Despite reports last week, it looks like the New England Patriots do indeed have a quarterback controversy between returning starter Mac Jones and rookie Bailey Zappe. Though Jones returned from injury to start against the Chicago Bears on Monday night, Zappe took over when he and the offense struggled.
Since Monday night’s game, in which the team lost 33-14 in embarrassing fashion, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has had several chances to clarify his starting quarterback situation. But he’s refused to give any firm answer on the matter.
Immediately after the game, Belichick was asked specifically who the team’s starting quarterback was, and he refused to answer, saying “we just finished the game.”
Question: Who is the starting quarterback?
Bill Belichick: “We just finished the game.” pic.twitter.com/O4vCRCaOlF
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 25, 2022
Question: If Mac Jones is healthy, is he the starter?
Bill Belichick: “That’s a hypothetical question. So let’s see where that is and what that is.” pic.twitter.com/EPFN61Lflq
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 25, 2022
“That’s a hypothetical question. So let’s see where that is and what that is,” Belichick said when asked if Jones would be the starter if he’s healthy.
Belichick has never been exactly forthcoming during his meetings with the media, but given the team’s struggles, he was not getting the benefit of the doubt this time. The Patriots’ head coach got absolutely blasted for his comments and indecision.
Coaching Malpractice on full display https://t.co/p7GKoAxSbg
— Tyler Moorey (@TMoorey97) October 25, 2022
@Patriots Mr Kraft. I don't like this team anymore because of that man Bill https://t.co/evoi3wxIsK
— Joe Gaslighter (@Joeybatz35) October 25, 2022
Bill Belichick continues to pass on opportunities to declare Mac Jones the starter. And as for last night—If you just watched the game, and nothing else, that had all the earmarks of a benching.
At some point, to me, having Jones’ back here has to be a factor. https://t.co/W6Okz7uN0Z
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 25, 2022
Stop playing games Bill. Pick a starter. https://t.co/YAvgQsm86f
— Morgan Colby (@MorganColby_FF) October 25, 2022
I’m so tired of Bill…he’s lost his touch https://t.co/8skRz8ypQ1
— Justin (@justinsusannn) October 25, 2022
One way or another, Belichick will have to name a starting quarterback when the team takes on the New York Jets on Sunday.
