In what was billed as the biggest game of the season, the New England Patriots fell to the undefeated New Orleans Saints last night at the Superdome in the Big Easy. While many expected a close game, the Saints were able to shut down quarterback Tom Brady and dominate the game to keep their perfect 11-0 season alive with a 38-17 win.
Brady was limited to just 237 yards in the contest, completing 21 of 36 passes and throwing two interceptions for a meager 55.0 quarterback rating. He was also held scoreless, as both Patriots touchdowns were completed on the run by Laurence Maroney.
For the Saints, quarterback Drew Brees had a career night, completing 18 of 23 passes for a whopping 371 yards, five touchdowns and a perfect quarterback passing rating of 158.3. Brees called the game, which included a franchise record 9.6 yards per play and 16.1 yards per passing attempt, "special."
Brady was less than excited about the outcome of the big game, but respected the Saints for their top-notch performance. Speaking to the media after the game, Brady cited mistakes made by the Patriots and poor execution as their downfall.
"Coach said it after the game, they're a great team and we didn't play so great. So there's obviously a big gap between us. It wasn't nearly as competitive as we were all expecting, but that's what happens when you don't play very well against a pretty good team on the road."
The quarterback went on to speak about how he was pulled late in the game as head coach Bill Belichick replaced him with Brian Hoyer. While he would not say he was upset with the decision, Brady noted "You always like to be out there, you know. You'd rather be on the other side of it. But it's for the other guys to get a chance to play. They work hard to get experience when the game is in control for the other team. You always like to be out there, but it's good for those other guys to get some opportunities, too."
Brady and the Patriots have just a few days to regroup and get ready for their next game, as they go on the road once again to visit the 5-6 Miami Dolphins on Sunday afternoon.
Comments
Game was decide by quaterbacks brady played terrible brees played great
end of story!!!!!!!!
the saints are awesome this year because they are making it about team work not just one player
Saints played great, nearly believe they have held back a bit in last few games. As a long time faithful Saints fan, I'm very proud. Especially living in N W Louisiana where we seem to hear all the dallas cowgirl crap. As for the Pats, well hats off to their coach, "good sport" during his post game interview. Brady however looked like a spoiled 6yo kid not getting his way, didnt so much as walk on to the field to shake hands after, if he did I didnt see it.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!