Patriots QB Drake Maye just solidified his MVP case without lifting a finger

"Even the most optimistic fans probably weren't expecting this level of play from New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. After a promising rookie season, he has quickly risen to become one of the best passers in the NFL. The second-year quarterback's play has been so impressive that he's entered MVP conversations in recent weeks. The typical candidates are mostly out of the running for various reasons this year, so Maye has a legitimate shot to win the award."

"Stafford had just 130 passing yards and barely completed half of his attempts, earning a mediocre Quarterback Rating of 45.5. The Rams' rushing attack carried their offense. Stafford's performance wasn't anything special, but Darnold completely tanked his chances at winning the MVP. The former Minnesota Vikings quarterback threw four interceptions on the day, ruining what could have easily been a Seahawks victory. He seemed lost throughout the game, consistently getting fooled by the Rams' defensive looks."

"Maye didn't exactly have a league-shattering game in Week 11. He had a relatively quiet one-touchdown performance against the New York Jets in a comfortable win for New England. His day was marked by precision and efficiency as his 25 completions were his most since Week 3. But it isn't his own performance that has him emerging as an MVP favorite. It's the disappointing showings from both Stafford and Darnold in a game that everyone was watching."

Drake Maye has quickly risen into MVP conversations after a promising rookie season, displaying precision and efficiency in his second year. In Week 11 he completed 25 passes—the most since Week 3—and delivered a one-touchdown performance in a comfortable win over the New York Jets. Matthew Stafford managed just 130 passing yards, completed barely half his attempts, and posted a 45.5 QB rating while the Rams relied on their rushing attack. Sam Darnold threw four interceptions, appeared repeatedly fooled by Rams defensive looks, and saw pressure expose persistent decision-making issues. Those struggles have strengthened Maye's MVP case.

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