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Denver vs. New England:
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In what could be a preview of the AFC Championship game, the undefeated New England Patriots visit Mile High Stadium Monday night to take on the undefeated Denver Broncos. The Pats' defense, anchored by a solid line-backing corps, will try to slow down the Bronco stampede. Look for John Elway to spread the offense and take the backers out of the game.
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Diagram #1: Most teams go to "spread" formations on third-and-long. The Broncos will use a shotgun formation with five receivers on first down, in an attempt to catch the Pats in their regular defensive set. With Shannon Sharpe (#84) matched against the LB, this favors the Broncos. |
| Diagram #2: If the Pats are quick to recognize the spread formation, they will sub a defensive back for a linebacker. This defensive back (NB) is referred to as the nickel back because there are five backs in the secondary. With the nickel back in, the matchup now favors the Pats, as the NB has the speed to stay with Sharpe. | 
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Note: if you do not see a moving play diagram...
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