Patriots: Pats Win First Playoff Game in Seven Years Defeating the Los Angeles Chargers

The New England Patriots advanced to the AFC Divisional Round with a 16–3 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, marking their first playoff win since 2018. With the win, New England will stay home next weekend to face the winner of Monday night’s game between the Houston Texans and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The game was defensive and low-scoring early, with the Patriots taking a 6–3 lead into halftime on a pair of field goals. In the third quarter, New England extended the lead with another field goal before Drake Maye connected with Hunter Henry for a 28-yard touchdown pass, giving the Patriots a two-score cushion that proved decisive.

From that point on, the Patriots’ pass rush took over. Despite playing through a fractured left hand, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was under constant pressure, taking 11 quarterback hits and being sacked six times, including on the final offensive play of the game. Los Angeles finished with only 207 total yards and went just 1-for-10 on third down, with no receiver catching more than three passes.

Herbert completed 19 of 31 passes for 159 yards and led the Chargers in rushing with 57 yards on 10 carries. For New England, Drake Maye also led his team on the ground with 66 yards on 10 runs, while Rhamondre Stevenson added balance with 53 rushing yards on 10 carries.

Maye finished 17-of-29 for 268 yards with one touchdown, one interception, and a lost fumble. Stevenson also contributed as a receiver, catching three passes for 75 yards. Kayshon Boutte had four catches for 66 yards, and Hunter Henry added three receptions for 64 yards, including the game’s only touchdown.

The Patriots’ Divisional Round matchup will be played at home on Sunday, January 18, against either the Texans or the Steelers.