Patriots By The Numbers: Offense Sputters In Loss To Saints

The Patriots fell to 1-2 on the season with an ugly 28-13 loss to Jameis Winston and the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

It was not a pretty sight in any area, save for the play of quarterback Mac Jones, who, despite the three interceptions, continued to look poised under center while facing pressure for much of the game. Jones ended the night going 31-of-50 for 270 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. Regardless, it is the fourth time in the Bill Belichick-era that the Patriots have started 1-2 or worse. Previously it happened in 2018 (1-2), 2012 (1-2), 2001 (1-2), and 2000 (0-3). Good news for Patriots fans, twice (2001 and 2018), the Patriots went on to win the Super Bowl.

Here are some other numbers to ponder following the Patriots loss.

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84

Quarterback Mac Jones’ streak of pass attempts to start his career without an interception ended at 84 when he threw his first pick of the season. In fact, he also threw his second and third in this game as well. Not a bad run for the rookie who falls 78 short of Tom Brady‘s record of 162. Much like Jones, Brady’s streak ended in spectacular fashion with four interceptions against the Broncos.

40

In the offseason, much was made of the signings of tight ends Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry. Through three games, they have hardly made an impact, and on Sunday against the Saints, they combine for just 40 yards receiving. Smith was the culprit of several key drops including one that led to one of Mac Jones’ three interceptions on the day. Needless to say, the Patriots need far more production out of their very expensive tight-end duo. This game was within the Patriots’ grasp if not for several miscues, including a few from the tight end position.

95

Sunday’s contest was running back James White‘s 95th career game dating back to 2014 when he was draft by the Patriots. White, to some folk’s surprise, returned in the offseason after signing a one-year deal with the team to begin his fifth season as a captain. However, White left on a cart after injuring his hip following a first down catch and run. If the injury turns out to be season-ending, it could sadly be the end of the James White era in New England.

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