CHICAGO — New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye bounced back from a second-quarter interception to lead an impressive scoring drive on Sunday against the Chicago Bears, culminating in a 2-yard touchdown pass to fellow rookie Ja’Lynn Polk.
During training camp and the preseason, Maye and Polk had developed strong chemistry, with the two of them being the Patriots’ top draft picks — selected at No. 3 and No. 37 overall.
However, the connection between the pair had been limited since Maye took over as the starting quarterback in Week 6 — with Polk, in particular, struggling to find his rhythm. That changed on Sunday in Chicago, where the duo finally linked up for a much-needed touchdown.
Play-action was key to setting up Polk’s touchdown catch. The fake drew in the defense, allowing Polk to initially engage linebacker T.J. Edwards in a block before slipping free and flashing open as he ran toward the front left pylon.
Polk capped off the play with a celebratory dance, punctuating a 10-play, 71-yard scoring drive that took 5:31 off the clock. It was the only touchdown of the first half, giving the Patriots a 13-3 lead at the break.
Maye’s response to adversity was impressive, especially after he threw an interception earlier in the second quarter. Frustrated, he was seen putting both hands on his helmet.
On play-action passes, Maye was perfect, going 5-for-5 for 78 yards and a touchdown in the first half.
