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Will the Patriots make the Super Bowl? Here’s what 1,000 readers predict.
From Denver’s quarterback situation to Vrabel’s culture shift, readers say the signs are pointing toward a Super Bowl run.
Boston.com readers are overwhelmingly confident the Patriots are bound for the Super Bowl, with trust in both their matchup against the Denver Broncos on Sunday and a growing belief in the team’s identity under first-year coach Mike Vrabel and quarterback Drake Maye.
In an informal poll of over 1,000 readers, an emphatic 88% said “yes,” the Patriots will reach the Super Bowl, while 8% expressed uncertainty, and just 4% said “no way.”
Do you think the Patriots will make it to the Super Bowl?
Yes!
88%
No way.
4%
I'm not sure yet.
8%
Much of the optimism centered on New England’s stellar defense and Broncos’ quarterback Bo Nix suffering a broken ankle during their 33-30 win against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. Jarrett Stidham is stepping in to replace Nix during the AFC Championship game on Sunday, Jan. 25.
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Several readers pointed to the challenge facing a Denver team expected to start an inexperienced quarterback, a scenario many believe plays directly into the hands of a Patriots defense.
“With Denver’s lead QB out, I feel that opens a good chance for the Patriots to advance to the big game,” said reader Wayne from Tewksbury.
Readers also highlighted the culture Vrabel has instilled in his first season on the sideline. Fans repeatedly cited the team’s determination and resilience as its winning combo.
“The Patriots play with joy, tenacity, a love of the game, and a brotherhood of men that is a recipe for success! Coach Vrabel is a true leader and motivator of men,” said Doug L. from Beverly.
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Still, not everyone was ready to jump to conclusions about New England in the Super Bowl. A smaller but vocal group of readers urged caution, pointing to the difficulty of playing in Denver given the high altitude and the Patriots’ historical struggles there.
Here’s what readers had to say when we asked them to weigh in on the Patriots’ Super Bowl prospects against the Denver Broncos.
Responses have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.
Do you think the Patriots will make it to the Super Bowl?
Yes!
“The Patriots have decimated the quarterbacks they have played against, particularly in the playoffs. The defense is stout, the offense has bent, not broken, and Stidham is a mediocre, untested quarterback with no playoff experience. It would actually be disappointing if they didn’t beat the Broncos. What a season!” — Sue B., Brighton
“The Patriots defense has come alive — Tonga coming back from injury made a big difference. Maye and the offense should have an easier time scoring on Denver, the Texans have a much better defense and they were able to score 28 points. Denver having to go with their backup QB will be impossible to overcome.” — Brian, Ipswich
“Per several quarterback evaluation reports online, Stidham’s biggest flaw is he tends to panic under repeated blitz pressure and complex defensive schemes. This plays right into what coach Vrabel and defensive coordinator [Zak] Kuhr like to dial up. Also, New England is a more complete overall team and they bond well as a group on the road with an 8-0 record.” — Kevin C., East Greenwich, Rhode Island
“They are playing with a lot of confidence and not making many mistakes. The defense has been terrific and they’re getting contributions from a good mix of people on offense. Drake needs to play better but is showing that the ability is for real and that he’ll only get better as he matures. There aren’t any holes in the roster and this team believes that it can do something special.” — Jeff G., Dayton, Ohio
“Denver will not be the easiest game of the year, but it also won’t be as difficult as the previous ones against the Chargers and the Texans. Denver will limit our offense, but not shut it down completely, and on the other side I don’t expect any miracles from Stidham for Denver if our defense continues to play the way it has over the past two games. I believe this game comes down to mentality, and in that respect I clearly see the Pats with the advantage. I simply believe that we want this win in the AFC Championship Game more.” — Simon Z., Germany
“If not for Bo Nix’s injury, I would’ve chosen the ‘I’m Not Sure Yet’ option. However, when you take the fact that you’re shoving a top-5 defense of New England into the face of a backup quarterback whose last start during the regular season was three weeks from forever ago, coupled with the fact that you’re bringing a more battle tested MVP-caliber led offense with a young squad who are riding a wave of big plays in high pressure moments, I’m almost completely sure I know which team is gonna be holding the Lamar Hunt Trophy next Sunday. GO PATS!!!” — Matt C., Foxborough
“They bought into the identity Vrabel established, and they have continued to grow into it. They have the right group mindset, and I just don’t think it’s physically possible for them to lose.” — Michael, Lincoln
“Another team with a glaring weakness on offense that New England’s defense will exploit the heck out of. Jarrett Stidham throws as many interceptions as touchdowns. The Pats will exploit his mistakes to grind out another tough playoff win.” — Harold D., Framingham
“Because of the players, coaches and staff. They are laser-focused on the win, appreciative of their accomplishments and supportive of each other’s successes; a winning combination.” — Gina D., Bradenton, Florida
I’m not sure
“Environment (altitude) is a factor, just like cold and rain/snow was this weekend. We’re also playing against a team that has advanced as far as we have in the playoff. But I’m sure that our offense has had Coach Vrabel’s bullet points drilled into their heads over and over — ball control, protect the quarterback. And our defense is getting good at dishing out strips, sacks, and interceptions. Go Pats!” — Gary R., Foxborough
“Playing Denver in Denver always has its share of challenges. While I’m excited for this matchup, I’m realistic as well. Both teams are in the same situation, too.” — Keith, Billerica
“Playing in Mile High Stadium has been tough for the Pats. And Drake’s fumbling and the line’s difficulty handling the rush along with the noise will be a huge challenge.” — Paul C., Westford
“The Texans made the Pats look vulnerable … but this team has all the intangibles to overcome anything if they stay focused.” — Steve, Hingham
“Brady was 0-3 in Denver in the playoffs. If our defense/team takes the foot off the gas even a bit due to facing a familiar backup QB in Stidham, Denver’s defense could take control. Cautiously optimistic.” — Tony M., Boerne, Texas
No way
“Too young a team.” — Jack S., Dorchester
“They lack ball security and it is going to catch up to them. I hope they do make it, but if that isn’t fixed by next week, and that seems a tall task, I don’t see them making it.” — William S., Duxbury
“Denver has an actual offensive line, and I believe Stidham is going to have a revenge game.” — Jeremy, Maine
“Broncos pass rush will pressure Maye and force multiple turnovers. This will give Broncos O short field opportunities which will give them just enough to win with a backup QB.” — Drew, St. Louis, Missouri
Boston.com occasionally interacts with readers by conducting informal polls and surveys. These results should be read as an unscientific gauge of readers’ opinion.
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