The New England Patriots defeated the Denver Broncos 10-7 in a frigid AFC Championship game, riding Drake Maye’s rushing TD and a dominant defense to reach Super Bowl LX.
The New England Patriots punched their ticket to Super Bowl LX with a gritty 10-7 victory over the Denver Broncos in a snow-covered AFC Championship showdown on Sunday night.
In brutal winter conditions, rookie quarterback Drake Maye delivered a poised performance, rushing for 65 yards and scoring the game’s lone touchdown on a crucial second-quarter run. The Patriots’ offense leaned on discipline and ball control, while the defense set the tone with relentless pressure.
New England’s defense forced two key turnovers, including a game-sealing interception by cornerback Christian Gonzalez late in the fourth quarter that halted Denver’s final drive. The stop preserved the slim lead and sent Gillette Stadium into celebration despite freezing temperatures.
The win marked a remarkable turnaround under first-year head coach Mike Vrabel, who guided the Patriots from a 4–13 record last season to the Super Bowl in his debut year. New England will now face the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium, setting up a highly anticipated rematch of Super Bowl XLIX.
Veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who returned this postseason after rehabilitating a torn ACL, caught five passes during the playoff run. Emotional after the game, Diggs reflected on past championship disappointments, making this moment especially meaningful.
Meanwhile, Maye etched his name into NFL history, becoming the youngest quarterback to reach the Super Bowl since 1984, further solidifying his breakout rookie campaign.
In a game defined by toughness, defense, and composure, the Patriots proved they belong back on football’s biggest stage.