Bill Belichick Explains Decision to Bench Mac Jones
The New England Patriots used two quarterbacks during a rough 33-14 loss to the Chicago Bears Monday night, as Bailey Zappe replaced Mac Jones in the second half. Following the game, Patriots coach Bill Belichick gave a detailed explanation of his reasoning for replacing Jones -- nah, I'm just messing with you. He mumbled his way through some non-answers like he usually does.
Belichick wouldn't answer why he replaced Jones, but said it wasn't due to an injury or poor performance:
Here's some information (and some obfuscation) from Bill Belichick about his decision to pull Mac Jones after three series.
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) October 25, 2022
Did BB pull Jones for medical reasons with the ankle?
"No."
Did he bench Jones for the interception?
"That's not what it was." pic.twitter.com/xBdIjea85N
Belichick claimed it was always the plan to play two quarterbacks, which makes little sense.
He when asked who the starting quarterback would be moving forward, he gave this insightful response:
Bill Belichick, who is the starting quarterback?
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) October 25, 2022
"Yeah, we just finished the game."
The Patriots coach elects not to name a starting QB. pic.twitter.com/zy96lEUFzA
Thanks, Bill.
Jones was the 15th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and was outplayed by Zappe, a fourth-rounder out of Western Kentucky. Jones finished the night 3-of-6 for 13 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. Zappe completed 14 of 22 passes for 185 yards, with a touchdown and two interceptions. He also led both of New England's touchdown drives.
There is a legitimate quarterback controversy in New England. The thing is, neither guy is all that great and the Patriots are 3-4. I can't wait to hear Belichick expound on why he choses who starts against the New York Jets in Week 8.