The New England Patriots find themselves in uncharted territory and enter Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season with a dismal 1-6 record.
The franchise that once dominated the league now finds itself at the bottom of the standings, enduring its longest losing streak since 1993.
The situation escalated when head coach Jerrod Mayo called his team “soft” following a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.
As the Patriots prepare to face the AFC East rival New York Jets in Week 8, three-time Super Bowl champion James White gave fans a sobering look.
“Manage your expectations. … I can guarantee that most of you probably assumed at the beginning that we weren't going to win many football games. “Now we are in a situation where everyone is ready to get on board…” White said, via Carlos Dax Bates. “This is my first year as Mayo head coach. Let him learn and grow all year long. Let's let these players learn and grow together.
Advice from James White #Patriots Fans struggling with this season:
“Manage your expectations… I can guarantee that most of you probably assumed that we weren't going to win many football games in the first place. Now that we are in the situation, everyone is ready to jump… pic.twitter.com/1OXvze5cTr
— Carlos talks to Pats (@LosTalksPats) October 23, 2024
White acknowledged that the current protests have sparked calls for dramatic changes.
“That's not how this whole operation works,” the broker said.
Despite the disappointments of the season, he urged the players to maintain a positive mindset, recognizing that rebuilding will take time and patience.
“I truly believe they will continue to compete and compete harder as the year goes on. It's hard. It's not funny. I’m telling you, it’s not fun as a player,” White said.
The Patriots' path to victory against the Jets depends on establishing their running game against a solid defense.
While rookie quarterback Drake Maye has shown promise in his first two NFL starts, relying heavily on the passing game without a solid running attack could be problematic.
The offense's difficulties maintaining its drives force the defense to spend long periods of time on the field, which can lead to late-game fatigue.
To have any chance of success, the Patriots must improve their third-down performance and maintain offensive balance.
Next:
Adam Schefter addresses Jerrod Mayo's job security
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