FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Sharing thoughts at halftime as the New England Patriots lead the Indianapolis Colts 17-7 in the AFC Championship game:
Brady's interception helps keep things close: The Patriots were in control in the second quarter, holding a 14-0 lead, when quarterback Tom Brady's ill-advised pass to tight end Rob Gronkowski was intercepted by linebacker D'Qwell Jackson. The Colts then put together an impressive long touchdown drive that was highlighted by a terrific Andrew Luck-to-T.Y. Hilton 36-yard connection. Some Patriots penalties also aided the Colts' march, specifically a personal foul on defensive lineman Vince Wilfork for apparently leading with his elbow or coming in late. Turnovers can change the complexion of a game, and Brady's pick -- when the Patriots looked primed to blow the game open -- kept the Colts in it.
Arrington's lock-down coverage: The Patriots have given cornerback Kyle Arrington the assignment of covering Hilton once again, and he's been impressive. Normally the Patriots' slot corner, he is staying on the field in the base defense, over Brandon Browner, so he can stay with Hilton. One of the big questions entering the game was how the Patriots would approach their matchups, and conventional wisdom seemed to be that Darrelle Revis would draw Hilton. But this assignment shows how the coaching staff values Arrington's quickness and reactive athleticism to stay with a dynamic talent like Hilton (with help over the top at times).
Blount's power running similar to Gray: The Patriots powered through the Colts on Nov. 16 with a power running game led by Jonas Gray (201 yards) and a plan that had 335-pound offensive lineman Cameron Fleming on the field as a sixth lineman on 37 snaps. The Patriots have used LeGarrette Blount as their lead back tonight (22 snaps), while Gray, who is active, has yet to play. Blount looks fresh and has given the staff no reason to turn to Gray at this point. Fleming has been on a sixth blocker on 10 snaps.
RB snaps breakdown: Blount leads the way with 22 snaps, followed by Shane Vereen's 18 and Brandon Bolden's 1. Fullback James Develin has been on for 11 first-half snaps.
Develin's effort gets a mention: Develin's 1-yard touchdown catch, in which he scored on a second effort, reminded us of his terrific touchdown against Houston on Dec. 1, 2013 in a 34-31 Patriots win. When thinking about big fullback moments in the AFC Championship game, Bill Parcells' reference to Sam Gash on the post-game interview podium in the playoffs following the 1996 season comes to mind.
Injuries to monitor: Starting defensive tackle Sealver Siliga left the game in the second quarter (foot injury) and his return is questionable.
Patriots get the ball: After winning the opening toss for the 14th time in 18 games this year, and deferring the choice to the second half, the Patriots will get the ball to open the third quarter. Heavy rain is expected in the second half.