On Christmas Eve, the New England Patriots defeat the Denver Broncos 26–23 at Empower Field thanks to the heroics of rookie kicker Chad Ryland.
The New England Patriots won their fourth game of the season on Christmas Eve, defeating the Denver Broncos 26–23 thanks to the leg of rookie kicker Chad Ryland.
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With two seconds remained in regulation, Pats quarterback Bailey Zappe led the club on a seven-play, 43-yard drive to the 38-yard line, just enough time to try a possible game-winning field goal with the game knotted at 23 and 58 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.
Chad Ryland serenaded by his teammates
Ryland set up for the 56-yard attempt after missing a 47-yard effort and making a 33-yarder earlier. At Empower Field at Mile High, the rookie’s kick went clean through the uprights, giving the Pats the victory on the road.
For the ninth time in franchise history, the Pats took the field on Christmas Eve and went 5-3 in those contests. After losing to the Kansas City Chiefs 27-17, New England came into this game. The Detroit Lions defeated the Broncos 42–17, which was a heartbreaking loss.
The game-winning field goal 👏
📺: NFLN pic.twitter.com/RcCZfK01S7
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) December 25, 2023
Along with the previously declared injured players, safety Jabrill Peppers, receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, tight end Hunter Henry, and defensive end Sam Roberts (who is healthy but inactive), the Pats also lacked the services of special teams captain Matthew Slater, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury. Slater missed his first game for the Pats in six seasons after being designated Sunday night, ending his 100-game regular-season appearance run.
