Weighing the Intangibles

Coaching: I think this is an even coaching matchup because each coach's creative genius lies on opposite ends of the ball. Mike Shanahan is an offensive mastermind, Bill Belichick is an defensive genius. It will be interesting to see how these two units do against each other from a scheming standpoint. Denver Defensive Coordinator Larry Coyer's gameplan against Tom Brady will be closely watched as well.

Week Approach: The Broncos did the right thing and said nothing but nice things about Tom Brady and the Patriots. The appearance of, if not genuine, respect is there from both teams actually. While it makes sense as both are veteran teams, it was refreshing to listen to nothing stupid said each week. I said previously, I think the Broncos will have a quiet confidence and know what needs to be done to push New England around in somewhat similar fashion to their Week 6 matchup. Whether they have the plan in place to deal with an improved Patriot team, We will see, but I am confident the Broncos will not be sleeping on New England.

Home Field: Historically, its huge. Both in Denver and in the playoffs. The first home playoff game in seven years the atmosphere at kickoff will be almost riotous. It is the up to the Broncos to take advantage of this early and keep the crowd into the game. It is up to the Patriots to just plain deal with it.

Playoff Experience: The Patriots have a ton of it, and its all good. There will be no point in which Tom Brady and Bill Belichick will be convinced they are out of this game, they have too much to go on especially in a close game late. The Broncos have some and lately it hasn't been good. If the Patriots jump on Denver, they may start to doubt themselves and not be able to respond.