Weak vs. Elite: Revealing Stat Explains Why Patriots Missed Playoffs in 2022
While the New England Patriots' off-season focus - rightfully so - remains squarely on the status, performance and future of Mac Jones, there is also this little detail about the team being unable to beat other elite quarterbacks.
While Jones underwent a turbulent 2022 plagued by an ankle injury, in-game outbursts at since-departed play-caller Matt Patricia, job encroachment by rookie Bailey Zappe, allegations of "dirty" play by opposing players, a regression in performance and the lack of endorsement going forward from coach Bill Belichick, the Pats in 2023 need him to come back not only better ... but also able to out-play some of the best quarterbacks on New England's schedule.
In 2022 that certainly did not happen, one of the reasons the Pats finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the second time in three seasons. Despite a Super-Bowl level defense that forced 30 turnovers (only the Dallas Cowboys had more with 33) and scored a league-leading seven touchdowns, the offense was punch-less when needed most.
Against healthy No. 1 quarterbacks the Pats went a revolting 1-9. The lone win came against the Lions' Jared Goff, with losses to Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins), Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Justin Fields (Bears), Kirk Cousins (Vikings), Derek Carr (Raiders), Joe Burrow (Bengals) and Josh Allen (Bills) twice.
Their other seven victories? Against Mitch Trubisky (Steelers), Jacoby Brissett (Browns), Zach Wilson (Jets) twice, Sam Ehlinger (Colts), Colt McCoy (Cardinals) and Teddy Bridgewater/Skylar Thompson (Dolphins).
In addition to Allen, Tagovailoa and whoever - Rodgers? - winds up with the Jets in the AFC East, on this season's Pats schedule are quarterbacks named Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Jalen Hurts (Eagles), Justin Herbert (Chargers), Russell Wilson (Broncos), Dak Prescott (Cowboys) and Daniel Jones (Giants).
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