ANDERSON, Ind. —
Offense: C-
The Colts actually outgained New England 448-446 and put up their third-highest point total of the season. But four turnovers, including a pair of interceptions that were returned for touchdowns, greatly aided the Patriots’ blowout win. Andrew Luck finished with 334 passing yards and set another rookie record with his fifth 300-yard game, but he also threw three interceptions.
Defense: D
The offense and special teams didn’t help by allowing three touchdowns, but the defense forced just two punts. Tight end Rob Gronkowski caught seven passes for 137 yards and two TDs. New England was balanced, scoring three times through the air on offense and twice on the ground.
Special teams: D
The Colts had just 36 combined yards on kickoff and punt returns, and Julian Edelman’s second-quarter touchdown was the first punt return score against Indianapolis this year. Thanks in large part to two big Edeleman returns, Pat McAfee had a net average of just 7.3 yards per punt. Adam Vinatieri hit a 47-yard field goal but was wide from 58.
Player of the Game: Julian Edelman, WR, Patriots
He caught five passes for 58 yards and a touchdown, and he just missed another score on his 47-yard run. He also averaged 58 yards on two punt returns and had 222 combined yards. His biggest play might have been a 68-yard punt return for a touchdown that permanently swung momentum in the second quarter.
