Drake Maye raised concerns for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> after appearing on the team’s projected injury report ahead of the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks. 



According to the information, if there had been practice on Wednesday, the young quarterback would have been listed as limited due to a right shoulder issue.



Due to the two-week gap between the AFC Championship Game and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, the Patriots did not begin practicing until Thursday, and the Wednesday report was merely a projection. However, what is certain is that the injury exists and that could be a key factor to watch in the next days.



<h2>Drake Maye is injured before Super Bowl against Seahawks</h2>



Drake Maye has a right shoulder injury. The information was confirmed by Mike Vrabel, although according to the head coach, it is not a preexisting injury that worsened during the game against the Broncos. “No, because then he would have been listed on the injury report before then.”


 

 


<h2>Will Drake Maye miss the Super Bowl with Patriots?</h2>



No. Drake Maye will not miss the Super Bowl with the Patriots. This is how Mike Vrabel responded when he was asked what his level of concern was regarding the quarterback ahead of the game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a>.


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“Not much. I try not to have a lot of concern. I just want to try to prepare the football team and make sure that everybody’s ready and that we all have a plan. Try to learn our opponent.”

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miniaturas

After grinding out a hard-fought win over the Broncos in a game heavily impacted by the weather, the New England Patriots are once again at the center of the spotlight. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> and his players will travel to Santa Clara to compete in Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks.



Much has been made in recent hours about the decisions Sean Payton made throughout the game, particularly his choice to go for it on fourth down instead of attempting a field goal — a gamble that ultimately backfired as his team fell 10–7 to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>.



When asked by the media about the situation, Vrabel made it clear that in the decisive game he will make whatever decisions are necessary to be as aggressive as possible, especially against an opponent with a physical, hard-nosed defense like Seattle.



“I don’t mind being aggressive,” the HC said. “The biggest thing is trying to predict the flow of the game and what that’s going to look like and how many points you think you’re eventually going to need to win the football game.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/27082147/mike-vrabel-4-1920x1080.webp" alt="Mike Vrabel" class="wp-image-569163"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Glory within reach</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl LX</a> is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This highly anticipated matchup features a historic rematch between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, as both teams fought their way through the playoffs to secure their spots in the championship game.


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After a remarkable season led by young star Drake Maye, the Patriots will head to the West Coast looking to add a seventh championship ring to their storied trophy case and reclaim their position at the pinnacle of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>.

Patriots HC Mike Vrabel sends strong warning to Seahawks ahead of Super Bowl LX

Patriots HC Mike Vrabel sends strong warning to Seahawks ahead of Super Bowl LX - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> are one win away from reaching Super Bowl LX. Coming into the season, only a few—if any—thought Mike Vrabel could lead this team so far in such short notice. The locker room believed, though, and the results are now out there for everybody in the NFL to see. However, one last hurdle stands in the Patriots’ way, that is none other than the Denver Broncos.



Though missing Bo Nix could prove to be Denver’s Achilles’ heel, the Broncos are putting the Patriots on notice, as a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/broncos-put-patriots-on-notice-with-key-weapons-return-to-help-jarrett-stidham">key weapon could return to help Jarrett Stidham</a>. If all else fails, Denver can always lean on its home-field advantage, which is unique in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>.



As reported by The Boston Herald, the Pats won’t board the five-hour flight to Colorado until Saturday. Thus, they will be touching down in Denver roughly 24 hours prior to the AFC Championship Game on Sunday at 3:00 pm ET. According to a physics expert, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Vrabel</a> and the Patriots may be underestimating the adversity they will be up against in the Mile High City. 



“Given the same temperature in Gillette and Mile High, the air is about 20% less dense in Mile High, so that’s 20% less oxygen,” physics professor Nancy Burnham forewarned the Patriots, via The Boston Herald. “If you don’t have the oxygen, your muscles can’t do their thing, so it’s a concern. I’ve been pleased to watch the Patriots’ resurgence, but I hope that they get out there soon. They’re taking a chance, they’re putting themselves at risk.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/18170212/mike-vrabel-1920x1080.webp" alt="Mike Vrabel yelling" class="wp-image-564783"></figure><figcaption>Mike Vrabel during a Patriots game.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Home-field advantage</h2>



Throughout the league, every team likes to believe it holds an edge when playing at home. For some, that advantage comes directly from their fans. Others have created their own edge through specific elements of their stadium or field design. However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Broncos</a> possess an advantage unlike any other: altitude.


