Bill Belichick explains why Cam Newton remains Patriots' starting QB
Everyone can tell that Cam Newton has struggled this season as the New England Patriots' starting quarterback.
However, the former MVP has led New England to a 5-5 record as a starter (the team is 5-6 overall) — he missed Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs due to COVID-19 — and has the opportunity to help the Patriots slide into the playoffs.
Newton's latest performance against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday wasn't exactly promising, but Patriots head coach Bill Belichick isn't going to pull the plug on the QB just yet, if at all.
On Monday, Belichick was asked about why he's sticking with Newton as QB1 on WEEI's "Ordway, Merloni and Fauria." He had a simple response, per Ryan Hannable.
It's easy to criticize Newton. He's thrown more interceptions than touchdown passes this season, and the Patriots are looking up at the Bills and Dolphins in the AFC East. However, he has been vital to the success the Patriots have found in the post-Tom Brady era.
Newton and the Patriots have five games remaining. If he plays better, they could end up with a wild-card playoff spot. If the 31-year-old continues to struggle, they might miss the playoffs for the first time since the 2008 season.
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