Patriots rout Panthers 42-13 as Maye shines in Week 4

The New England Patriots routed the Carolina Panthers 42-13 at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, turning an early deficit into a dominant Week 4 victory that dropped Carolina to 1-3 on the season. The Patriots scored 42 consecutive points after surrendering an opening touchdown and completed the blowout behind rookie quarterback Drake Maye and a clean offensive performance that produced no turnovers.

Carolina opened the game with a 76-yard, seven-play drive capped by a 7-yard touchdown pass from Bryce Young to tight end Tommy Tremble. Young completed all four passes on the series and finished 18 of 30 for 150 yards and one touchdown. New England then scored the next 42 points, with Maye completing 14 of 17 passes for 203 yards and three total touchdowns while also rushing for a five-yard score. The Patriots’ attack was aided by a punt return touchdown and pressure that repeatedly disrupted Carolina’s offense.

With the game out of reach late, veteran Andy Dalton replaced Young and finished 5 of 6 with a touchdown in relief. Coach Dave Canales said the substitution reflected the game situation rather than a consideration to change starters. "We're counting on him to keep pushing us...