Going toe to toe against Aaron Rodgers, the MVP of the NFL for the last two seasons, is no easy matchup for most quarterbacks in the league. Yet, rookie QB Bailey Zappe went up against the Packers in Green Bay in a surprisingly confident manner. The fourth-round draft pick out of Western Kentucky University came into the game as backup veteran QB Brian Hoyer left the contest after the second series due to a potential head injury, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Zappe Passes First Test
Leading up to the trip to Green Bay, New England was without starting QB Mac Jones. The Patriots quarterback suffered a high ankle sprain at the end of last week’s 37-26 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, and the severity of Jones’ injury can be read further from gridironheroics.com Kevin Perry here. However, Zappe passed a big first test with flying colors. The Western Kentucky product put up a respectable stat line at Lambeau Field. Throwing for 99 yards, one touchdown, and posting a QB rating of 107.4 with a completion percentage of 66.7%, Zappe surprised every fan and critic watching the game.
What’s Next?
The New England Patriots would be foolish to not stick with QB Bailey Zappe until Mac Jones returns from injury. The next three games could potentially be vital for the Patriots. They face the Lions at home next Sunday, then away to the Browns on October 16th, and host the Bears on the 24th. Next week’s matchup against Detroit should prove to be a fruitful endeavor for New England’s passing game. The Lions gave up 555 total yards to the Seahawks in Week 4 and 320 of them came from the air via QB Geno Smith. Smith has seen a resurgence in his career so far this season. However, he is certainly not the most consistent and accurate quarterback in the league. Next week against the Lions and their lackluster defense could prove to be a breakout game for the rookie QB.