The chargers vs new england patriots match player stats provide a detailed look at how the New England Patriots controlled their AFC Wild Card playoff matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Patriots secured a 16-3 victory on January 12, 2026, with a balanced performance built around efficient passing, stronger rushing production, defensive pressure, and reliable special teams execution.

This playoff meeting was decided by more than the final scoreboard. The individual numbers show how both teams approached the game, where momentum shifted, and why New England was able to move forward while Los Angeles struggled to create scoring opportunities.

The Chargers entered the contest with an 11-6 record, including a 5-3 away record, while the Patriots arrived with a 14-3 record and a 6-3 home record. Both teams had strong regular-season campaigns, but the postseason environment exposed important differences in execution.

New England’s defense consistently pressured Justin Herbert, limiting the Chargers quarterback to 159 passing yards while recording six sacks as a team. On the other side, Drake Maye delivered the more productive passing performance, throwing for 268 yards and one touchdown despite also being intercepted once.

The match statistics reveal a classic playoff battle where defensive discipline and field position played a major role. The Patriots did not dominate through explosive scoring, but they controlled possession, won key situations, and avoided costly mistakes that often decide postseason games.

Chargers vs New England Patriots Match Player Stats Overview

The AFC Wild Card matchup ended with the Patriots winning 16-3. The scoring pattern reflected a defensive battle, with both teams failing to score in the first quarter.

The Chargers managed only three points throughout the game, coming from a Cameron Dicker field goal in the second quarter. They were unable to produce touchdowns because of New England’s pass rush and defensive coverage.

The Patriots scored six points in the second quarter, added three points in the third quarter, and finished the game with a fourth-quarter touchdown. Their scoring came from consistent offensive movement rather than explosive plays.

Final Score Breakdown

Team	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Final
Los Angeles Chargers	0	3	0	0	3
New England Patriots	0	6	3	7	16

The numbers show that the Patriots gradually built control as the game progressed. The Chargers defense kept the score close early, but the offense could not respond after halftime.

Match Context and Team Performance

The Chargers entered the playoff game with a strong overall record and a competitive defense. However, their offense faced a difficult challenge against a Patriots defense that generated constant pressure.

Justin Herbert completed 19 of 31 passes for 159 yards. While his completion percentage remained respectable, the lack of explosive passing plays limited Los Angeles’ ability to change the game. Herbert was also sacked six times, which significantly affected offensive rhythm.

New England quarterback Drake Maye had a more productive statistical outing. He completed 17 of 29 passes for 268 yards with one touchdown and one interception. His 86.6 passer rating and 68.6 QBR reflected a performance that helped the Patriots maintain offensive balance.

One of the biggest differences between the teams appeared in the running game. The Patriots rushed 29 times for 146 yards, averaging 5.0 yards per attempt. The Chargers recorded 22 rushing attempts for 87 yards at a 4.0 average.

That advantage allowed New England to control the pace and create better down-and-distance situations.

Quarter-by-Quarter Analysis

First Quarter: Defensive Control From Both Sides

The opening quarter ended without points from either team. Both defenses showed strong preparation, limiting offensive progress and preventing big plays.

The Chargers defense kept pressure on Drake Maye early, while the Patriots defense focused on containing Justin Herbert and preventing deep passing opportunities.

Neither offense found enough consistency to reach scoring range, making field position an important factor.

Second Quarter: Patriots Create Separation

The second quarter became the first turning point of the game.

The Chargers managed only a field goal from Cameron Dicker, giving them a 3-0 lead temporarily. However, the Patriots responded with six points before halftime.

New England’s offensive approach became more effective as Drake Maye found passing opportunities against the Chargers coverage. The Patriots finished the half with momentum, while Los Angeles entered halftime needing offensive adjustments.

Third Quarter: Defensive Battle Continues

The third quarter remained low scoring, but the Patriots extended their advantage with three additional points.

The Chargers defense continued fighting, but the offense could not convert opportunities into points. Their inability to create touchdowns became the biggest issue throughout the second half.

New England’s defensive front continued disrupting Herbert, forcing difficult decisions and reducing the Chargers’ ability to sustain drives.

Fourth Quarter: Patriots Close the Game

The Patriots finished the game with their only touchdown in the fourth quarter, creating a 16-3 lead.

At that stage, the Chargers needed a major offensive comeback, but the Patriots defense continued limiting production. The final quarter showed New England’s ability to protect a lead through defensive pressure and controlled offense.

