The New England Patriots’ mettle did not pack up and move to Tampa.
It may have seemed lost for a bit, but after Sunday we can confirm it didn’t flee to the ritzy Davis Islands with Tom Brady.
The Patriots faced the near-certain death of their 11-year postseason streak unless they pulled out a win. They not only handed the Los Angeles Chargers the biggest loss in franchise history, 45-0, they dominated rookie quarterback darling Justin Herbert on defense, controlled the clock with their running game, and had a healthy amount of stellar special teams play.