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Instant analysis from Patriots’ 45-17 win over Raiders

The New England Patriots dominated the Las Vegas Raiders 45-17 at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, extending their winning ways under head coach Mike Vrabel. Quarterback Drake Maye delivered a masterclass, completing 26 of 34 passes for 374 yards and four touchdown passes, while also rushing for a fifth score.

His performance included a career-high rushing yardage from the previous week, and he finished the game with a passer rating of 150.9. The Patriots' offensive line and playmakers, including tight end Hunter Henry and rookie Eli Raridon, contributed significantly, with Henry’s 26-yard scamper and Raridon’s 31-yard reception highlighting their impact.

Despite the absence of veteran wide receiver Mack Hollins, who was placed on injured reserve, the Patriots’ depth shone through as DeMario Douglas scored his first touchdown of the season.

New England’s offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels, orchestrated a high-octane attack, averaging 8.1 yards per play and converting 29 of 41 third-and-fourth-down attempts. The Patriots’ red-zone efficiency (4 of 5) and strategic use of kneel-downs in the fourth quarter sealed the victory.

Maye’s dual-threat approach—combining precision passing with explosive rushing—kept the Raiders’ defense off-balance, while the Patriots’ ability to sustain drives and capitalize on turnovers from earlier in the season set the tone for another dominant performance.

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