Why the Broncos Lost to the Patriots: One Decision Changed Everything | AFC Championship Breakdown

The Patriots are headed to the Super Bowl after knocking off the Broncos in a snow-covered AFC Championship — and one early decision completely changed the game. Sean Payton passed on an easy 10–0 lead with a backup quarterback, and from that moment on, Denver never recovered. Drake Maye didn’t need big passing numbers, the Patriots’ defense dominated, and special teams made the difference when it mattered most. Jarrett Stidham struggled in brutal conditions, the Broncos couldn’t run the football, and once the snow started falling, the Patriots took full control. This win felt eerily similar to the Patriots of old — disciplined, opportunistic, and elite in all three phases. Was this a failure of analytics? Or just the reality of playoff football? 👉 Watch the full breakdown and decide for yourself. Follow me on X: https://x.com/__JonathanSmith NBA Takes here:    • Luka Doncic returns to Dallas to face the ...   NFL Takes here:    • Shedeur Sanders is still available on day ...   #sports #sportstake #opinion