Tom Brady makes rare mistake in red zone, but Patriots preserve first-half shutout of Chiefs

Staff writer

Sun, 20 Jan 2019, 7:40 pm

A rare mistake from Tom Brady kept the New England Patriots from taking an early two-possession lead over the Kansas City Chiefs in Sunday’s AFC championship game.

The Patriots opened the game by marching 80 yards on a drive that ended with a one-yard Sony Michel touchdown run.

Rare mistake in red zone from Tom Brady

The Patriots set themselves up for a chance to extend their lead with a short field on their second possession, driving the ball from the Chiefs’ 44-yard line to set up third-and-goal from the one-yard line early in the second quarter.

But Brady made an uncommon mistake a critical moment.

An uncommon Tom Brady turnover prevented the Patriots from taking a big early lead against the Chiefs. (Getty)

He faked the ball to Michel, then threw the ball over the middle in the direction of tight end Rob Gronkowksi.

But Gronkowski never had a chance at the ball that was thrown low and short into the outstretched hands of linebacker Reggie Ragland, who surrendered himself in the end zone for a touchback.

According to CBS, it was Brady’s first postseason interception in 237 attempts. It was a big one for the Chiefs, who needed a spark as the Patriots threatened to blow the game wide open.

Patriots still control first half

But the Chiefs couldn’t capitalize, as the Patriots defense shut down the NFL’s most potent offense to take a 14-0 lead into halftime.

New England went on to a 37-31 victory in overtime thanks to a pair of late touchdown drives led by Brady.