The New England Patriots are set to make a significant change at quarterback, with Drake Maye starting his first NFL game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Maye, selected third overall in this year’s draft, has only appeared in one regular-season game so far. In the Patriots’ Week 3 loss to the New York Jets, the North Carolina alum completed 4 of 8 pass attempts for 22 yards and ran for 16 yards on two carries.
The decision to start Maye follows Jacoby Brissett’s struggles during the team’s first five games. Brissett has passed for 696 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, completing 58.5% of his passes. The Patriots are currently last in the NFL in passing yards per game, averaging 119.4. The next closest team averages 136 yards.
The Texans’ defense ranks fourth in the league in total yards allowed per game (274.2) and is tied for 17th in points allowed per game (22.8). Houston’s defense has also recorded 15 sacks and three interceptions so far this season.
Heading into the matchup, the Patriots hold a 1-4 record, while the Texans are 4-1.