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At Empower Field at Mile High, players compete 5,280 feet above sea level. There has long been a debate over the best way to handle that challenge. Some believe it’s best to arrive shortly before kickoff, giving players’ bodies little time to register the change in altitude. Others, however, argue that acclimatization—arriving well in advance—is the better approach. Both theories have their pros and cons.



Vrabel and the Patriots are now leaning toward the former. New England knows it’s rolling the dice, but the belief is that this roster can push through adversity—and that playing in the Mile High City is simply another opportunity to prove it.



<h2>Patriots vie to end their hex</h2>



Nix’s season-ending injury may be the decisive factor that helps New England snap its all-time drought in Colorado. The Broncos and Patriots have met five times in the NFL Playoffs, with Denver holding a 4–1 advantage. Moreover, New England has never won a postseason game at Mile High.



Will history repeat itself, or will the Pats finally plant their flag in what’s become their house of horrors? If the Patriots advance past the Broncos, Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel would accomplish a feat not even Tom Brady and Bill Belichick could pull off. 



Many will point to the fact that Stidham is making his first start in more than two years. It’s a reasonable argument, but the reality remains: New England is 0–4 in Denver, and Vrabel’s squad now has a chance to end the franchise’s curse in the Centennial State.


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Patriots receive strong backlash on Mike Vrabel decision before visit to Broncos

Patriots receive strong backlash on Mike Vrabel decision before visit to Broncos - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> had a clear order for Drake Maye and his New England Patriots players at halftime of the Divisional Round playoff against the Houston Texans: seize C.J. Stroud’s interceptions and get the job done.



“Take advantage of the turnovers,” Maye told the broadcast of the game before heading into the locker room when asked about his message for the players, letting his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> know that they must capitalize on the mistakes by Stroud and the Texans to finish the job in Foxborough.



Stroud got off to a nightmare start at Gillette Stadium, getting intercepted four times as his Texans went to the break trailing 10-21. And the difference could’ve been worse if it wasn’t for the outstanding <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-texans">Houston</a> defense.



<h2>NFL world reacts to C.J. Stroud’s first half vs. Patriots</h2>



The reactions didn’t take long to emerge, with running back <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/joe-mixon-drops-six-word-message-as-cj-stroud-throws-multiple-interceptions-vs-patriots">Joe Mixon dropping a six-word message on X as Stroud threw multiple interceptions</a> in the blink of an eye. And of course, fans on social media didn’t waste a second to react either.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/cj-stroud-throws-4-interceptions-in-first-half-vs-patriots-best-memes-and-reactions">Stroud’s four interceptions in the first half led to hilarious memes</a>, as the NFL community couldn’t believe how many possessions the Texans quarterback gave up. In fact, it led many to wonder <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/who-is-cj-strouds-backup-on-texans-qb-depth-chart">who’s Stroud’s backup on the depth chart</a> and whether the team should make a change at quarterback for the second half.

Mike Vrabel issues five-word order for Drake Maye, Patriots on CJ Stroud’s interceptions with Texans

Mike Vrabel issues five-word order for Drake Maye, Patriots on CJ Stroud's interceptions with Texans - Bolavip US

The New England Patriots once again showed they are built for big things this NFL season, even after many questioned their status following their most recent loss. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> delivered a stellar performance, preserving the team’s unbeaten road record by taking down the always-tough Baltimore Ravens.



The loss to the Bills at Foxborough shared a common denominator: a lack of execution in the fourth quarter, an issue that ultimately proved costly. Still, with the mindset of a winning team, a very different version of the Patriots showed up at M&amp;T Bank Stadium.



“It was kind of a wake-up call last week — we got a chance to win the game with a game-winning drive, and this week it was like, man, let’s not have that feeling two weeks in a row,” Maye said, via Noah Trister of the Associated Press. “It was kind of the elephant in the room.”



With Sunday’s win, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England</a> improved to a temporary record of 12–3, with just two games remaining on the schedule. The primary goal now? Taking down the No. 1 seed Broncos to secure a bye week in the upcoming playoffs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251222_BUS_549706_drake-maye-4_d98485b2.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye New England Patriots" class="wp-image-549723"></figure><figcaption>Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Is Drake Maye an MVP candidate?</h2>



In a phenomenal breakout season, Drake Maye has officially entered the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> MVP conversation with elite-level production. Through 15 games, Maye has passed for 3,947 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only 8 interceptions, while maintaining a highly efficient 73.4 QBR. 


