Bailey Zappe, the third-string quarterback, delivers another solid performance while Mac Jones is sidelined with a high ankle sprain.

Rookie backup Bailey Zappe throws for 309 yards and two touchdowns, giving Coach Bill Belichik his 324th win to tie George Halas for second on the all-time list.

Mac Jones, battling an ankle injury, has not been ruled out and traveled with the team to Cleveland.

Matthew Judon, who has a sack in each of his first five games and a shares the NFL lead with six, brings an attitude that’s infecting an improving New England defense.

Before Bailey Zappe started Sunday, the last rookie quarterback drafted outside the first round to start in New England was Jacoby Brissett, now the Browns’ starter.

Rookie QB Bailey Zappe has been solid, and speculation is mounting that he could keep the job when Mac Jones returns from an ankle injury.

New England’s Damien Harris left Sunday’s game with a hamstring issue and, according to reports, will be out of multiple weeks.

Rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe had plenty of support in his first start as New England routed Detroit.

Backed by a strong rushing attack and a dominant defense, rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe wins his first game as a starter.

Detroit has struggled defensively, while New England will likely start a rookie at quarterback.