Patriots Survive Late Comeback, Defeat Atlanta 30-23

AP Photo: David Goldman


The Patriots survived a furious comeback from Atlanta late, with Aqib Talib's pass breakup in the end zone preserving a 30-23 win.

After going up 30-13, the Patriots gave up a quick 10 points to turn the game into a one possession game. A Tom Brady fumbled snap gave Atlanta the ball back with 1:50 left. One play later, Matt Ryan hit Julio Jones for 49 yards, setting up Atlanta in scoring range.

However, the Patriots defense did what it had done all day and held Atlanta down when it counted. The Patriots held the Falcons to 3 points or less on five of their six red zone possessions.

Tom Brady was 20/31 for 316 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions in the win. Julian Edelmen and Kenbrell Thompkins both surpassed 100 receiving yards, with Thompkins catching his third touchdown in the last two games.

Matt Ryan threw for 421 yards, 2 touchdowns and one pick in the losing effort. Tony Gonzalez caught both touchdowns and had 12 catches for 149 yards.

With the win, New England moves to 4-0. They'll take on the 2-2 Bengals in Week 5.