Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at Alexander.Barth@bbgi.com.
Belichick not willing to discuss Patriots quarterback change
After taking a noncommittal stance on the Patriots quarterback situation earlier this week, Belichick was a lot more forceful with his comments on Wednesday morning.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – OCTOBER 18: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during the game against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium on October 18, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesBy Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
After taking a noncommittal stance on the Patriots quarterback situation earlier this week, Belichick was a lot more forceful with his comments on Wednesday morning. As the team gets ready for it's first practice of the week, Belichick was asked by ESPN's Mike Reiss if the timing makes sense to install Jarrett Stidham as QB1.
"We're not answering that question every day," Belichick shot back. "We've been through this for a month." Reiss then clarified his question, noting that the team being eliminated from the playoffs could potentially change the circumstances. "How about I let you know if we're going to make a change," Belichick replied.
You can see the full exchange below.
Just because Belichick isn't willing to openly discuss a quarterback change, doesn't mean Newton is locked in as the starter against Buffalo. If he does plan to start Stidham, it benefits the team to begin that process today so the 24-year-old has ample opportunity to work with the first team offense in practice, contribute to the game plan, and more.
While Belichick could be moving things around behind the scenes, he's not tipping his hand publicly. Both he and his players have stated numerous times since being officially eliminated from the playoffs on Sunday that the goal is still to be competitive and win football games. Keeping Buffalo guessing about their starting quarterback could definitely be considered gamesmanship.
Alex BarthWriter
Alex Barth is a digital content producer and on-air host for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Barth grew up in the Boston area and began covering the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Red Sox in 2017 before joining the Hub in 2020. He now covers all things Boston Sports for 985TheSportsHub.com as well as appearing on air. Alex writes about all New England sports, as well as college football. You can follow him across all social media platforms at @RealAlexBarth.
