Mac Jones and the Patriots had a tough day in Europe on Sunday.
Facing off against the Colts, the quarterback was held to 170 yards passing as New England managed just six points over 60 painful minutes of football.
Jones had a chance to lead the Patriots back from the brink late in the game, but threw a dreadful interception that all but ended New England's hopes of making a comeback.
The third-year pro was benched in favor of Bailey Zappe for the Patriots' final drive.
After the game, Jones was clearly frustrated and openly questioned a decision by the team’s coaching staff earlier in the game.
Just before halftime, the Patriots had the ball near midfield with a chance to throw a Hail Mary before the break. Instead, New England threw it short and tried to get blockers in front of receiver Demario Douglas. He did not reach the end zone.
Speaking with reporters after the game, Jones said he didn't know why the Patriots had passed up a deep shot at the end zone.
"No clue," Jones said. "There's two seconds left, and we needed 60 yards. So, I don't know."
Why didn't the Patriots go for the Hail Mary before halftime?
— NBC Sports Boston's Patriots Coverage (@NBCSPatriots) November 12, 2023
Mac Jones: "No clue. There's 2 seconds left & we needed 60 yards so... I don't know" pic.twitter.com/ueiZ4HApFa
With the loss, the Patriots fall to 2–8 on the season heading into their bye for Week 11
Given the extra time to prepare, and the decision to bench Jones for the final drive of Sunday’s game, it’s possible New England decides to give Zappe a chance to start through some of the second half of the season.
