According to a person familiar with the background of the matter, the Colts first noticed something unusual after an interception by Colts linebacker DQwell Jackson in the second quarter. Jackson gave the ball to a member of the Colts' equipment staff, who noticed the ball seemed underinflated and then notified coach Chuck Pagano.
General manager Ryan Grigson was notified in the press box, and he contacted Mike Kensil, NFL director of football operations. Kensil then told the on-field officials at halftime, when the Patriots led 17-7. The Patriots erupted for 21 points in the third quarter, although it is not known if any of the balls were improperly inflated after halftime.
Asked Monday about the balls, Pagano said: Did not notice, and thats something for the league to handle. Its not my place to comment on it.
The Colts did not notice any irregularities with the game-day footballs when the teams played in Indianapolis in November.