Second Half Thread: Cincinnati Bengals (3) at New England Patriots (24)

I know things didn't start so well for the Bengals, but I mean it when I say you can't take too much away from a season opener AT New England. The offensive line got manhandled and Carson Palmer has looked confused, but it's only one half of football. New England was 8-0 at home last year.

But, on topic, the Bengals got absolutely dominated at the line of scrimmage in the first half. Brady had tons of time all day, and tackling was lacking. The Patriots stopped themselves a few times, and the score is gracefully not 38-0. 

Fortunately, after a pick-six on an awful throw that had just about everyone questioning which Palmer should be starting at quarterback for the Bengals, Mike Nugent came in to prevent the shut out, nailing a 54-yard field goal. Still, a look at the stats tells a depressing story that I don't really want to face. There was some silver lining, as the Bengals appeared to be picking up toward the end of the half (outside of Palmer's pick-6), and the Patriots may be taking their foot off the gas. Also, no penalties! 

Time Of Possession: Cincinnati 15:11, New England 14:49

Total Plays, Yards: Cincinnati 33/156, New England 34/248

Pass(ATT)/Rush(ATT) Yards: Cincinnati 130(19)/30(13), New England 178(24)/70(10)

Turnovers: Cincinnati 2, New England 0

The Patriots get the ball first in the third quarter. Let's hope not too much is made of Chad and TO going to the locker room before the half. Crazier come backs have happened! Who Dey!