Second Quarter Recap: Patriots vs. Packers
New England got caught on a tough play just moments into the second quarter, with Brandon Meriweather getting crossed up in the coverage and running into Devin McCourty – which allowed James Jones to score a 66-yard touchdown to put the Packers up 10-7.
Later in the quarter the Packers put together a big drive, which was highlighted by a helmet-to-helmet penalty on Devin McCourty which was a 15-yard penalty and gave them the ball at New England’s 30-yard line. It lead to a field goal by Green Bay, and put them up 17-7 with just over 3-minutes to go in the first half.
So far through two quarters Tom Brady and the offense has struggled, they’ve gained 138 yards compared to 180 for Green Bay. They’ve also seen some good play from backup QB Matt Flynn, who is 11-of-18 for 143-yards and 2 touchdowns, with a QB rating of 123.1.
However, Brady got a little help after the Packers touchdown, with offensive lineman Dan Connolly returning the ball 71-yards on the ensuing kickoff down Green Bay’s four yard line. Connolly wrapped both hands around the ball and took off running, showing surprisingly good speed and even made a stiff arm and a great cutback on the run. It was the longest return by an offensive lineman in the history of the NFL, and is definitely one of the more memorable highlights fans will likely remember from this season.
The play ended up being a big one, as Brady would later throw a touchdown pass to Aaron Hernandez to get them back in it at 17-14 just before the half.
His touchdown pass was his 30th of the year and the 255th of his career, tying Sonny Jurgensen for 11th all-time. He's also completed passes to seven different receivers so far tonight.
Comparing the two quarterbacks at halftime:
Tom Brady: 10-of-15 for 81 yards 1 TD (QB Rating 102.4)
Matt Flynn: 11-of-18 for 143 yards 2 TD (QB Rating 123.1)
Green Bay currently has the edge in time of possession, holding the ball for 17:40 while New England has had it for 12:20.
We'll have more throughout the game, so be sure to check back for updates.
