Patriots defeat Jets: is Jacoby Brissett’s time on the bench over?

By Kelly Egan

The Patriots broke their six-game losing streak last night after beating the New York Jets 25-22. After weeks of criticism, even from their own coach Jerod Mayo, the Pats redeemed themselves in the second half of this game, pulling out a win. 

However, why did the team almost miraculously pull out this mid-game win? The answer is short: quarterback Jacoby Brissett.

Brissett got put into the game during the second quarter due to rookie quarterback Drake Maye receiving a head injury and being taken out for medical concern. 

With only nine minutes left in the quarter, Brissett led a 12-play, 70-yard winning drive. This led to running-back Rhamondre Stevenson scoring a one-yard touchdown with 25 seconds left in the game. 

The team’s momentum stayed strong during the second half. Brissett threw a commendable 34-yard pass to wide receiver Kayshon Boutte during the fourth quarter, pushing their score and leading to the team’s three-point win. 

Though Brissett started the season as the team’s leading quarterback, he hasn’t played since week 5 when he got benched and Maye took his place. 

While Pats fans and sports critics commend Brissett for leading the team to their second victory thus far, what does this mean for the rest of the Patriots’ season? After being benched for a few weeks, did Brissett prove he doesn’t belong on the sidelines?