**Patriots’ Rookies Shine in Thrilling 28-23 Victory Over Tampa Bay**
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — One of the major concerns about the Patriots’ offense entering the season was their lack of veteran depth at running back and wide receiver. However, New England’s rookies may have put those doubts to rest with performances nobody saw coming during what could be the team’s biggest win this season.
Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson and wide receiver Kyle Williams accounted for three of the Patriots’ four touchdowns in Sunday’s 28-23 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Impressively, all three of their scores came on plays of 50 yards or more, propelling New England to its seventh consecutive win — the team’s longest streak since last making the playoffs in 2021.
“We’re going to need everybody throughout this season. We’re going to need everybody as this thing goes on,” Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said.
### Henderson Battles Through Injury to Deliver Big Play
The standout performances came despite a scary moment in the third quarter when Henderson briefly left the game for evaluation after being landed on by a Buccaneers tackler. Fortunately, he was able to return and add a crucial 69-yard touchdown run that put the Patriots ahead by two scores late in the fourth quarter.
That score proved essential after Tampa Bay closed the gap to five points with less than a minute remaining.
“He battled through on that. I got worn out running out there to see how our guys were doing as many times as I did,” Vrabel said. “But I’m proud of the guys that battled and competed and laid it on the line.”
Henderson finished with a career-best 147 yards on 14 carries, including a 55-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. He credited his success to the support from his offensive line.
“The guys up front, they made it easy for me,” Henderson said. “They opened it up really well. My biggest thing is to be decisive and hit it once I see it. I thank the guys up front for taking care of the dirty work.”
### What’s Working for New England
A key element of the Patriots’ recent success has been their ability to start the second half strong. In their last seven victories, New England has scored on the opening drive of the third quarter in every game — tallying five touchdowns and two field goals during those drives.
### What Needs Improvement
Quarterback Drake Maye threw for 270 yards and two touchdowns but nearly made a costly error in the fourth quarter. Facing third-and-goal on the 2-yard line with the Patriots leading 21-16, Maye attempted to fit a pass into a tight window to receiver Mack Hollins. However, Buccaneers defender Tykee Smith intercepted the pass, preventing New England from expanding their lead.
The Patriots’ defense responded by stopping Tampa Bay on fourth down just outside the red zone on the ensuing possession.
Maye did not regret the throw but noted it was a learning moment about exercising caution in critical situations.
### Stock Up: Kyle Williams
There were questions about who would step up at wide receiver with Kayshon Boutte inactive due to a hamstring injury. Williams answered emphatically on Sunday, showcasing his ability to get separation, outstretch defenders for difficult catches, and outrun opponents for a spectacular 72-yard touchdown.
That touchdown was Williams’ first career NFL score and the longest play for the Patriots this season.
“We always say you prepare as a starter and I really took that to heart this week because I knew what was at stake,” Williams said. “When you get an opportunity, you’re not promised another one. So, for me, it was just making the most of it whenever my opportunities came and just stacking. So, I’m proud of myself.”
### Stock Down: Defensive Streak Ends
The Patriots’ defense had been the only NFL unit this season not allowing a 50-yard rushing play — until Sunday. Tampa Bay’s Sean Tucker gained 53 yards on nine carries, ending the streak but keeping the margin close.
### Injury Updates
– DT Christian Barmore suffered a back injury in the fourth quarter.
– RB Terrell Jennings exited in the second half with a knee injury and did not return.
– Inactives included WR Kayshon Boutte (hamstring), RB Rhamondre Stevenson (toe), and LB Christian Elliss (hip).
### Key Number: 50
Since 2000, the Patriots are one of only two NFL teams to have multiple 50-plus yard receptions and multiple 50-plus yard rushes in the same game. The other team to achieve this was Miami on Sept. 24, 2023.
### What’s Next
New England will have a short week as they aim to extend their winning streak at home against AFC East rival New York Jets on Thursday night.
—
*Stay tuned for more updates on the Patriots’ season and player performances.*
https://whdh.com/sports/contributions-from-rookies-a-great-sign-for-streaking-patriots-with-afc-east-rival-jets-up-next/