Bill Simmons questions Patriots' early-season performance and coaching after win over Steelers
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel dismissed concerns about quarterback Drake Maye's early struggles, while analyst Bill Simmons suggested the team's recent off-field controversy might be affecting coaching decisions.
The New England Patriots defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 20-3 on Sunday, improving to 1-1, but quarterback Drake Maye has struggled, throwing four interceptions and recording only one touchdown in his first two games while averaging 193 passing yards per contest.
After the victory, Boston Globe reporter Ben Volin asked Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel whether he was worried about Maye’s early play. Vrabel replied, "Nope, just trying to win the game, Ben. You’re not gonna ruin my Sunday, but I’ll come back to you tomorrow. Thanks, bud."
Ringer founder Bill Simmons expressed concern on his podcast, describing Maye’s performance as a "mess" and noting that there were "no excuses this time." He referenced the quarterback’s three-interception debut and suggested that the current issues might extend beyond on-field factors.
Simmons also alluded to the recent Dianna Russini controversy, asking whether a "Post-Sedona Mike Vrabel" could be influencing the team’s clock-management decisions, which he said are uncharacteristic for the coach.
Maye’s difficulties have been linked to the loss of wide receiver A.J. Brown, who was placed on injured reserve after an ankle injury, and to seven quarterback hits and three sacks allowed by the Patriots’ offensive line on Sunday.