Quarterback Performance Analysis

Quarterback statistics often define playoff discussions, and this matchup was no different. The difference between Justin Herbert and Drake Maye was one of the clearest parts of the box score.

Justin Herbert Stats

Justin Herbert completed:

• 19 completions on 31 attempts
• 159 passing yards
• 0 touchdowns
• 0 interceptions
• 6 sacks taken
• 28.0 QBR
• 74.5 passer rating

Herbert’s numbers show a quarterback who faced constant pressure throughout the game. His interception-free performance helped avoid additional damage, but the lack of touchdown production prevented the Chargers from challenging the Patriots.

The six sacks were especially important because they created negative plays and placed Los Angeles in difficult situations. In playoff football, avoiding turnovers is valuable, but maintaining offensive efficiency is equally important.

Drake Maye Stats

Drake Maye recorded:

• 17 completions on 29 attempts
• 268 passing yards
• 1 touchdown
• 1 interception
• 68.6 QBR
• 86.6 passer rating

Maye produced the more effective passing performance. His 268 yards gave the Patriots a major advantage through the air, and his touchdown pass helped create separation.

Although he threw one interception, New England avoided allowing that mistake to change the outcome. His ability to combine passing production with rushing contribution added another dimension to the offense.

Passing Game Comparison

The passing statistics highlight the biggest offensive difference between the two teams.

Category	Chargers	Patriots
Passing Yards	159	268
Passing TDs	0	1
Interceptions	0	1
Quarterback Rating	74.5	86.6
QBR	28.0	68.6

The Patriots produced 109 more passing yards than the Chargers. That advantage allowed them to stay ahead in possession and create more scoring chances.

Los Angeles struggled to turn completions into meaningful drives. Their passing attack produced yards but lacked the finishing ability needed in the red zone.

New England’s offense was not perfect, but it generated enough production in critical moments.

Key Passing Insights From the Match

Several factors explain the quarterback statistics:

1. Pressure Changed Herbert’s Performance

The Patriots defensive line created consistent problems. Six sacks affected Herbert’s timing and reduced the Chargers’ ability to attack downfield.

2. Maye Found More Explosive Opportunities

Drake Maye’s 268 passing yards came from a more productive passing approach. His ability to push the ball forward helped New England maintain offensive balance.

3. Third-Down Situations Favored Control

While the provided box score does not include full third-down conversion numbers, the overall offensive output shows that the Patriots were better at sustaining drives and creating scoring chances.

Running Back and Rushing Performance

The rushing statistics were another major factor in the final result. New England established a stronger ground attack, helping control the clock and reduce pressure on its passing game.

The Patriots recorded:

• 29 rushing attempts
• 146 rushing yards
• 5.0 yards per carry
• 0 rushing touchdowns

The Chargers recorded:

• 22 rushing attempts
• 87 rushing yards
• 4.0 yards per carry
• 0 rushing touchdowns

The Patriots gained 59 more rushing yards and averaged one full yard more per carry.

This difference helped explain why New England maintained offensive stability throughout the game.

Rushing Performance Breakdown

The running game was one of the clearest statistical advantages in the chargers vs new england patriots match player stats. While neither team scored a rushing touchdown, the difference in efficiency and total production helped shape the final result.

New England’s ability to gain consistent yardage on the ground allowed the offense to remain balanced. The Patriots did not need to depend entirely on Drake Maye’s arm because their rushing attack regularly created manageable situations.

The Chargers, meanwhile, struggled to generate the same level of production. Their 87 rushing yards were not enough to provide offensive balance, especially against a Patriots defense that was already creating pressure on Justin Herbert.

Team Rushing Comparison

Category	Los Angeles Chargers	New England Patriots
Rushing Attempts	22	29
Rushing Yards	87	146
Average Per Carry	4.0	5.0
Rushing Touchdowns	0	0

The Patriots finished with 59 more rushing yards and seven additional rushing attempts. Those extra opportunities helped them control possession and keep the Chargers offense away from the field.

Quarterback Rushing Contributions

An interesting part of the rushing statistics was the impact of both quarterbacks.

Justin Herbert Rushing Stats

Justin Herbert contributed:

• 10 rushing attempts
• 57 rushing yards
• 5.7 yards per carry

Herbert was the Chargers’ leading rusher in the game. His mobility provided some positive plays, especially when passing opportunities were limited.

However, relying on quarterback rushing production also showed a challenge for Los Angeles. The Chargers needed more consistent output from their overall rushing unit to reduce defensive pressure on Herbert.

