The controversy arose with the game tied at 9-9 and 5:05 into overtime, as David Patten was hit along the sideline by Keion Carpenter after making a 13-yard catch at the Buffalo 42, and apparently fumbled the football with Nate Clements recovering. However, after a lengthy review, the referees ruled after watching the replay that Patten’s helmet hit out of bounds, nullifying the fumble, and allowing New England to keep possession, which eventually led to the game-winning 23-yard field goal by Adam Vinatieri with 5:45 gone in overtime.