The New England Patriots finished last in the AFC East for the first time since 2000 after a turnover-filled 27-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills. The Patriots' season has been plagued by offensive issues and inconsistent play from their young quarterbacks. Speculation has arisen about whether head coach Bill Belichick will return in 2024.
- The Patriots finished last in the AFC East for the first time since 2000.
- The team has a minus-10 turnover differential this season, the first time since 2005.
- The Patriots' 27 giveaways this season have been a result of inconsistent play from their young quarterbacks.
- Speculation has arisen about whether head coach Bill Belichick will return in 2024.
Mac Jones | QB
Injury
Week 16
37 rush yards
1 rush TDs
209 pass yards
03 interceptions
- Mac Jones has been inconsistent this season.
- The Patriots' offensive issues have been partly due to Jones' play.
- Jones played in the first part of the season.
Bailey Zappe | QB
Pickup
Week 16
37 rush yards
1 rush TDs
209 pass yards
03 interceptions
- Bailey Zappe replaced Mac Jones as the Patriots' quarterback.
- Zappe had a rough game with three interceptions.
- He finished the game with 209 passing yards and no touchdowns.
- Zappe also rushed for 37 yards and a touchdown.
New England Patriots
- The Patriots finished last in the AFC East for the first time since 2000.
- The team has a minus-10 turnover differential this season, the first time since 2005.
- The Patriots' offensive issues have been a major factor in their last-place finish.
Buffalo Bills
- The Buffalo Bills defeated the New England Patriots 27-21.
- The Bills capitalized on the Patriots' turnovers.
- Buffalo never trailed in the game.