Drake Maye Rushing Stats

Drake Maye recorded:

• 10 rushing attempts
• 66 rushing yards
• 6.6 yards per carry

Maye was the Patriots’ leading rusher and provided valuable yards through his movement.

His rushing ability added another problem for the Chargers defense. When defensive players focused on stopping the passing game, Maye had opportunities to gain yards on the ground.

The quarterback rushing comparison was close, but Maye produced slightly better efficiency and combined it with a stronger passing performance.

Receiving Performance Analysis

The receiving numbers show another major difference between the two offenses.

The Chargers finished with:

• 19 receptions
• 159 receiving yards
• 0 receiving touchdowns

The Patriots finished with:

• 17 receptions
• 268 receiving yards
• 1 receiving touchdown

Although Los Angeles recorded two more receptions, New England gained 109 more receiving yards. This shows the Patriots were more effective at creating bigger gains through the passing game.

Chargers Receiving Leaders

Ladd McConkey

Ladd McConkey led the Chargers receiving group with:

• 3 receptions
• 32 receiving yards

McConkey provided a reliable target, but the Chargers passing attack lacked a receiver who could consistently create explosive plays.

The Patriots defensive coverage limited opportunities for Los Angeles receivers, forcing shorter completions and reducing scoring chances.

Patriots Receiving Leaders

Rhamondre Stevenson

Rhamondre Stevenson produced:

• 3 receptions
• 75 receiving yards

His receiving contribution was one of the most productive individual performances for New England. The ability of running backs to contribute as receivers added flexibility to the Patriots offense.

Hunter Henry

Hunter Henry recorded:

• 3 receptions
• 64 receiving yards
• 1 receiving touchdown

Henry played an important role in the Patriots scoring production. His touchdown reception provided the game’s only receiving touchdown and helped New England create separation.

Receiving Comparison and Offensive Efficiency

The receiving statistics reveal an important playoff lesson. Volume does not always equal effectiveness.

The Chargers completed more receptions, but the Patriots gained significantly more yards per catch.

Category	Chargers	Patriots
Receptions	19	17
Receiving Yards	159	268
Receiving Touchdowns	0	1

New England’s receivers created more impact with fewer catches. The Patriots generated bigger plays and converted their passing opportunities into points.

Los Angeles struggled because their passing production remained limited to short gains. Without explosive receiving plays, the Chargers could not recover from the Patriots defensive pressure.

Defensive Impact in Chargers vs New England Patriots Match Player Stats

Defense was the defining factor of the AFC Wild Card matchup. The chargers vs new england patriots match player stats show that both teams created pressure, but New England produced more disruptive plays at important moments.

The Chargers defense recorded:

• 62 total tackles
• 38 solo tackles
• 5 sacks
• 7 tackles for loss
• 2 pass deflections
• 5 quarterback hits

The Patriots defense recorded:

• 70 total tackles
• 36 solo tackles
• 6 sacks
• 6 tackles for loss
• 5 pass deflections
• 11 quarterback hits

The numbers show a close defensive battle, but the Patriots created more quarterback pressure and affected the passing game more consistently.

Patriots Defensive Performance

New England’s defense played a major role in limiting the Chargers to only three points.

The Patriots recorded:

• 6 sacks
• 11 quarterback hits
• 5 pass deflections

The 11 quarterback hits were especially important because they showed consistent disruption beyond the sack total.

A defense can influence a game even without creating turnovers. Pressure forces quarterbacks to rush decisions, affects accuracy, and reduces the effectiveness of offensive schemes.

That was exactly the situation for Justin Herbert.

Chargers Defensive Performance

The Chargers defense also performed strongly in several areas.

They recorded:

• 5 sacks
• 7 tackles for loss
• 1 interception

Daiyan Henley was one of the standout defenders for Los Angeles.

Daiyan Henley Defensive Stats

Henley recorded:

• 13 total tackles
• 9 solo tackles
• 1 interception
• 2 interception return yards

His performance showed strong defensive awareness and tackling ability. He was consistently involved in stopping Patriots plays and created one of the Chargers’ biggest defensive moments with his interception.

However, the Chargers defense spent too much time on the field because the offense struggled to sustain drives.

Leading Tacklers Comparison

Team	Player	Total Tackles	Solo Tackles
Chargers	Daiyan Henley	13	9
Patriots	Craig Woodson	11	7

Both teams received strong performances from their defensive leaders.

Henley’s 13 tackles led all players in the provided statistics, while Craig Woodson provided consistent defensive production for New England.

