New England Patriots QB Drake Maye has a lot of respect for the Houston Texans' defense.
The New England Patriots face the Houston Texans in the Divisional Round of the 2026 NFL playoffs, which means we will see QB Drake Maye go up against one of the best defenses in the league.
The Texans' defense allowed only 17.4 points per game during the regular season. That was good for second in the NFL.
While speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Maye opened up about the "relentless" Texans' defense.
"They fly around, they're relentless," Maye said. "They're great up front, they're great in the back end, they've got great linebackers. They're great all around. They have great coaching. So, we've got our hands full, and we know it's going to be a tough game. We've got to play the game the right way, and we've got great players all around. Man, all the hype is fulfilling and deserving from what I've seen on film.
"So, we've got to be able to stay ahead of the chains, and I know we've got a tough task, but we're going to have our hands full. Play complimentary football, and from there, just try to find ways to pick up first downs and score some points."
The Texans beat Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round on the road. DeMeco Ryans' defense gave up only six points.
Houston thrives off sacks and turnovers, so Maye knows he will have to be on top of his game.
"They're really good in man coverage," Maye said. "Stayed ahead of the chains, enough to get into passing downs. We had a chance to come out of the half and had a strip sack. So, just little things like that. You've got to keep yourself in the game and know that a little play like that can flip the tides."
If the Patriots beat the Texans, they will face the winner of the Buffalo Bills-Denver Broncos contest in the AFC Championship Game.
Maye is already beloved in New England. His popularity will increase even more if he beats the Texans.
"Other than the cheers and stuff, just try to give them something to cheer about more," Maye said. "I'm really not thinking too much about it. Like I said, I appreciate how the fans have embraced me and took me into New England as a southern kid. So, I've just enjoyed it. I try to enjoy it and give them something to cheer about more."