Patriots Rookie Sends Gillette Stadium Into A Frenzy On Epic Play

The New England Patriots beat the New York Jets and one rookie stole the spotlight at Gillette Stadium. Marcus Jones was a bright spot on Bill Belichick’s roster and one of his plays caught everyone’s attention.

Jones was able to return a punt for 84 yards at the very end of the game. It turned out to be the single touchdown of the game and fans went crazy. The rookie had his first TD at Gillette Stadium and this was the first punt return TD of the regular season.

“Special teams is definitely a big role,” Jones told the media after the game. “It’s longer than an average offensive and defensive play and usually you’re out there for one play and most people give it their all every single time they go out there. It’s very important for the field position aspect of the game.”

Marcus Jones had Gillette in a frenzy. ? @Patriots pic.twitter.com/KcsD7Js1uJ

— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2022

Head coach Bill Belichick wasn’t surprised by the Patriots rookie at Gillette Stadium

The Patriots head coach watched Jones work really hard and improve his skills. He did so much since the start of the regular season and things can only go upwards.

“Yeah, Marcus is really quick. I think Troy Brown has done a great job with him,” Belichick said. “Where Marcus was when he got here and where he is now are – they’re an ocean apart. Troy has really done a good job with the ball handling, ball catching, making the first guy miss, ball security, setting up blocks, having vision on the ball, the gunner, playing the wind, so forth.

“Marcus – we didn’t feel like he was quite ready at the beginning of the year. We went with Myles [Bryant]. Then as Marcus got better and gained more experience and confidence and then performed well, then he’s handled all the return game for a number of weeks now.”

Belichick likes the way Brown and Jones handle the pressure. The latter improved his performance and this particular play adds to his value. The Jets are a really good team, but Belichick’s players understood the assignment.