Array
The Patriots defeated the Browns 38-15 on Sunday in Cleveland. New England improved to 3-3 on the season as rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe moved to 2-0 as a starter in place of the injured Mac Jones.
Zappe’s efficient and prolific day was the story, along with the Patriots’ defense having yet another good performance.
It was far from a perfect game, as Bill Belichick’s team committed 12 penalties for 92 yards. A late Cleveland score also briefly caused some moments of anxiety, but a pair of Browns turnovers (followed by Patriots touchdowns) ended the threat.
Here are a few takeaways:Bailey Zappe stated his case.
Tasked with what appeared to be a simple continuation of the no-frills game-plan from last week’s win over the Lions, Zappe far exceeded expectations against the Browns.
By day’s end, Zappe completed 24 of 34 passes for 309 yards with two touchdowns.
Beyond the numbers, it was the ways in which he was able to orchestrate the offense that seemed reassuring. Instead of simply focusing only on one option through the air, Zappe spread the ball around in a way that belied his youth.
Five different New England receivers made four catches. Four Patriots topped 60 receiving yards, the first time that’s happened since 2017.
As it was clear from the outset that the Browns’ defensive approach revolved around trying to load up against and stop the Patriots’ running game, Zappe was able to find room against Cleveland’s coverage. He made accurate throws and flashed an ability to escape the rush and find the open receiver.
While there will certainly be discussion about the future for the Patriots at the quarterback position — especially when Jones returns — it’s undeniable that the 23-year-old Zappe has given the Patriots exactly what was needed in an early-season crisis.
