The first half of this game against the Denver Broncos could be described as nothing but embarrassing for the New England Patriots, as they trail 24-0 after 30 minutes.
Each of the team's first three drives resulted in a fumble. First it was Stevan Ridley, who coughed up the ball and had it returned for a touchdown by Von Miller. Then it was Tom Brady on a strip sack, which was recovered and returned to within the New England ten. Third was LeGarrette Blount, who fumbled once again in New England's territory. Around halfway into the first quarter, the Patriots were already down 17-0.
That being said, nothing else went right for the Patriots in the first half either. The pass protection was terrible. Nate Solder was burned twice by Von Miller. The Patriots were run all over by Knowshon Moreno and the Denver running game.
Peyton Manning barely even had to throw the ball.
The Patriots are down 24, but will get the ball to start the second half. Considering the weather conditions and Denver's commitment to running the football, a comeback looks highly improbable. But if something were to happen, the Patriots need to put points on the board to start the second half.