New England Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt admitted he is lessening designed quarterback run plays for Drake Maye because of the team’s 3-11 record.
When speaking with media members, via Patriots.com’s Evan Lazar, Van Pelt claimed his goal is to get Maye through the final three games of the season healthy.
The rookie quarterback has proven to be a major threat on the ground this season with 359 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 42 attempts.
Many have wondered why he isn’t being used more in short-yardage situations. Even coach Jerod Mayo seemed to be baffled by the lack of designed runs for Maye when asked about it after the game.
“You said it, I didn’t,” said Maye.
Those comments initially seemed like Maye was throwing Van Pelt under the bus, but the Patriots coach later clarified his words and explained he didn’t mean anything by them.
With the playoffs out of reach, it would seem as if Van Pelt is going the conservative path to keep Maye safe. That doesn’t bode well for the Patriots’ chances in the tough three-game slate left on their regular season schedule.
