Patriots Coach Jerod Mayo Criticized For Cowardly Overtime Punt

Getty Image / Adam. Glanzman

Through two weeks, it’s safe to say that the New England Patriots have played much better than most people thought they would, even after losing on Sunday to the Seahawks, 23-20, in overtime to drop to 1-1.

But, it was a game that the New England Patriots could’ve easily won. In fact, head coach Jerod Mayo might have cost them the game with a crucial decision to punt in overtime.

The Patriots nearly won in regulation, and probably outplayed the Seahawks for most of the game. But, with a chance to go up by 6 midway through the 4th quarter, a Joey Slye field goal was blocked to keep the lead at three.

The Seahawks went down to kick a game-tying field goal with less than a minute remaining in the game. But, New England won the coin toss in overtime, a huge advantage since a touchdown ends the game without the Seahawks getting the ball. After the first three plays in overtime, the Patriots faced a 4th and 1 at their own 39-yard line.

The analytics say to go for it, as you’re likely to convert on 4th and 1. And, the Seahawks only need a field goal to beat you. It’s a clear go-for-it situation.

But, Jerod Mayo decided to punt the ball away. A few minutes later, Jason Meyers made a 31-yard chip shot, and the Patriots lost the game.

Hindsight is 20/20, but Mayo clearly should’ve went for it on 4th and 1, especially as the underdogs on a season that is all about getting better for the future.

Here’s what Jerod Mayo had to say about it after the game.

People on social media were pretty unanimous and thinking it was the wrong choice.

“There’s a difference between being conservative and being timid. Jerod Mayo not going for it on 4th & 1 in overtime at home was being timid,” Chris Tanaka said.