Connect with us

Alabama in the Pros

Patriots’ QB Mac Jones ends strong preseason with first TD pass versus Giants

Mac Jones drops back to pass during NFL preseason for Patriots
Paul Rutherford - USA Today Sports

He told reporters he will be ready when his time comes.

Mac Jones’ time for the New England Patriots may come in week one. His performances have been steady throughout NFL Preseason, but his best moment came in Sunday’s game versus the New York Giants. Jones replaced Cam Newton in the third quarter, and the Patriots trailed 6-7. The 15th overall pick took the team on a 75-yard touchdown drive in six plays. He connected with wide receiver Isaiah Zuber for a 17-yard score. Jones’ first touchdown of preseason gave New England a 12-7 advantage.

He would then guide the Patriots on a 50-yard scoring drive in four plays. New England cashed in with another touchdown, and this had the teammates jumping on Jones on the sidelines. The former Alabama quarterback wants to improve in not holding the ball too long (sacked four times), but he compiled a passer rating of 131.8. Jones completed 10 of 14 passes, including four completions that went for first downs. He totaled 156 passing yards and assisted the team to a 22-20 win over the Giants.

RELATED: Titans’ RB Derrick Henry clocks in at No. 4 on NFL’s Top 100 Players for 2021

When it appeared as though receivers were covered, Jones threw guys open with accuracy. Bill Belichick will not state who starts in the regular season, but Jones has a strong case. During three preseason games, Jones has led seven scoring drives — including five touchdown drives. He has performed well since being drafted, and all within the organization are impressed with him.

We shall see what happens moving forward.

*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*

Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “watch” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

More in Alabama in the Pros