Rhamondre Stevenson struggles with fumbles in Patriots' night game

In the United States, during a Sunday night football game on October 5, 2025, the New England Patriots faced off against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo. This matchup marked the 132nd meeting between the two teams, with New England historically leading the rivalry with a record of 79-51-1. Fans were eager to watch, especially given the exciting performance of Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, who had completed 74% of his passes during the season, showcasing an impressive leap in his second year as a professional. Maye's development was a focal point, as he sought to establish himself further against the formidable Buffalo defense led by veteran quarterback Josh Allen. As the game began, drama unfolded early when New England running back Rhamondre Stevenson lost the ball after a strong defensive play by Buffalo. This incident, marking Stevenson's tenth fumble in his last ten games, highlighted ongoing concerns regarding his reliability in crucial game moments. The Patriots, hoping to capitalize on their offense, faced a much-needed support system from their defense, which quickly regained possession after forcing a punt. Head coach Mike Vrabel and teammates approached Stevenson on the sideline with encouragement, suggesting a commitment to keep him involved in the upcoming offensive plays. Despite the setback, Stevenson returned to the field later in the drive, but his role continued to be limited as the Patriots adjusted their strategy. Meanwhile, the atmosphere of nervous anticipation surrounded Maye's ability to deliver against a competitive Bills squad that had a strong offensive track record. The Bills entered the game with a slight advantage as 7.5-point favorites, an indication of their belief in their competitive strength relative to the Patriots. The matchup also took on heightened significance due to Stefon Diggs, who was making his first return to Buffalo after being traded to the Texans, amplifying the stakes for both teams as they sought victory in a significant AFC East battle.