Joe Murray: Mac Jones and the Patriots come up short, again
The Patriots lost another winnable game Sunday night to Miami 24-17. Mac Jones had another chance to tie or win the game on the final drive and could not convert….
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – SEPTEMBER 17: Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots reacts after officials overturned a spot to turn the ball over and end the game amia at Gillette Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The Patriots lost another winnable game Sunday night to Miami 24-17. Mac Jones had another chance to tie or win the game on the final drive and could not convert.
Jones took accountability last week after having multiple opportunities against the Eagles and found himself in a similar spot with the same results. The offensive line had a tough night. Lacking speed options on the field was eye-opening. Bill O’Brien decided to go with two tight ends over multiple receivers.
There were multiple comebacks on Sunday across the NFL by quarterbacks who some may consider mediocre.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Desmond Ridder #9 of the Atlanta Falcons reacts after a play during the fourth quarter in the game against the Green Bay Packers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Desmond Ridder led Atlanta with a comeback win. His offensive options are Kyle Pitts, Drake London, and Bijan Robinson.
DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 17: Sam Howell #14 of the Washington Commanders attempts a pass during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on September 17, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
Sam Howell went on the road in Denver down two touchdowns.The options include Terry McLaurin, Brian Robinson, and Logan Thomas.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 17: Daniel Jones #8 of the New York Giants throws the ball during the fourth quarter in the game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
Daniel Jones was down 21 points and led the Giants to their first victory. Saquon Barkley, Darren Waller, and Jalin Hyatt contributed to the win.
Juju Smith-Schuster and Zeke Elliot are not what they used to be. The running game is nonexistent. The Dolphins gave up over 200 yards on the ground a week ago. Kendrick Bourne can make nice plays but have a drop or run the wrong route. Devante Parker had six catches and out-worked on the sideline. Hunter Henry is the Patriots' best option and is a free agent in the offseason.
Some former Patriots played well in week 2. Nelson Agholor had a TD in the Ravens win. Damien Harris scored a touchdown for Buffalo. Nick Folk had the game-winning kick in OT for the Titans.
The Patriots are off to a 0-2 start and lack talent. The team will decide on Mac Jones' fifth-year option heading into next season. At this point, they may need to invest in the position. It's clear he has not been protected or supported over three seasons.
The Patriots projected to have $115 million in cap space next season. They will need to start winning. If not, Bill Belichick may not be making the decision on Jones future.
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