The New England Patriots will take on the Houston Texans this afternoon, with rookie quarterback Drake Maye leading the way. For the first time, fans will see the No. 3 overall pick start.

There is a lot of excitement and nerves surrounding Maye’s debut.

Some are concerned that the team around Maye will abandon him. Through the first five games of the season, the Patriots offensive line has struggled. Their wide receivers haven’t been much better.

However, there are also those who believe he is in for a big first start.

A former NFL head coach, Herm Edwards, gave a motivational message to the young quarterback ahead of his debut.

“Drake Maye, why don’t you show us why you should have been a starter in Week 1? Now you’re the starting quarterback. Do you know what to do? You have to score some points. This team is only averaging 12 points per game. It’s time to put some points on the board, Drake Maye. Why don’t you show us you can do that? Being the starting quarterback now – probably should have been the starting quarterback in Week 1,” Edwards said.

Fans have been calling for Maye to be the starter in recent weeks. Jacoby Brissett was unable to move the football consistently and frustration built up quickly for him before the change was made.

Now fans get what they asked for with Maye as the starter. Hopefully the quarterback change eventually pays off on the field.

It is clear that the message Edwards sent to Maye was one of great confidence. Clearly, the former NFL coach is high on the New England rookie. He clearly expects Maye to come out and immediately make major improvements to the Patriots’ offense.

Maye has played just one ride so far this season. He completed four of his eight pass attempts for 22 yards. He also chipped 12 yards on the ground.

It will be interesting to see what kind of upstart debut performance Maye can put together. He has great arm talent and the ability to extend his legs and make plays.

Hopefully tomorrow we’ll be talking about a much improved passing game and an impressive debut from the starting quarterback.

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