It's been a long time since the Dolphins last played the Patriots, but it seems their players are very impressed with what they've seen from Mac Jones on film over the course of the season.
The Patriots rookie quarterback was brought up a bunch to Miami players this week, and here's what a few of them had to say.
Defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah: “Mac Jones is a really good player for them. Coach (Bill) Belichick found a gem in the draft. We’ve got to do a good job containing him. We’ve got to stop the run game, too. But he’s doing a phenomenal job for them so far.”
Defensive coordinator Josh Boyer: “I would say he has full control of the offense. He has the ability to check them in and out of plays. He makes quick decisions. He’s a quick processer. He’s very accurate with the football. He understands protections, so he knows where pressure is coming from. He knows where he needs to get the ball. He’s done a very nice job for them. Again, it will be a big challenge for us this week to try to keep him off track. We’re looking forward to that.”
Cornerback Xavien Howard: “I feel like he’s improved this whole season but when I first played him in Week 1, when I saw him play and the stuff he was doing I’m like, ‘He’s not a rookie.’ He was doing some stuff like he’s been in the league a little minute. I’ve just seen him improve and I’m looking forward to seeing him this week.”
Head coach Brian Flores: “I think he’s done a very nice job. Good command of the offense, poised, good decision making. I think as an entire offense, it’s complementary to the skillset of each individual player. The run game, the pass game — I think Josh (McDaniels) has done a great job of putting those guys in good positions to have success. They’ve obviously, with Mac at the helm, done a nice job.”
Jones has completed 67.6% of his passes for 3,540 yards, 21 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, as the Patriots have gone 10-6 so far and clinched a spot in the playoffs last week.
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