The New England Patriots ended the Buffalo Bills’ unbeaten run with a 2-2 record after a 26-21 victory at the new Highmark Stadium, a result that drew clear praise from head coach Mike Vrabel for quarterback Drake Maye. Maye threw for three touchdowns and 269 yards, improving on his rocky start to the 2026 season despite another interception.
Maye’s performance stood out not just for his passing but also on the ground. He led the Patriots in rushing with 54 yards from eight carries, outpacing both running backs who combined for 89 yards. This dual-threat display was a noticeable shift given Maye’s early-season struggles, which included multiple turnovers.
After the win, footage from the NFL Films’ Week Four Mic’d Up showed Vrabel congratulating Maye while waiting for the team to head to the locker room. “Great job, buddy! Proud of you, man! Proud of you… hey, we ain’t done yet. We ain’t done yet!” the coach said.
The relationship between Vrabel and Maye had been the subject of speculation amid the quarterback’s difficult start. Maye’s turnovers had raised questions, but the coach’s public encouragement after the Bills game suggested any doubts within the team have been settled, at least for now.
The Patriots’ victory was a clear statement in Buffalo, snapping the Bills’ perfect run after four games. Buffalo had entered the weekend undefeated but were held to 21 points as New England’s defence tightened up in critical moments.
Maye’s ability to bounce back under pressure will be tested again as the Patriots prepare to host the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders suffered their first loss of the season recently, and under Klint Kubiak’s leadership, they have become a formidable side. Their defence has forced nine turnovers so far, presenting a fresh challenge for Maye and the Patriots’ offence.
The upcoming game will reveal more about where New England stand this season and whether Maye can build on his improved display against Buffalo. The quarterback’s need for consistency remains, especially facing a Raiders defence known for disrupting opponents.
For now, Vrabel’s words after the Buffalo game reflect a coach ready to back his quarterback through early adversity while demanding more progress. The Patriots’ win in Buffalo is their first since the season began, and it came against a team many expected to continue unbeaten for some time.
According to Yahoo Sports.