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His ability to balance aggressive downfield play with smart decision-making has transformed the Patriots into a serious AFC contender, making his case for the league’s highest individual honor nearly impossible to ignore.



<h2>Mike Vrabel on Maye’s performance</h2>



The arrival of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a>, along with Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator, has further elevated the level Drake Maye had already shown since entering the NFL. After the win, the head coach spoke with the media and emphasized the influence the quarterback’s play has on his teammates.



“I just thought gritty. I mean he got hit. He got hit. They pressured him, or they got home when they didn’t. He just kept getting up and battling. He didn’t flinch. I think it was important for all of us to have that game, the entire team,” Vrabel said via the <a href="https://www.patriots.com/news/new-england-patriots-postgame-quotes-12-21-x0264">Patriots’ official website.</a>



<h2>What’s next for the Patriots?</h2>



The Patriots face a critical path to securing the top seed in the AFC as they enter their final two games of the season. To claim the conference, New England must win both matchups: a Week 17 road game against the New York Jets and a regular-season finale at home against the Miami Dolphins.

Drake Maye makes major revelation after Patriots’ big Sunday Night Football win over Ravens

Drake Maye makes major revelation after Patriots’ big Sunday Night Football win over Ravens - Bolavip US

Mike Vrabel is set to reunite with Derrick Henry when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> face the Baltimore Ravens. Now rivals, the two once knew each other better than anyone during their time together in Tennessee.



Not long ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vrabel</a> was the head coach of the Tennessee Titans, with Henry leading the offense on the ground. This week, they meet again under very different circumstances, with Vrabel warning his Patriots players about exactly what the Ravens’ star running back is capable of.



“It is a huge challenge,” Vrabel said this week about stopping <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/derrick-henry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Henry</a>, via a transcript from the team. “He’s a very unique player. Great speed, great power, strength. He’s just a different body type than what anybody would go against, and so it’s unique in that regard. They do a very nice job with their scheme, different personnel groups, different run plan and styles of run, and different run actions. So again, we know what he’s about. Build speed and stiff arm and all that other stuff.”



<h2>A different season for Vrabel and Henry</h2>



Mike Vrabel is firmly in the conversation for Coach of the Year after orchestrating a remarkable turnaround with the Patriots. On the other hand, Derrick Henry and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravens</a> have struggled far more than expected this season.



New England currently leads the AFC East with an 11–3 record and still has a path to the No. 1 seed in the conference, depending on how the Denver Broncos finish the season. Vrabel has clearly transformed a franchise that had been searching for direction since Tom Brady’s departure.



Baltimore’s situation is far less comfortable. The Ravens sit outside the playoff picture, but their final regular-season matchup against the Steelers could determine the AFC North champion and decide whether they reach the postseason.


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<h2>Derrick Henry’s production raises concerns</h2>



At 31 years old, questions about Derrick Henry’s future have begun to surface. His production this season has been solid but not dominant, fueling speculation about a potential decline.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548259_Derrick-Henry-and-Mike-Vrabel-during-their-time-with-the-Titans_68c0d1a2.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Derrick Henry and Mike Vrabel during their time with the Titans" class="wp-image-548294"></figure><figcaption>Derrick Henry and Mike Vrabel during their time with the Titans</figcaption></figure>



With three games remaining, Henry has logged 233 carries for 1,125 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, three costly fumbles in critical moments have hurt Baltimore’s chances and raised concerns about his reliability in high-leverage situations.

Patriots players receive strong message from HC Mike Vrabel about Ravens RB Derrick Henry

Patriots HC Mike Vrabel gets brutally honest with the referees after painful Week 15 loss to the Bills

Patriots rookie outshines Shedeur Sanders to win NFL award during Browns QB’s first weeks as starter

Patriots players receive strong message from HC Mike Vrabel about Ravens RB Derrick Henry - Bolavip US

It was a heartbreaking loss for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> against the Buffalo Bills in Week 15. The team was winning until it wasn’t, but head coach Mike Vrabel wasn’t focusing on that after the game, he instead went off on the officiating.



