New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones (10) and quarterback Bailey Zappe (4) talk with offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Bill O'Brien. David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Patriots may opt for unusual QB move in Week 12

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 11/25/23

New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has kept his quarterback plans a closely guarded secret ahead of the Week 12 game against the New York Giants, and there may be a reason for that.

Belichick himself may not decide on a starting quarterback until Sunday morning, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic. Belichick could even use both Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe as part of a rotation, as the two performed comparably during practice.

Whoever starts tomorrow, don’t rule out the possibility of a rotation or quick hook. As Bill Belichick said several times this week, he told both QBs to be ready to play. https://t.co/N1hpMyIBAG

— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) November 25, 2023

Belichick consistently refused to publicly name a quarterback during the week, and apparently that was not just a ploy. Zappe himself suggested that even the quarterbacks themselves were unaware of what the team’s plan is.

The Patriots may be leaning one particular way regarding whom the starter will be, but it sounds like it will be a very short rope for whomever gets the nod.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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