Patriots vs. Broncos final score, results
The anticipated Christmas Eve showdown between the Patriots and the Broncos was expected to be a clear victory for Denver, considering the Patriots had won only three games leading up to the contest. However, the actual outcome was far from what was predicted.
In a thrilling game filled with twists, the Patriots emerged victorious with a 26-23 win over their opponents. The standout moment came when Patriots kicker Chad Ryland nailed a 56-yard field goal in the final minutes, securing the victory.
Before this game, the New England team faced a tough match against the Chiefs and unfortunately lost at home, dropping their record to 3-11. This defeat actually increased their chances of securing the top pick in next year’s draft. On the flip side, Denver was aiming for a comeback after a disappointing game against the Lions, where they were beaten soundly in all aspects of play.
In this matchup, the Broncos struggled to score initially, managing most of their 16 points in the fourth quarter during a comeback attempt that fell short.
Russell Wilson, the Broncos’ quarterback in his first year under coach Sean Payton, had moments of improvement mixed with challenges. In this game, he threw two touchdowns, completing 25 out of 37 passes for 238 yards.
Facing the Patriots’ solid defense, which has been better than their offense this season (ranked 28th), the Patriots had a relatively better performance, gaining 289 yards and scoring 23 points.
The Broncos’ 7-8 record puts their playoff hopes in limbo, although they are not officially eliminated. The Patriots moved to 4-11 but may have impacted their draft position with the win.
The Sporting News kept fans in the loop with live scores and highlights during the Sunday night game between the Patriots and Broncos. If you missed the action, here’s a brief recap.
Patriots vs. Broncos final score
Team 1 2 3 4 F
Patriots 0 3 20 0
Broncos 7 0 0 16
Patriots 26, Broncos 23
Patriots vs. Broncos highlights from Sunday night game
Around 11:20 p.m., the Patriots secured a victory with Ryland’s successful 56-yard field goal.
Just before that, at 11:16 p.m., the possibility of overtime loomed as the Patriots were at their own 26-yard line with less than a minute left.
Earlier at 11:04 p.m., the Broncos staged a comeback with Russell Wilson throwing a 21-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Johnson. They tied the game with a successful two-point play.
Around 10:45 p.m., Russell Wilson threw another touchdown, this time to Lucas Krull for 3 yards. The Broncos succeeded in the two-point conversion, bringing the game very close.
A minute prior, at 10:44 p.m., the Broncos, guided by Russell Wilson, advanced deep into Patriots territory, reaching the 3-yard line after a 13-yard pass to Jerry Jeudy.
Patriots 23, Broncos 7
At 10:31 p.m., Cody Davis recovered a fumble, scoring a 1-yard touchdown.
Two minutes earlier, at 10:29 p.m., Bailey Zappe connected with Mike Gesicki for an 11-yard touchdown.
At 10:01 p.m., Courtland Sutton was ruled out for the Broncos due to a concussion.
Just before that, at 9:59 p.m., Ezekiel Elliott scored a 15-yard touchdown, displaying impressive hurdling moves and putting the Patriots in the lead.
Earlier, at 9:54 p.m., Elliott carried the ball to the Denver 28-yard line.
Broncos 7, Patriots 3
Around 9:35 p.m., the Broncos attempted a 57-yard field goal, but it fell short, concluding the first half with both teams missing opportunities to score.
Five minutes earlier, at 9:30 p.m., the Patriots also missed a 47-yard field goal attempt.
At 9:25 p.m., Broncos’ player Courtland Sutton was assessed for a possible head injury.
At 9:12 p.m., the Patriots were on the offensive again, advancing closer to the Denver side.
At 8:54 p.m., the Patriots put their first points on the board with a 33-yard field goal by Chad Ryland.
Broncos 7, Patriots 3
At 8:40 p.m., the Broncos took the lead with a 3-yard run by Javonte Williams.
At 8:36 p.m., Marvin Mims Jr. showcased his playmaking skills with a 52-yard return.
At 8:21 p.m., the Broncos went for it on fourth down but fell short, and Zappe’s fumble didn’t impact the game.
At 8:19 p.m., there was almost a turnover trade as Russell Wilson’s interception in the end zone was ruled incomplete.
At 8:17 p.m., Bailey Zappe’s fumble gave the Broncos a chance to attack.