Focus returns to Patriots at Dove Valley
The Lamar Hunt Trophy watches over Peyton Manning as he recites his mantra for the AFC Championship game.
“Stay in the moment, try not to get too far ahead, try not to assume anything,” said Manning.
In the first match up against New England, Manning wasn’t on the field. He watched the game in the equipment room with DeMarcus Ware.
“Boy DeMarcus is a big time second-guesser,” said Manning. “‘What are we calling Wade [Phillips]?’ ‘Wrap up Von [Miller]!’ ‘Wrap up Malik [Jackson]!’ I really enjoyed his commentary, [but] it’ll be nice to be out onto the actual playing surface this time around.”
“Social media became a bit of a battle ground earlier in the week between the Patriots and the Broncos, but as of Wednesday Coach Gary Kubiak said the focus will now be on what goes on in between the lines – and that’s where it will stay.
“We preach to our team the importance of staying focused on your job and what you have to do,” said Coach Kubiak.
Von Miller says his focus is bugging Patriots’ Quarterback Tom Brady.
“I don’t want them to be ‘almost sacks,'” said Miller. “I want them to be ‘sacks’ come playoffs. All season it was ‘almost,’ now it’s time to cross those T’s and dot those I’s.”
Speaking of Brady – Miller says the Broncos’ defense will be ready for the ‘Golden Boy’s’ quick release.
Brady got rid of the ball – on average – in less than two seconds per throw in New England’s last playoff game against Kansas City.
As a pass rusher, how can [Miller] impact a quarterback who gets rid of the ball that quickly?
“Two seconds?” said Miller. “I mean sometimes I only need like one.”
