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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Danny Jaillet

Patriots coach Bill Belichick explains reasoning behind benching Mac Jones

New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick made the decision to bench Mac Jones for Bailey Zappe at quarterback in the final drive of Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts.

The experiment failed, however, as Zappe threw an interception to end the game. It was a difficult day for both Jones and Zappe with the two quarterbacks going a combined 18-of-27 throwing for 173 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions.

There were more questions than answers, particularly as it relates to how the game finished. According to Belichick, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss, no decisions have been made for next week. But for right now, the Patriots coach felt like it was time for a change.

Quarterback play has been inconsistent for the entire season.

Change needs to take place, although it remains to be seen if anybody in the quarterback room can provide a spark. The Patriots might have to wait until the offseason for better results.

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