Patriots Give Conflicting Descriptions of Big Play vs. Raiders

The New England Patriots dug deep into their bag of tricks in their win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.

Or did they?

Efton Chism III, the second-year wide receiver who was thrust into the starting lineup following injuries to A.J. Brown and Mack Hollins, got creative on one of his six receptions as he threw the ball backwards on third-and-long to running back TreVeyon Henderson -- who did the rest and converted for a first down in the eventual 45-17 rout at Gillette Stadium.

Drake Maye gave his wide receiver credit for the creativity. DeMario Douglas said it was an ingenious play. Mike Vrabel couldn't help but laugh when asked about it in his postgame press conference.

Chism wouldn't take credit, though, claiming that the play was designed by offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.

"I've got nothing on that," Chism said following the game, per CLNS. "It was (drawn up). A little bit. A little bit. I don't want to give away any secrets."

Chism was grinning from ear to ear when asked, so perhaps someone's answer was an example of gamesmanship -- saying one thing that might not be entirely true as a way to avoid spilling the beans. If that is the case, it wouldn't be the first time something like that has happened at One Patriot Place.