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Belichick: Slater followed orders to defer vs. Jets

An unusual exchange between Patriots captain Matthew Slater and referee Clete Blakeman during the overtime coin toss left New England kicking off to start the extra period, a decision that helped the rival Jets to a much-needed victory.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick confirmed he instructed Slater to choose to kick if New England won the toss, even though overtime rules allow a team to win outright if it scores a touchdown on its opening possession.

The Jets did just that, winning on Ryan Fitzpatrick's 6-yard touchdown pass to receiver Eric Decker to end the game after the opening possession of overtime.