MIAMI -- Thanks to a tip-toe, balancing act along the left sideline by Wes Welker, the Patriots extended their lead to 31-21 as the third quarter ended.

Welker turned a short pass into the longest catch of his career, breaking free after Miami DB Will Allen fell down and skipping along the sidelines -- barely staying in-bounds as he performed a 3-step, tightrope act -- for a 64-yard gain to the Miami 21.

After a pass intended for Randy Moss was incomplete, Kevin Faulk darted 21 yards up the middle for a touchdown.