"Both quarterbacks have had outstanding seasons and will meet on a huge stage Sunday night, each looking to pick up his first victory in the NFL playoffs. Whereas Herbert is 0-2 in Chargers postseason games, Maye is making his first postseason appearance for the New England Patriots after assembling a most valuable player-caliber season. Herbert hasn't gotten as much MVP mention but has been elite, especially considering the state of his injury-riddled offensive line, which has a new configuration virtually every week."
"The Chargers need to be effective on third down - need to stay in third-and-manageable - to keep drives alive and keep that Patriots defense on the field. Of course protecting Herbert is a priority and it's a challenge with an offensive line that's constantly being reshuffled. If the Chargers score early and often, they can take the crowd out of the game."
Justin Herbert and Drake Maye each completed standout regular seasons and now face each other in their first meaningful playoff meeting. Herbert is 0-2 in Chargers postseason games and contends with an injury-riddled offensive line that is frequently reshuffled. Maye makes his postseason debut after an MVP-caliber campaign, supported by a Patriots team that surged to 14 wins largely through a heavy reliance on the running game. Chargers must slow New England's run, protect Herbert and convert third downs to keep drives alive. Patriots must avoid obvious passing situations, lean on the run and shore up run defense to control tempo.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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