"The goal was clear for the Patriots going into their Week 16 primetime matchup against the Ravens, after a masterclass in second-half collapses against the Bills dominated headlines in the days leading up to Sunday night. Not only did they need and want a bounce-back game against a very good opponent, but a win would also clinch their first playoff berth since 2021, which added more motivation to their fourth-quarter comeback, highlighted by an impressive performance from Drake Maye."
"But it wasn't just the offense that needed to lock down and show up late in the game; the defense also needed to finally stop the Ravens from marching down the field, particularly RB Derrick Henry, who recorded 18 carries for 128 yards and two touchdowns. Fortunately, for some odd reason, Henry was kept off the field for one of the Ravens' final drives, one that they could have used another score to get them back in the game."
The Patriots entered Week 16 primetime needing a bounce-back after second-half collapses versus the Bills and seeking a win to clinch their first playoff berth since 2021. A fourth-quarter comeback, led by an impressive performance from Drake Maye, produced the winning margin. The defense had to finally stop Baltimore's rushing attack and Derrick Henry, who totaled 18 carries for 128 yards and two touchdowns. Coach John Harbaugh kept Henry off the field for one of the Ravens' penultimate drives, a choice that reduced Baltimore's chance for a tying score. Harbaugh's subsequent explanation of the decision created further confusion, and Henry’s absence helped secure the Patriots’ postseason berth.
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