Even though expectations were low for the New England Patriots heading into the 2024 NFL season, the team still somehow found a way to underwhelm.
Under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots were expected to take some lumps as they developed the young players on their roster, but the on-field product has been hard to watch.
Defensively, New England remains a decent unit but its offense has fallen off a cliff from previous years.
Rookie quarterback Drake Maye has flashed some real potential at the position, but he can’t overcome poor personnel and questionable coaching decisions.
New England did not look good in its Week 17 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers as the team was unable to do much on either side of the football.
Longtime Patriots fan Bill Simmons expressed his frustration during the woeful performance.
“I’m glad an exclusive Saturday game is showing everyone how bad the Patriots coaching, strategy, defense, play-calling and execution has been for four months. This team plays like they don’t practice,” Simmons wrote on X.
I’m glad an exclusive Saturday game is showing everyone how bad the Patriots coaching, strategy, defense, play-calling and execution has been for four months. This team plays like they don’t practice.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) December 28, 2024
These are scathing remarks from Simmons, who pulled no punches with his criticism, but he has a point as the Patriots often look unprepared.
Though it might sound over the top to say an NFL team plays like it doesn’t practice, it does speak to some foundational things that need to change if Mayo remains in charge.
It’s odd to see New England play so poorly, but this is the reality for the organization nowadays.
NEXT: Drake Maye Set A New Franchise Rookie Record On Saturday
