That rising profile fueled a heated media flare-up this week after Stephen A. Smith called Drake Maye “a liar” on ESPN’s “First Take,” reacting to Maye’s claim that he did not know Cam Newton regularly appears on the show. Smith questioned how a high-profile quarterback could be unaware of one of the sport’s most visible programs.

As expected, both running back Rhamondre Stevenson and wide receiver Kayshon Boutte will play in the game. Stevenson missed the last three weeks of action due to a toe injury, while Boutte has been sidelined for two games with a hamstring injury.

When the New England Patriots boarded their flight from Providence to Cincinnati on Saturday, linebacker Jahlani Tavai was not with the rest of the team. While healthy, he was ruled out of the game for what was announced as personal reasons by the club.

The New England Patriots have unveiled a striking new alternate uniform called the “Nor’easter,” and it has already turned plenty of helmets across the NFL. The design is more than just a style refresh; they say it’s a nod to the team’s regional roots and identity with a modern twist.

New England Patriots star wideout Stefon Diggs suddenly threw a football at a cheerleader on Thursday Night Football.

With a Joe Burrow return looming in the background, the Cincinnati Bengals lost to the New England Patriots, 26-20. There, one of the historically worst defenses by DVOA of all-time showed newfound fight and held Drake Maye and the nine-win Patriots in check deep into the second half.

The Bengals had several key players injured during the fourth quarter of their loss to New England, including Tee Higgins' concussion.

Bengals kicker Evan McPherson kicked a 63-yard field goal on the final play of the half to end the Patriots' 17-0 run. The Patriots scored on Hunter Henry's 28-yard touchdown reception, Marcus Jones' 33-yard interception return and Andy Borregales' 41-yard field goal.