The Broncos had a nightmarish third quarter against the Patriots on Sunday night that might have sunk the team's playoff chances.
Denver entered halftime up 7-3 but trailed 23-7 on the first snap of the fourth quarter. Running back Ezekiel Elliott started New England's third-quarter scoring barrage with a touchdown reception, which was followed by quarterback Bailey Zappe making an excellent throw on the run to tight end Mike Gesicki in the back of the end zone for a 16-7 lead.
Zappe to Gesicki extends the @Patriots lead!
— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023
: #NEvsDEN on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/uY6Dg380OO pic.twitter.com/WrETjMvsOZ
On the ensuing kickoff, Broncos wide receiver Mims fumbled the ball, which was returned by Cody Davis for a touchdown.
Another Patriots TD!
— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023
: #NEvsDEN on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/uY6Dg380OO pic.twitter.com/8gQknngT51
Entering Sunday night's game, the Patriots had scored 26 points in the third quarter the entire season.
Patriots scoring in the 3rd quarter this season
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 25, 2023
First 14 Games: 26 PTS TOTAL
Tonight: 20 PTS pic.twitter.com/R4VaXwEC2G
The Broncos allowed 70 points to the Dolphins earlier this season, but giving up 20 points in a quarter to New England might be even worse.
Per the New York Times playoff predictor, Denver needs a win to give itself a realistic chance of making the playoffs. The Broncos have a 39% chance of reaching the postseason with a win but only a 5% chance with a loss.
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