Drake Maye’s Game-Winning Play Secures Super Bowl Spot for Patriots
With the clock ticking down and a Super Bowl appearance on the line, Drake Maye made a pivotal choice during a crucial moment.
On a third-and-5 at their 41-yard line, with just 1:57 left in the game, the Patriots’ young quarterback opted to keep the ball himself, despite offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels calling for a handoff to Rhamondre Stephenson. According to reports, it was a bold move indeed.
The 23-year-old, who’s in the MVP conversation, executed a naked bootleg and, using his impressive arm strength, rushed for 7 yards to secure a first down, sealing a 10-7 victory over the Broncos in the AFC Championship game, as time expired.
“I hit the block and all the defenders started running in the opposite direction,” said Garrett Bradbury, the Patriots’ center. “It was unbelievable!”
After the game, Maye reflected on his decision: “I talked about whether or not to keep it, and in the moment, I just decided to go for it,” Bradbury conveyed.
Maye offered just a glimpse into his thought process regarding the Broncos’ defensive setup, which prompted his risky play.
In the waning minutes, the weather conditions deteriorated, making passing difficult for Maye, who ended the game completing only 10 of 21 attempts for 86 yards. However, he also showcased his agility with 10 carries for 65 yards, including a touchdown run in the second quarter that tied the game.
With this performance, Maye now stands as the second-youngest quarterback in history to start a Super Bowl, following in the footsteps of Dan Marino.
After the Giants attempted to trade up for him, Maye was selected third overall by the Patriots in the 2024 draft. He posted impressive regular-season stats, including 4,394 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and a league-high 72 completion percentage, leading the Patriots to a 14-3 record and securing the No. 2 seed.
The 2026 Super Bowl is set for February 8th in Santa Clara, California, where the Patriots will face off against the Seahawks.
