Drake Maye Throws Three Touchdowns in New England’s 26-19 Victory
The New England Patriots continued their impressive run Sunday, defeating the New York Jets 26-19 at Gillette Stadium. Quarterback Drake Maye delivered another strong performance, throwing three touchdown passes as the Patriots held off a late push from their AFC East rivals.
The victory improves New England to 4-2 and extends its winning streak to three games. The Jets fall to 2-4 after failing to complete their comeback despite making things interesting in the second half.
Drake Maye Leads Patriots’ Offense
Maye was the difference-maker for New England, completing 18 of 32 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns. He connected with Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas and Hunter Henry for scores, spreading the ball around and finding opportunities against the Jets’ defense.
New York opened the scoring with a 42 yard field goal from Jason Sanders, but the Patriots quickly answered. Maye found Doubs for a 42 yard touchdown to give New England a 7-3 lead.
After Andy Borregales added a 32 yard field goal, Maye connected with Douglas on a nine yard touchdown pass with just 14 seconds remaining in the first half. The score gave the Patriots a 17-3 advantage at the break.
New England appeared to have control of the game, but the Jets refused to go away quietly.
Jets Fight Back in Second Half
New York quarterback Geno Smith helped bring the Jets back into contention. Smith completed 20 of 30 passes for 252 yards and a touchdown, connecting with rookie receiver Omar Cooper Jr. on a 48-yard scoring strike early in the second half.
The Jets moved within four points after Sanders added another field goal, cutting the deficit to 17-13 late in the third quarter.
However, Maye responded with his third touchdown pass of the afternoon, finding Henry for a seven-yard score early in the fourth quarter. Although Borregales missed the extra point, the Patriots extended their lead to 23-13.
Borregales later connected on a 27 yard field goal to make it 26-16 with 1:12 remaining. Sanders added a late field goal, but New England recovered the ensuing onside kick to seal the victory.
Patriots Look Ahead
The Patriots showed they can win even when their performance is not perfect. Maye’s three touchdown passes and several important late-game plays helped New England survive a determined divisional opponent.
New England now turns its attention to a Thursday night matchup against the Chicago Bears. The Patriots will look to continue their momentum as they attempt to establish themselves as contenders in the AFC.
