Patriots vs. Colts live updates: Highlights and analysis, as Jonathan Taylor puts away Patriots after double-ejection
The New England Patriots entered Saturday's critical meeting of AFC rivals with a league-best seven-game win streak, but it was the Indianapolis Colts who looked like bullies most of the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis scored the first 20 points, and Jonathan Taylor slammed the door on a frantic Patriots rally in the final minutes to seal a 27-17 victory.
After the Patriots (9-5) cut the deficit to 20-17, Taylor ripped off a 67-yard run with 2:01 to play. The NFL's leader in rushing, scrimmage yards and touchdowns totaled 29 carries — including 18 before halftime — for 170 yards, helping the Colts (8-6) overcome an ugly showing from Carson Wentz (5 of 12, 57 yards, one TD and one INT).
The Colts defense and special teams also played huge roles. Linebackers Darius Leonard and Bobby Okereke each intercepted Mac Jones, and Matt Adams blocked a punt that E.J. Speed recovered for a touchdown.
Things got heated later in the third quarter, as Colts wideout Michael Pittman and Patriots safety Kyle Dugger got into a fight and were both ejected. New England trailed 20-0 at the end of three, but Jones tossed two touchdowns to Hunter Henry to climb back into it.
New England's loss left the Kansas City Chiefs (10-4) alone in the top spot in the AFC. The Colts (8-6) moved within a game and a half of the Titans (9-4) for the AFC South lead.
Get 50% off gift subscriptions to the best newsroom in sports this holiday season. Want a free subscription to The Athletic? Sign up for BetMGM, bet $10 and win $200 in free bets plus a free three-month subscription (or renewal).
Colts 27, Patriots 17 | Final
(Top photo of Jonathan Taylor, left, and Nyheim Hines: Andy Lyons / Getty Images)