Patriots get outmuscled by physical Seahawks' defense
(AP) — For most of this season the Patriots have been able to dominate with a quick strike offense that also pushed around opponents in the trenches.
After struggling at times early this season, the Seahawks' defense rediscovered the hard-hitting calling card that has made it one of the NFL's most imposing units the past few years.
Seattle gave up three rushing touchdowns to LeGarrette Blount, but held Tom Brady without a passing touchdown for the first time this season.
Brady himself was walking a little gingerly after a sneak attempt on the Patriots' final drive, but said it didn't have an impact on his final pass to Gronkowski that sailed over his head in the end zone.
The Seahawks also made game-saving plays on back-to-back series in the fourth quarter.
[...] with his team nursing a one-point lead, Kam Chancellor thwarted a Patriots drive when he forced Julian Edelman's fumble inside the Seattle 40 to set up the Seahawks' final touchdown.
[...] on New England's ensuing series, the defense denied the Patriots fourth straight times inside the 2.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick said that there must be improvement in all phases going forward.