Midway through the third quarter, week 17 is looking good for the New England Patriots: the team is up 28-3 — where have we seen this one before? — and well on its way to earn a first-round playoff bye. The game has gotten to this point with the Patriots playing a productive offensive game and the defense and special teams also building momentum heading into the postseason.
The defense, in particular is coming up big: the unit has given up only three points so far while also stopping the New York Jets twice on fourth down and also forcing two turnovers — the second of which being returned for a score:
The #Patriots defense is out here making plays.
— Pats Pulpit (@patspulpit) December 30, 2018
( @ftbeard_17) pic.twitter.com/otCDjnH6qX
The touchdown was made possible by Jets quarterback Sam Darnold trying to extend the third down play by moving up the field. However, defensive tackle Adam Butler was able to knock the football loose and linebacker Kyle Van Noy quick to react to scoop it up and return it 46 yard to the end zone. The touchdown is Van Noy’s second of the season after he also returned a blocked punt for a score in week seven against the Chicago Bears.