If you’re looking for a final score from a New England Patriots game played "yesterday"—specifically Friday, January 16, 2026—you won't find one in the NFL standings. The Patriots didn't take the field yesterday.
Wait. Don't close the tab yet.
While the NFL team was resting up for their massive AFC Divisional Round matchup, there was a Patriots team in action yesterday. The George Mason Patriots men's volleyball team played a high-stakes match against Long Beach State. If you're here for the gridiron news, though, the "yesterday" confusion usually stems from fans tracking the buildup to the upcoming playoff game or catching up on the Wild Card result.
The Most Recent New England Patriots Score
The last time Drake Maye and the New England squad actually suited up was Sunday, January 11, 2026. That was a big one. They hosted the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium for the AFC Wild Card round and absolutely stifled them.
The final score was Patriots 16, Chargers 3.
👉 See also: Tottenham vs FC Barcelona: Why This Matchup Still Matters in 2026
It wasn't exactly a high-flying offensive shootout. Honestly, it was a bit of a throwback to the defensive masterclasses of the previous decade. The Patriots’ defense was relentless. They sacked Justin Herbert six times. One of those hits even forced a fumble that paved the way for the game’s only touchdown.
Breaking Down the 16-3 Win
- Drake Maye’s Debut: In his first-ever playoff start, Maye looked like the real deal. He went 17-of-29 for 268 yards. He also led the team in rushing with 66 yards on the ground.
- The Decisive Score: Maye connected with Hunter Henry for a 28-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. That was the dagger.
- The Leg of Borregales: Kicker Andy Borregales was the unsung hero, knocking through three field goals to keep the scoreboard moving when the red zone offense stalled.
- Defensive Dominance: Milton Williams was a monster on the line. He even accidentally bloodied coach Mike Vrabel’s lip during a celebratory head-butt after a late sack. Talk about intensity.
Why There Was No Game Yesterday
The NFL playoffs follow a specific rhythm. Since the Patriots won their Wild Card game on Sunday, they earned a full week of preparation. Friday is typically a "red zone" or "finesse" practice day in the NFL world—not a game day.
Currently, the Patriots are sitting on a 15-3 overall record (14-3 in the regular season plus that Wild Card win). They are the No. 2 seed in the AFC for a reason.
If you saw "Patriots" in the headlines yesterday, it was likely related to the George Mason University team. They traveled to Columbus, Ohio, to face No. 13 Ohio State on Thursday (losing a close 3-0 set) and then faced Long Beach State on Friday, Jan 16. It’s a common mix-up for automated sports tickers.
✨ Don't miss: Buddy Hield Sacramento Kings: What Really Happened Behind the Scenes
What Really Matters: The Upcoming Game
Forget yesterday. Tomorrow is the day that defines the season.
The Houston Texans are coming to Foxborough. The game is set for Sunday, January 18, 2026, with a 3:00 PM EST kickoff. You can catch it on ESPN, ABC, or local Boston channel WCVB.
The Texans are fresh off a dominant 30-6 dismantling of the Pittsburgh Steelers. C.J. Stroud vs. Drake Maye is being billed as the next great AFC quarterback rivalry. It’s the battle of the young titans.
Key Matchups to Watch Against Houston
The Texans' pass rush is no joke. Maye struggled a bit with turnovers against the Chargers—throwing one pick and losing a fumble. He can’t afford that against Houston. On the flip side, the New England defense, which just held a Pro Bowl QB to 3 points, has to find a way to confuse Stroud.
🔗 Read more: Why the March Madness 2022 Bracket Still Haunts Your Sports Betting Group Chat
Christian Gonzalez's health is also a major talking point. He left the last game with a head injury. If he isn't cleared to play, the secondary might have a rough time containing the Texans' deep threats.
Actionable Steps for Fans
If you're gearing up for the Divisional Round, here is how to stay ready:
- Check the Injury Report: Keep an eye on the official status of CB Christian Gonzalez and CB Carlton Davis. Their presence (or absence) changes the betting line significantly.
- Set the DVR: The game is on Sunday at 3:00 PM EST. If you’re a local, 98.5 The Sports Hub remains the best place for the radio call if you're stuck in the car.
- Watch the Hype Film: The team just released a hype video featuring Mark Wahlberg and Mark Perry. It’s worth a watch to get the adrenaline going.
The "What was the score of the Patriots game yesterday" question usually finds its answer in the future, not the past. The 16-3 win over the Chargers is in the books. Now, all eyes are on the Texans at Gillette.