Storyline: The Patriots travel to Denver to battle the Broncos. The Mile High City has been a house of horrors for Tom Brady and the Patriots. Brady has a career 2-7 record in Denver. The last time the Patriots won in Denver was the end of the 2011 season. 

Here are five keys for the Patriots in this game.

1. All LeGarrette, All the Time: The Broncos are 29th in the league against the run. Look for a heavy dose of LeGarrette Blount in this game. He should get 20-25 carries. If the Patriots want to slow down DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller, they should run the football off tackle. Make Miller and Ware have to shed blocks.

2. Isolate Their Linebackers and Safeties  in the Passing Game: The Patriots will have to use their tight ends and running backs more in the psssing game this week. 

Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will have to isolate Dion Lewis and James White versus their linebackers and Martellus Bennett versus their safeties. It’ll be tough sledding against Aqib Talib and Chris Harris on the outside.

3. Sit Cyrus: I would imagine we won’t see Cyrus Jones returning kicks in this game. My guess is Julian Edelman will be back there returning kicks. 

I am sure the Chris Harper muffed punt from last year’s regular season game in Denver is still fresh in Belichick’s memory. That and Jones’ performance last week against Baltimore. 

4. Get Consistent Base Pressure Against Siemian: The Broncos can’t run the ball so needless to say, they will be in a lot of medium and long down situations. 

The Patriots shouldn’t blitz much in this game. They should play coverage and rely on their front four to get pressure on Siemian. If they don’t, the defense could struggle. 

5. Win and You Get a T-Shirt and Hat:  If the Patriots win today, they would win their eighth straight AFC East title. I know Belichick, the other coaches and the players don’t care but it’s a big deal for the organization and the fans. It is yet another reason why this is an important game.

Prediction: Patriots 28 Broncos 24: The Patriots need this game in a big way with the Chiefs and Raiders nipping at their heels in the AFC. 

I think Tom Brady and company will exercise some demons in Denver and get the job done. The Broncos are still tough at home but they not as good as they were last season. That’s one of many reasons why I like the Patriots in this one.