Who has the edge?

When Broncos run

If the Broncos want to win the final three games, they will need better production for the run game. Denver has averaged 3.2 yards per carry in the last two games. Even though the Patriots are one of the worst teams in football, they have been solid at stopping the run. New England has allowed the second- fewest rushing yards in the league ( 84.9 per game). Edge: Patriots

When Broncos pass

Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson has turned the ball over five times in the last three games. Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was one of the few bright spots in the loss to Detroit, catching three passes for 74 yards. The Broncos’ pass- protectors will have to do a better job against pressure this week. New England blitzes on 34% of dropbacks. Edge: Even

When Patriots run

The Patriots have yet to have a player record of 100 or more rushing yards in a game this season. Running back Ezekiel Elliott has only two rushing touchdowns on 145 carries. Denver has allowed 137.3 rushing yards per game since the bye week and was gashed by Detroit last weekend to the tune of 185 yards on 28 carries. Edge: Broncos

When Patriots pass

Quarterback Bailey Zappe has thrown for 561 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions in three starts. New England’s leading receiver, Demario Douglas, only has 443 yards. Denver defensive end Zach Allen has a career- best 21 quarterback hits in 14 games, but the absence of second- year outside linebacker Nik Bonitto on the edge could negatively affect the Broncos’ ability to generate pressure. Edge: Broncos

Special teams

The Broncos are fifth in punt return yards allowed ( 6.3) while New England is 18th at 9.5. Denver kicker Wil Lutz has had one field goal attempt in each of the last three games. Marvin Mims Jr. averaged 17.5 yards on two kick return attempts in the loss to the Lions. Edge: Broncos

Coaching

Things haven’t been easy for Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. New England has had three losing seasons in the four years since Tom Brady left for Tampa Bay. Now at

3- 11 this season, Belichick’s time with the Patriots could be in jeopardy. Still, Broncos coach Sean Payton acknowledged earlier in the week that Belichick has a knack for coming up with game plans that make teams play “left- handed” on offense. Payton and company were embarrassed by the Lions, but they should have something in store for the Patriots.