The Patriots had seven penalties in the game, including a DPI on cornerback Carlton Davis in what ended up being the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. After the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mike Vrabel</a> was not happy.



“The consistency — sometimes I struggle with it. I’ll say this, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bills</a> lead the NFL in offensive holds, and I’ll leave it at that,” said Vrabel. “And that would be hard for me to understand how the team that is coming into the game leading, and that’s how they play, didn’t have one yesterday. That’s hard for me to understand.”



<h2>It was a tough last quarter for the Patriots</h2>



New England was winning the game 21-0 and somehow, it ended up losing the game. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/josh-allen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Josh Allen</a> made heroics -once again- to come back and win the game. Allen was Superman when it mattered the most. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251215_BUS_545783_QB-Drake-Maye-of-the-New-England-Patriots-2025_5e6ff8e8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)" class="wp-image-527493"></figure><figcaption>QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)</figcaption></figure>



It was also a weird game for Patriots quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drake Maye</a>. He had awesome throws and big moments, even though his stats don’t show it. He had 14/23 completions for 155 yards and one interception. Maye did damage with his feet though, scoring twice on the ground. It just wasn’t enough to get the win.


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<h2>Vrabel had a better explanation for the loss</h2>



Vrabel had an easy explanation for everything. “Same thing everybody else sees [about Josh Allen]. 6’5, 250 lbs., runs fast, hard to tackle, hard to get down on the ground, accurate, strong arm. Giving you a dissertation on a league MVP. Just watch all the games…That’s why they pay him $60 million. I don’t know what to tell you.” Sometimes you just gotta tip the hat.



In fairness, Vrabel managed to beat Allen once this season too. It would be amazing to see if there is a round three in the NFL Playoffs. In the end, it’s MVP vs. MVP contender and that is always a delight to see.

Patriots HC Mike Vrabel gets brutally honest with the referees after painful Week 15 loss to the Bills - Bolavip US

Over the past couple of years, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/josh-allen">Josh Allen</a> has been the measuring stick to talk about big, raw quarterbacks with a strong arm. He struggled mightily earlier in his career, so he’s also a blueprint for patience and quarterback development.



That’s why not many people gave that much thought to the comparisons between him and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a>, as it’s not the first time scouts have said something similar.



Fast forward to today, and they may have actually nailed it with this take. That’s why New England Patriots head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> wanted to share his two cents on these comparisons.



<h2>Mike Vrabel calls Maye, Allen ‘great competitors’</h2>



“Josh probably got a couple [more] LBs on ’em, and he kinda throws his shoulder in there probably a little bit more than I would want Drake to. But I think they’re both great competitors,” Vrabel said, per Tom Carroll.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251209_BUS_542169_josh-allen_22e757c9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Josh Allen Buffalo Bills" class="wp-image-523777"></figure><figcaption>Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills.</figcaption></figure>



At the end of the day, they’re both outstanding players, and there’s no need to compare them. Maye’s journey is just getting started, and he can be legendary in his own way.



The AFC East division will see some epic battles for years to come. And while the Patriots are back on top right now, Josh Allen is still the best quarterback in the division until further notice.

Mike Vrabel opens up on the Drake Maye-Josh Allen comparisons

Mike Vrabel opens up on the Drake Maye-Josh Allen comparisons - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> New England Patriots</a> reached their bye week in a privileged position. They’re 11-2 and have the best record in the AFC, regardless of their strength of schedule or whatever the naysayers say.



That’s why Mike Vrabel’s men shouldn’t have any more pressure at this point. They’ve already exceeded expectations, and they can play like a team that doesn’t have anything to lose.



At least, that’s how Alec Shane of Pats Pulpit feels. In his latest column, he explained why this team’s strong start to the season has all but guaranteed this campaign to be a success.



<h2>The Patriots are playing with ‘house money,’ says analyst</h2>



“I’ll say it again: this entire season, no matter what happens from here on out, is a massive win,” Shane wrote. “Even if they lose the next four games and go one-and-done in the playoffs, or even somehow miss the playoffs entirely at 11-6, I’m still standing by that statement. This team has already exceeded expectations, and all that a complete implosion and doomsday scenario would hammer home is how it took some kind of unprecedented and inexplicable collapse for the Patriots to fall down to what most people had pegged as the highest possible ceiling for the team this year.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251208_BUS_541751_Mike-Vrabel-looks-on_298b558a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots" class="wp-image-492094" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that’s not to say that the Patriots don’t have to keep their foot on the gas for the remainder of the season. However, this situation should take plenty of pressure off their shoulders.



