3 things towatch

How healthy is Harris?

The biggest question about the Broncos is: Will cornerback Chris Harris’ bruised shoulder change the way he covers New England slot receiver Julian Edelman? Harris said he wasn’t able to get his hands on receivers off the line of scrimmage or tackle well during the Pittsburgh game last Sunday. He likened it to playing with one arm. Look for Patriots quarterback Tom Brady to test Harris. Denver played more zone coverage against Pittsburgh last weekend because of Harris’ injury.

Possession is precious

The Broncos can’t expect to win a shootout with Brady and the Patriots. The game against Pittsburgh was Peyton Manning’s first game this season without a turnover. The Broncos will be in good shape if he makes Sunday his second. New England is undefeated this season when it wins the turnover battle. Denver’s defense had only one takeaway against the Steelers, but it was the gamechanging play. Brady needs to feel some pressure.

Time to stop the drops

Denver receivers had seven drops against the Steelers, and they nearly kept the Broncos from advancing. Denver can’t afford another poor effort in the passing game. Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders will have to match the Patriots’ top weapons in production. Also, it’s important for a third target to emerge— tight end Owen Daniels, wide receiver Bennie Fowler and the two running backs seem to be the choices. Settling for field goals won’t cut it against New England.