Turnover Analysis

Turnovers often decide playoff games, but this matchup was unusual because both teams had identical fumble statistics.

Chargers Turnovers

• 2 fumbles
• 1 fumble lost
• 2 fumbles recovered

Patriots Turnovers

• 2 fumbles
• 1 fumble lost
• 2 fumbles recovered

The Chargers recorded the only interception of the game through Daiyan Henley, while the Patriots did not record any interceptions.

Despite that advantage, Los Angeles could not convert the defensive success into enough offensive points.

This highlights an important football principle: creating turnovers matters, but teams must capitalize on those opportunities.

Special Teams Performance

Special teams played a valuable supporting role in the final outcome.

Field position and reliable kicking helped New England maintain control during a low-scoring playoff game.

Kicking Comparison

Chargers Kicker: Cameron Dicker

Dicker recorded:

• 1 field goal made
• 1 field goal attempt
• Long field goal: 21 yards
• 3 points

The Chargers received their only points from Dicker’s successful field goal.

Patriots Kicker: Andy Borregales

Borregales recorded:

• 3 field goals made
• 3 field goal attempts
• Long field goal: 39 yards
• 1 extra point made
• 10 total points

Borregales was one of the biggest scoring contributors for New England. His three successful field goals provided important points before the Patriots offense completed the game with a touchdown.

Return Game Analysis

The return game also contributed to field position.

Chargers Kick Return Leader

Derius Davis recorded:

• 4 returns
• 100 return yards
• 25.0 average
• Long return: 34 yards

Davis provided solid kickoff return production and helped the Chargers create better starting positions.

Patriots Kick Return Leader

Efton Chism III recorded:

• 2 returns
• 48 return yards
• 24.0 average

Marcus Jones handled punt returns for New England:

• 2 punt returns
• 2 yards

Neither team produced a major return touchdown, but both teams received reliable special teams contributions.

Overall Team Comparison and Key Statistical Lessons

The complete chargers vs new england patriots match player stats show a game where small advantages created a major difference. The Patriots did not win because of one individual performance. Instead, they combined better passing efficiency, stronger rushing production, consistent defensive pressure, and dependable kicking.

The Chargers had some positive individual performances, especially on defense. Daiyan Henley created a turnover and produced a team-high tackle total. Justin Herbert also avoided interceptions and contributed through the rushing game.

However, playoff games are often decided by execution in important moments. New England performed better in those areas.

Complete Statistical Comparison

Category	Los Angeles Chargers	New England Patriots
Final Score	3	16
Passing Yards	159	268
Passing Touchdowns	0	1
Interceptions	0	1
Rushing Attempts	22	29
Rushing Yards	87	146
Receiving Yards	159	268
Receiving Touchdowns	0	1
Total Sacks	5	6
Quarterback Hits	5	11
Field Goals Made	1	3

The Patriots held advantages in the most important offensive categories. Their passing and rushing production created more scoring opportunities, while their defensive pressure prevented the Chargers from responding.

Why the Patriots Won the Game

Several statistical factors explain New England’s victory.

1. Passing Efficiency Created Separation

The biggest offensive difference was quarterback production.

Drake Maye threw for 268 yards, while Justin Herbert finished with 159 yards. That 109-yard difference gave the Patriots more opportunities to move the ball.

The Patriots also recorded the only passing touchdown of the game, which became a crucial scoring advantage in a defensive contest.

2. Stronger Running Game Controlled Tempo

The Patriots averaged 5.0 yards per rushing attempt compared to the Chargers’ 4.0 average.

A stronger running game helped New England:

• Maintain possession
• Reduce pressure on the quarterback
• Create manageable situations
• Control the pace of the game

In postseason football, offensive balance is often more valuable than relying on one style of attack.

3. Defensive Pressure Limited Justin Herbert

The Patriots defense recorded six sacks and 11 quarterback hits.

Those numbers explain why the Chargers offense struggled despite completing 19 passes.

Herbert faced constant disruption, making it difficult for Los Angeles to create long drives.

4. Reliable Kicking Added Important Points

Andy Borregales scored 10 points through field goals and an extra point.

In a game where touchdowns were difficult to produce, every scoring opportunity became important. New England maximized those chances.

Advanced Analysis of Chargers vs New England Patriots Match Player Stats

Looking deeper into the numbers reveals several important lessons about playoff football.

Offensive Balance vs Individual Production

The Chargers received a strong individual effort from Justin Herbert, especially as a runner. His 57 rushing yards showed his ability to create plays outside the pocket.

However, football games are decided by team production.

