4th quarter: Broncos lead Patriots, 17-12

The Broncos lead the Patriots, 17-12, in the 2015 AFC Championship game with the game early in the fourth quarter.

The Denver defense has stifled the Patriots’ offensive attack so far, limiting the production of Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman.

A rare Tom Brady postseason interception (to Von Miller) allowed the Broncos to get an easy second touchdown in the second quarter. Owen Daniels did the honors for the second time in the game, with a 12-yard score from Peyton Manning.

The Patriots scored their only touchdown in the first half when Manning threw behind a receiver and it was picked up by Patriots defender Jonathan Freeny. Steven Jackson plunged into the end zone minutes later to pull the Pats to within a point.

Stephen Gostkowski missed the extra point, the first time he has done so all season.

As for the Broncos, Manning put together a terrific opening drive, marching the Broncos 83 yards in 11 plays, and culminating whenhe hit Daniels for a 21-yard touchdown. The drive took 5:30 off the clock.

The Patriots were forced to punt on their first two drives.