The New England Patriots haven’t completely blown Sunday’s New Year’s Eve game against the Buffalo Bills, but they’ve tried to in every possible with quarterback Bailey Zappe under center.
Zappe, who is 2-2 in his last four games as a starter, had a disastrous first half against the Bills, throwing 9-of-17 for 113 yards and three interceptions. The multiple interceptions even drew a reaction from Mac Jones, who was pacing up and down the sidelines during the game.
Granted, Zappe isn’t the only one struggling in this game. Bills quarterback Josh Allen also had an ugly showing in the first half with only 46 passing yards and one interception.
Yet, Zappe’s struggles is a reminder that the Patriots need a legitimate franchise quarterback to ultimately get the team back on track. They might have a hard time getting one, if they continue to win games late in the season. Last week’s win over the Denver Broncos knocked them out of the No. 2 spot in the 2024 NFL draft.
A win on Sunday could make things even more difficult for the team moving forward. Here’s what fans were saying on Twitter after an ugly first-half showing from Zappe and the offense: