The post-Tom Brady era didn’t get off to a good start for the New England Patriots. But after a tough year with Cam Newton under center, it seems like they’ve found their franchise quarterback in Mac Jones.
Jones has already embraced a leadership role at Foxborough and looks ahead of schedule when it comes to his competitiveness, poise, and mental strength.
But, even if he may look like a mature young man driving himself like a professional already, he’s still a youngster.
Jones Says He Barks Before Games
And as such, Jones finds motivation in the simplest things. As a matter of fact, he recently said on [WEEI’s "Merloni and Fauria"](https://www.audacy.com/weei/podcasts/ordway-merloni-fauria-20493/mf-patriots-qb-mac-jones-joins-us-to-talk-pats-win-over-the-chargers-his-sleep-schedule-and-more-901343419 that he barks before games to get hyped up.
“It just kind of, like, gets you hyped up,” the rookie said. _“I don’t know. It’s just a way to get out all your emotions.” _
Moreover, it seems like he’s not alone and has started a bit of a trend in the locker room:
“Oh yeah,” Jones added. “Before the game, we’ve got some barkers."
Unusual Pre-Game Meal
But that’s not the only part of Jones’ pre-game routine.
The Alabama product also said that he has to eat spaghetti with a steak and eggs regardless of the time of kickoff:
"I’ve eaten that at 6 in the morning before. It’s always the same thing, regardless of (the time of) kickoff. … It’s just a part of the routine now. Just kind of gets your mind ready," Jones said.
Well, whatever he’s doing, it’s definitely working out perfectly for him.
Mac Jones Keeps Getting Better
It’s still pretty early in his career and there’s plenty of room for growth but thus far, Jones has done a solid job of shutting the doubts about him or his character.
The 15th overall pick of the Draft has now thrown for 1,997 yards (7.1 yards per attempt with a 68.1% completion percentage) with 9 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, according to Pro Football Reference.
He’s also added 17 rushes for 55 yards, and he’s only looking more comfortable with the offense as the weeks go by.
Don't Sleep On The Patriots
After starting the season 1-3, the Patriots have now won three out of their past four games to take their record to 4-4. Also, they were pretty close to beating two big contenders in the Buccaneers and Cowboys.
Bill Belichick’s team has a somewhat easy schedule ahead of them with games against the Panthers, Browns, and the Derrick Henry-less Tennessee Titans before heading to their BYE week.
They trail the Buffalo Bills by a couple of games for the top of the AFC East division, and they’re the last team you want to see getting hot as the playoffs zoom in.
]]>The Inquisitr
