The Patriots overcame two first quarter fumbles and a 6-0 deficit to score 24 unanswered points in the second and third quarters to stake a 27-9 upset over the division leading Indianapolis Colts. The Colts entered the game with a league-best 5-1 record but the Patriots converted two of the Colts four turnovers into touchdowns and held the Colts to just nine points, their lowest point production since 1994. The Patriots turned the ball over at their won 21-yard line on their first possession, but the defense turned back the scoring threat by forcing Lamont Warren fumble, which was recovered by Willie McGinest. The Patriots surrendered their second turnover of the quarter at their own 42-yard line on a bad center exchange. Once again, the defense answered the call, stopping Warren on fourth-and-one at the Patriots' 8-yard line. The Colts took a 6-0 lead on two Cary Blanchard field goals, but suffered a fumble deep in their won territory late in the first half, which resulted in the Patriots' first touchdown of the day. The Patriots took possession of the fumble at the Colts 8-yard line and wasted little time in scoring a 10-6 lead at the half on an Adam Vinatieri field goal. In the third quarter, the Patriots punt coverage team forced and recovered a Marvin Harrison fumble at the Colts' 17-yard line. Four plays later, the Patriots took a 17-6 lead on a Curtis Martin 1-yard touchdown run. The Colts' next drive ended on fourth down at the Patriots 35 and the Patriots took advantage with a 10-play, 65-yard drive capped by Martin's second touchdown run of the day.