The New England Patriots have still yet to name a starting quarterback for the 2021 season. After the Patriots wrapped up their preseason slate against the New York Giants, head coach Bill Belichick gave a Belichick-like answer. 

The debate between Mac Jones and Cam Newton has circulated all offseason since they selected the former Alabama quarterback in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Honestly, both have played well, but Belichick and the Patriots need to make a decision. Newton went just 2-5 for 10 yards and an interception on Sunday as Jones went 10-14 for 156 yards and a touchdown pass while being sacked four times.

But, both have shown glimpses of being capable of starting, and neither has exactly run away with the job. Nonetheless, Belichick and the Patriots have a decision to make.

So, who should it be?

Roll with Cam Newton 

Yes, this might be a surprise, but there are a few reasons. First things first, the Patriots brought back Cam Newton on a one-year deal worth $14 million, and naming him the backup from the get-go could spell some serious trouble for this front office. That is a lot of money, and the Patriots almost have to give him a shot.

Even more, Newton hasn't played terribly and really hasn't played himself out of the starting job. Was he brilliant last year? No, and it is what it is. However, he deserves another shot.

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In his preseason run, he finished with a total of 162 yards on a 14-21 clip with a touchdown and an interception and looked to show some improvements from his disastrous 2020 campaign.

Newton displayed his arm strength against the Giants despite throwing an INT.

In all honesty, he hasn't run away with the job, but he also hasn't done much to be relegated to backup duties– at least, not yet.

The silver lining 

There is a silver lining with this, however. If Newton is the starter and struggles, Belichick and company can easily turn to Mac Jones to take over. They want to avoid the situation the Miami Dolphins had last year with Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tua Tagovailoa, as they flip-flopped between the two for much of the season.

So, fire up Newton, but don't be afraid to toss in the rookie to take over if Newton struggles. But for now, Newton should be the starter until he proves unworthy, whenever that will be.