It has been proven that the New England Patriots can never succeed without some sort of negative narrative following them throughout the NFL season. That is, unfortunately, what they're dealing with (again) this year in the midst of their nine-game win streak, and Drake Maye finds himself in the middle of it.
Besides the notion that they're only at the top of the league because of their easy schedule, and Maye is only an MVP candidate because of that, last week's close win over the Bengals has prompted another talking point that doesn't paint the offense in a good light, something even Josh McDaniels addressed last week.
The latest criticism, much of it warranted, surrounds the Patriots' inability to score from the goal line, which was on full display last week in Cincinnati. Despite having multiple chances to do so, Maye couldn't lead his team into the end zone, with a failed quarterback sneak to top it off.
He will have a chance to right that wrong against the Giants on Monday night, despite facing an extraordinary defensive line that won't make it easy, and fortunately, Maye seems up for the challenge.
The Patriots have an opportunity to end an ugly trend against the Giants
While speaking to reporters last week, the Patriots' quarterback was asked about the difficulties of a quarterback sneak, even the infamous tush push, and whether there's an art to making it a successful play.
Maye joked about it being a talent, while also admitting he needs to change his approach to help score points moving forward.
Drake Maye was asked if there was an art to the QB sneak at the goal line, as that was a struggle on Sunday:
— Tom Carroll (@yaboiTCfresh) November 26, 2025
“…I wouldn’t say it’s an art, I would say it’s a mentality…I gotta flip a switch or, I don’t know, do some smelling salts from there, or do something…” 😂@WEEI… pic.twitter.com/lS1ANeD3lz
Clearly, he's ready to do what it might take to get the play right, even if it requires something we couldn't have expected.
Joking aside, the offense cannot keep blowing scoring opportunities, particularly when near or at the goal line. Forfeiting points will not help them win games down the stretch, and they have some tough opponents left to play that could separate them from winning the division or securing a wild-card spot.
It's going to be tough to turn this aspect of their game around, especially with Will Campbell and Jared Wilson sidelined, even more so if Khyiris Tonga, who they have used on special plays, remains out, too. But they have to figure it out or risk falling behind with the playoffs right around the corner.