Patriots Dominate Chargers 16-3 in AFC Wild Card Playoffs: Drake Maye Secures First Postseason Win Since 2018

In a gritty, defense-dominated showdown at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026, the New England Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 in the AFC Wild Card Round. This victory marks the Patriots’ first playoff win since their Super Bowl LIII triumph in 2018, ending a long postseason drought and signaling a thrilling resurgence under second-year quarterback Drake Maye.

The New England Patriots, who finished the 2025 regular season with an impressive 14-3 record and clinched the No. 2 seed in the AFC, hosted the No. 7-seeded Chargers (11-6) in a battle of young quarterbacks seeking their first career playoff victory. While both offenses struggled early, New England’s defense stepped up massively, sacking Justin Herbert six times and holding the Chargers to just 207 total yards with zero touchdowns.

Game Summary: A Defensive Slugfest Turns Decisive

The first half was a field goal exchange, with the Patriots leading 6-3 at halftime thanks to two kicks from Andres Borregales (23-yard and 35-yard field goals). The Chargers’ lone score came from Cameron Dicker‘s 21-yarder.

New England added another field goal in the third quarter to make it 9-3. The game’s defining moment arrived in the fourth quarter when Drake Maye delivered a perfect 28-yard touchdown pass to tight end Hunter Henry, putting the Pats ahead 16-3 after the extra point.

Key defensive plays, including a strip-sack by K’Lavon Chaisson on Herbert (recovered by the Patriots), sealed the win. The Chargers’ offense couldn’t capitalize despite forcing turnovers from Maye early on.

Drake Maye Stats: Overcoming Early Struggles in Playoff Debut

Drake Maye showed resilience in his postseason debut:

• 17-of-29 passing (58.6%)
• 268 passing yards
• 1 touchdown (28-yard strike to Hunter Henry)
• 1 interception
• 10 carries for 66 rushing yards (including a 37-yard scramble)

Maye totaled around 334 yards of offense, bouncing back from a rough first half (40% completion) to become one of the youngest QBs in NFL history with 250+ passing yards and 50+ rushing yards in a playoff win.

Justin Herbert and Chargers’ Postseason Struggles Continue

Justin Herbert finished 19-of-31 for 159 yards, no touchdowns, and was sacked six times while rushing for 57 yards (team-high). The Chargers’ offense went scoreless in the second half, extending Herbert’s playoff record to 0-3.

Patriots Advance to AFC Divisional Round

With the win, the New England Patriots advance to host the winner of the Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers wild-card game in the AFC Divisional Round on Sunday, January 18, 2026 (time TBD). This matchup promises more high-stakes action as New England looks to continue their surprising playoff run.

This low-scoring, physical contest highlighted playoff football at its best—strong defenses, timely plays, and emerging stars like Drake Maye shining under pressure. The Patriots are back in contention, proving big comebacks are possible in Foxborough.

For full box scores, highlights, and updates, check official NFL sources like ESPN or the Patriots’ website. Stay tuned for more playoff excitement!

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