The Sunday Night matchup between the Denver Broncos and the New England Patriots features a million storylines outside of the basic statistics. The matchup re-fuels the rivalry between quarterback Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. It also features to first time Wes Welker makes his way back to Gillette Stadium after opting out in free agency and signing with the Broncos.
Despite a concussion, Welker appears ready to go. Brady said earlier in the week that he fully expected his former teammate to be on the field and ready to make an impact when he returns. Manning is also dealing with injuries in both ankles, but both players are expected to not be limited as Denver searches for their fourth-straight win. Other injuries to tight end Julius Thomas could also play a role in Sunday's game despite everyone being active on practice on Thursday.
Statistically speaking, it is Manning having the better season over Brady this year. The quarterback has 34 touchdowns in 10 games and could reclaim the single-season passing touchdown record currently being held by the Patriots quarterback.
Welker returns to New England after being the favorite target for Brady. In six seasons, the wide receiver racked up 672 catches while putting up over 1,000 yards in five or the six years. The divorce between the two sides was bitter and dramatic as Welker felt he deserved more money from the team than they were offering.
Denver has a two game cushion in the AFC East and they are trying to build on a lead over the Kansas City Chiefs after beating the team last week. Manning's history with the Patriots is muddy. He is just 2-9 all-time when playing on the road in New England. He has tossed for over 300 yards in the last three matchups, but five interceptions plagued him.
The Patriots are dealing with a whirl of injuries on defense which could hurt them this week. Aqib Talib is limited while Alfonzo Dennard and Steve Gregory are expected to be out. When playing Denver, Brady has 12 touchdowns and one interception, but this is a different Patriots team which could hurt his previous positive history.
