The New England Patriots discover themselves in unfamiliar territory, stumbling into Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season with a dismal 1-6 file.
The franchise that when dominated the league now sits on the backside of the standings, enduring their longest shedding streak since 1993.
The state of affairs grew extra regarding when head coach Jerod Mayo labeled his staff “tender” following a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.
Because the Patriots put together to face the AFC East rival New York Jets in Week 8, three-time Tremendous Bowl champion James White supplied a sobering perspective to followers.
“Simply handle your expectations. … I can guarantee most of you most likely assumed that we weren’t gonna win a ton of soccer video games within the first place. And now that we’re within the state of affairs, everyone’s prepared to leap ship …,” White mentioned, by way of Carlos Talks Pats. “It’s Mayo’s first yr as a head coach. Let him be taught and develop all year long. Let these gamers be taught and develop collectively.”
James White’s recommendation to #Patriots followers scuffling with this season:
“Simply handle your expectations… I can guarantee most of you most likely assumed that we weren’t gonna win a ton of soccer video games within the first place. And now that we’re within the state of affairs, everyone’s prepared to leap… pic.twitter.com/1OXvze5cTr
White acknowledged that the present struggles have sparked requires dramatic adjustments, from teaching workers shake-ups to roster overhauls.
“That’s not the best way this complete operation works,” the previous operating again mentioned.
He urged gamers to keep up a optimistic mindset regardless of the season’s disappointments, recognizing that rebuilding takes time and endurance.
“I really suppose these guys will proceed to compete and they’ll compete more durable because the yr goes on. It’s powerful. It’s not enjoyable. I’m telling you, as a participant it’s not enjoyable,” White mentioned.
The Patriots’ path to success towards the Jets hinges on establishing their floor recreation towards a formidable protection.
Although rookie quarterback Drake Maye has proven promise in his first two NFL begins, relying closely on the passing recreation with no stable dashing assault might show problematic.
The offense’s struggles to maintain drives have pressured the protection to spend prolonged time on the sector, doubtlessly resulting in late-game fatigue.
For any likelihood at victory, the Patriots should additionally enhance their third-down effectivity and keep offensive steadiness.
