Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Defends Not Playing Starters During Preseason: ‘Results-Based Analytics is Tough’
There's a method to his madness, and Mike Vrabel explained why he didn't play starters like Drake Maye during the preseason.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel defended his decision not to start his team's key players during the preseason, stating that "results-based analytics is tough." The Patriots lost a close game against the Seahawks in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season, with quarterback Drake Maye throwing three interceptions. Vrabel acknowledged the criticism surrounding his preseason strategy and admitted that he had to make difficult decisions.
He acknowledged that starting the starters might have been unwise, as it would not have prepared them adequately for the upcoming game against the Eagles. Instead, Vrabel felt that their preparation prior to the game was sufficient and that playing against the Eagles' backups would not have yielded the same results. He emphasized the importance of making informed decisions and trusting in their effectiveness.
Vrabel looked forward to facing the Steelers in Week 2, where quarterback Maye would face off against Aaron Rodgers, who did not participate in preseason games due to concerns about gaining an advantage.
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