Drake Maye's mistakes compound Patriots' rough start
New England fell to 1-2 after a 35-6 loss to Jacksonville, with Drake Maye throwing two interceptions and losing a fumble. Maye's first pick came near the goal line late in the first half, and another came in the third quarter. The Patriots quarterback has described the early performances as unacceptable.
Drake Maye, a third-year quarterback, has New England at 1-2 after a 35-6 defeat at Jacksonville. He threw two interceptions and lost a fumble, with his first pick arriving on the last play of a 10-play series at the Jaguars' 5-yard line while trailing 14-3 before halftime. Travis Hunter recorded his first career interception.
Maye's second interception came in the third quarter on an out route to the short side; Jarrian Jones picked it off. Maye now has six interceptions and one touchdown pass through three games, matching Drew Bledsoe's 1994 franchise mark. He has called the early performances unacceptable.
The Patriots’ 1-2 start and Maye’s turnovers could weigh on fans, teammates, and coaches, altering expectations around a team recently in the Super Bowl conversation. Increased scrutiny may shape how Maye is discussed in sports media and by supporters, while his willingness to call the performances unacceptable could influence perceptions of his leadership. The Jaguars’ win may also lift local enthusiasm, though the story’s main social effect is likely confined to football audiences and the New England community.