Mon, Dec 25, 2:38 AM EST • Mike Reiss • espn • 4 analyses
•
Bailey Zappe, the quarterback for the New England Patriots, led his first game-winning drive in the NFL, setting up rookie kicker Chad Ryland's 56-yard field goal with seven seconds remaining in a 26-23 upset win over the Denver Broncos. Zappe, who was 25-of-33 for 256 yards with two touchdowns, no interceptions, and one lost fumble, reached out to Pro Football Hall of Famer Kurt Warner after being cut by the team. Ryland, who had endured a challenging rookie season, made the game-winning kick and expressed gratitude for being surrounded by a team that believes in him.