CJ Anderson busted loose in driving snow flurries for a game-winning touchdown run as the Denver Broncos rallied to beat New England 30-24 in overtime, handing the Patriots their first loss of the season. It was second and ten, and Gronkowski was Tom Brady’s target. Stewart hit Gronkowski’s knee and the tight end lay on the field, writhing in pain. Now, he’s the young gun who took down the Patriots and has the Broncos looking like a title contender once again. But Brady needed just five plays to drive the Patriots 51 yards and into range for Stephen Gostkowski’s 47-yard field goal with no time left. Osweiler was 23-of-42 for 270 with one TD and one pick.
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That led to Anderson’s 15-yard TD run. So was Sammie Watkins, who had all six catches for 158 yards and his two touchdowns over the first 30 minutes. Anderson scored the touchdown that sealed New England’s fate, taking a pitch from Osweiler 48 yards to the end zone on Denver’s first possession in overtime. But the banged-up New England offense struggled throughout much of the second half with Gronk on the field. Even when he’s not catching the ball on a consistent basis, he’s drawing covergae away from his teammates and helping them to make plays.
Brady lost his biggest weapon in the final quarter when Rob Gronkowski was carted to the locker room with a knee injury. The oft-injured 26-year-old appeared done for not just the game, but the season as well.
Wilson’s 80-yard touchdown pass to Doug Baldwin, the Seattle receiver’s third score of the day, with 2:01 remaining gave Seattle (6-5) a nine-point lead and essentially put the game away. By appearances, at least, the knee injury was not serious.
Gronkowski was seen walking under his own power following his exit from the game.
He’ll be evaluated on a weekly basis and there’s no timetable for his return.
Brady’s receiving corps already was depleted with injuries to Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, Aaron Dobson and running back Dion Lewis. Should Osweiler maintain his form, Kubiak might be rolling the dice by inserting Manning as starter.
ENGLEWOOD-Brock Osweiler has given the Broncos renewed enthusiasm.
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At least New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick doesn’t have to answer – or, more precisely, not answer – questions about an undefeated season anymore.
