EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Drake Maye and the New England Patriots clinched the AFC East title with an impressive performance, defeating the New York Jets 42-10 on Sunday, solidifying their status as division champions for the first time since 2019. The victory allowed New England to finish the regular season undefeated on the road, completing an 8-0 record away from home.
Maye delivered a standout performance, throwing for a career-high five touchdown passes and completing 19 of 21 attempts for 256 yards, achieving a remarkable quarterback rating of 157.0. His touchdowns were spread among several players, including Rhamondre Stevenson, who also added a rushing touchdown, Austin Hooper, Stefon Diggs, Hunter Henry, and Efton Chism III. With his performance, Maye joined the ranks of legendary Patriots quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Bledsoe, who are also the only others in franchise history to surpass 4,000 yards passing in a season.
“We came in focused, knowing we had unfinished business,” Maye noted. “Going 8-0 on the road was our goal, and we’re proud to have accomplished that.”
The Patriots dominated from the start, scoring touchdowns on their first six drives of the game and decisively pushing the score to 42-3 before resting Maye in the third quarter. The result marked New England’s eighth 13-win season, a feat only matched by a few teams in the league’s history.
Despite the Patriots’ success, the Jets struggled considerably, experiencing their second consecutive season with multiple losing streaks of at least four games. The team’s performance during the home finale was marked by disappointment, with head coach Aaron Glenn expressing frustration over the lack of effort displayed.
“I am highly disappointed in the way we came out today,” Glenn said. “We need to find a way to change things around.”
In a contrast of fortunes, Jets rookie quarterback Brady Cook threw for 152 yards but was intercepted during the game. However, standout player Breece Hall managed to secure his first 1,000-yard rushing season, which serves as a silver lining amidst the team’s struggles.
As the AFC East champions, the Patriots are focused on maintaining momentum as they prepare to host the Miami Dolphins next weekend, with aspirations for a strong playoff run. Meanwhile, the Jets will conclude their season on the road against the Buffalo Bills, hoping to end on a high note.
The road ahead looks promising for the Patriots, who have showcased their potential and resilience throughout the season.