Why Matthew Stafford’s MVP Year Is Great News For Drake Maye, Patriots
As the NFL season barrels toward its climax, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has seized the MVP conversation with a season that’s been nothing short of surgical thus far. His dominance has featured 30 touchdowns against just two picks through 11 games, and oddsmakers have installed him as a heavy favorite to win his first MVP.
For the New England Patriots, perched atop the AFC at 10-2, this shift in the MVP spotlight couldn’t come at a better time. Although Drake Maye is the MVP runner-up right now, Stafford’s lead over Maye serves as an unexpected shield, allowing New England to sidestep the hype machine and zero in on their true north: a Lombardi Trophy.
Stafford’s 2025 campaign has been a veteran’s masterclass. He’s propelled the Rams to a 9-2 mark and the NFC West lead. Through Week 12, he’s amassed 2,830 passing yards, with his 113.7 passer rating being this season’s gold standard. His latest gem came in a 34-7 demolition of the Buccaneers on Sunday Night Football, where he diced up Tampa Bay’s secondary for 273 yards and three scores on 25-of-35 passing, all without a single interception.
At 37, Stafford’s arm remains a howitzer, but it’s his decision-making (evident in those scant two picks all year) that must have Rams head coach Sean McVay over the moon.
Maye’s breakout sophomore year in Foxborough has been no small story. The 23-year-old has New England dreaming of dynasty redux. In 12 starts, he’s thrown for 3,130 yards (the most in the NFL) coupled with 21 touchdowns and a respectable six interceptions, good for a 110.7 rating that’s fourth in the league.
Maye’s dual-threat flair adds another layer of value, fueling a Patriots attack that’s averaged 26.5 points per game. Maye’s flashes of brilliance have already sparked “next big thing” whispers that could snowball as the season enters its most important stage.
Here’s the rub: Maye’s MVP buzz might detract from the focus that the Pats have established, even if Maye himself always remains extremely humble. That’s why Stafford’s lead in the MVP race might free Maye and the Pats from some outside noise.
In a league where Super Bowl windows slam shut overnight, the Patriots shouldn’t take 2025 for granted. You never know what the future brings, even though Maye is still extremely young.
Maye and the Pats would be more than happy with Stafford landing the MVP hardware if they ended up with the franchise’s seventh Super Bowl championship in February.