It's been anything but a banner day for the New England Patriots offense against the Cincinnati Bengals, but due to a strong defensive performance, they are locked in a 3-3 tie at halftime in week five.
The offense hasn't been able to muster much of anything. There were miscommunications early which led to a couple of Tom Brady sacks, and the Patriots were also plagued by a couple of dropped passes. Quarterback Tom Brady hasn't exactly been sharp.
The Patriots did not take a snap from the red zone. The only time the Patriots were able to get anything consistent going on offense, LeGarrette Blount had a costly fumble.
Nonetheless, the game remains tied after thirty minutes. The Patriots have been generally solid in run defense despite not having Vince Wilfork in the middle. They've gotten some pressure on Andy Dalton, coming up with a pair of sacks. They also got a huge red zone interception from Brandon Spikes at the close of the first quarter which kept points off the board.
Overall, it was an ugly first half for both teams. But with the score tied, there is plenty to be decided in the second half. The Bengals will get the ball.