Last week in Green Bay, we saw great effort by the team on offense, defense and special teams with a lot of help by the rookies. Bailey Zappe stepped in as the third quarterback going up against Aaron Rodgers, taking them to overtime. You had the ball on the 50 in overtime. The bottom line is that you’re 1-3 coming out of Green Bay, which means this week against the Lions is must win situation. It’s also a big game for Bailey Zappe and Matt Patricia. It’s time for Zolak’s week 5 Patriots preview.
Sit Mac Jones Until He’s At Least 90%
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – SEPTEMBER 25: Quarterback Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots is helped off the field during the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Gillette Stadium on September 25, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
You’ve got an opportunity now with Mac Jones on the mend. You know, looking at Mac this week in practice, he’s got some bounce back in his step, but to me, he doesn’t look 100% healthy. I’m not playing him unless he’s 90, 95%. Nobody’s ever ruled 100% for the season. You have time now. I don’t expect Hoyer back anytime soon.
Downfield Passing With Zappe
Oct 2, 2022; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe (4) throws a pass during the second quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
I do expect Bailey Zappe to start and be effective on Sunday. Matt Patricia is the former Detroit Lions head coach. We know the history. This is a big game for him. So look for the Patriots to establish the run, specifically early in this game and also push the ball downfield. Now you have a chance to work with Zappe for five days formulate a game plan that benefits him benefits his skill set.
Limit Big Plays on Defense
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – OCTOBER 02: Allen Lazard #13 of the Green Bay Packers lays on his back as Jack Jones #13 of the New England Patriots returns an interception for a touchdown
during the second quarter at Lambeau Field on October 02, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)On defense, continue to do what you’re doing. Don’t give up the big plays over the top. Keep things in front of you and tackle. This is a high scoring Detroit team coming in here. You got to limit the points.