I think you throw most of the stats of the season out the window at this point. And really, the way the Broncos ran all over the Pats the first time was kinda by design. I think that the Pats have really improved their run defense since then, especially in sub, with Siliga leading the way.
We’ll see if the Pats sell out against the run once again, but the key I think will be to not get into a hole. If they can keep it close or maintain a lead they’ll be able to do whatever they want on offense. If they get behind and have to throw, it’s not a recipe for success with this Patriots team.
The biggest advantage the Pats have? Their secondary. This is the best secondary and deepest group of man-to-man corners they’ve ever had going against Peyton Manning. That’s pretty astounding when you think about it. But between Talib/Dennard/Arrington/Ryan/Gregory/McCourty, they have great pieces in place to challenge Peyton on every throw.
I don’t love our offensive pieces but defensively I like what we’ve got and have the pieces to do the job. But everyone will have to play their best game.