No matter what, they’ve already shown that they’re far ahead of schedule in terms of their rebuilding project, and this team looks ready to compete at a high level for years to come.

Mike Vrabel’s Patriots don’t have anything to lose, says analyst

Mike Vrabel's Patriots don't have anything to lose, says analyst - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots"> New England Patriots</a> secured another big win on Monday against the New York Giants. The AFC East team extended its winning streak to 10 games with the 33-15 victory it secured in Week 13. The turnaround is complete for the Patriots, who are two wins away from tying their 2024 season losses.



Drake Maye once again led the Patriots after finishing 24 of 31 for 282 yards and two touchdowns with three sacks. Jaxson Dart couldn’t keep up with Maye, going 17 of 24 for 139 yards and one touchdown.



The Patriots continue to be a well-rounded team, dominating on both ends of the ball, and they are anything but done. Mike Vrabel changed the culture in Foxborough, but he doesn’t want the players to relax.



<h2>Mike Vrabel’s clear message to players</h2>



Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Vrabel explained what he expects to see from the Patriots now that they head into their bye week.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538016_Mike-Vrabel-looks-on_69f8bf09.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots" class="wp-image-492094" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



“We’re not done. We’re not satisfied,” Vrabel said. “I think champions are never satisfied. I think you can appreciate where you are. But at the same time, never be satisfied or complacent, and the fine line between rest and recovery and just being sedentary…Understand that just because you have a bye, doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed some victory the next week in this league…”



The Patriots will return to action on Dec. 14 against the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo was the first team the Patriots beat to start their remarkable run. They will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 16, before taking on the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins to close out the regular season.&nbsp;

Mike Vrabel sends hungry message to Patriots ahead of bye week

Mike Vrabel sends hungry message to Patriots ahead of bye week - Bolavip US

The New England Patriots are enjoying a dream season, and their Monday Night Football clash against the New York Giants only confirmed it. Mike Vrabel’s leadership at the helm of the team has further elevated <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a>, who many are now positioning as a frontrunner for MVP.



After the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>’ victory in Foxborough against one of their historic rivals, the head coach spoke about the moment the QB is experiencing and how much he means for the team’s positive development during this crucial stage of the season.



“I think he’s realizing what he can be and what the impact that he makes on this offense and being the conductor,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Vrabel</a> said, via a <a href="https://www.patriots.com/news/new-england-patriots-postgame-quotes-12-1-x9273">transcript from the team.</a> “He’s hard on himself. I think that he challenges himself as well as his coaches. He means a great deal to this football team.”



On Monday Night Football, Maye went 24-of-31 for 282 yards and two touchdowns, securing the 11th win for the current leader of the AFC. Up next is a crucial bye week, which could prove key for the outcome of this campaign.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_537845_drake-maye-mike-vrabel_3c358e84.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye with Mike Vrabel" class="wp-image-537858"></figure><figcaption>Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots and Drake Maye.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Dream season for Maye</h2>



Drake Maye has been the catalyst for the Patriots’ resurgence this season, leading the team to an impressive 11-2 record, one of the best marks in the AFC. The quarterback has put up stellar numbers, throwing for 3,412 yards with 23 touchdowns against just 6 interceptions. His performance is further highlighted by a strong 72.8 Quarterback Rating (QBR), demonstrating his efficiency and effectiveness in driving New England’s offense.


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<h2>MVP contenders</h2>



Drake Maye is now widely regarded as a serious candidate for the NFL’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, thanks to his exceptional performance in leading the Patriots to the AFC’s top tier. 



However, the race is tightening, as Maye is currently being challenged by a resurgent Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams, who is mounting a formidable campaign of his own and is fiercely contending for the prestigious honor.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="692f020ae2d53b59fb2f03f2" data-title="Who should be this season’s MVP?" data-options="5"></div>

Mike Vrabel makes blunt statement about Drake Maye after Patriots’ big MNF win over the Giants

Mike Vrabel makes blunt statement about Drake Maye after Patriots’ big MNF win over the Giants - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaxson-dart">Jaxson Dart</a> didn’t shy away from the physical reality of Giants-Patriots matchup, even after taking several punishing shots in a 33–15 loss. With Dart finishing the day with 139 yards and one touchdown, the rookie quarterback was again asked about the number of hits he’s absorbing. His response made it clear he’s neither surprised nor bothered by the contact.



