Belichick explains why Newton remains Pats' starter

New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton (1) passes the ball during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at Gillette Stadium. Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Bill Belichick explains why Cam Newton remains Patriots' starting QB

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 11/30/20

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.

Bill Belichick on @OMFonWEEI asked why he's sticking with Cam Newton at QB: "We've won three of our last four games. Hopefully we can continue to play good football on offense, defense and special teams and have a chance of being competitive this week and moving forward."
— Ryan Hannable (@RyanHannable) November 30, 2020

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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