It has been clear from the very beginning that defense was going to be the calling card for the New England Patriots this season. The unit proved that to be true on Sunday, as Kyle Dugger made a solid play to halt a potential touchdown drive by the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bengals were driving towards the end zone and looked to be on the verge of scoring their first touchdown of the game. However, Dugger ripped the football out of the hands of tight end Tanner Hudson, and it was recovered by Marcus Jones.
The offensive drive following the fumble ended in a field goal by Joey Syle. It extended New England’s lead to 10-0 and gave the team momentum heading into halftime.
WHAT A PUNCH OUT BY KYLE DUGGER
📺: #NEvsCIN on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/nSE0lmY3TX— NFL (@NFL) September 8, 2024
The first half of the game looked promising for the Patriots in what many have viewed as a rebuilding year for the team. It was particularly impressive considering the Bengals are a team many view as a likely playoff contender.
