New England Patriots lineman Dan Connolly single-handedly altered the course of the Patriots-Packers game last night at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots were down 10 late in the first half when the Packers decided on a squib-kick. Here is what happened next:
Why would the Packers squib? Their special teams units have been awful all season and they couldn't afford a long return right before half. The right plan, the wrong execution.
Is that the best return for a lineman ever? Perhaps on a kick-off - it was the longest kick-off return for a lineman in NFL History - but Keith Traylor of the Chicago Bears may have done Connolly a bit better back in 2001. Take a look:
Not only did Traylor make an incredible play on the interception, he nearly ran it all the way back for a touchdown. Which ever one you think is better, they are both incredible plays by guys not associated with athleticism.