FOXBOROUGH – Did Patriots ’ defensive play a role in a crucial mis-timed snap?

The Atlanta Falcons believe so. Milton Williams disagrees.

Michael Penix and his offense were near midfield with 2:09 left in the game when Falcons center Ryan Neuzil snapped the ball early, hitting his quarterback in the chest. That led to Williams bursting through the offensive line, getting immediate pressure on Penix, who threw the ball into the ground.

Officials flagged Penix for a 10-yard intentional grounding penalty. That brought Atlanta to a third-and-20, leading to an incomplete pass and a punt back to the Patriots, who secured the victory .

Afterward, Falcons coach Raheem Morris said the Patriots caused the early snap.

“They were clapping. Simulated our snap, got us to snap the ball,” Morri

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