MIAMI — The Patriots had another big night, and this time the NFL’s highest-scoring team totaled most of its points with Tom Brady and the rest of the offense cheering from the sideline.
Patrick Chung blocked two kicks and returned an interception for a touchdown, and New England scored twice on special teams to beat the Dolphins 41-14 on Monday night.
Brady threw for only 153 yards, and Randy Moss was held without a catch for the first time since 2006, but the Patriots registered their biggest point total this season. They’re averaging 33 points per game.
New England trailed 7-6 at halftime, but when Brandon Tate returned the second half kickoff 103 yards for a score, the deluge was on.
“We had a tidal wave hit us,” Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said. “It was a mess.”
Chung blocked a punt to set up a touchdown, then blocked a field goal that Kyle Arrington returned 35 yards for a score. Chung returned an interception 51 yards for New England’s final score.
Another unexpected contribution came from linebacker Rob Ninkovich, who had the first two interceptions of his five-year career.
Miami’s Chad Henne was 29-of-39 for 302 yards and two scores, but he was yanked with 6 1/2 minutes left after tying a career high with his third interception. The pass picked off by Chung was especially ugly.
“It shocked me,” Chung said. “I was like, ‘He threw it? Thanks.’ “
