Those wondering how Mike Vrabel’s young team and quarterback would handle the pressure of a home playoff game in January got their answer on Sunday night.
The New England Patriots are advancing largely because of their defense’s ability to create relentless pressure on Los Angeles Chargers QB Justin Herbert. He was pressured 16 times, and that led to 11 QB hits, six sacks, and two forced fumbles.
And while it definitely wasn’t pretty at times, the Patriots are also advancing because of their own young QB, Drake Maye, who made enough plays in the second half under constant duress from the Chargers' front to salt away a 16-3 win inside a rocking Gillette Stadium.