Some observations and highlights from the first quarter:
 Devin McCourty returhed to action on Sunday. (FILE:Icon/SMI) |
New England got back Devin McCourty on Sunday, who had been out while recovering from a separated shoulder. He made a tackle on the Patriots first defensive series, registering a tackle on Colts receiver Pierre Garcon before Indianapolis eventually punted away the football thanks to a big 3rd down sack by Vince Wilfork.
The Patriots had a tough start in their first offensive series, with Kevin Faulk appearing to fumble away the ball on their sixth offensive snap of the game. However, replays showed that Faulk was already down before the ball came out, and New England retained possession.
From there New England went on to kick a 39-yard field goal, capping an 8 play 34-yard drive to give them a 3-0 lead with 9:30 to go in the first quarter.
On the second drive, the Colts managed to put together a 79 yard drive on 15 plays. Fans got to see newly added defensive back Nate Jones make a tackle, along with Matthew Slater getting some work at the safety spot.
The quarter ended with Indianapolis sitting at the Patriot 6 yard line, threatening to erase New England's 3-0 lead.
NOTES:
- The Patriots finished the first quarter without scoring a touchdown for the sixth time in the last seven games. Their only touchdown during that span came last week during their win over Philadelphia.
- So far through one quarter Tom Brady is 2-of-3 passing for 22 yards and was sacked on their opening drive.
- BenJarvus Green-Ellis didn't register a carry on their first possession, with Kevin Faulk carrying twice for a total of 5 yards.
- Wes Welker (1 catch 15 yards) and Aaron Hernandez (1 catch for 7 yards) are the only two players with a reception so far.
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