Just my novice opinion.
I agree with
@BlacknGold77. It was a well designed play but I also think the Pats had a plan for it but Rowe was caught out of position.
Watching the play:
1. Rowe originally had JJ in coverage but when he goes in motion he and McCourty switch responsibilities.
View attachment 17468
2. After Rowe and McCourty switch you can clearly see McCourty signally to Rowe by pointing to the outside or towards the sideline.
View attachment 17469
3. On the plays leading up to this one the Falcons had successful misdirection plays up the middle. Freeman made some nice moves on this drive.
4. When the play starts Freeman fakes up the middle and then cuts to the outside. Rowe bites hard on the inside move. Btw: Had Freeman decided to run up the middle both Brown and Hightower had both gaps sealed. Actually Brown nearly blew up the play in the backfield.
View attachment 17471
Later in the game the Pats defense settles down and maintains better gap discipline. I'll post a few plays later to demonstrate the differences between the first half and the second half.
But please keep in mind that I'm not a football guru but do enjoy the discussion.