Vrabel says concern is very high after Patriots lose 35-6

The New England Patriots fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars 35-6 on September 27, leaving the team 1-2 and prompting coach Mike Vrabel to say his concern was “very high.” Vrabel pointed to turnovers and costly mistakes after the loss, as New England managed two field goals and did not score a touchdown. Quarterback Drake Maye lost a fumble and threw two interceptions, accounting for all three Patriots turnovers. He completed 14 of 25 passes for 199 yards without a touchdown, according to game accounts. Maye was replaced by Tommy DeVito in the fourth quarter after the outcome was effectively decided. Vrabel said the Patriots had to take better care of the ball and make sound decisions rather than force plays. He also accepted responsibility for the team’s preparation and execution, saying the problems extended beyond Maye. In a Monday radio interview, Vrabel said Maye remained the team’s quarterback and described Maye’s end-zone interception as a “terrible decision.” New England’s mistakes were costly despite a close total-yardage comparison. The Patriots gained 317 yards to Jacksonville’s 315, but committed nine penalties for 68 yards and converted four of 12 third downs.