Patriots Defense Sends New England to AFC Title Game With Five Takeaways vs. Texans

Motivated by widespread doubt, the unit flipped the divisional game with takeaways to set up a trip to Denver.

Overview

New England beat Houston 28-16 in Foxborough to clinch an AFC Championship berth.
The defense forced five turnovers, including a Marcus Jones interception return for a touchdown.
C.J. Stroud was intercepted four times, and the Texans were limited to 41 rushing yards on 21 designed carries.
Through two playoff rounds, the Patriots have allowed 19 points total and held Houston to 1-of-4 in the red zone.
Next up is the AFC Championship at Denver on Jan. 25, where the Broncos will start Jarrett Stidham at quarterback.