Last year, the New England Patriots returned to the playoffs thanks to the emergence of then-rookie quarterback Mac Jones.
It was like a match made in heaven because the Patriots did not trade up to select the former Alabama standout.
Unfortunately, he has been sidelined after suffering a high ankle sprain this season.
Brian Hoyer is his primary replacement but is also inactive after undergoing concussion protocol.
Therefore, the Patriots had no choice but to have rookie Bailey Zappe play for them.
Luckily, the play-caller from Western Kentucky did not disappoint.
Bailey Zappe is the first rookie to win his first 2 career starts and record a 100+ passer rating in those games since Hall of Famer Sonny Jurgensen in 1957. #ForeverNE @Patriots @ProFootballHOF
— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) October 16, 2022
NFL Research tweeted, “Bailey Zappe is the first rookie to win his first 2 career starts and record a 100+ passer rating in those games since Hall of Famer Sonny Jurgensen in 1957.”
More importantly, his efforts helped the Patriots return to a 3-3 record after Week 6.
Zappe had 17 completions out of 21 throws for 188 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in their Week 5 win over the Detroit Lions.
A week later, he had 24 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns versus the Cleveland Browns.
The Patriots’ Week 6 victory also ties head coach Bill Belichick with George Halas in career wins at 324.
Is A Quarterback Crisis Looming In New England?
It’s possible that Zappe’s success is a by-product of Belichick’s system.
After all, it helped Matt Cassel thrive during that season when Tom Brady suffered a season-ending injury.
Likewise, it helped Jones carry the squad back to the postseason.
But with Zappe’s recent performances, it’s difficult to ignore that Belichick could consider him for the starting role.
Therefore, a quarterback competition between Jones and Zappe may ensue, leaving Belichick with a tough decision.
The Patriots can extend their winning streak to three by defeating the Chicago Bears in Week 7.
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