The New England Patriots' offense took a serious blow just before halftime of the AFC Championship Game.

Tight end Rob Gronkowski was ruled out the game after a helmet-to-helmet hit from Jacksonville Jaguars safety Barry Church late in the second quarter.

Gronkowski appeared to be woozy after the hit and walked to the locker room.

He had one catch for 21 yards before leaving.

After Gronkowski's exit, the Patriots capitalized on a pass interference penalty by setting up running back James White for a 1-yard rushing touchdown to cut the Jaguars' lead to 14-10.

PHOTOS: Best of conference championship games

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Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis catches a touchdown pass over Patriots strong safety Patrick Chung.  Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports

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Patriots wide receiver Brandin Cooks is tackled by Jaguars outside linebacker Telvin Smith.  Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports

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Jaguars defensive end Dante Fowler reacts as Patriots center David Andrews runs by.  David Butler II, USA TODAY Sports

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Patriots quarterback Tom Brady before the AFC Championship Game.  Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports

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Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles warms up before the AFC Championship Game.  David Butler II, USA TODAY Sports

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Patriots quarterback Tom Brady gives a thumbs-up before the AFC Championship Game.  Greg M. Cooper, USA TODAY Sports

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View of a goat sign before the AFC Championship Game.  David Butler II, USA TODAY Sports

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A fan of the New England Patriots before the AFC Championship Game.  Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports

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Jaguars fans react before the AFC Championship Game.  David Butler II, USA TODAY Sports

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View of the NFL championship logo on the field before the AFC Championship Game.  Greg M. Cooper, USA TODAY Sports

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