Running Game

In a game in which the Patriots had very little receiving weapons, the Patriots rushed for a grand total of 39 yards, averaging less than three yards per carry.

The Patriots are going to have to find a way to run the ball better going forward, especially without the receiving weapons.

Dont'a Hightower

Dont'a Hightower left the game in the first half and did not return.

The NFL Network reported on Monday morning that Hightower has an MCL Sprain.

Once Hightower went out, the Patriots run defense got weaker and the Broncos were able to take advantage.

If Hightower is out for any significant length of time, that means Jerod Mayo will have to step up and play full time, something he has not done all season.

Chris Harper

In the beginning of the fourth quarter with the Patriots up 21-7, Chris Harper fumbled a punt and Denver got possession. A few plays later C.J Anderson ran 19 yards into the end zone to cut the Patriots lead to 21-14.

The fumbled punt gave Denver momentum and got the fans right back into the game.

Chris Harper was on the practice squad until last week.

Play Calling

Situation 1

After a Broncos touchdown, the Patriots got the ball back with 2 minutes to play in the first half.

Instead of trying to make plays and score before the half, the Patriots ran the ball five times, pretty much into the line, and took their 14-7 lead into the locker room.

Were they afraid due to the lack of receivers? Offensive line?

It was a strange series of plays, usually the Patriots dominate in that situation.

Situation 2

Then at the end of the game when they should have been running the ball, they threw it three straight times and one of which got Gronkowski hurt.

At the time, Denver had one time out left and running the ball would have forced them to use it. Who knows, maybe the Patriots pick up an extra first down there.

Situation 1 and Situation 2 should be reversed.

There are other situations to look at as well, like why Brady kept throwing to Chandler down the sideline and others.

Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski took a shot to the knee with about 3 minutes left in the game. After rolling around in pain, Gronkowski was carted off the field and immediately was ruled out.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the injury does not appear serious. Multiple reports say Gronkowski was at his locker after the game and was seen walking around.

Very good news for the Patriots.