Jerod Mayo raises eyebrows with comments perceived by many as jab to Patriots coach

This has not been a pretty season for the New England Patriots, but Sunday's loss to the Arizona Cardinals was especially ugly. 

And there was one situation in particular that highlighted the questionable play calling on the offensive side of the ball. 

The Patriots were facing a third-and-one in the second quarter, which is a prime opportunity for Maye to show off his athleticism. 

But instead, the team opted to hand it off to running back Antonio Gibson who got no gain on the play. And then they went for the fourth down attempt, but the call was for Maye to hand it to Rhamondre Stevenson. And once again, the result was no gain. 

So, the Patriots turned it over on downs while in the red zone.

Despite only playing in nine games this season, Maye already has 38 carries for 345 rushing yards. So why not let him keep the ball and go for the first down on his own? 

Jerod Mayo was asked that after the game. 

Specifically, a reporter phrased the question by suggesting that Maye running on those third-down situations was a better option. 

“You said it, I didn’t,” Mayo responded.

This answer certainly raised eyebrows because many thought he could be taking a jab at one of his assistant coaches. 

Alex Van Pelt is in charge of the offensive play calls, so if that's the case, this would clearly be about him. 

But afterwards, Mayo changed his tone, putting the blame on himself. 

“It’s always my decision,” Mayo added. “I would say the quarterback obviously has a good pair of legs and does a good job running the ball. We just chose not to do it there.”

If this was actually a comment about Van Pelt, he wouldn't be the only one upset. 

The cameras caught Jonathan Kraft speaking with his father, Patriots owner Robert Kraft, while at the game. And based on some lip-reading, he was not happy with the offense. 

"Play-calling is terrible," Jonathan appeared to say.