The New England Patriots are back in the playoffs, and their first game is in prime time. New England will face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night in the AFC wild-card round, marking the team’s first postseason appearance since 2019. The Patriots finished the regular season with a 14-3 record, one of the best in the league. It’s coach Mike Vrabel’s first year leading the team, which secured the No. 2 seed in the AFC. Quarterback Drake Maye has been a standout this season, completing 72% of his passes. That is the highest completion percentage in a single season in franchise history, surpassing any mark set by former quarterback Tom Brady. >> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google Play <> Subscribe to WMUR’s YouTube channel <<

MANCHESTER, N.H. —

The New England Patriots are back in the playoffs, and their first game is in prime time.

New England will face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night in the AFC wild-card round, marking the team’s first postseason appearance since 2019.

The Patriots finished the regular season with a 14-3 record, one of the best in the league.

It’s coach Mike Vrabel’s first year leading the team, which secured the No. 2 seed in the AFC.

Quarterback Drake Maye has been a standout this season, completing 72% of his passes. That is the highest completion percentage in a single season in franchise history, surpassing any mark set by former quarterback Tom Brady.

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Vrabel said Maye has his vote for league MVP this year.

“He’s made the most of every passing opportunity,” Vrabel said. “He’s been everything that we’ve asked and continues to get better.”

For many Patriots players, Sunday’s wild-card game will be their first postseason experience.

“Super excited. This will be my first playoff action. I know some other guys in the locker room same for them,” said linebacker Jack Gibbens. “Very excited to get a taste of that and can’t wait to get rolling.”

Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.

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