Home

NFL

Following a Narrow Loss and a Legendary Feat, Dejected Bill Belichick Lost for Words Over ‘Downhill Roll’ for the Patriots

Published 10/16/2023, 10:29 AM EDT

Follow Us

via Imago

The New England Patriots are in a real tailspin, and their seven Super Bowl rings seem like distant memories. It’s become a serious struggle just to put a ‘W’ on the board. The Patriots faced off against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium, and the score ended up 21-17. But not in their favor. They now hold a less-than-impressive 1-5 record for the season. A feat they haven’t achieved since 1995.

Back in ’95, when this sorry situation last occurred, most of the current Patriots squad hadn’t even entered the world yet. That ’95 team limped to a 6-10 finish. Judging by the recent performances, it’s tough to envision this crew surpassing that win total or making any significant waves in the AFC playoff race. Even at full throttle, the Patriots aren’t exactly brimming with star-studded talent, particularly on the offensive front. Their ongoing streak of injuries is just pouring salt in the wound.

Belichick’s 500th game marred by Raiders’ victory

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The New England Patriots took a tumble in the desert, stumbling against the Las Vegas Raiders with a final score of 21-17. This loss came hot on the heels of their painful shutout against the New Orleans Saints. If we had to sum up the Patriots’ performance this season in one word, it’d be “sluggish.”

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest NFL stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Star quarterback Mac Jones and the offense had a tough day at the office against the Raiders. Jones completed 24 out of 33 passes for 200 yards, but one of those passes landed in enemy hands with an interception. The Raiders’ defense also made a meal of Jones, sacking him three times. Kendrick Bourne emerged as Jones’ go-to guy, snatching 10 out of 11 targets for 89 yards. Rhamondre Stevenson and Ezekiel Elliott managed to find the end zone with rushing touchdowns, but the defense couldn’t come up with the crucial stops to seal the deal.

When Coach Bill Belichick faced the press after this humbling loss, he didn’t mince words. He broke it down, saying, “We had our chances today to play better and coach better.” Straight talk from a seasoned coach. Adding a bit of salt to the wound, this showdown marked Coach Belichick’s 500th game as a head coach. It might not have been the celebratory milestone he had in mind, but you can bet he’s already plotting how to turn the tide and get those Ws back in the win column.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Bill Belichick sideline slam: Patriots’ penalty pain

Coach Bill Belichick was in full-on sideline mode, tossing his coaching gadget onto the turf in frustration as the Patriots got slapped with yet another holding penalty on a drive that felt as crucial as a game-winning touchdown. Things quickly went south as they found themselves backed up, and Mac Jones had to endure a safety, essentially gift-wrapping the win for Las Vegas. Sure, the team finally broke free from their 10-quarter touchdown drought. But let’s be real! They’ve got a long way to go before they can even whisper “playoff contenders” without a grin.

via Imago

Now, here’s the billion-dollar question: will Robert Kraft keep Belichick on board for the long haul if this L-train keeps chugging along? Week 7 might serve as the crystal ball we’ve all been waiting for. Next week, the Patriots are strapping on their helmets and gearing up to reclaim some glory as they go head-to-head with the Buffalo Bills. Redemption is just around the corner!

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch This Story: 16 Years After Split, Tom Brady’s Former Flame Shares a Tear-Jerking Letter

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Jhelum Mehta

458Articles

One take at a time

Jhelum Mehta is an NFL writer at Essentially Sports who seamlessly intertwines her fervor for sports with a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Graduating with honors, her writing reflects a unique fusion of literary acumen and astute sports analysis. Her journey as a wordsmith began after completing her studies, where she embarked on a path to articulate the dynamic world of the NFL.
Show More>

Edited by:

Garima Yadav