Should the Patriots bench Mac Jones for Bailey Zappe?

At this point, it’s a question that needs to be asked. Mac Jones or Bailey Zappe for the New England Patriots?

Just because it needs to be asked doesn’t mean it’s bound to happen. You have to assume the New England Patriots will transition back to Mac Jones once he’s healthy. But should they, really?

The Patriots demolished the Browns 38-15 on Sunday. Zappe, who started, threw 24-of-34 for 309 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.

Jones in his three starts this year has yet to exceed one passing touchdown, and only got above 300 yards once.

But for your answer: No, the Patriots should not move on from Jones once he returns from his ankle injury. Here’s why.

A backup QB is more valuable than you think

Let’s keep in mind Jones faced a superior slate of opponents in his three games. It included the Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Ravens. Zappe has faced the Packers (who have not looked as good as we thought they were!), Lions, and now Browns.

Zappe looks good, but he’s feasting on inferior teams.

One theme this year has been the importance of backup quarterbacks. The Dallas Cowboys are excelling with Cooper Rush. The New Orleans Saints, while losing, have looked better overall with Andy Dalton under center. And now the Patriots are winning with Bailey Zappe.

Backup quarterbacks excelling does open some conversations.

Should this guy start? Should we trade him when our starter is back and healthy? 

Usually, the answer to both of those questions is no. Instead, it’s important to remember that this is exactly why you have a backup quarterback, and this is how you hope they’ll perform when they’re called upon.

The role of a backup quarterback is challenging. You need to stay ready even though you normally won’t be the go-to guy. And as soon as your lead is back, you’re often right back on the bench. It’s a tough existence, and it takes a special kind of mindset to succeed in such a role.

When you’ve got a good one, the best thing you can do is keep them around.

The Patriots should go back to Jones but rest easy knowing they have a good rookie behind him to back him up should something happen.