Former NFL GM outlines remarkable Patriots vs Bengals stat that underlines Jerod Mayo’s 2024 game plan
The Jerod Mayo era of the New England Patriots got off to a hot start with a Week 1 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Mayo, a former NFL linebacker, has made an impact on the Patriots' defense as proven in the first game of the season.
NFL Network's Scott Pioli said on Tuesday morning that he was impressed with the forced fumbles caused by the Patriots on defense and their special teams. He went on to note that the Bengals had the same number of fumbles versus the Patriots as they had all of last season.
“They made plays on special teams, they made plays on defense. They caused two turnovers, that was a critical one down on the goal line. When they made those turnovers, they scored six points off those turnovers. Here’s an interesting fact. Last year, the Cincinnati Bengals led the entire NFL with the fewest fumbles – they had two all season. They had two fumbles in the first three quarters in this game that led to Patriots points," Pioli said.
Many believed the New England Patriots were in a rebuild mode after the departure of Bill Belichick as they are under a new head coach and coaching staff. During the offseason, Mayo talked about preparing his team well so they would be competitive this season and after just one game, they proved just that.
Jerod Mayo gave credit to his players for defeating Bengals
Jerod Mayo may have a different approach than Bill Belichick when it comes to being a coach. However, he picked up a few things from Belichick after playing for him and being on his staff. After his first victory as head coach, Mayo didn't spend much time on celebrating as he said it was time to "turn the page" and get ready for the next game.
He then told reporters he gives all the credit to his players for getting the win.
"I think winning as a coach is huge, and once again, not for what it does for me but for what it does for those players. I can't say enough about the players."
Jerod Mayo added:
"Without them, I'm nothing. They knew the plan and they executed. You can have all the mantras you want, but on game day it comes down to execution."
Mayo and the Patriots will play at home against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.