Broncos vs. Patriots second quarter recap

January 25, 2026 - 21:16

The Denver Broncos seized firm control of the AFC Championship Game in a defensively dominant second quarter, taking a 17-9 lead into halftime over the New England Patriots. The period was defined by relentless pressure from Denver's defensive front, which consistently disrupted Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

After a first-quarter field goal, the Broncos extended their lead early in the second. Quarterback Peyton Manning engineered a methodical drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown plunge by running back C.J. Anderson. The score pushed Denver's advantage to 10-6.

The Broncos' defense then delivered the quarter's pivotal play. Von Miller exploded past the Patriots' offensive line, stripping the ball from Brady. Defensive end Malik Jackson pounced on the loose ball in the end zone for a stunning defensive touchdown, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

New England managed to answer with a late field goal from Stephen Gostkowski just before the half, but the damage was done. The Patriots' offense, held without a touchdown in the first half, faced a significant deficit and mounting pressure from a ferocious Broncos pass rush as the teams headed to the locker rooms.