 we thought we were going to be. 'We're really deep in into red zone, third down, open-field stuff. So I think we've just got to keep stacking days and continue just improving on the plays we have in right now. I'm sure there's more plays to be done, but I would say we're about 80 percent.' Belichick echoed Zappe's comments, adding: 'We've got most eve){kind=link}
The New England Patriots are hoping to turn their offense around after a difficult 2022, turning to former assistant Bill O’Brien to serve as offensive coordinator
Bailey Zappe is clearly enjoying working under Bill O’Brien after the offensive coordinator returned to the New England Patriots ahead of the 2023 NFL season.
The Patriots tallied an 8-9 record in 2022 and missed out on the playoffs for the second time in three years, placing pressure on head coach Bill Belichick. The Pats particularly struggled on offense; the team finished 32nd in red zone efficiency.
Mac Jones, a first-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft, struggled in his sophomore campaign after leading the Patriots to the playoffs as a rookie, throwing for 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Once Jones went down with an ankle issue early last season, rookie Zappe had a chance to move up the depth chart and, eventually, impress.
After backup quarterback Brian Hoyer got knocked out of the game against the Green Bay Packers, Zappe stepped in and delivered. The 2022 fourth-round pick led the Pats to a crushing 29-0 win over the Detroit Lions at Gillette Stadium and followed it up with a 38-15 win at the Cleveland Browns.