The New England Patriots faced a harsh setback early in their game against the Detroit Lions in Munich as quarterback Drake Maye left the field with an ankle injury during the first quarter and did not return. The injury came on the Patriots’ opening drive, forcing Tommy DeVito into action much earlier than expected.
Maye’s exit compounded a difficult start for the Patriots, whose defense struggled to contain Detroit’s offense. Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions’ star running back, consistently gained yards and scored twice in the first half, helping Detroit build a 21-3 lead by halftime. The Patriots’ defense gave up a 56-yard touchdown to Amon-Ra St. Brown and allowed multiple first downs without much resistance.
DeVito, stepping in for Maye, had a tough time establishing rhythm. His first touchdown pass came late in the fourth quarter, connecting with Lan Larison for the wide receiver’s first career touchdown. This was also DeVito’s first touchdown pass with New England, but by then the Lions held a commanding 28-10 lead.
Wide receiver A.J. Brown showed early involvement with several catches, including a 21-yard reception in the third quarter, but his performance was interrupted by hamstring concerns. Brown was seen limping and was eventually taken off to the medical tent for further evaluation, making his return to the game uncertain. Before leaving the field, Brown recovered a fumble by Reggie Gilliam, preventing a turnover that could have added to the Patriots’ woes.
The Patriots' defense managed to force some punts and recorded an interception by Christian Gonzalez in the second quarter, but these efforts were not enough to slow down the Lions’ momentum. Kevin Byard also intercepted a pass from Lions quarterback Jared Goff in the end zone just before halftime, keeping the Patriots within reach momentarily.
Offensively, the Patriots struggled to gain traction. DeVito was sacked several times and threw an interception to Roger McCreary. The offensive line also faced challenges, with Morgan Moses leaving the game with a knee injury and later returning, though he was initially listed as questionable.
Detroit’s offense was efficient, scoring early and often. Gibbs’ powerful runs repeatedly gained yardage, and Amon-Ra St. Brown found the end zone twice, contributing to the 28-point tally by the Lions. Jared Goff connected with Isaac TeSlaa for a touchdown, increasing the pressure on the Patriots.
By the fourth quarter, the Patriots finally found the end zone on Larison's touchdown catch, but time was running out. The game had already slipped away after a difficult day marked by injuries and defensive lapses.
The Patriots now face uncertainty over Maye’s ankle injury and Brown’s hamstring trouble as they look ahead to their next game. With their offense disrupted and defense unable to contain the Lions, New England will need to regroup quickly.
According to Yahoo Sports.
