News - Why MVP conversations only mean so much to Patriots QB Drake Maye

Second-year New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye became a legitimate MVP candidate as the Patriots notched 10 straight victories to grab sole possession of first place in the AFC East standings. Coming off New England's 35-31 loss to the rival Buffalo Bills on Dec. 14, Maye made it known that getting his hands on a personal award isn't his ultimate goal. Drake Maye wants to hoist one trophy this winter "The MVP is obviously one of the big accolades for this league," Maye said on Wednesday, per the Patriots' website. "It's something that is an honor as a player to earn that award, and I respect all the past MVPs. But I think at the end of the day, winning the Super Bowl is the biggest thing. I think it's what kind of makes this league go is winning the big one. That's what you work toward, and that's what this game is about." As of Thursday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook had Maye second among the betting favorites at +425 odds to win the MVP Award. At that same time, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford topped the list at -300 odds. According to Pro Football Reference, Maye began Thursday leading the NFL among qualified players with a 70.9 percent completion percentage and an average of 9.08 adjusted yards gained per pass attempt. He's third with a 71.2 adjusted QBR, third with a 109.1 passer rating, fifth with 3,567 passing yards and tied for fifth with 23 passing touchdowns. Drake Maye, Patriots not focused on "personal accolades" First-year Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is seen by many as the favorite to take home NFL Coach of the Year Award honors. Maye seemingly has embraced Vrabel's mindset as it pertains to such discussions. "I love winning, and the personal accolades come with all that, but I'd rather win than win personal awards," Maye added. "I hope people in that locker room – I know a lot of them feel the same way." The Patriots lead the 10-4 Bills in the division, and New England trails the 12-2 Denver Broncos in the battle for the AFC's No. 1 playoff seed. The Pats next play at the 7-7 Baltimore Ravens on Dec. 21.