Drake Maye, Patriots Must Navigate Historically Tough Defenses To Make Super Bowl

For all the talk regarding the New England Patriots’ strength of schedule, Drake Maye has faced one of the hardest playoff paths imaginable.

New England began the postseason with a 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, who ended the regular season ranked fifth in total defense. The Patriots then knocked out the Houston Texans’ top-rated defense in a 28-16 victory on Sunday.

Bo Nix’s absence has made the Patriots early 5.5-point road favorites to beat the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game.