Patriots quarterback Mac Jones. (Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports)
The Patriots quarterback battle is only getting hotter as Mac Jones put in an impressive joint practice against the Giants. Cam Newton better watch out.
Mac Jones is on a roll this week as the Patriots hold joint practices with the Giants.
Jones took it to New York’s highly-rated defense with a performance on Wednesday that had Twitter talking.
The rookie quarterback finished the day 35-of-40 with a stretch of 18 consecutive completions, according to Jeff Howe of the Athletic. The highlight of his day was a 50-yard touchdown to Jakobi Meyers in double coverage during a two-minute period.
Practice numbers are far from the end-all, be-all. A few great practice performance can make the different between riding the bench and starting though.
Patriots: Mac Jones is taking his opportunities with Cam Newton out
It’s unfortunate for Newton that Jones is having such a great time right now. He’s out for five days because of a COVID-19 protocols misunderstanding. Jones will have the spotlight all to himself this week and possibly during the preseason game on Sunday.
The former Alabama quarterback has looked good throughout the preseason in general. He had a promising debut with 87 yards on 13-of-19 passing in the first game against Washington. He followed that up with 145 yards against the Eagles. He hasn’t thrown a touchdown yet, but it’s not for lack of trying. Several on-target throws into the end zone have been dropped by receivers. He connecting on the practice field. It just needs to go right when it counts.
Newton has also looked strong during camp, but Jones has nipped at his heels throughout. The expectation remains that Newton will hold the starting job. This week could mean everything if that script gets flipped.