What got into the Patriots offense?
Quarterback Bailey Zappe led New England to an offensive explosion in the first half, capped by a beautiful touchdown to tight end Huntry Henry for a 24-yard score and a 21-3 lead.
WOW! Zappe to Henry AGAIN for another @Patriots TD#NEvsPIT on Prime Video
— NFL (@NFL) December 8, 2023
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/0GJemAElFj pic.twitter.com/8kv5FZRGjb
Zappe drove the Patriots down the field on their opening drive, scoring a touchdown on a throw to the flat to Ezekiel Elliott.
FEED ZEKE! The @Patriots take an early lead in Pittsburgh. #NEvsPIT on Prime Video
— NFL (@NFL) December 8, 2023
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/0GJemAElFj pic.twitter.com/az6pNxbQd5
Later, he found Henry for the tight end's first touchdown of the game when he floated the ball to the back of the end zone.
.@Patriots make use of the interception quick! Zappe to Henry for the TD #NEvsPIT on Prime Video
— NFL (@NFL) December 8, 2023
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/0GJemAElFj pic.twitter.com/sMZTrR0LRv
The Patriots had scored 13 points combined over their last three games, making their 21-point first-half outburst a huge surprise. The over-under point total for the game at kickoff was 30 points, but the teams surpassed that with 2:50 remaining in the first half.
The scoring barrage is a welcome departure from the Patriots' recent stretch of poor offensive performances, but it could end up hurting them if it leads to a win. At this point in the season, New England would benefit more from losing, which would help its chances of getting the No. 1 overall pick, than winning.
However, Zappe appears uninterested in the organization's future plans. At the half, he's 14-of-21 for 196 yards and three touchdowns as New England leads 21-10.
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