Can Patriots Finally Overcome Brutal Playoff History Vs. Broncos?
The New England Patriots have been historically dominant in the NFL playoffs, winning six Super Bowls and going 39-22 in the postseason. That’s tied for the most championships and playoff wins in NFL history.
One team has historically given them trouble, however, and it’s the team they’re facing on Sunday.
The Patriots have struggled mightily against the Denver Broncos in the postseason, going 1-4 against them in the playoffs. They’ve also lost all four of their postseason trips to Denver.
That doesn’t bode well for New England’s chances in Sunday’s AFC title game, which will take place at Empower Field at Mile High. The Broncos are 9-1 there this season, too, with their only home loss coming against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Fortunately for the Patriots, this time should be different. They have several advantages over Denver, starting at quarterback.
New England has a legitimate MVP candidate under center in Drake Maye, who’s 2-0 in his postseason career thus far. Both of those wins came against tough defenses, so he should be able to handle the Broncos’ elite unit.
Meanwhile, Denver is starting career backup QB Jarrett Stidham, who’s won just one game in his NFL career and has never played in the postseason. Now he’ll face the NFL’s hottest defense in the biggest game of his life, which probably won’t end well for him.
The Patriots are also undefeated on the road this season, going 8-0 in away games. They travel well and aren’t scared of playing on the road or in the cold.
New England has won both of its playoff games by double digits this month, outscoring its opponents 44-19. The Patriots are favored in this game for a reason, so look for them to knock out the depleted Broncos and capture their first-ever postseason win in Denver.