Brady, Patriots teach Luck, Colts a lesson; Win 59-24

The New England Patriots took a key game in the AFC play-off picture by dismantling the Indianapolis Colts 59-24. Tom Brady (24/35, 331 yards, 3 TD, 0 INT), Rob Gronkowski (7 receptions, 137 yards, 2 TD) and Julian Edelman (5 receptions, 57 yards 1 TD/1 rush, 47 yards/68 yard punt ret. TD) starred on the offensive side of the ball, while Alfonzo Dennard and Aqib Talib (on debut) returned interceptions for touchdowns. Rob Ninkovich continued his impressive season with another strip sack and fumble recovery, while Vince Wilfork dominated the battle in the trenches, tipping two passes and putting constant pressure on the QB.

Andrew Luck simply couldn't keep up with a rampant Patriots team. He looked good at avoiding the constant pass rush the Patriots sent at him, and kept poise most times in the pocket. However, He was constantly forced to throw early, leading him to throw three interceptions. And while the Colts got their run defense together, they couldn't contain Brady, with Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis having little effect on Brady, who wasn't sacked all game.

Things were different than the regular Pats-Colts rivalry game, but nothing changed from the way Brady played in these encounters. He showed such poise and presence in the pocket, and was constantly able to pick up first downs, 20 of the Patriots 25 first downs were achieved through the pass.

One negative for the Patriots was once again the play of Kyle Arrington. He got burnt early on and was forced to foul the receiver for a pass interference call in the redzone, which led to the Colts taking a 7-0 lead. Also, the run game didn't get going. Neither Stevan Ridley or Shane Vereen could get good yardage, though both ended up with a TD.

A very good win, and convincing against a team that was also 6-3 going into the encounter. The Patriots now go to 7-3 giving them a healthy 3 game lead over all AFC East teams, going into their thanksgiving night clash  against the New York Jets.

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