After the Chargers opened the game with a punt, the offenses exploded with big plays. First, after being pinned back in their own end of the field, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady led an impressive 92 yard drive which included three plays of at least 14 yards, culminating in a 14 yard strike to Aaron Hernandez in the back of the end zone. Hernandez did well to fight off Chargers safety Bob Sanders to maintain possession.
The Chargers answered back on their ensuing possession by driving 80 yards for the tying score. The drive was highlighted by two third down circus catches by wide receiver Malcolm Floyd. The first was caught in between three defenders, the second was an over the shoulder catch that was well defended by Devin McCourty.
The teams combined for just over 260 yards of total offense in the first quarter.
Tom Brady is currently 11-12 for 115 yards and a touchdown.
Phillip Rivers is 4-7 for 93 yards.