Drake Maye stumbled out of the gate in his playoff debut, but he rallied the New England Patriots just enough to advance for the first time in nearly seven years. The potential MVP struggled early, completing only 6-of-15 passes for 95 yards and throwing an interception that fortunately didn’t cost points. He led two key field-goal drives and used his legs effectively, gaining 52 rushing yards in the first half. After halftime, Maye found his rhythm, completing 11 of 14 passes for 173 yards and a touchdown, converting several big third downs to Hunter Henry before hitting him on a 28-yard strike for the game’s only touchdown. Maye wasn’t perfect, missing Austin Hooper on a potential score and taking a strip sack in the fourth quarter that could have been disastrous, but the rookie did enough to carry New England through a tense defensive battle.
Justin Herbert’s playoff struggles continued in a six-sack outing. The Chargers’ quarterback was pressured relentlessly, taking 11 hits and managing just 159 passing yards on 37 dropbacks. Injuries and a struggling offensive line compounded his woes, with Zion Johnson and others unable to contain the Patriots’ front. Herbert made some plays with his legs, keeping the game close into the fourth quarter, but a late strip sack sealed the Chargers’ fate. He has now lost all three of his postseason starts, taking 13 sacks and turning the ball over five times.
Rhamondre Stevenson shined for the Patriots, expanding his role as both a runner and receiver. Stevenson caught three passes for 75 yards, including a critical 48-yard reception that helped New England escape its own end zone. He also added 53 rushing yards, helping sustain drives when the team was pinned deep. Stevenson’s versatility and toughness were key in a game where the Patriots’ offense was far from flawless, grinding out 381 total yards to move past the Chargers.
Omarion Hampton had almost no impact for Los Angeles. Active despite an ankle injury, he played just two snaps and was ineffective on his lone carry. The Chargers leaned almost entirely on Kimani Vidal, who was limited by the Patriots’ stout front. Injuries and subpar blocking restricted Los Angeles’ offensive options, and a game plan built around Herbert’s legs and playmakers never materialized. Los Angeles has now scored just 18 points in its last 10 quarters of playoff football.
New England’s defense deserves equal credit. After a shaky start, the Patriots locked down the Chargers, keeping runs short and forcing Herbert into six sacks. Christian Gonzalez, before exiting with a head injury, helped the Patriots play tight man coverage, allowing New England to limit big plays and keep the Chargers’ scoring low. The defense complemented Maye’s second-half surge, creating enough stops to secure the win in a low-scoring, tense affair.
