In the win over Houston, Maye went 16 of 27 for 179 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. He also added four rushing attempts for 10 yards, but absorbed five sacks and fumbled four times, losing two. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged the rough ride, noting the Texans’ relentless pressure and emphasizing the need for better ball security as Maye faced a heavy rush. 🧠💥
Maye delivered when the moment mattered most, connecting on a 32-yard touchdown to wide receiver Kayson Boutte with 12:58 left to play to push the lead to 28-16. Vrabel praised the late clutch connection and Boutte’s contributions, saying the duo has repeatedly risen to the moment when New England needed a play. It was a hallmark fourth-quarter moment that capped a resilient stretch from Maye. 🕒🚀
Earlier in the game, Maye endured a difficult third quarter, failing to produce in a drive that included a fumble and a punt, while Houston kicked two field goals. The offense found its footing late in the third and into the fourth, starting with a 14-yard completion to tight end Austin Hooper, followed by a 17-yard pass interference penalty on the Texans. Boutte then hooked up with Maye again for another key drive, culminating in a six-play, 71-yard series that featured the go-ahead or sealing plays. 🔄🏁
After the game, Maye spoke about the ups and downs of a game and the offense’s mindset to go down the field and score. He also praised Boutte for his performances, including a spectacular one-handed grab. With this win, Maye sits on the brink of joining the all-time Patriots playoff-winning club, and a victory in next week’s AFC Championship against the Denver Broncos could cement his place in Patriots history. 🏆🔥
