FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – In a stunning upset on Sunday Night Football,the New England Patriots defeated the Buffalo Bills 23-20,fueled by a strong performance from rookie quarterback Drake Maye and a resurgent Stefon Diggs. The victory improves the Patriots’ record to 3-2, while the Bills fall to 4-1.
Maye showcased important growth in his first primetime start, completing 22 of 30 passes for 273 yards. He was especially effective in the second half, going 13-of-14. Diggs, acquired in the offseason, delivered his best performance as 2022, hauling in 10 receptions for 146 yards on 12 targets – his highest yardage total since recording 10 catches for 148 yards against Kansas City in 2022 while with the Bills.
the game was a tale of two halves.The first half saw limited scoring, with the Patriots leading 6-3 after two field goals and a single Bills field goal. Buffalo committed eight penalties and two turnovers in the first 30 minutes.
Buffalo opened the third quarter with a touchdown pass from Josh Allen to bring the score to 10-6. However, Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson responded with two second-half touchdowns, the first putting New England ahead 13-10, and the second capping a 90-yard drive to extend the lead to 20-10. Stevenson had previously lost a fumble in the first half, marking his third fumble in as manny games.
The Bills battled back with a touchdown reception by Keon Coleman,making it 20-17. A subsequent drive stalled, resulting in a 45-yard field goal by Matt Prater to tie the game.
Ultimately, Buffalo left too much time on the clock for Maye, who orchestrated a final drive culminating in a 52-yard field goal by rookie Andy Borregales with just 15 seconds remaining.
Allen finished the game completing 22 of 31 passes for 253 yards,two touchdowns,and an interception,also leading the Bills in rushing with 53 yards on nine carries. james Cook added 49 rushing yards on 15 attempts. Dalton Kincaid was the Bills’ leading receiver with six catches for 108 yards.
The Patriots will travel to face the 1-4 New Orleans Saints next weekend. The Bills will have an extended break before hosting the 2-2 Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football.
