Patriots’ Mike Vrabel Makes Feelings Clear On Drake Maye’s First Playoff Game

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel opened up on Drake Maye’s first playoff game in the team’s 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Patriots’ defense was the story of the game, as the offense wasn’t as dominant as it’s been in the past couple of games. Maye ended up throwing for 268 yards, one touchdown, and an interception in the win.

Following the Patriots’ win, Vrabel said Maye did what the team needed him to do in the win.

“Yeah, I mean, again, we’ve got to take care of the football,” Vrabel said about Maye’s performance postgame on Sunday. “Thought he came through when we needed him.

“The tipped pass is something that was unfortunate. That turned into an interception. But the throw to Hunter (Henry) I thought when we needed him was elite.”

Although Maye wasn’t dominant, he was effective in leading the Patriots’ offense down the field to get points and cruise to a lopsided win.

Maye, however, felt like he didn’t throw the ball well or have his best stuff, but he was thankful the defense stepped up.

“Proud of this team,” Maye said. “We never doubted it. We never doubted it. Wasn’t pretty, that’s for sure. But this defense was so fun to watch. Congrats to them. It was so fun to watch. They won the game for us. I didn’t throw very well tonight. Need to be better.

“We did what we had to do. That’s what it takes in the Playoffs. Proud of this team. That was fun to get one at home. Look forward to being back here next week.”

The Patriots will host the winner of the Houston Texans-Pittsburgh Steelers game in the divisional round.