The New England Patriots didn't put up much of a fight during their 34–15 defeat against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
The Patriots fell to 3–9 on the season, and they made a multitude of mistakes throughout the game against their division rivals. New England was wildly undisciplined in the loss, racking up 10 penalties for a total of 75 yards, vastly more than the three penalties the Dolphins committed.
After the game, head coach Jerod Mayo was asked about the consistent errors being committed by Patriots players, and at what point the blame needs to rest on the players, rather than himself. Although Mayo had previously taken ownership for the loss, he said that what happens on the field is out of his control.
"Once those guys cross the white lines there’s nothing I can do for them. There’s nothing any coach can do for them once they cross the white line. It's my job to continue to prepare not only them but our coaches to go out here and play better football," said Mayo.
#Patriots HC Jerod Mayo on the constant errors committed by players:
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) November 24, 2024
“Once those guys cross the [sideline] there’s nothing I can do for them. There’s nothing any coach can do for them once they cross the [sideline]. It’s my job to continue to prepare… them.” pic.twitter.com/nhGjOF1KO1
Mayo admitted that he needs to do a better job preparing his players to avoid those types of mistakes, but noted that once the game gets going, he can't control what occurs on the field. When it comes down to the plays during a game, Mayo suggested the onus is on the players to execute.
Some fans weren't satisfied with Mayo's answer, suggesting that he has not lived up to standards when it comes to fielding a team that's prepared on Sunday.
True. Which is why preparing them better and holding them accountable is so important https://t.co/Ildd2mTYOM
— Jerry Thornton (@jerrythornton1) November 24, 2024
— Lou Merloni (@LouMerloni) November 25, 2024
I'm going to ask Jerod if I can coach next week since there's nothing an NFL Head Coach can do to help his team after they cross the white lines. I think it'd be a cool experience. #Patriots https://t.co/uN97yB0otc
— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) November 25, 2024
I am a guy who has given the entire staff a ton of grace considering the circumstances but Mayo this is just terrible to say after getting blown out man Jesus https://t.co/jboWnGA1E5
— KDOT 🌞 (@kdot89_) November 24, 2024
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Fans Weren't Happy With Jerod Mayo's Explanation for Patriots' Frequent Sloppy Play.
