Battle of the QBs: Maye vs Darnold – youth meets experience
Patriots QB Drake Maye turned in one of the best statistical seasons in the NFL in 2025. He finished the regular year with 4,394 passing yards, 31 touchdowns and just 8 interceptions, completing 72% of his passes and posting a high passer rating, all while leading New England to a dominant 14-3 record. Maye was even a finalist for MVP, finishing just behind the league leader in voting.
The sophomore signal‑caller has thrived attacking downfield, generating big plays and sustaining strong efficiency even against top defenses, a key reason the Patriots offense ranks among the league’s most potent.
The Seahawks Sam Darnold’s journey has been far less conventional. After years of questions earlier in his career, Darnold revived his game in Seattle and has been extremely efficient through the playoffs. In the postseason alone he’s completed a high percentage of his throws with multiple touchdowns and few turnovers, showing poise as Seattle surged to the NFC title.
Statistically, Maye outpaced Darnold across the regular season in yards, touchdowns, efficiency and overall rating, which is why the Patriots quarterback entered MVP conversations. But Darnold’s late‑season and playoff surge gives the Seahawks a steady hand in crunch time.
So today isn’t just about who throws better. It will be a battle between Maye’s elite efficiency/big‑play ability versus Darnold’s postseason precision and experienced instincts.