NFL Schedule Release: Top primetime games of 2015

Nov 2, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) prepares to make a pass during the third quarter against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 43-21. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

3. New England Patriots at Denver Broncos – Week 12, SNF

Here’s the Brady-Manning matchup, even though they don’t actually play against each other. The same goes for this game as it did with Philadelphia and Dallas: there are many questions surrounding each team. How will Peyton Manning be playing by Week 12 after that dismal end to 2014? How will New England replace key pieces of the team, such as Darrelle Revis? Denver must fill voids as well – it looks like Wes Welker is on his way out.

Both teams will look entirely different from the last time they matched up. The venue could play a key role here as well – the Patriots dominated the Broncos in New England last year and the year before last, while Denver cruised to a convincing 26-16 win in the 2013 AFC Championship.

This game will be highly anticipated just because of the Brady-Manning “matchup”, but I think both teams will have taken a step back from last year because of losses of players through free agency on both sides. With that said, I’m not sure the Broncos will have enough to get the victory, even at home. The way the Colts dominated them in the playoffs last year makes me lean towards New England.

Next: NFC Championship rematch