The Patriots preseason has come and gone. As many long-time New England football fans would put it, ‘we’re on to the regular season.’
However, there’s still one important matter to settle before the Patriots’ Week 1 matchup with the Miami Dolphins can be put fully into focus – naming a starting quarterback. And Bill Belichick isn’t ready to go there just yet.
Speaking with the media following the team’s preseason finale Sunday night, Belichick was asked if he’s ready to name a starting quarterback for Week 1. “No. We still have a lot of decisions to make,” Belichick replied.
Based on the way the Patriots have handled their quarterbacks over the last few weeks, it seems as though the plan is for Cam Newton to begin the season as QB1. Newton started Sunday’s game and played through the first quarter with the presumed starting offense. Mac Jones took over in the second quarter, playing with the backups.
Still, Jones plans to stay ready if and when he does get the nod. “I learned from a young age you prepare like you’re the starter. You don’t have to be the starter. Just prepare,” Jones said.
“Right now, I’m just focused on today. I think there’s a lot of stuff I can clean up,” he noted, before adding. “I’m going to be ready whenever my time comes.”
Jones’ time may not come right away – although until Belichick makes an official announcement, it can’t be ruled out. It looks like ‘The Great QB Battle of 2021’ will continue as preparations for the regular season begin.
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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 abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.