New England Patriots - NESN.com
The Patriots are gearing up for a crucial “Sunday Night Football” matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, which could significantly impact New England’s playoff hopes.
New England is currently the No. 2 seed in the AFC with an 11-3 record, trailing the Broncos, who hold the No. 1 seed at 12-2. If the season were to end today, Denver would secure a first-round bye and enjoy home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
However, CBS Sports writer Garrett Podell believes the Broncos will lose to the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday, which could have significant playoff seeding implications if the Patriots beat the Ravens.
“The Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) arrive in Denver on a five-game winning streak, led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who tops the NFL in both yards per attempt (8.6) and passing touchdowns (13) during that span,” Podell wrote on Friday. “Lawrence, along with running back Travis Etienne (career-high 12 scrimmage touchdowns) and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (255 yards and three touchdowns on 27 catches in six games with Jacksonville), will do just enough to overcome Denver’s dominant defense in a shocking road upset at Mile High.”
With the Patriots hot on Denver’s heels, the Broncos will likely need to secure victories in at least two of their next three games to hold onto the No. 1 seed.
If the Patriots win out and Denver loses two more games, then New England will have the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
New England has a great chance to finish the season strong, with games against the Jets and Dolphins after facing the Ravens. In contrast, the Broncos face a tougher schedule ahead, including challenging matchups against the Chiefs and Chargers.