“I understand the question, but this is football,” Dart said. “I’m going to get hit if I’m in the pocket or outside the pocket. I’ve played this way my whole entire life. It shouldn’t be any shocker to anybody… We’re not playing soccer out here. You’re going to get hit, things happen. It’s just part of the game.”



Dart’s aggressiveness has been a defining trait in his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, where he’s totaled 1,556 yards, 11 touchdowns and three interceptions. And while the Giants continue to stumble, he emphasized that the physical style that helped him succeed in college isn’t something he plans to tone down any time soon.



<h2>Patriots defend the hit that sparked debate</h2>



One of the toughest blows Dart absorbed came from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> LB Christian Ellis, who insisted the play looked more dangerous than it actually was. “I thought he was just going to go out of bounds, but then I saw him tiptoeing,” Ellis said. “So I was like, ‘Stay in bounds. What am I supposed to do?’ We play hard on defense… I was just doing my job and hit anything in the whites.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Full play of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> LB Christian Elliss’ hit on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Giants?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Giants</a> QB Jaxson Dart, and the fight that ensued afterwards <a href="https://t.co/QNv9yfaLyX">pic.twitter.com/QNv9yfaLyX</a>— New England Sports Fellow (@_JosephManning) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JosephManning/status/1995671421255864334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Patriots head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> backed Ellis, adding that quarterbacks around the league, including his own, are warned weekly about flirting with the sideline. “That’s a weekly reminder to the quarterback — our quarterback,” Vrabel said. “I wouldn’t get too cute over there by the sidelines. It happens every week. Christian’s playing through the whistle, and as long as the player’s in bounds, he’s gonna try to hit him legally.”



Despite the collision and the mounting losses, Dart maintained his composure in the postgame presser. “It’s not fun losing. It’s not fun with this losing streak,” Dart said. “It doesn’t look super-bright from the outside, but we have each other’s backs… I’m hoping that we can continue to build and find any way that we can to just find a little bit of momentum.”

Jaxson Dart responds to harsh Patriots hit as Mike Vrabel and Christian Ellis defend it

Jaxson Dart responds to harsh Patriots hit as Mike Vrabel and Christian Ellis defend it - Bolavip US

The New England Patriots became the first team to reach 10 wins this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> once again showed he’s destined for big things alongside his teammates in Foxborough.



Much of the team’s success isn’t just thanks to the Patriots’ offense, but also to those who protect the quarterback. Will Campbell, one of the top-performing rookies so far this season, has been a key pillar, though a serious injury in Sunday’s game puts his short-term availability in doubt.



“We won’t know much,” head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> said during a Monday morning appearance on WEEI. “Yesterday was not a great day for us with injuries. There will be some players that went out of that game yesterday that won’t be available Monday night. 



“Hopefully we get some of those guys back. We have an extra day. I won’t be able to tell you much. I wouldn’t imagine that Will’s going play in the game. I don’t think that will be something that will happen. That injury is going to probably be more than a week or two.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532943_will-campbell_4adefb22.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Will Campbell" class="wp-image-532949"></figure><figcaption>Will Campbell #66 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>A day full of injuries</h2>



The Patriots’ victory over the Bengals came at a cost, as four players suffered injuries during the game, adding to the aforementioned situation with left tackle Will Campbell, who suffered a knee injury. 


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During Sunday’s win, left guard Jared Wilson sustained an ankle injury, leaving the offensive line’s left side relying on Vederian Lowe and Ben Brown. The defense also took a hit with injuries to defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga and special teamer Brendan Schooler, creating immediate depth issues that the team must address heading into their next contest.



<h2>Giants before the Bye Week</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> face a final hurdle before their highly anticipated break as they host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. This primetime home game is critical not just for their playoff positioning, but also as a final opportunity to secure a win before the much-needed bye week. 



