Glenn Coleman
Nov 27, 2023 - 12:10

"Patriots vs Giants game day roster: New England's two-quarterback strategy"

New England Patriots may start Mac Jones, but backup Bailey Zappe could also play a role in Week 12 game.

It was a week full of speculation about who the New England Patriots would start as their quarterback for their Week 12 game against the New York Giants. Although it is expected that Mac Jones will be the starting quarterback, there are reports that backup Bailey Zappe may also play a role in the game.

According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, Zappe is likely to be involved in some way, but the exact details are still unknown. It is possible that the team will go with the "hotter" hand, meaning that if Jones struggles, he may be replaced, but if he performs well, he will remain in the game.

This would not be the first time the Patriots have used two quarterbacks in a game. However, the last time they did so, it ended in disaster. Mac Jones started a game last season but was pulled after a few drives due to injury. Bailey Zappe then took over but was unable to maintain the momentum, and the Patriots lost the game.

Looking at the Patriots' 48-man roster for Week 12, it is clear that they are in a strong position. Several key players are returning from injury, including offensive tackle Trent Brown, wide receiver DeVante Parker, linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, and cornerback J.C. Jackson.

Brown's return to the offensive line will provide a much-needed boost, as the unit struggled in pass protection in their last game. With him back, the Patriots will have their top lineup on the field for only the third time this season. Parker's return has also made a positive impact, with the team viewing him as an upgrade over his fellow former first-round draft pick.

Defensively, Bentley's return will have a ripple effect, allowing other players to move around the lineup and limit playing time for others. Jackson's return will also be significant, as he could provide an upgrade in the cornerback group.

The average age of the Patriots' game day roster is 27.6 years, and there are five players listed as game day inactives. The practice squad includes 14 players, with one player designated to return from injured reserve and seven others eligible to return.

The Patriots have seen some changes to their roster since their bye week, including the departure of some players and the addition of others. The Week 12 game against the Giants will be played at MetLife Stadium at 1 p.m. ET.