemingly more stable with Brissett at the helm, the underlying issues of offensive inefficiency persist.
With Jerod Mayo now steering the team, his decisions are under growing scrutiny. Fans and analysts alike are questioning the wisdom of keeping Maye benched, especially in light of Brissett’s uneven performances. The growing chorus of voices demanding a change indicates a collective impatience with the current state of affairs.
Former head coach Belichick candidly admitted his lack of knowledge regarding the current plans for Maye, saying, "I'll be honest with you, I have no idea what the plan is so I don't know, I can't comment on that." He added, "If Mayo says he's got a plan then I guess he's got one and we'll have to wait to see what it is ... we'll see, we'll see what the plan is. I have no idea what it is."
As the Patriots continue into the season with a 1-3 record, all eyes remain on Brissett’s performance and Mayo's strategy. The effectiveness of Mayo's plan is critical to the trajectory of the Patriots’ season and could ultimately define his period as head coach. The upcoming games will be crucial in determining whether the team can overcome its offensive struggles or if a quarterback change becomes inevitable.
For now, the New England Patriots are continuing to back their current starter, despite the palpable pressure for a new direction. Whether this steadfastness will pay off or lead to further disappointments is a narrative that will unfold with each passing game.