In a candid exchange with reporters following the New England Patriots’ 34-15 road loss to the Miami Dolphins, head coach Jerod Mayo deflected blame for the team’s ongoing penalty troubles.
The Patriots were flagged 10 times during the game, the second-highest number of penalties by any NFL team in Week 12.
“Once those guys cross the white lines, there’s nothing I can do for them, Mayo said after the game. “There’s nothing any coach can do for them once they cross the white line.
“It’s my job to continue to prepare not only them, but our coaches to go out here and play better football.”
Despite the strong assertion, Mayo later acknowledged his own responsibility, adding that the team’s struggles with penalties ultimately “start with me.”
The Patriots have been penalized 98 times this season, the fifth-highest total in the league. For comparison, the Baltimore Ravens lead the NFL with 110 penalties.
Sunday’s game in Miami was a continuation of New England’s downward spiral.
The Patriots trailed 31-0 through three quarters, with two late touchdowns adding some respectability to an otherwise lopsided score.
At 3-9, the team sits firmly in the basement of the AFC standings.
Mayo, in his first season as head coach after succeeding six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick, has faced his share of challenges both on and off the field.
Media scrutiny has followed him, particularly after his uncertain handling of the preseason quarterback competition between rookie standout Drake Maye and veteran Jacoby Brissett.
Additionally, tensions flared in training camp when defensive end Matthew Judon publicly expressed frustration, leading to his eventual trade.
Amid the difficulties, Maye has emerged as the team’s silver lining.
The 22-year-old rookie quarterback has shown flashes of brilliance, providing hope for the franchise’s future despite the turbulent season.
While the Patriots will aim to bounce back in Week 13 as they host the Indianapolis Colts, questions remain about Mayo’s ability to lead the franchise going forward.
What are your thoughts on Mayo’s comments? … Do you think he’s running away from responsibility at all???
