If the offensive fumbles weren't trouble enough, the Denver Broncos have once again shot themselves in the foot in the second quarter.
While the Broncos were able to hold onto the ball this time, a couple bad passes from Tim Tebow kept the Broncos from picking up even one first down on their last drive of the second quarter, forcing a punt to New England with 53 seconds left in the half. While Tom Brady has made this sort of drive his bread and butter during his career, it was not to be this time. A long pass to Aaron Hernandez fell just beyond the tight end's reach, leaving the Patriots forced to punt back to the Broncos as time wound down.
It should have been a simple end to the quarter for Denver, but for whatever reason Quan Cosby decided to try to field the punt. Bad idea. The punt was muffed and recovered by Denver, serving up a quick and easy field goal for New England headed into the half.
Tim Tebow and the Broncos thrive off of close games late, so for the Patriots having a comfortable lead is hugely important. With another chance to score to start the second half, it could be just the opportunity the Pats need to step on the Broncos' throats and end their winning streak.