Mac Jones will be the man against the Jets this Sunday

The drama has subsided for now.  After a few weeks of Mac Jones vs. Bailey Zappe debates, highlighted by last Monday’s mismanaged debacle that likely took a toll on the confidence of both quarterbacks, the starting position has reportedly been given back to the former first-round pick:

Breaking news for Week 8: Patriots QB Mac Jones took about 90% of the first teams reps in practice today and will start for the team on Sunday against the Jets, per source. pic.twitter.com/Gc2js6YabK

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) October 26, 2022

Jones and Zappe split the practice reps last week, so this dramatic change in game plan indicates that Mac is far more secure in his position this week.  He won’t be looking over his shoulder waiting for the rookie to get the call after his first couple mistakes.  It’s hard to believe that aspect alone won’t drastically improve his preparation this time around.

As excited as many of us were for the possible emergence of another late-round draft pick evolving into a potential franchise leader, it’s clear that the 23 year-old Zappe isn’t ready to face a certain level of adversity.  When things started to go south in the second half against Chicago, the kid unraveled.  While Jones really hasn’t been any better, he at least showed some fight in similar situations last season which automatically makes him more qualified.

Plus a decision had to be made.  The Patriots might not be the powerhouse that they once were, but they’re still too good to become the 2012 Jets who tried to confuse defenses with their laughable dual-threat in Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow.  Flip-flopping between a first-year and second-year player is really just as bad.

The 3-4 Pats will take on the 5-2 Jets in the Meadowlands this Sunday at 1 pm, looking to begin their ascent out of the AFC East basement.

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