The Patriots did in the first half as they have on many visits to Heinz Field in the past - they pass heavily and moved the ball at ease. New England looked like the far more polished offense in the first two quarters, spread the Steelers’ attacking defense with five-receiver sets and took dink-and-dunk stuff down the field.
Patriots Vs. Steelers: New England Dominates First Half But Lets Pittsburgh Hang Around
It worked to get the Patriots a touchdown on their first possession and an field goal on the second, but the Pats found ways to push themselves out of potential scoring opportunities on subsequent first half drives. On the last trip inside the Steelers’ 30, the Patriots attempted to convert a 4th and 6.
It seemed like New England converted a backbreaking 4th down, but Aaron Hernandez was caught pushing off a Steelers’ defender and penalized 10 yards, forcing the Pats out of field goal range.
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