The New England Patriots’ game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday effectively ended with 3:46 remaining in the fourth quarter.
That was when, with his Broncos trailing 16-3 and the Patriots facing a third-and-3 near midfield, Denver safety T.J. Ward decided to body-slam wide receiver Julian Edelman after the whistle.
The play gave Ward an opportunity to flex for the crowd, but it also resulted in a 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct and extended the Patriots’ drive.
New England was able to milk nearly two additional minutes off the clock before Denver finally regained possession with 1:54 to play. Six plays later, wideout Jordan Norwood fumbled, crushing any hope of a Broncos comeback.
Thumbnail photo via Isaiah J. Downing/USA TODAY Sports Images
