Patriots insider settles Mac Jones vs Bailey Zappe QB controversy with Bill Belichick still on the fence
The New England Patriots could be experiencing some quarterback controversy as we enter Week 7 of the season. Starting quarterback Mac Jones suffered a high ankle sprain injury in the Patriots' Week 3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens and has missed the last three games. Zappe played in those three games, including starting in the 38 -15, Week 6 win over the Cleveland Browns.
With head coach Bill Belichick coy on who's starting in Week 7 against the Chicago Bears, one Patriots insider said there's no doubt. Insider Jeff Howe tweeted the following:
"There is no QB controversy in New England. When Mac Jones is healthy enough to return to play, he’ll be the starter, per sources."
There is no QB controversy in New England. When Mac Jones is healthy enough to return to play, he’ll be the starter, per sources. @TheAthletic
Zappe came into New England's Week 4 game against the Green Bay Packers in relief of Brian Hoyer. Hoyer was knocked out of that game in the first quarter due to a concussion. Zappe threw for 99 yards and a touchdown in the loss to Green Bay. The former Western Kentucky star started his first NFL game in Week 5 versus the Detroit Lions.
He completed 17 of 21 passing attempts for 188 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the 29 - 0 win over the Lions. Against the Cleveland Browns, he threw for 309 yards and two touchdowns. The question is whether Belichick should keep Zappe under center or start Jones against the Chicago Bears.
Bailey Zappe or Mac Jones, the QB controversy for the Patriots
For New England, Mac Jones is currently in his second season as their franchise quarterback. He led the Patriots to the playoffs last campaign and finished second in the Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. Jones struggled this season before going down injured. In three starts, he's thrown two touchdowns and five interceptions. In comparison, Zappe has thrown four touchdowns and one interception.
Some people, like Boston Globe senior writer Ben Volin, feel Jones needs to be humbled and this quarterback controversy is good for him. Here's what he said on NBC Sports Boston:
"Making the Pro Bowl pumped his head up a lot, it gave him an impression that he is a lot more than what he really was. I think it was bad deal for Mac."
We'll have to wait and see if Belichick goes with Jones or Zappe as New England look for their straight win in Week 7 against the Bears.
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