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1st half analysis

Analysis from the first half, with the Patriots leading 20-0:

Three turnovers have energized the Patriots – two interceptions by linebacker Junior Seau and one by cornerback Asante Samuel. Two came off tipped balls, with Samuel tipping the first pass which was intercepted by Seau. On Samuel’s pick, linebacker Adalius Thomas tipped the ball.

Meanwhile, Seau’s second interception came while Browns quarterback Derek Anderson was under heavy pressure, and was hit as he threw.

So all three picks were a result of team defense.

Offensively, the Browns are clearly rolling their coverage to Randy Moss’s side. Donte’ Stallworth has been the beneficiary, as quarterback Tom Brady continues to look in his direction. Stallworth, despite one drop, is having his best game as a Patriot. This coming one week after Brady said he felt Stallworth played his best game (vs. the Bengals). The Patriots opened the game in the no-huddle, three-wide package in an effort to set the tempo. The score could be more lopsided if the Patriots didn't have two drives stall inside the red zone.

In other areas, Bill Belichick was concerned about the return skills of Cleveland’s Josh Cribbs. But the Patriots coverage team has been solid in that area.

All in all, the turnovers have energized the Patriots. Seau is all over the place, defying his age (38). If there is a concern, it is the injury situation, specifically with Adalius Thomas.

The Browns get the ball to open the second half.