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The Championship round of the 2016 NFL playoff schedule is here. With only four teams left, the winners in this round will represent their respective conference in Super Bowl 50. The first game on Sunday takes place for the AFC Championship title. The New England Patriots are playing on the road against the Denver Broncos.
Preview
This might be the last time we ever see Tom Brady versus Peyton Manning, so enjoy it while it lasts. The two legendary quarterbacks are 2-2 against each other in the playoffs. It's only natural that this game will break the tie. Brady is playing at a much higher level than Manning at this stage in their respective careers but there's no question the Broncos have the stronger defense. They also have home field advantage. Despite this, the Patriots are actually favored to win.
Prediction
There's hope for Denver, however, because their defense is just so good. The Broncos finished with the No. 1 overall rated defense by Football Outsiders' DVOA metric. They allowed only 4.5 yards per play during the regular season, which was the best rate in the NFL. That defense is anchored by some dangerous pass rushers up front, such as Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware. The Philadelphia Eagles were able to upset the Patriots earlier this season by hitting Brady early and often. The Broncos might be able to get him rattled as well.
Here is all the information you need to know in order to watch the game:
Location: Sports Authority Field at Mile High | Denver, Colorado
When: Sunday, January 24
Game time: 3:05 p.m. ET
Channel: CBS
Online streaming: CBS Sports
Announcers: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson, Evan Washburn (field reporter)
Radio: Westwood One: Kevin Harlan, Dan Fouts, Boomer Esiason, Mark Malone (Field reporter). SIRIUS: 88 (WW1), 83 (NE), 82 (Den). XM: 88 (WW1), 226 (NE), 82 (Den).
Odds: Patriots -3.5
Over/under: 44.5
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Note: This is an open thread. Discuss the AFC Championship game here.