Patriots struggle as quarterback Drake Maye faces early-season slump
New England fell 35-6 to Jacksonville as Maye recorded two interceptions, prompting coach Mike Vrabel to voice high concern about the team's performance.
The New England Patriots were defeated 35-6 on the road by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, extending a winless start to 1-2. Quarterback Drake Maye completed 14 of 25 passes for 198 yards, threw two interceptions and failed to reach the end zone. At halftime the Patriots had only three points and 88 passing yards. Maye’s third-and-goal attempt in the first half resulted in a pass to the middle of the end zone that was intercepted by Jaguars cornerback Travis Hunter.
Coach Mike Vrabel said after the game, "My concern level is very high for this football team." The loss followed two interceptions in the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks and a turnover-free performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers that still yielded an interception. Maye also missed a third-down pass to Romeo Doubs in the third quarter, and a later throw was picked off by Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones, leading to another Jacksonville touchdown.
Analysts noted that Maye is dealing with the loss of wide receiver A.J. Brown to injury and a schedule that includes strong defensive opponents. His passer rating has fallen from a league-leading 113.5 in the previous regular season to 82.2 in the playoffs, and he currently leads the league with four interceptions after three weeks. The Patriots pulled Maye from the game with eight minutes remaining, allowing backup Tommy DeVito to finish the contest.
The Patriots’ offensive woes were highlighted alongside other Week 3 outcomes, including wins for the Ravens, Raiders, Lions, Steelers and others, while several teams, such as the Buccaneers and Chargers, remained winless.