Patriots vs. Broncos: Three Week 12 Stars of the Game

Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during the second half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Star Number Three: Quarterback Tom Brady

Brady was not the sharpest we have seen him, but he continued to put the Patriots in a great position to win on Sunday night. Without a number of his primary targets, Brady completed 23-of-42 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns. He did not turn the ball over once.

The Patriots’ rushing attack was never able to get going, and that hurt Brady and the passing attack, especially late in the game. With snow falling, and trying to protect the lead against arguably the best defense in the NFL, Brady had to continue to throw the ball, and the defense knew it.

His pass in the fourth quarter to Gronkowski was off target, and it was the throw that got their star tight end hurt. He was on point for most of the night, but that was one that certainly hurt the Patriots not only on Sunday night, but possibly going forward. However, his drive to set up the game tying field goal to send the game into overtime was a thing of beauty. Absolutely vintage Brady.

The Patriots’ star quarterback was not perfect, but he was a major reason why they were even in position to win that game. Obviously, he was not good enough, but considering the circumstances, I have a had time pinning this loss on number 12.

Next: Second Star