Belichick and Mac Jones speak on Patriots' struggles following loss to Giants

The New England Patriots faced a disappointing 10-7 defeat against the Giants this Sunday, failing to turn their season around despite hopes of a bye week resurgence under coach Bill Belichick. The loss further dampened the Patriots' already bleak season, which now stands at a 2-8 start.

In a move that highlighted the team's ongoing struggles, Belichick substituted starting quarterback Mac Jones with Bailey Zappe after Jones' two interceptions in the first half. The switch, however, didn't steer the team back on course, as Zappe also threw an interception. Postgame, Belichick repeatedly expressed frustration over the team's poor ball security.

The decision-making process for the starting quarterback role remained clouded in secrecy up until the game, contributing to an air of uncertainty within the team. Tight end Hunter Henry revealed that the players were informed of Jones' start only on Sunday, a statement somewhat contradicted by Belichick's vague recollection of the timeline. "I can't . Sometime during the week," Belichick commented during his press conference.

This week's practices saw Jones and Zappe sharing first-team reps, a decision Belichick defended by stating that both players "deserve to play." However, he refrained from divulging who would start against the Chargers in Week 13, leaving the quarterback situation ambiguous.

Jones took responsibility for the loss

Jones, on his part, displayed a sense of understanding and responsibility during his postgame press conference. Despite the split in practice reps, he insisted he was "definitely prepared" and acknowledged his role in the team's performance. "Just bad quarterback play," Jones itted, adding that the Patriots have "no chance" under such circumstances.

As the Patriots navigate through a challenging season, questions linger about the future of their quarterback position. With Jones hinting at his awareness of the situation, it remains to be seen if the 2021 first-round pick has made his final start for the team. Both Belichick and Jones face a critical juncture as they look ahead to the remainder of the season, with the team's direction and leadership under scrutiny.