The New England Patriots appeared to receive a huge spark from their defense Sunday night while their offense struggled.
Instead, the yellow flags flew toward Brandon Browner on a momentum-changing penalty call.
The Patriots cornerback rocked San Diego Chargers tight end Ladarius Green, who was juggling a pass from Philip Rivers, midway through the third quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. The ball popped up in the air, and Patriots safety Devin McCourty caught it before weaving down the field for the touchdown.
It was all for naught, though, as Browner was flagged for a helmet-to-helmet hit, even though it appeared to be shoulder to shoulder.
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Green was visibly shaken up on the play and stayed down for several minutes. He later was diagnosed with a concussion and was ruled out of the game, per a team official.
The play was huge for the Chargers, as it wiped out a Patriots touchdown and allowed their drive to continue. Akeem Ayers responded with an interception minutes later, though, and New England went on to win 23-14.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@RDSca
