By William Armstead
FOXBOROUGH, Mass – The New England Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Chargers by a score of 16-3 in their AFC Wildcard matchup. The game was a defensive slugfest with only one touchdown being scored the entire game.
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye went 17/29 with 268 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The touchdown from Maye to tight end Hunter Henry came with 9:45 left in the fourth quarter, the only one of the entire game between both teams.
Patriots kicker Andy Borregales was a a key scorer for the Pats going three for three on field goals. Patriots safety Craig Woodson led the defense with seven solo tackles. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson had the most receiving yards for the Patriots, with more than any of the Patriot receivers.
Both quarterbacks fumbled two times, each with one that was recovered by the other team. The Chargers had two goal line opportunities to score a touchdown in the first half and could not cash in, which was demoralizing for their momentum. They could not capatilize on either of the two turnovers they were able to force.
Justin Herbert threw for 159 yards and had more rushing yards than any of the Chargers running backs with 57. Linebacker Daiyan Henley led the Chargers defense with nine solo tackles.
The Chargers have been eliminated from playoff contention and their season is over. The Patriots will host the winner of the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday.