It is never easy to come into a game as a back up quarterback let alone the third string quarterback but Bailey Zappe proved in yesterday’s loss to the Packers that a young quarterback could enter that environment and compete.

https://twitter.com/nfloncbs/status/1576715390268616704?s=46&t=UVyMZuFMcQlEimI6f4sRYw

Zappe had to enter the game after veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer was knocked out with a concussion in the first quarter. You can tell early on that the Texas native was nervous, but once he settled in and got comfortable, he gave the Patriots a chance to win.

Zappe completed 10-15 passes for 99 yards and a touchdown pass. Offensive coordinator Matt Patricia limited what Zappe had to do in the passing game but when his number was called, he completed some big passes that kept the Patriots in the game.

After the game, Coach Bill Belichick was in no mood to talk but he briefly praised the young quarterback.

“It was good. I thought he competed well.” When asked if he saw a difference in Zappe in the second half, Belichick praised the young quarterback. “I don’t think so. He is good. He is ready to go so he needs me.”

The Patriots simplified things by running the football and throwing play-action passes off of the run game. There was some operational issues with the clock and Zappe did end up taking a couple of sacks but overall, he played well enough to give his team a chance.

It will be interesting to see if the Patriots start Zappe this week. Obviously Mac Jones’ ankle and the well being of Hoyer after his concussion will be deciding factors.

If the Patriots have to start Zappe, they now know they can compete in a game with him under center and have a chance to win it. After all, that’s all you can ask out of your back up quarterback. Give your team a chance. Zappe did that yesterday.