The good, the bad, the s—t that gets you beat from Patriots vs. Raiders

October 12, 2026

The New England Patriots dominated the Las Vegas Raiders 45-17 in Week 5, showcasing a balanced performance that extended beyond their star quarterback. Drake Maye delivered another standout game, completing 26 of 34 passes for 374 yards and five touchdowns—four thrown and one scored on a 3-yard rushing touchdown—earning what appears to be a second consecutive AFC Offensive Player of the Week award.

His poise under pressure, including clean pocket management and precise reads, was a focal point for head coach Mike Vrabel, who praised Maye’s control and decision-making throughout the game. Beyond Maye, the Patriots’ offensive and defensive units contributed significantly, with standout efforts from wide receivers DeMario Douglas, Efton Chism, and Kyle Williams, as well as offensive tackle Caleb Lomu and linebacker Elijah Ponder.

The defense, despite playing shorthanded with four cornerbacks missing due to injury, clamped down on the Raiders, while Dre’Mont Jones made a game-sealing tackle for an 11-yard loss in the second quarter. Injuries to key players like left tackle Will Campbell and running back TreVeyon Henderson early in the game tested the Patriots, but their depth and execution allowed them to overcome those setbacks without major lapses in coverage or execution—save for occasional struggles covering Raiders tight ends in pass-heavy situations.