New England scored the opening nine points. After Stephen Gostkowski missed a 30-yard field goal wide right, he made right on his mistake three drives later, converting a 25-yard attempt to give the Patriots a 3-0 lead.
Carolina’s ensuing drive was ended by their second turnover of the night. Quarterback Cam Newton’s second interception was due to a classic tip drill by the Patriots. New England defensive end Chris Long batted the ball, intended for wide receiver Devin Funchess, right into the clutches of safety Devin McCourty, who was tackled at the Panthers’ 48-yard line.