New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo didn’t hold back when talking about the offensive line’s play in Sunday’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
The Seahawks’ pass rush was able to get to quarterback Jacoby Brissett as the offensive line struggled. The signal-caller was sacked three times and hit eight times in the game.
Overall, life was difficult for the Patriots’ passing attack, which only managed 149 passing yards. By comparison, Patriots tight end Hunter Henry had 109 of those yards.
Mayo was blunt when asked about the play of the offensive line, a position group that should be a focus this offseason, and he explained his thoughts on the unit, transcribed by Conor Ryan of Boston.com.
“I thought the pass defense was average at best,” Mayo said during an appearance on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show.” “They brought guys from different sides of the field. Even when they rushed four-man, they were able to get back to Jacoby.”
“It doesn’t have to be a sack to affect the passing game. The bodies around the quarterback affect the passing game. We need to protect Jacoby better, on the offensive line, with the running backs and the tight ends.”
The offensive line’s problems could also affect the offense. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye could be in a difficult situation if the Patriots start him at some point this season.
Time will tell whether the line play can be improved. The performance on Sunday certainly left a lot to be desired.
