Drake Maye Delivers a Statement Game as Patriots Cruise Past Giants on Monday Night
Drake Maye’s 33-yard touchdown pass to rookie Kyle Williams was the kind of throw that makes you sit up a little straighter. The play looked great live, but the alternate angle?
That’s where it really hits you. Maye dropped it in with perfect touch, threading the needle to a tightly covered Williams in stride.
It wasn’t just a highlight-it was a signature moment in what’s shaping up to be an MVP-caliber season for the Patriots' young quarterback.
In New England’s 33-15 win over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, Maye once again showed why he’s being mentioned in the same breath as some of the league’s elite. He finished with 282 passing yards on 24 completions, adding two touchdowns through the air and another 12 yards on the ground. Efficient, composed, and in total control-this was Maye at his best.
The Patriots didn’t just win-they dominated. And while Maye’s connection with Williams stole the spotlight on offense, the defense had its own defining moment.
Linebacker Christian Elliss delivered a bone-jarring, textbook hit on Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart that immediately shifted momentum. It was clean, legal, and loud-everything you want from a statement defensive play.
But back to that throw.
Maye’s toss to Williams wasn’t just a great play-it was the kind of moment that builds a quarterback’s legend. Williams, a rookie, ran a crisp route and made a tough grab, but the ball placement from Maye was elite.
It was the type of throw that makes you understand why the Patriots are all-in on this kid. And if you’re wondering whether Kyle Williams is ready for the spotlight-this was a pretty strong opening argument.
With the win, New England not only improves its playoff positioning but also strengthens Maye’s case in the MVP race. The timing couldn’t have been better.
Matthew Stafford, one of Maye’s biggest competitors for the award, had a rough outing in the Rams' loss to Carolina, turning the ball over three times. That stumble, combined with Maye’s sharp performance, has shifted the MVP conversation squarely in the Patriots’ direction.
Let’s look at the numbers. According to Pro Football Reference, Maye is now completing 71.5% of his passes-an elite mark-while throwing for 3,412 yards, 23 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. Add in 319 rushing yards and two more scores on the ground, and you’ve got one of the most complete statistical profiles in the league this season.
Of course, the MVP race is far from over. Stafford and Colts running back Jonathan Taylor are still very much in the mix, and one off-week could change everything.
But right now? Maye’s got the momentum, the numbers, and the highlight-reel plays to back it all up.
The Patriots head into their bye week with confidence and clarity. When they return, they’ll host the Buffalo Bills in what promises to be a critical AFC East showdown. If Maye continues to perform at this level, New England won’t just be a playoff team-they’ll be a serious contender.
And if he keeps making throws like the one to Kyle Williams? The MVP trophy might just be headed to Foxborough.