Mac Jones had a memorable day as the New England Patriots defeated the Buffalo Bills 29-25 on Sunday.
The former first-round choice, who had been under increasing scrutiny after the Patriots’ worst start to a season since 1995, put together possibly his greatest performance since entering the NFL.
Jones was precise against the Bills, completing 25 of 30 throws for 272 yards and two scores. Jones’ 83.3 completion % set a new career high, and he didn’t commit a single turnover for the second time this season.
“He’s getting better,” said Bills edge rusher Von Miller following the game. “He’s definitely improving. I was impressed with Mac… It still looks like the Patriots of yesteryear.
“Obviously, Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski are not present.” They are, nevertheless, well-coached. It’s just turnovers at the start of games that have placed them behind, and they didn’t turn the ball today.”Miller’s analysis is correct. This season, the Patriots have struggled with slow beginnings. New England’s first two games saw them dig themselves a 10-0 deficit early on, mostly due to turnovers.
The Patriots did not trail against the Bills for the second time this season. They were the team that created a 10-point advantage.
However, just as the Patriots did against the Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins, the Bills rallied in the fourth quarter to tie the game. Late in the game, the Bills took the lead, forcing Jones to lead the Patriots down the field one more time.
Jones displayed some Brady-like characteristics here, leading a game-winning drive and completing six of his seven tosses for 64 yards with a touchdown to Mike Gesicki to cap off the team’s second win.
While a 2-5 record does not scream “golden days” for the Patriots, Sunday demonstrated that there is still untapped potential in New England.
