After what could charitably be deemed a "slow start," the New England Patriots appear to mean business, as they've taken an eight-point lead over the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI.
The smoke had barely cleared from Madonna's halftime performance when the Patriots took over at their own 21-yard line. From there, they went on an 8-play, 79-yard drive highlighted by a big run by the law firm of BenJarvus Green-Ellis. The final play of the drive saw Tom Brady connect with his other tight end, Aaron Hernandez, for a 12-yard touchdown pass. Steven Gostkowski's extra point made the score 17-9 in favor of New England.
Also on the drive, Brady set a record for the most consecutive completions in a Super Bowl. The record had been 13 held by Joe Montana, but by the time this drive had finished, Brady had completed 16 consecutive passes.
The Giants have just gotten a big kickoff return, and will take over with 11:13 left in the third quarter, trailing the Patriots 17-9.