Patriots Offense Doesn't Exist Without Drake Maye at QB

"I don't think Drake being in or not would have really — I mean it may have," head coach Mike Vrabel said postgame.

Backup quarterback Tommy DeVito entered the game in the first quarter for Maye, who was ruled out mid-game for the first time since sustaining a concussion his rookie year.

With DeVito at the helm, New England struggled to move the ball downfield, having nine out of 10 drives end in either a punt or a turnover. The Patriots also failed to keep the offense on the field, holding the ball for just 27 minutes and three seconds during Sunday's contest.

DeVito finished with just 81 passing yards, while Maye threw for 48 on the opening drive. The fourth-year quarterback completed half of his passes, and threw both a touchdown and an interception.

Patriots Identity Revolves Around Maye

Maye's withdrawal from the game put a lackluster Patriots team on full display Sunday morning. Following his exit, it was clear that the Patriots can't succeed without their franchise player.

Maye has thrown for 2,282 yards this season, with 18 touchdowns in the air. Maye has faced criticism for his tendency to put the ball in defenders' hands as his 11 interceptions are tied for a league high.

However, after watching DeVito attempt to operate the offense, it's obvious that the Patriots can't compete without their star quarterback, despite his turnovers.

Maye was the runner-up for MVP a year ago, and led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl appearance since 2018.

New England will return from Germany and enter the bye week, with its next game happening in Week 12 on Sunday Night Football against the winless Los Angeles Chargers.

After the game, Vrabel refused to provide specific information about his quarterback's injury, and said that the team would assess the severity of Maye's diagnosis when they return to the United States.

If Maye's ankle injury causes him to miss an extended amount of time, the 5-5 Patriots may need to look outside of the organization for a solution at quarterback — especially if they want to compete for a playoff bid.