Patriots Unveil Clear Strategy for Tackling Denver’s High Altitude
Empower Field at Mile High, situated 5,280 feet above sea level, presents a distinctive advantage for the Denver Broncos. While the Broncos thrive in this environment, visiting teams face the added challenge of high altitude, combined with the intensity of the Broncos’ fanbase. This Sunday, the New England Patriots will meet this challenge head-on as they travel to Denver for the AFC Championship Game.
Patriots’ Strategy for Tackling Denver’s High Altitude
The Patriots plan to tackle Denver’s altitude by sticking to a familiar approach: business as usual. Head coach Mike Vrabel emphasizes the importance of acclimatization, noting that physiological adaptation requires more than a few days. “We’ll do what we’ve always done. We’ll travel, be in condition, and be ready to play,” he stated.
Historical Context of Patriots’ Preparations
In previous encounters, the Patriots have experimented with various methods to adjust to the Denver altitude. However, none of these strategies have proven drastically more effective than simply maintaining their routine. Vrabel pointed out that a full acclimatization could take over a week, prompting the team to practice at their home base in Foxborough, where the elevation is just 298 feet.
Focus on Conditioning
- Travel and maintain conditioning.
- Practice at Gillette Stadium before the game.
- Stick to established preparation routines.
For Vrabel, simplicity is key. “No tricks. Just play well, try to be prepared,” he commented, asserting that being in top physical shape reduces the impact of altitude challenges. Rookie safety Craig Woodson echoed this sentiment. With a perfect 8-0 record on the road this season, he believes the team’s success doesn’t necessitate drastic changes. “We prepare like we usually do and we’ll be ready,” Woodson said.
As the Patriots gear up for this significant matchup, they remain confident in their established game plan. Their focus on regular routines and preparation will be crucial as they aim to conquer the unique hurdles posed by Denver’s high altitude.
