By Ava Finn
November 2, 2022
Starting Patriots Quarterback Mac Jones (left) and recently promoted 2nd string QB Bailey Zappe (right).
On September 25th, the Patriots lost their starting quarterback, Mac Jones, to an ankle injury against the Baltimore Ravens. He was slow to get up after the last offensive play and did not return to play the next three games. That game resulted in a 37-26 loss.
In week 4, they faced the Green Bay Packers. 2nd string Quarterback Brian Hoyer started the game, but suffered a concussion early on, forcing 3rd string QB Bailey Zappe to step up.
Zappe was a fourth-round pick from Western Kentucky University in 2021. The game against the Packers on October 2nd resulted in a loss, but it was a competitive matchup. The final score was 27-24. The Packers secured the win with Mason Crosby’s 31-yard field goal kick in overtime. Zappe threw 99 yards and one touchdown in his first-ever NFL game.
Zappe had his first NFL start for the Patriots on October 9 against the Detroit Lions. He led the team to a 29-0 victory. The Patriots dominated this game both offensively and defensively. Zappe threw 188 yards, including one touchdown pass. He did throw one interception, but other than that, he was very composed for his second only NFL appearance. Zappe has become more comfortable on the gridiron due to his relationship with his coaches and teammates. They have provided him with a lot of help on and off the field. He proved that he had solid potential in this game and improved the Patriots record to 2-3.
On October 16th, the Pats faced the Cleveland Browns in an exciting game. Zappe threw two touchdown passes and a total of 309 yards. This was a well-played game for the Patriots, which resulted in a 38-15 win.
During his first three games, Zappe racked up a total of 596 passing yards and four total touchdown passes. Those are impressive stats for a 3rd string rookie quarterback who only played in two and a half games. The Patriots have won two out of the three games he played in, and the loss to the Packers was a close and competitive game.
With Jones as starter, the Pats lost two out of the three games. His stats, so far, this year are 786 passing yards and two total touchdown passes. This is also his second year as the quarterback, which means that he has more experience than Zappe. Despite Jones having more yards, Zappe has thrown more touchdown passes.
Jones has since returned as starting QB. But based on his highly impressive performances, it isn't out of the question that Zappe could replace Jones sometime this season. Only time will tell.
Meet the Writer!
Ava Finn, class of 2025, is a staff writer for the Dedham Mirror. She also competes as a Marauder on the soccer team. She enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and being outside.
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