Falcons jump out to 21-3 lead with near-perfect 1st half vs. Patriots

The Atlanta Falcons are in complete control with just two quarters to play in Houston.

After dominating the New England Patriots on both sides of the ball, highlighted by an 82-yard pick-6 from Robert Alford, the NFC champs went into halftime of Super Bowl LI with a 21-3 lead.

Tom Brady became the NFL's all-time playoff interceptions leader with the back-breaking turnover and was under constant pressure from Atlanta's defense from the opening kick.

The sensational showing from a unit that ranked 25th in yards allowed during the regular season prevented New England from establishing any sort of rhythm.

The Falcons put up 189 yards on just 19 plays of their own, good for an incredible average of 9.9 yards per snap.

MVP award winner Matt Ryan guided the efficient performance with completions on 7-of-8 passes for 115 yards and one touchdown, and Devonta Freeman led the ground game with 71 yards and one score on only six carries.