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1st half analysis
Analysis from the first half of today’s game, with the Patriots leading 14-6:
The Patriots were on their heels early, with the Bengals driving to the New England 22 on their first possession and marching to the New England 27 on their second possession. But the Patriots stopped the Bengals on two third-down plays (third and 3, third and 8), holding them to field goals on both drives. Those were crucial plays, as the Patriots absorbed the Bengals’ initial blow, keeping the game close.
Cincinnati has been attacking the Patriots where they are most vulnerable -- in the defensive backfield -- by running primarily three- and four-wide sets. That has forced the Patriots to play multiple d-backs, and led to receiver Troy Brown seeing his first action of the season on defense. The Bengals have utilized a no-huddle attack, but the Patriots’ ability to come up with the stops -- namely on third down -- has been key.
A key stat in the first half: the Bengals are 1 of 7 on third downs, with quarterback Carson Palmer cooling off after a hot start.
When the Patriots had the ball, they’ve had success running inside, overpowering the Bengals at times. Corey Dillon is running especially hard in his return to Cincinnati. Moving the ball hasn’t been a problem, more so it’s been a matter of stringing together productive plays. The Patriots have cashed in on big passing plays (to Benjamin Watson and Doug Gabriel) on both scoring drives.
Kevin Faulk provided a special teams spark with a 43-yard punt return in the second quarter, setting up the Patriots’ second touchdown.
Despite entering as an underdog, the Patriots are in position to win, mainly because their defense has held up in key situations. To pull off the win, they’ll need to continue their stingy play, and string together more productive plays on offense.
