Super Bowl XLVI got started under some bizarre circumstances.
After the Giants were forced to punt on their first possession, the Patriots took over deep in their own territory. And on New England’s first play from scrimmage, Tom Brady dropped back into the end zone, felt pressure, didn’t see anyone open and just chucked the ball deep down the field with no one home.
The officials ruled it intentional grounding, which results in a safety when it’s in the end zone. That’s not how we expected the scoring to get started in the Super Bowl. And it’s going to affect a whole lot of Super Bowl pools. If you had the number two for the Giants in your square, or if you made one of those “safety as the first score” prop bets, you’re enjoying your Super Bowl party right now. The Giants lead 2-0.
UPDATE: And the Patriots’ miscues continue: A Giants fumble on the ensuing possession was wiped out by a 12-men-the-field penalty, and Eli Manning hit Victor Cruz in the end zone two plays later to make it 9-0.
