In a league where every game is a battle, New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is standing firm against critics questioning his team's path to success this season.

With the Patriots achieving a stunning 13-3 record and clinching the AFC East division for the first time since 2019, Maye isn't letting strength of schedule skepticism derail their remarkable turnaround.

Speaking candidly to reporters ahead of Sunday's high-stakes matchup against the Miami Dolphins, Maye delivered a passionate defense of his team's journey. "We play in the National Football League. Every team's got great players," he emphasized. "They get paid a lot of money. It's not like we're playing Foxborough High School down the road."

Maye's point cuts to the heart of professional sports: no game is truly 'easy' at this level. Each NFL team features world-class athletes competing at the pinnacle of their profession, and the Patriots are laser-focused on proving themselves against any opponent.

The quarterback's perspective highlights a critical truth about professional competition - success isn't about who you play, but how you play. After suffering through just four wins in the previous two seasons, the Patriots have transformed their narrative through sheer determination and skill.

By refusing to make excuses and focusing on executing their game plan, Maye and his teammates are demonstrating the kind of professional attitude that turns struggling franchises into champions. Their message is clear: they'll play whoever is on the schedule and give 100% effort every single time.

As the Patriots continue their remarkable season, Drake Maye's words serve as a powerful reminder that in professional sports, true excellence transcends external criticisms and perceived advantages.