The Denver Broncos knocked the New England Patriots from the short list of remaining unbeaten NFL teams Sunday night. The Patriots suffered their first defeat this season with a 30-24 loss in overtime to the Broncos.
Denver quarterback Brock Osweiler, starting in place of the injured Peyton Manning, threw for 270 yards and one touchdown. Osweiler’s passing touchdown late in the fourth quarter to wide receiver Andre Caldwell gave the Broncos their first lead of the game, 24 -21. Moments later, the Patriots kicked a 47-yard field goal to tie the game and send it into overtime.
In overtime, the Broncos’ defense forced the Patriots to punt after a quick three-and-out. Denver regained possession, and running back C.J. Anderson scored a 48-yard rushing touchdown to give the Broncos the victory.
Following the loss, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said his team could have played better. The Patriots’ defense gave up 433 total yards to the Broncos as well as 23 first downs.
Even worse for the Patriots, tight end Rob Gronkowski left the game in the fourth quarter due to an apparent knee injury. Losing Gronkowski for an extended period of time could cause problems for the Patriots, as the tight end leads the team in receiving yards.
However, the Patriots are still currently in good shape for the playoffs as they lead the AFC East.
For the Broncos, the team will look to continue their momentum when they visit the Chargers this Sunday. The Patriots will look to rebound against the Eagles on Sunday.