Overview
- New England advanced after a 16-3 Wild Card win over the Chargers, capping a 14-3 season and the franchise’s first playoff victory since Super Bowl LIII.
- Houston led the NFL in yards allowed and ranked second in points allowed, with edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter combining for 27 sacks in a straightforward, pressure-driven scheme.
- Maye said he will slide to avoid big hits when scrambling, after leading all Patriots rushers with 66 yards last week and finishing fourth among quarterbacks in rushing during the regular season.
- Analysts highlight New England’s offensive inconsistencies and pass-protection issues against Los Angeles, underscoring the need for Josh McDaniels’ plan to create quick answers and sustain the run game.
- Texans coach DeMeco Ryans praised Maye’s growth and pocket escape ability, as owner Robert Kraft this week detailed the costly decision to fire Jerod Mayo and credited Mike Vrabel’s hire for the rapid turnaround.