The Patriots have taken advantage of an easy schedule over the last month to jump out to an 11-2 record. Denver. on the other hand, has been topsy turvy with inconsistent play in all three facets. To beat New England, even at home, you need to be able to depend on all three phases. While the Pats' defense isn't elite, it will be the difference Sunday. Lay the points.

The Broncos are now in full desperation mode, as they likely need to win out and also get some help in order to stand a chance of defending their Super Bowl title. Their quest starts Sunday in a rematch with a New England team they have dominated of late. Denver’s meager offense has been the primary culprit in its erratic year, especially in last week’s loss to the Titans. But Denver’s defense historically gives first to Tom Brady, who might have limited options because Martellus Bennett is questionable. Back Denver in this prime motivational spot.

Winning on the road in the NFL is hard, but Tom Brady is the guy I want in my corner if I have to win on the road at altitude. The Broncos have a great defense, but the Patriots are still a far superior team with the best coach and the best quarterback in the league. Anytime you can get Brady at -3 vs. Trevor Siemian in December you have to jump on it.

The Broncos' pass defense is still outstanding, but they've been rolled on the ground, giving up 334 rushing yards in their last two games against the Jaguars and Titans. The Broncos offense has been getting worse throughout the year, and they were shut out through the first three quarters in Tennessee against a team that hasn't played great defense. The Patriots should have no trouble running the ball on Denver and not much trouble stymieing a lackluster Denver offense.

It’s payback time for the Patriots. The holdovers from last year’s squad that fell to Denver in the AFC title match seek a small measure of revenge. New England travels well, having covered in five of the previous six road games. The Broncos’ dilapidated ground game puts too great of a burden on QB Trevor Siemian. It is almost inconceivable that ultra-competitive Tom Brady does not shine against a foe that knocked him around in January.