Key Points:
- The Patriots edged the Falcons 24-23 on Sunday to improve their record to 7-2.
- Stefon Diggs said he’s “riding with Drake Maye,” praising the quarterback after the win.
- The veteran receiver and young signal-caller have quickly built one of the AFC’s most reliable duos.
Wide receiver Stefon Diggs and the New England Patriots improved to 7-2 on Sunday, picking up a 24-23 Week 9 win over the Atlanta Falcons. This is the Patriots’ sixth straight victory.
It’s been an impressive season for New England so far, looking to achieve its first winning season and playoff appearance since 2021.
A big piece of the team’s success has been the connection between Diggs and second-year quarterback Drake Maye. Against the Falcons, Maye completed 19-of-29 passes for two touchdowns, one interception and a 102.5 passer rating. The one interception came in the third quarter, which Atlanta capitalized on, scoring a field goal.
Diggs had a solid game himself, hauling in three of those receptions for 38 yards and one touchdown. The two have formed a strong connection and after the game, Diggs praised the young quarterback.
“To be able to go out there and will to a win, I’ll take that any day, and I’m riding with Drake Maye,” Diggs said. “Things aren’t going to be perfect, I’ll tell y’all all the time, it’s hard as (expletive) to play quarterback. I probably couldn’t do it.”
Stefon Diggs and Drake Maye’s Growing Connection
This is Diggs’ first year with the Patriots after signing a three-year, $63.5 million contract this past offseason. It’s a deal that’s paid off early for New England.
Through the first nine games, Diggs leads the team in receptions (45), yards (508) and is tied for fourth in touchdowns (two).
He’s a player the quarterback has learned to count on. After the team’s Week 4 win over the Buffalo Bills, Maye told reporters, “He’s a receiver that’s easy to throw to. He’s got great hands. He can catch it in different ways with his body. He turns with the football and can make people miss very easily. It’s very natural.”
Maye is playing like a Pro Bowl-caliber player in his own right, completing 74.1% of his passes for 2,285 yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions through nine games.
This connection now has a chance for a big win in Week 10, going up against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.