The New England Patriots take on the Denver Broncos in Denver tonight.  Typically, this would call for Brady vs. Manning, but tonight, it will be different.  Due to a Peyton Manning foot injury, Brock Osweiler will face Tom Brady at quarterback.  This is an eye-catching stop on the Patriots’ Revenge Tour, based on two things.  First, Denver is almost as good as the 10-0 Patriots.   Second, if the Patriots win this, they could be inches away from clinching their division, and will have a bigger lead to earn the home field advantage in the playoffs.

The Pats have a lot of injuries to overcome on offense, but their defense is growing into a premier D again.  This will likely be a low scoring game.

My Prediction: Patriots, 20, Broncos, 13

This is a clear game of defense.  I think there are so many good Broncos defensive players.

Defensive Eye-Catchers: Broncos

DE: Malik Jackson

LB: Von Miller

LB: DeMarcus Ware (OUT)

LB: Brandon Marshall

LB: Shane Ray

LB: Danny Trevathan

CB: Aqib Talib

CB: Bradley Roby

CB: Chris Harris Jr.

S: T.J. Ward

 

That’s a lot of defense!!!!  But sleepers will play a big role.  James White is one of those big names that could have a big game.  Also look for Keshawn Martin and Chris Harper.  But tight ends Rob Gronkowski, Scott Chandler, and Asante Cleveland (signed from practice squad this week), especially with Michael Williams out.  Our defense has plenty of eye catching names as well, and they are short on sleepers, especially with Jordan Norwood out.  Sleepers will play a big role, and the Pats have more, so I think they have the edge.  What makes me think that even more is that the Pats are 12-0 historically in the snow.  It is snowing in Denver right now.

3 Keys To A Win

1. Despite the lack of corners, the Pats need to keep an eye on the receiver duo of DeMaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, along with tight ends Vernon Davis and Owen Daniels.
2. The Pats need to use sleeper tight ends Scott Chandler and Asante Cleveland as a bigger part of their offense.
3. Despite Peyton Manning being out, Brock Osweiler could be dangerous. Apply pressure on him.

Inactives

 

Broncos

Christian Ponder QB

Peyton Manning QB

DeMarcus Ware LB

Jordan Norwood WR

Lorenzo Doss CB

Richard Gordon TE

Sam Brenner C

 

Patriots

Danny Amendola WR

Trey Flowers DE

Jamie Collins LB

Justin Coleman CB

Michael Williams TE

Jordan Richards S

Julian Edelman WR