Special teams, run defense playing poorly

The Bengals gave up a 43-yard punt return by Kevin Faulk to put the Patriots in scoring position. The Bengals run defense has been weak against NE's run offense, having allowed 63 yards on 16 carries and one touchdown at the 2-minute warning of the first half. The Patriots lead 7-6 and have six first downs in the second quarter, compared to one for the Bengals.