It took every play for the New England Patriots to defeat the visiting Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night, but defeat the Chiefs they did with a final score of 43-40. The game saw plenty of memorable moments and performances – and three of them are up for today’s game ball vote:
K Stephen Gostkowski
While the game-winning 28-yarder as time expired will be the lasting image of his night, Stephen Gostkowski was money all day long. The veteran attempted nine kicks – five field goals and four extra points – and made them all for 19 total points. Furthermore, he made some long-distance kicks as well as two of his kicks came from more than 45 yards away (a 48-yarder and a 50-yarder). In a season in which kicking has been inconsistent, Gostkowski again proves why he is one of the best players in the league at his position.
LB Dont’a Hightower
New England’s defense had its issues in the second half, but it made enough plays for the Patriots to win – especially in the first half. The catalyst behind that was one of the unit’s leaders: Dont’a Hightower. The veteran linebacker finished the game with two tackles, a quarterback hit, and an interception that set up a New England first quarter touchdown. Hightower was disruptive all game long and helped the Patriots slow down the Chiefs’ high-octane offense early in the game.
RB Sony Michel
For the second straight week, Sony Michel is nominated for a Patriots game ball – and for good reason: the first-round rookie delivered another very good performance and played a huge role in New England’s offense. Overall, he had 24 carries for 106 yards and scored twice. Michel’s productivity on the ground did not only help the Patriots control the tempo of the game, it also set up play-action opportunities for the offense.
With all that in mind, who is your choice for this week’s game ball?
Poll
Who gets this week’s Patriots game ball?
This poll is closed
-
31%
K Stephen Gostkowski
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16%
LB Dont’a Hightower
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46%
RB Sony Michel
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5%
Other (name in comments)