It was over when ...
Sammy Morris gave the Patriots their first lead of the game in the fourth quarter on a leaping 1-yard touchdown on fourth-and-goal. Matt Cassel converted the two-point conversion on a pass to Wes Welker, giving the Patriots a three-point lead with 2:44 remaining. On Seattle's ensuing possession, Richard Seymour recovered a Seneca Wallace fumble caused by Brandon Meriweather, allowing the Patriots to run out the clock.
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Dolphins win the AFC East? What does Seattle need to do to get back on track?
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Game ball
When the Patriots needed to move the chains they went to Welker. New England's slot receiver recorded a season-high 134 receiving yards, most of them coming on screen passes. Eight of Welker's 12 receptions went for first downs, including two of his four receptions on New England's 14-play drive to take the lead.
Key stat
After settling for two Stephen Gostkowski field goals in the second half, the Patriots converted three third downs on their winning drive.
Noteworthy
Since 2003, the Patriots are 18-1 in games following a loss, including a 5-0 record in such games this season. ... The Seahawks have lost six straight, including five in a row at home. ... Seattle's 11 losses are the most it's ever had under coach Mike Holmgren. ... The Patriots lost DT Vince Wilfork and LB Tedy Bruschi to injuries in the first half. Junior Seau, signed this week, filled in for Bruschi and finished with one tackle. ... With 56 receiving yards, Randy Moss went over 13,000 for his career. ... Seahawks WR Deion Branch recorded four receptions for 88 yards and two touchdowns in his first game against his former team. Branch spent four seasons in New England (2002-05).
