Did the Patriots win today? Yes—in a thrilling Sunday Night Football comeback, the New England Patriots defeated the Baltimore Ravens 28-24 to clinch their first playoff spot since 2021. Drake Maye orchestrated an 11-point fourth-quarter rally, throwing for 380 yards and two touchdowns as New England avoided the offseason miss. The victory moves the Patriots to 12-3 and keeps their AFC East hopes alive heading into the final two regular-season games.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Score: Patriots 28, Ravens 24 in Week 16 on Sunday Night Football
- Drake Maye Performance: 31-of-44 passes, 380 yards, 2 touchdowns, first 300-yard game of his career
- Key Rally: Patriots overcame 11-point deficit in fourth quarter with two touchdown drives
- Historic Achievement: Patriots clinch first playoff berth under Head Coach Mike Vrabel in first season
Did the Patriots Win Today? Maye Leads Dramatic Fourth-Quarter Comeback
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The New England Patriots answered the question with a resounding yes, rallying from an 11-point deficit to stun the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday Night Football. Drake Maye guided two critical scoring drives in the final minutes, capped by a 21-yard touchdown run from Rhamondre Stevenson with 2:07 remaining. The comeback victory not only secured New England’s playoff return but positioned the Patriots at 12-3 with two games to play.
Head Coach Mike Vrabel credited the team’s poise after falling behind 24-13 early in the fourth quarter. Maye immediately responded with a 37-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Williams, cutting the deficit to three with a successful two-point conversion. The defense then forced a three-and-out, giving the offense one final chance to win the game outright.
Drake Maye’s 380-Yard Performance Clinches Historic Moment for Patriots
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Drake Maye delivered a masterclass in clutch quarterbacking, completing 31 of 44 passes for 380 yards—his first 300-yard game as a professional. The second-year quarterback overcame two early turnovers to orchestrate two flawless final drives, showcasing the poise that Patriots front office envisioned when drafting him. Maye connected with multiple receivers, displaying his arm talent across the field.
The Patriots spread the wealth offensively, with Rhamondre Stevenson contributing touchdowns on both the ground and via two-point conversion. Stefon Diggs haul in multiple crucial catches, including a 21-yard reception on fourth down that moved the chains inside the red zone. The balanced attack proved too much for Baltimore‘s defense in the game’s final moments.
Ravens Fall Short Despite Strong Performance From Derrick Henry and Defense
| Category | Patriots | Ravens |
| Total Yards | 418 | 385 |
| Passing Yards | 380 | 171 |
| Rushing Yards | 38 | 214 |
| Key Score Margin | +2 TDs in Q4 | Lamar Jackson injury |
The Baltimore Ravens mounted a valiant effort despite losing Lamar Jackson to a back injury late in the second quarter. Running back Derrick Henry recorded 128 rushing yards and a touchdown, leading Baltimore‘s ground attack throughout the contest. Zay Flowers contributed offensively with receptions and a rushing touchdown before the late-game turnover sealed the outcome.
Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley managed the Ravens offense competently after Jackson’s departure, but ultimately the Patriots defense made the crucial plays when it mattered. K’Lavon Chaisson forced the game-sealing fumble, with Marcus Jones recovering to seal New England’s historic comeback victory.
Patriots Clinch Playoff Spot After Four-Year Absence From Postseason
With the 28-24 victory, the Patriots officially clinch their first playoff berth since 2021. Head Coach Mike Vrabel has now led his team to the playoffs for the fourth time as a head coach, marking a successful first season in Foxborough. The AFC East remains winnable, with New England currently tracking the Denver Broncos for the best record in the conference.
The victory provides momentum heading into the final two regular-season games against the Jets and Dolphins. Patriots fans experienced heartbreak during a four-year playoff drought, but Maye‘s emergence and the team’s resilience offer genuine hope for a deep postseason run.
What Makes This Comeback Victory So Significant for New England’s Future?
Beyond the immediate playoff clinching, the Patriots comeback demonstrates that young quarterback Drake Maye possesses the mental toughness and skill set to lead New England back to contention. The ability to overcome early turnovers and lead game-winning drives separates elite NFL quarterbacks from the rest. Maye’s 380-yard performance showcased both his arm talent and decision-making in pressure situations.
Head Coach Vrabel inherited a team that had missed the playoffs four consecutive seasons, yet in his first year he has guided New England to a 12-3 record and a postseason return. The organizational turnaround feels genuine, with Maye at the center of the franchise’s renewed hope.
Watch: Patriots Fourth-Quarter Comeback Highlights
Sources
- ESPN – New England Patriots vs. Baltimore Ravens final score and game recap coverage
- Patriots.com Official – Rapid recap and postgame reaction from Head Coach Mike Vrabel and Drake Maye
- NFL.com – Drake Maye’s best plays from 380-yard performance in Week 16
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.