Patriots' wild-card win felt like the good old days in New England

The New England Patriots beat the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 in a wild-card game, their first playoff win in seven years, and advance to the divisional round.

The New England Patriots beat the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 in a wild-card game at Gillette Stadium, marking the franchise's first playoff victory in seven years. The win followed a season of major roster and staff changes under coach Mike Vrabel, who was hired a year ago to lead a rebuilding effort. Midseason adjustments included replacing the planned defensive play-caller after a health issue, and several younger players and recent signees played key roles. The atmosphere at Gillette felt energized and confident for the first home postseason game in six years. Key details: - The Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 in the wild-card round, their first playoff win in seven years, the article reports. - Mike Vrabel was hired a year ago and the team added free-agent Milton Williams as part of broader roster changes, the article reports. - Terrell Williams, the intended defensive coordinator, was diagnosed with prostate cancer and spent time away from the team; Zak Kuhr, 37, took over defensive play-calling midseason, the article reports. - Kuhr’s unit held the Chargers to 207 yards, allowed one third-down conversion on 10 attempts, and recorded six sacks of Justin Herbert, the article reports. - Quarterback Drake Maye was 11-of-14 for 173 yards and a touchdown in the second half, including a 28-yard touchdown to tight end Hunter Henry, the article reports. - Running back Rhamondre Stevenson totaled 128 yards of offense on 13 touches, the article reports. Summary: The win highlighted a notable turnaround from a 4-13 season a year ago and showcased outcomes from several coaching and personnel decisions. The Patriots advance to the divisional round of the playoffs, two wins short of reaching the Super Bowl.