The starting quarterback returns tomorrow. The backup apparently won’t return on Sunday.
Jacoby Brissett will start Sunday for the Patriots, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Both Brissett (thumb) and Jimmy Garoppolo (shoulder) were listed as questionable for the game. The team reportedly intended to test Garoppolo’s shoulder before the game; apparently, the team didn’t see enough to go with Garoppolo.
This means the Patriots once again will go with a more limited playbook, aimed at allowing the third-round rookie to be successful. Brissett was wildly successful in his Week Three debut, a 27-0 win over the Texans that included a 27-yard touchdown run by Brissett.
The next question becomes whether Garoppolo will be active. If not, receiver Julian Edelman will be the backup quarterback. To the possible delight of Walt Patulski of the Buffalo News.