Given the mounting injury toll, especially on the offensive line, the bye offers a crucial chance to recover key players. A win against the Giants would send the team into the break with significant momentum and allow the injured roster to rest and recuperate, ensuring the Patriots are as close to full strength as possible for the final stretch of the regular season.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="692464862d286e1484d5eb83" data-title="Are the Patriots the AFC’s top Super Bowl contenders?" data-options="2"></div>

Patriots receive concerning injury update on Drake Maye’s key teammate

Patriots receive concerning injury update on Drake Maye's key teammate - Bolavip US

The 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season currently features one of the most solid teams of the campaign. The New England Patriots have defied all predictions and, led by Drake Maye and Rhamondre Stevenson, among others, aim to remain in the title hunt. Defeating the Cincinnati Bengals could represent another step toward that goal.



This team has excelled not only through the air, with contributions from players like Stefon Diggs, but also on the ground. Stevenson has been a key figure in the running game for much of the season, making his presence at Paycor Stadium essential for the Patriots.



While the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/injuries/">NFL’s official site</a> lists the running back as questionable for the game against the Bengals, according to the latest update from Adam Schefter, Stevenson will be on the field alongside his teammates.



This is undoubtedly great news not just for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a>, but for the rest of his teammates as well, as the veteran has been a key component of the Patriots’ offensive structure throughout this season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251123_BUS_532121_rhamondre-stevenson-drake-maye_d1216fe4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye with Rhamondre Stevenson" class="wp-image-532164"></figure><figcaption>Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What injury is plaguing Stevenson?</h2>



The veteran back Rhamondre Stevenson has been sidelined for the past three weeks with a nagging toe injury and, while he was listed as questionable, latest reports indicate that he will play.


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His return represents a massive boost, providing a much-needed physical presence in the backfield that has been covered admirably by rookie TreVeyon Henderson.



<h2>Stevenson’s impact on the Patriots’ offense</h2>



Prior to his recent injury absence, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rhamondre-stevenson">Rhamondre Stevenson</a> was the essential engine driving the Patriots’ surprisingly effective offense. In the first eight games of the 2025 season, Stevenson recorded 279 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns on 83 attempts, providing a critical ground threat. 



More importantly, he remained a potent receiving weapon out of the backfield, accumulating 169 receiving yards on 16 receptions. His ability to convert runs and threaten the defense as a receiver (averaging over 10 yards per reception) makes him an irreplaceable dual-threat component, forcing defenses to respect New England’s backfield on every down.

Is Rhamondre Stevenson playing today for Patriots vs Bengals in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season?

Is Rhamondre Stevenson playing today for Patriots vs Bengals in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots </a>head coach Mike Vrabel shared his thoughts on Cam Newton’s controversial comments about the team’s 2025 season. Newton, who was a member of the Patriots for two years and their starting quarterback in 2020, refused to give credit to his former team after they improved to 9-2 on Thursday.&nbsp;



“It has fool’s gold written all over them,” Newton said of the Patriots on ESPN’s “First Take.” “The thing I have a problem with is if you keep playing sorry scrubs, then you’re going to have this falsetto of a mentality going into the playoffs and it has one-and-done written all over it.”



The Patriots beat the New York Jets 27-14 in Week 11 to become the first team with nine wins this campaign. Newton, however, didn’t find it that impressive, given the strength of their schedule.&nbsp;



<h2>Mike Vrabel doesn’t take issue with Cam Newton’s words&nbsp;</h2>



During a Monday appearance on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show,” Vrabel reacted to Newton’s comments. The former Tennessee Titans coach said his team was focused on getting better regardless of the external noise.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251118_BUS_529499_imago412944954-Bolavip_5ddf59db.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Cam Newton attends Michael Rubin&apos;s Fanatics Super Bowl party" class="wp-image-283241" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Cam Newton attends Michael Rubin’s Fanatics Super Bowl party at the Marquee Nightclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on February 10, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. </figcaption></figure>



“Nothing’s weird to me, because people can come on the radio or, you know what I mean?” Vrabel said. “It’s just (saying) things that get their attention. We are OK with that. I promise you, we were OK with it. Anything that anybody says, we’re going to come to work. We’re going to focus on us. We’re going to try to improve, and we’re going to focus on the Bengals and going on the road, trying to get our 10th win. That’s all we’re going to focus on.”



New England will visit Paycor Stadium to clash with the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. That won’t be an easy matchup for the Pats’ defense, but they can punish the Bengals’ weak defense to secure the 10th win of the campaign.&nbsp;

Mike Vrabel reacts to Cam Newton’s comments about Patriots

Mike Vrabel reacts to Cam Newton's comments about Patriots - Bolavip US

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