Being firmly in the MVP conversation makes it clear just how extraordinary Drake Maye’s season has been. The quarterback will once again lead the New England Patriots—this time against the Denver Broncos—as he looks to capture the 2026 AFC Championship Game and punch a ticket to the Super Bowl.
While the former North Carolina standout is fully expected to play the entire game, the Patriots’ primary backup on the depth chart is a proven veteran: Joshua Dobbs.
Dobbs saw game action in four contests this season—against the Dolphins, Jets, Titans, and Panthers. In those appearances, he threw for 65 yards, failing to record a touchdown while also avoiding any interceptions.
Third on the depth chart behind those two quarterbacks is Tommy DeVito. The former New York Giants signal-caller has yet to see a single snap during this campaign.
Drake Maye’s MVP-caliber season
Drake Maye has put together a sensational campaign for the New England Patriots, establishing himself as the cornerstone of the franchise’s future. The young quarterback showcased elite efficiency and poise under pressure, finishing the regular season with an impressive 4,394 passing yards.
His ability to find the end zone was equally remarkable, as he tossed 31 touchdowns while doing a superb job of protecting the football, limiting his mistakes to just 8 interceptions.
Anchored by a stellar 77.1 QBR, Maye’s performance has not only exceeded expectations but has also solidified his status as one of the most productive signal-callers in the league this year.
When and where do the Broncos vs Patriots play?
The New England Patriots face off against the Denver Broncos today, Sunday, January 25, 2026, in the AFC Championship Game. The high-stakes matchup is being held at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM ET.