New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo sparked confusion before Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers by initially naming Antonio Gibson as the starting running back, only to start Rhamondre Stevenson instead. This unexpected switch-up, revealed just minutes before kickoff, has led to questions about the team's preparation and communication.
Prior to the game, Mayo announced on a pregame radio show that Gibson would start, seemingly due to Stevenson’s recent fumbling issues. This decision was seemingly confirmed by other sources, leaving the team’s actual start, Stevenson, on the sidelines. However, when the game commenced, it was Stevenson taking the field, leaving Gibson on the bench, an obvious deviation from the initial pronouncements.
The sudden reversal baffled commentators and fans, raising questions about the decision-making process. When asked about the change, Mayo declined to give specifics, calling it “a coach’s decision” with no further explanation, even when pressed about the time frame in which the decision change might have occurred.
Mayo's lack of clarity on the situation has prompted speculation and criticism. By making a public announcement that did not come to fruition, it created a perception of dysfunction within the Patriots organization. The situation drew comments that an unforced error had been made and that no one would have been the wiser had a final decision been withheld.
While the Patriots ultimately suffered a significant loss to the Chargers, the odd running back situation remains a point of discussion. Stevenson finished with a mere one rushing yard on two carries, whereas Gibson recorded 63 yards on 12 attempts.
