New England stuns Buffalo in a thrilling 29-26 divisional matchup, handing the Bills their first loss of the 2026 season.
In a stunning divisional showdown on the road, quarterback Drake Maye and the New England Patriots secured a 29-26 victory against the Buffalo Bills, according to information published by bleache.
The dramatic Sunday clash took place at Highmark Stadium, where the visiting Patriots handed the powerhouse Bills their first defeat of the 2026 NFL regular season.
The thrilling finish came down to the final moments of the fourth quarter, reshaping the early AFC East standings as New England claimed a crucial head-to-head tiebreaker edge.
Drake Maye and Efton Chism III secure late victory
With just 1:50 remaining in the fourth quarter, rookie hero Efton Chism III hauled in an incredible touchdown pass in the right corner of the end zone from Drake Maye.
Following the clutch score, Maye connected with Rhamondre Stevenson on a successful two-point conversion to push the New England Patriots ahead by three points.
The dramatic win was ultimately sealed when defender Craig Woodson intercepted a deep pass thrown down the left sideline by star quarterback Josh Allen.
Josh Allen reaches milestone despite first loss
Throughout all four quarters, the fierce AFC East rivals traded momentum in a high-scoring affair that featured several lead changes and impressive offensive drives.
Josh Allen made franchise history during the contest by scoring a rushing touchdown, which officially made him the all-time touchdown leader in Buffalo Bills history.
Buffalo appeared poised to secure the victory when Allen connected with Keon Coleman on a 34-yard touchdown pass with four minutes left on the clock.
Game statistics and scoring recap
The action-packed contest featured multiple standout offensive performances from key players across both rosters, establishing a frantic pace from the opening kickoff.
Romeo Doubs hauled in two touchdown catches for the visitors, while Rhamondre Stevenson added a crucial one-yard rushing score in the first half.
James Cook also contributed heavily to the ground game for Buffalo with an early rushing touchdown, keeping the home team competitive before halftime.
Upcoming schedule for Patriots and Bills
Despite the massive road upset, the New England Patriots remain behind the Buffalo Bills in the division standings but gain vital momentum.
The Patriots will look to extend their winning streak in Week 5 against the Las Vegas Raiders, aiming to capitalize on their recent success.
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills will attempt to bounce back from their first defeat when they face the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night football.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the game-winning touchdown for the Patriots against the Bills?
Efton Chism III caught the game-winning touchdown pass from Drake Maye with 1:50 left in the fourth quarter to defeat the Buffalo Bills.
What historic milestone did Josh Allen achieve in this game?
Josh Allen scored a rushing touchdown that made him the all-time touchdown leader in Buffalo Bills franchise history.
How did the Patriots seal their 29-26 victory over Buffalo?
The New England Patriots sealed the win when Craig Woodson intercepted a deep throw down the field by Josh Allen in the final moments.
