"The New England Patriots will play in the AFC Championship on Sunday for the first time since 2018 in Mike Vrabel's first-ever season as the head coach. Jeers about the team's weak schedule haven't held up over their last two games, as they took down both the Chargers and Texans by two scores. Despite having the No. 2-ranked offense during the regular season, however, Drake Maye's side of the ball hasn't been what's kept the squad churning. In fact, they've averaged just 18.5 offensive PPG across their two playoff matchups and have yet to record a rushing touchdown."
"On Sunday against the Texans, C.J. Stroud's four first-half interceptions, one of which was a pick-six, ended the league's newest franchise's Super Bowl hopes. Woody Marks contributed an additional turnover after a third-quarter fumble, and the Texans netted just 9 points on offense. The Patriots defense has given up one touchdown in two postseason games, and it was a 27-yard drive off of turnover.- Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) January 18, 2026"
Mike Vrabel's Patriots reached the AFC Championship for the first time since 2018 during his first season as head coach. The team defeated the Chargers and Texans by two scores in successive playoff games. The offense ranked No. 2 in the regular season but has averaged just 18.5 points per game in two playoff matchups and has not recorded a rushing touchdown. The Patriots defense generated six sacks and multiple turnovers against the Chargers and intercepted C.J. Stroud four times against the Texans, including a pick-six. The defense has allowed one touchdown in two postseason games. Denver will start Jarrett Stidham after Bo Nix fractured his right foot.
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