In a dramatic Week 16 Sunday Night Football showdown, the New England Patriots edged the Baltimore Ravens 28-24 to clinch a playoff berth for the first time since 2021.
Patriots Clinch Playoff Spot
The victory moved New England to a 12-3 record, keeping the team firmly in the No. 1 seed race after the Denver Broncos’ loss earlier in the day. Baltimore finished 7-8, with injuries affecting most of the season.
Drake Maye Leads the Charge
Maye threw for 380 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception on 31 of 44 completions. He also fumbled twice but recovered one. This was his first career NFL game with more than 300 passing yards.
Lamar Jackson Leaves Early
Jackson exited the game with a back injury after completing 7 of 10 passes for 101 yards. Tyler Huntley finished the game, throwing 65 yards on 9 of 10 completions.
Derrick Henry Provides Rushing Power
Henry rushed for 128 yards on 18 carries, scoring two touchdowns. His longest run was 23 yards.
John Harbaugh Faces Scrutiny
The Ravens’ head coach, who has led the team since 2008, saw the coaching and play-calling deteriorate after the team secured a 24-13 advantage.
Stefon Diggs Delivers Key Catch
Diggs caught nine of 10 targets for 138 yards, setting three game highs. Although he did not score a touchdown, his performance was crucial in the Patriots’ victory.
Key Takeaways
- Patriots secure first playoff berth since 2021 after 28-24 win over Ravens.
- Drake Maye posts 380 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception in his first 300-yard game.
- Lamar Jackson exits with a back injury, leaving Huntley to finish the game.
The win solidifies New England’s position at the top of the AFC and sets the stage for a playoff run that could see Maye’s early success translate into postseason performance.
