Pats end preseason with 38-27 win over NY

FOXBORO, Mass. (WPRI/AP) - Eli Manning and David Carr passed the Giants to a 21-point first-quarter lead. Rookie quarterback Brian Hoyer brought the Patriots back for a 38-27 exhibition win Thursday night.

The rookie free agent from Michigan State helped his chances to become Tom Brady's primary backup by throwing for one touchdown and leading three drives that ended with BenJarvus Green-Ellis rushing
for scores.

Brady and nearly all of New England's usual starters sat out the exhibition finale. Manning played just one series and Carr handled the next three for New York.

Green-Ellis made a strong case to remain part of a crowded Patriots backfield by running for touchdowns of 1 and 32 yards in the last 5:53 after the Giants had taken a 27-24 lead on Lawrence Tynes' 25-yard field goal.

The Patriots have to have their final roster of 53 players set by Saturday. Their first game of the season is Monday, September 14.