The New England Patriots made a loud statement on Sunday - not just on the scoreboard, but on the sideline, too. In a 42-10 dismantling of the New York Jets, head coach Mike Vrabel and his team looked every bit like a group with something to prove, and maybe even a little extra motivation against a longtime AFC East rival.
The Patriots jumped out early and never looked back, taking a commanding 35-3 lead into halftime. The offense was humming, the defense was suffocating, and the energy on the sideline? Let’s just say it matched the scoreboard.
With just 19 seconds left in the first half and the game already well in hand, Vrabel used a timeout - a move that raised eyebrows given the circumstances. Cameras caught him on the sideline appearing to mouth an expletive aimed at the Jets, while players behind him shared a laugh. It was a moment that, intentional or not, underscored just how personal this rivalry can still feel, even in a lopsided contest.
The win pushed the Patriots to 13-3 on the season, and they continue to hold a one-game lead over the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East. Depending on the outcome of the Eagles-Bills matchup later in the day, New England could clinch its first division title since 2019. If Buffalo comes out on top, the division race will go down to the wire in Week 18 - but either way, the Patriots are in control.
And a big reason for that control? Rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who turned in another near-flawless performance before taking a well-earned early seat in the third quarter.
Maye completed 19 of 21 passes for 256 yards and four touchdowns - the kind of stat line that gets you benched for all the right reasons. He was decisive, efficient, and completely in rhythm with his receivers, showing the kind of poise that belies his age.
This wasn’t just a win - it was a message. The Patriots are not only winning games, they’re doing it with swagger and confidence. And if Sunday is any indication, they’re not afraid to let their rivals know exactly how they feel about it.