Cold Weather May Affect Passing in Patriots-Broncos AFC Championship
Denver’s AFC Championship matchup against the New England Patriots is set to take place under challenging conditions. The game will kick off at Mile High Stadium at 3 p.m. EST on Sunday. While New England is bracing for significant snowfall, Denver will experience bitterly cold temperatures in the low 20s.
Wind speeds of 10 to 15 miles per hour will make the air feel significantly colder, dipping into the single digits. This weather scenario poses a high risk of impacting the passing game, according to FOX Weather meteorologist Ian Oliver. He emphasized that passing efficiency typically declines under such conditions.
Weather’s Impact on Passing Efficiency
Drake Maye, the Patriots’ quarterback, has shown remarkable skill this season. He completed the regular season with a record-setting 72.0 completion percentage, surpassing Tom Brady’s 2007 achievement of 68.9 percent. Despite Maye’s accuracy, the cold weather could hinder his performance in this crucial game.
Temperature and Wind Concerns
- Game time temperature: Low 20s °F
- Wind chill: Feels like single digits
- Wind speed: 10 to 15 miles per hour
Oliver also noted that the bitter cold could offset the advantages of Denver’s high altitude. Typically, players benefit from the thinner air, which can support longer field goals. However, the frigid conditions may negate these benefits, making it challenging for kickers to perform as they would in milder weather.
Historical Context
The Patriots have faced the Broncos in the playoffs multiple times. However, they have never won a postseason game in Denver. This historical backdrop adds another layer of pressure to the already intense conditions of the AFC Championship. The combination of cold weather and historical challenges may well test the resilience of the Patriots come game day.
