Patriots Leapfrogged As AFC’s No. 1 Seed During Bye Week

The New England Patriots lost their spot atop the AFC during their Week 14 bye.

As the Patriots received a late-season breather, the Denver Broncos earned a 24-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. They surpassed the Patriots for the AFC’s No. 1 seed after matching their 11-2 record.

Denver also matched New England’s 10-game winning streak on Sunday. Bo Nix completed 31 of 38 passes for 212 yards, and rookie RJ Harvey amassed 75 rushing yards and a touchdown at Allegiant Stadium.

Tom Brady’s Raiders couldn’t help the Patriots by securing a Week 14 upset. The 2-11 squad mustered 229 total yards, and Kenny Pickett finished at quarterback after Geno Smith left the game early with a shoulder injury.

The Patriots now require help to obtain a first-round bye. After their second victory over the Raiders, who spoiled Mike Vrabel’s return with a Week 1 win over the Patriots, the Broncos locked down a better record against common opponents.

Fortunately for New England, Denver closes the season with a rough schedule. The Broncos play four playoff contenders in the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers.

The Patriots return from their bye with a chance to clinch the AFC East crown by defeating the Buffalo Bills. Their final three opponents (Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins) all currently have losing records.

New England hasn’t captured the AFC’s No. 1 seed since going 13-3 and making the Super Bowl in 2017.