The Patriots were considered the underdogs going into Super Bowl LX, and that was the mentality they adopted after facing a gauntlet of defenses in the playoffs. The defense was playing at the highest level, while the offense fell behind after mostly impressing during the regular season, with Drake Maye leading the way.
The second-year quarterback fell a few pegs with his struggles in the postseason, however, and his weaknesses were on full display against a very good Seahawks defense on Sunday. Aside from his turnovers and poor decision-making, the offensive line didn't give him any support, and it ultimately led to the team's demise as they lost 29-13.
It was a game that Patriots fans immediately wished could be replayed, mainly since the team performed so well during the regular season, going 14-3.
That sentiment was felt by Maye, too, as he stated in the aftermath of the game, and his comments couldn't be felt more by the fans who cheered on the most likable team in recent New England history.
Drake Maye wishes he could redo the Super Bowl after the Patriots' brutal loss
During an emotional post-game press conference, Maye admitted his shortcomings contributed to the Patriots' loss and also stated he wishes he could "redo" the game.
"I'd like to go back to the beginning and redo it."
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 9, 2026
—Drake Maye on the Patriots' performance in the Super Bowl. pic.twitter.com/hhsr8HHWWF
If only that were possible.
But in reality, it's not, and now they go into the 2026 offseason with clear priorities for the roster. They'll have a lot of big decisions to make with those heading to free agency and the big-name players who are expected to be on the trade market, with just one season left to build around Maye before he's due for his first extension.
Based on how well they addressed this past offseason, there is a lot of optimism that they'll be just as successful this year, too.
And because they shockingly made it all the way to Super Bowl LX, it's clear that they're not far away from contending again, so the necessary upgrades could help them get right back there next year, even if they are set to face a much tougher schedule.
This loss gives Maye the kind of experience that he might not have wanted, but maybe needed, going into his third year, and that could become a significant part of his growth going into the 2026 season.