New England Patriots' Kyle Dugger makes TD-saving tackle, forces fumble vs. Bengals

Mike Masala

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New England Patriots' Kyle Dugger makes TD-saving tackle, forces fumble vs. Bengals image

The New England Patriots held a 7-0 lead over the Cincinnati Bengals in the second quarter of their Week 1 matchup at Paycor Stadium.

However, Cincinnati was driving late in the quarter and brought their offense down inside the red zone. On a third-down play from the 15-yard line, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow hit tight end Tanner Hudson, who looked like he was going to find the end zone.

Patriots safety Kyle Dugger stepped up and knocked the ball free from Hudson's grasp, causing a fumble and keeping Cincinnati from scoring. The ball bounced off of the field and was picked up by cornerback Marcus Jones, who returned it for 17 yards.

That play came just one after Dugger helped break up a potential touchdown pass from Burrow to former Patriots tight end Mike Gesicki.

These are exactly the type of game-winning plays the defense will need to make all season if New England wants to be in games. And, they are making a few of them in this matchup.

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala