“MVP isn’t me, it’s him” – Drake Maye turns down the spotlight, honors a defensive superstar after Patriots’ AFC title
On the afternoon of January 25, 2026, with snow blanketing Empower Field at Mile High, the New England Patriots defeated the Denver Broncos 10–7 to capture the AFC Championship. Chants of “MVP! MVP!” echoed through the snowfall for Drake Maye, but the most memorable moment of the afternoon came only after the game was over.

From a statistical standpoint, Maye didn’t need a flashy performance to win. He threw for just over 190 yards, accounted for one touchdown, committed no interceptions, and, most importantly, controlled the tempo in brutal weather conditions. With icy wind and a slick field, Maye chose safety, patience, and precision — the very definition of a playoff quarterback.
When invited to speak at midfield as snow continued to fall, Maye immediately waved off the chants. “MVP isn’t me, it’s him,” he said, turning and pointing toward the Patriots’ defense. “He saved us. Without that play, we’re not going to the Super Bowl.” The stadium erupted, not because of the score, but because of the humility.
The player Maye was referring to was Christian Gonzalez, New England’s cornerback and the true focal point of the AFC Championship. Gonzalez delivered the decisive interception of Jarrett Stidham late in the fourth quarter, shutting down the Broncos’ final drive and officially punching the Patriots’ ticket to the Super Bowl.
Christian Gonzalez played it perfectly 👏
— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2026
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In a game defined by defense, Gonzalez’s play carried a decisive weight. His sharp instincts, long reach, and calm under heavy snowfall reflected elite poise in the biggest moment. It was the instant the entire stadium understood the game belonged to New England.
For Patriots fans, Maye’s gesture meant more than the victory itself. A young quarterback, standing on the AFC’s biggest stage, willingly handing the spotlight to a teammate sent a powerful message about team culture. “That’s how we win,” Maye added. “Today, the defense carried us forward.”
The 10–7 win in a snowy Denver afternoon may not have been glamorous, but the image of Drake Maye handing the “MVP” moment to Christian Gonzalez will be remembered in New England for a long time. The Patriots didn’t just win with strategy — they won with belief and humility, the values that define a team ready for the Super Bowl.
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