1st half analysis

Analysis from the first half of the Super Bowl, with the Patriots leading 7-3:

The Patriots’ performance in the red zone has been one of the top stories. The defense has been at its best once the Giants move deeper into their territory.

Offensively, the Patriots had a solid opening drive, and cashed in with a touchdown after a pass interference penalty against Benjamin Watson in the end zone. But their remaining drives stalled as the Giants generated tremendous pressure, overwhelming the Patriots up front with a powerful package of blitzes. The Patriots have just 81 yards of total offense in the first half. Giants DE Justin Tuck (6 tackles, 2 sacks) has been immense.

Quarterback Tom Brady doesn’t appear to be as nimble in the pocket, perhaps a result of his right ankle sprain. He appears to be moving uncomfortably. One of Brady’s strengths is his ability to feel the pressure and keep plays alive with a slight sidestep, but he hasn’t reached a comfort level in the pocket tonight.

The Giants’ opening drive set the tempo as they chewed up plenty of clock and established the way the game would be played – with limited possessions (5 for Giants; 4 for Patriots), making each offensive drive critical.

Both defenses are pressuring with the blitz often, as the units took control in the second quarter.

The Patriots get the ball to start the second half. If they are to win, they will have to adjust to the Giants’ pressure -- finding a way to block them or getting the ball out quicker -- while continuing to come up with clutch plays in the red zone.