The goal was clear for the Patriots going into their Week 16 primetime matchup against the Ravens, after a masterclass in second-half collapses against the Bills dominated headlines in the days leading up to Sunday night.
Not only did they need and want a bounce-back game against a very good opponent, but a win would also clinch their first playoff berth since 2021, which added more motivation to their fourth-quarter comeback, highlighted by an impressive performance from Drake Maye.
But it wasn't just the offense that needed to lock down and show up late in the game; the defense also needed to finally stop the Ravens from marching down the field, particularly RB Derrick Henry, who recorded 18 carries for 128 yards and two touchdowns.