Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos Sunday afternoon in Invesco Field at Mile High, the 4-0 Denver Broncos host the 3-1 New England Patriots in a huge AFC Conference battle that should prove to be one of the best games this weekend.

First-year coach Josh McDaniels raised some eyebrows when he traded Jay Cutler in the offseason, but his rebuilt defense has helped put the Broncos in position for their first 5-0 start in 11 years.

NFL odds makers are calling the home dogs with the Patriots coming into town. The Vegas line is sitting at New England -3.5, with the total set at 41.

The pupil meets the teacher on Sunday as the 33-year-old McDaniels spent eight seasons under Bill Belichick in New England, including the last three as offensive coordinator. His success in helping the Patriots to three Super Bowl
wins made him a highly desirable coaching candidate and the Broncos hired him in January.

McDaniels' tenure in Denver got off to a rocky start with his controversial trade of Cutler, a Pro Bowl quarterback in 2008. The Broncos got quarterback Kyle Orton and three draft picks from Chicago in the deal that sent Cutler to the Bears, prompting criticism from fans and experts. However, Orton has been effective and the Broncos' defense has come up big.

McDaniels brought in Mike Nolan as defensive coordinator. Nolan installed a 3-4 scheme that has allowed just 26 points and two touchdowns, both league bests. The unit also ranks atop the AFC in yards allowed, sacks, and turnovers.

Patriots quarterback is going to have his hands full.

Look for the Pats to hand Denver their first loss. Take New England and give the 3.5 points.