Bold predictions for the Buffalo Bills, AFC East in 2023

Bold Prediction Number 4: We will see a QB change in New England

During the 2022 season, questions began to arise around New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones and whether or not he had the trust of head coach Bill Belichick. As the season wore on, those questions became louder and louder.

In late October, the Patriots took on the Chicago Bears in prime time; a game in which they were dominated. During that game, Jones was benched in favor of the rookie, Bailey Zappe. Zappe would go on to throw for 185 yards, one touchdown and two picks in that one. He had his fair share of mistakes, but also some very nice throws.

This year, New England is going to quickly grow tired of Jones' inability to push the ball down the field, which is something Zappe can do quite well. Let's not forget, Zappe comes from that high-flying passing attack at Western Kentucky where he threw for 5,967 yards and 62 touchdowns in 2021 before entering the draft. For one season, those numbers are absolutely astounding.

As the Patriots hover around or below .500 to start the first few weeks of the season, we're going to see a change. Zappe will supplant Jones as a starter, and the Patriots will be better off for it. Belichick just needs to get to the point where he can admit failure on the Jones pick and put his ego aside.