What Was Patriots’ Jerod Mayo Thinking With This First-Half Decision?!

The red flag thrown by New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo might serve as a red flag.

With three minutes remaining in the first half, Mayo challenged the ruling that Miami Dolphins wideout Jaylen Waddle completed a catch before he went to the ground. If there were no other factors, it would’ve been an understandable decision given the video replay looked questionable.

But there was another factor.

Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones was penalized for defensive holding on the play. The Dolphins declined the penalty because Waddle’s 19-yard reception provided better field position. But if Mayo’s challenge was overturned, the ‘Fins then could have accepted the penalty on Jones. Either way, Miami was getting a first down and advancing inside New England territory.

It was a head-scratching decision from Mayo, who lost the challenge. One could argue it actually would’ve made him look worse should the call have been overturned and Miami still receive a first down due to penalty. It certainly would’ve received more attention on the broadcast and on social media.

Mayo’s coaching staff has been under constant criticism this season, especially after the game-plan against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 11. The Patriots responded by allowing 24 first-half points at Hard Rock Stadium with Mayo’s challenge being a red flag on its own.