New England received contributions from multiple areas:

• Drake Maye passing: 268 yards
• Drake Maye rushing: 66 yards
• Rhamondre Stevenson receiving: 75 yards
• Hunter Henry receiving touchdown
• Andy Borregales kicking: 10 points

The Patriots created more ways to gain yards and score points.

Defensive Pressure as a Game-Changing Factor

One of the strongest indicators from the box score is quarterback disruption.

The Patriots recorded:

• 6 sacks
• 11 quarterback hits

The Chargers recorded:

• 5 sacks
• 5 quarterback hits

The sack difference was only one, but the quarterback hit difference was much larger. New England consistently affected Herbert before and after the sack opportunities.

Pressure statistics often explain why a quarterback’s completion numbers may look acceptable while overall offensive output remains limited.

Field Position and Hidden Advantages

The provided statistics also show the importance of special teams.

Derius Davis gave the Chargers good kickoff return production with 100 total return yards. However, the Patriots received stronger scoring value from their kicking unit.

In a low-scoring playoff matchup, special teams can become the difference between advancing and going home.

Individual Performances That Stood Out

Drake Maye: Efficient Playmaking

Maye delivered the stronger quarterback performance. His combination of passing yards and rushing ability created challenges for the Chargers defense.

His statistics:

• 17 completions
• 268 passing yards
• 1 touchdown pass
• 66 rushing yards

show a quarterback capable of influencing the game in multiple ways.

Justin Herbert: Productive Under Pressure

Herbert faced one of the toughest challenges of the game.

His statistics:

• 159 passing yards
• 57 rushing yards
• 6 sacks taken

show a player who contributed but faced difficult circumstances throughout the matchup.

Hunter Henry: Important Scoring Contribution

Hunter Henry’s touchdown reception was one of the most important offensive plays of the game.

His final numbers:

• 3 receptions
• 64 yards
• 1 touchdown

made him a key part of New England’s offensive success.

Daiyan Henley: Defensive Leader for Chargers

Henley delivered one of the strongest defensive performances.

His statistics:

• 13 total tackles
• 9 solo tackles
• 1 interception

show his ability to consistently impact plays.

Lessons From the Match Statistics

The matchup provides several broader football lessons.

Defense Must Create More Than Stops

The Chargers defense performed well statistically, but stopping drives was not enough. The offense needed to convert opportunities into points.

Balanced Offense Wins Tough Games

The Patriots did not rely only on passing or rushing. Their ability to use multiple offensive options made them difficult to defend.

Playoff Football Rewards Consistency

New England avoided major offensive breakdowns and consistently produced points. That approach proved valuable in a game where explosive scoring was limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key Chargers vs New England Patriots match player stats?

The biggest statistical differences were passing yards, rushing yards, and defensive pressure. The Patriots recorded 268 passing yards compared to the Chargers’ 159 and produced 146 rushing yards compared to 87.

Who was the leading passer in the Chargers vs Patriots playoff game?

Drake Maye was the leading passer with 268 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Justin Herbert recorded 159 passing yards without a touchdown or interception.

Which player led the Chargers in tackles?

Daiyan Henley led the Chargers defense with 13 total tackles and 9 solo tackles. He also recorded one interception.

Who was the Patriots top receiver?

Rhamondre Stevenson led the Patriots in receiving yards with 75 yards on three receptions. Hunter Henry recorded the team’s receiving touchdown.

How did the Patriots defense stop Justin Herbert?

The Patriots defense pressured Herbert throughout the game, recording six sacks and 11 quarterback hits. That pressure limited the Chargers passing attack.

What was the final score between the Chargers and Patriots?

The New England Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 in the AFC Wild Card playoff game on January 12, 2026.

Conclusion

The Chargers vs New England playoff matchup was decided by efficiency, balance, and defensive execution. The chargers vs new england patriots match player stats show that New England created advantages in nearly every major area that influences postseason success.

Drake Maye produced the stronger overall quarterback performance with 268 passing yards and a touchdown, while the Patriots rushing attack added 146 yards to maintain offensive balance. Their defense consistently pressured Justin Herbert, creating six sacks and limiting the Chargers to only three points.

The Chargers had impressive individual performances, especially from Daiyan Henley on defense and Justin Herbert as a rushing contributor. However, their offense could not generate enough production when scoring opportunities became limited.

The final numbers tell the story of a disciplined playoff performance. The Patriots combined reliable passing, efficient rushing, defensive pressure, and strong kicking to secure a 16-3 victory.