Jerod Mayo’s Bold 68-Yard FG Call: A Patriots Game-Changer or Mistake?
Patriots News: Jerod Mayo’s Bold 68-Yard FG Attempt Sparks Controversy – What Really Happened?
The New England Patriots faced another bitter loss in Week 13, adding to an already difficult season. Head coach Jerod Mayo made a controversial decision to attempt a 68-yard field goal attempt rather than opting for a Hail Mary during their game against the Colts. This decision resulted in a narrow 25-24 loss, raising questions about Mayo’s judgment and whether he is the right choice as the Patriots’ head coach.
A Season of Struggles for Jerod Mayo
Taking over from Bill Belichick, one of the most successful and revered coaches in NFL history, was no small task for Jerod Mayo. Despite spending years under Belichick’s tutelage, Mayo’s leap from linebackers coach to head coach has been filled with challenges.
With a disappointing 3-10 record, the New England Patriots now sit at the bottom of the AFC East, making this one of their worst seasons in recent memory. Mayo’s tenure as Patriots’ head coach has seen missteps and questionable decisions, with the Week 13 game against the Colts being a prime example.
Why a 68-Yard Field Goal Over a Hail Mary?
In the closing moments of the game, with the Colts leading by one point, the New England Patriots advanced the ball to midfield. They faced a critical decision: attempt a record-breaking 68-yard field goal or throw a Hail Mary.
The NFL record for the longest field goal is 66 yards, held by Justin Tucker. However, Jerod Mayo believed his kicker, Joey Slye, could surpass that mark. The risky 68-yard field goal attempt fell short, leaving fans and analysts questioning the decision.
After the game, Mayo defended his choice:
“That was 100 percent me,” Mayo said. “Slye was hitting it well in pregame, and I felt that was the best thing to do to help our team win the football game. Not sure what the numbers are on Hail Marys versus the field goal there, but that’s what I felt was right.”
Mayo’s confidence in Joey Slye reflects his willingness to trust his players. However, many argue that a Hail Mary might have been the safer and more strategic option, especially in such a high-stakes moment
What’s Next for the New England Patriots?
With the playoffs out of reach, the New England Patriots are now looking toward the future. Their current 3-10 record positions them for a high pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. As of now, they hold the 4th overall pick, trailing the Jaguars, Raiders, and Giants.
Securing the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft could bring a game-changing talent to the team, potentially turning their fortunes around. However, competition for that spot remains intense, with other struggling teams also vying for it.
Jerod Mayo’s Future with the Patriots
The Patriots’ head coach, Jerod Mayo, is under mounting pressure. Can he prove himself capable of rebuilding this storied franchise, or will the New England Patriots decide to seek a new leader?
While Mayo’s bold decisions—like the 68-yard field goal attempt—show his willingness to take risks, they also underscore his inexperience. Whether he can learn from this season’s challenges and guide the team toward success remains uncertain.
The 68-yard field goal attempt in Week 13 has become a defining moment in a disheartening season for the New England Patriots. While Jerod Mayo’s decision didn’t yield the desired result, it highlights the difficulties of stepping into the shoes of a legend like Bill Belichick.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches and questions swirl about Mayo’s tenure as Patriots’ head coach, one thing is clear: the road ahead for the New England Patriots will be a challenging one. Whether this season’s struggles serve as a stepping stone for future success or a cautionary tale, only time will tell.
