Patriots vs. Broncos: 6 Sources of Worry

4. Denver ground game

It’s the same old story every time the Patriots play the Broncos, it seems. The Pats just have a real hard time slowing down the Denver ground game, making that another source of worry entering the AFC Championship Game.r

When these teams met back in Week 12, C.J. Anderson ripped off 113 yards and two touchdowns (including the 48-yard go-ahead score in overtime) and Ronnie Hillman totaled 59 yards and a trip to pay dirt himself. On the year, Anderson and Hillman combined for 1,583 yards. Not a bad one-two punch by any means.

Patriots vs. Broncos: Early look at the numbers 

What is encouraging is the fact that the Pats surrendered just 1,580 rushing yards in the regular season, the ninth-fewest in the NFL. And for what it’s worth, the Patriots gave up the sixth-fewest rushing touchdowns, eight.

Nonetheless, the Broncos’ solid rushing attack is worthy of worry entering Sunday’s showdown. Should Hillman and Anderson get their wheels going, the Patriots’ chances of winning slip significantly, as it will take more pressure off Manning. Not to mention, the longer the Broncos have the ball, the less Brady is on the field.

Next: 3. Special teams miscues