The Patriots are on to Plan B. Drake Maye will start Sunday against the Houston Texans, per source. This wasn’t the original plan.
The Patriots had hoped to be able to develop the rookie quarterback a little more, and get their house in order — a more functional offensive line — before putting him under center. Between the 1-4 record, empty seats at Gillette, Jacoby Brissett’s inability to put up more points, and Maye progressing in practice, the Patriots felt it was time. It’s a panic move.
It sure seems reactionary to what’s happening with the team both on and off the field and the apathy that’s set in. It’s both necessary and desperate at the same time. There’s no turning back now.
The Patriots are looking for a spark. They’re hoping Maye will generate some much-needed buzz within the fan base. This could go in one of two directions.
It might fall into the be-careful-what-you-wish for-type of scenario, and they do more harm than good to the rookie. Or, it could be a gift from heaven for a team that’s desperate to be relevant again. Given his talent, Maye is a bit of a wild card.
Either way, Maye isn’t heading into ideal circumstances. The offensive line remains a mess. Veteran center David Andrews being lost for the season also doesn’t help.
Given the prowess of the Houston Texans defense, this wouldn’t seem like the best week to throw the rookie out there. In that light, Miami would have been a better landing spot, or perhaps, the following wee.
