Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton in the first quarter against the New England Patriots at Empower Field at Mile High. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The third quarter turns into a disaster for the Broncos

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 12/24/23

The Broncos had a nightmarish third quarter against the Patriots on Sunday night that might have sunk the team's playoff chances.

Denver entered halftime up 7-3 but trailed 23-7 on the first snap of the fourth quarter. Running back Ezekiel Elliott started New England's third-quarter scoring barrage with a touchdown reception, which was followed by quarterback Bailey Zappe making an excellent throw on the run to tight end Mike Gesicki in the back of the end zone for a 16-7 lead.

Zappe to Gesicki extends the @Patriots lead!

: #NEvsDEN on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/uY6Dg380OO pic.twitter.com/WrETjMvsOZ
— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023

On the ensuing kickoff, Broncos wide receiver Mims fumbled the ball, which was returned by Cody Davis for a touchdown.

Another Patriots TD!

: #NEvsDEN on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/uY6Dg380OO pic.twitter.com/8gQknngT51
— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023

Entering Sunday night's game, the Patriots had scored 26 points in the third quarter the entire season.

Patriots scoring in the 3rd quarter this season

First 14 Games: 26 PTS TOTAL
Tonight: 20 PTS pic.twitter.com/R4VaXwEC2G
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 25, 2023

The Broncos allowed 70 points to the Dolphins earlier this season, but giving up 20 points in a quarter to New England might be even worse.

Per the New York Times playoff predictor, Denver needs a win to give itself a realistic chance of making the playoffs. The Broncos have a 39% chance of reaching the postseason with a win but only a 5% chance with a loss.

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