EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J, December 29 — New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye threw four first-half touchdown passes in a Week 17 rout of the New York Jets on Sunday, becoming the first Patriot to achieve the feat since Tom Brady in 2014. The historic performance propelled the Patriots to a dominant 42-10 victory and solidified their playoff position.
Who is Drake Maye, and what did he accomplish?
Second-year quarterback Drake Maye, drafted third overall in 2024, led the New England Patriots to a commanding 35-3 halftime lead against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on December 28, 2025. He completed 17 of 19 passes for 229 yards and four touchdowns in the first half alone. Maye added a fifth touchdown pass in the third quarter before exiting the game. This marked the first time a Patriots quarterback threw four touchdowns in a first half since Tom Brady did so in Week 8 of the 2014 season against the Chicago Bears.
How does this compare to Tom Brady’s performance?
Tom Brady’s four first-half touchdown performance came on October 26, 2014, in a 51-23 win over the Chicago Bears. Brady finished that game with five total touchdowns. Maye’s achievement ends an 11-year span where no Patriots quarterback matched that specific first-half feat, drawing immediate historical comparisons to the franchise legend.
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What was the game’s outcome?
The Patriots cruised to a 42-10 victory over the Jets, improving their record to 13-3. Maye’s touchdowns were caught by four different players: tight ends Austin Hooper and Hunter Henry, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, and wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The win highlighted the team’s offensive firepower against a divisional opponent.
What are the season and playoff implications?
The victory strengthens the Patriots’ hold on the AFC East division lead and keeps them in contention for the AFC’s top seed, currently held by the Denver Broncos. Through Week 17, Maye has thrown for nearly 4,000 yards and over 25 touchdowns, entering the MVP conversation. With a 13-3 record, New England is well-positioned to make its first significant Super Bowl run since the 2019 campaign. A good finish would guarantee a possible first-round playoff pass.
Why is this milestone significant for the Patriots?
The milestone signifies a potential passing of the torch and the emergence of a new franchise quarterback capable of historic production. Maye’s record-tying performance in a crucial late-season game signifies the beginning of a new era of Patriots offensive supremacy for a franchise that has been looking for a long-term replacement for Tom Brady since his departure in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When was the last time a Patriots QB threw 4 TDs in a first half before Maye?
A: Tom Brady was the last to do it, in Week 8 of the 2014 NFL season against the Chicago Bears on October 26, 2014.
Q: What is the Patriots’ record after this win?
A: With the 42-10 victory, the New England Patriots improved to 13-3 for the 2025 season.
Q: Who caught Drake Maye’s touchdown passes?
A: The four first-half touchdowns were caught by Austin Hooper, Rhamondre Stevenson, Stefon Diggs, and Hunter Henry.
