New England Patriots: Grading Position Groups Week 12

Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker Shane Ray (56) in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Patriots 30-24 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Grading the Patriots’ performance from their Sunday Night Football loss to the Broncos.

The Patriots suffered their first loss of the season in the thin air of Denver on Sunday night, despite holding a 21-7 lead in the fourth quarter, with the defense dominating the Broncos’ offense. However, a Chris Harper fumble on a punt swung the momentum, and the lead quickly disappeared.

The Broncos took a three-point lead late in the game, but Tom Brady was able to orchestrate a masterful 51-yard drive with only a minute remaining. Stephen Gostkowski nailed a 47-yard field goal to send the game to overtime, but the Patriots could not score on their possession. The Broncos got the ball, and a few plays later, C.J. Anderson found the end zone to end the perfect season.

The Patriots suffered more injuries, as both Dont’a Hightower and Rob Gronkowski went down with knee injuries. Neither are expected to be serious, but both plays are vital to their respective side of the ball.

A loss is never fun, but there are some positive signs to take away from this game. Let’s take a look at the grades for each position.

Next: Quarterback