Patriots Face Altitude Challenge in AFC Championship; Experts Weigh In

URGENT UPDATE: The New England Patriots are set to face the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship this Sunday, and the high-altitude setting of 5,280 feet in Denver could play a critical role in the game’s outcome. Experts are weighing in on whether the altitude will impact the Patriots’ performance, with some claiming it’s a psychological hurdle rather than a physical one.

Officials confirm that the thin air in Denver contains 20% less oxygen, which can affect athletic performance. Mark Kramer, owner of Higher Peak, a company that trains Olympic athletes for high-altitude events, stated, “The home field advantage in Denver is built into the atmosphere.” He emphasizes that acclimatization is vital, suggesting that the Patriots should arrive as early as possible to adapt to the conditions.

The Patriots are scheduled to travel to Denver on Saturday, just one day before the big game. Head Coach Mike Vrabel noted that the team wouldn’t gain significant acclimation benefits unless they had left the previous Thursday, which was not feasible. “I think they will feel it all through the game,” Kramer added, stressing the importance of practice at the altitude to mitigate psychological fatigue.

However, former Patriots tight end Christian Fauria challenges the altitude myth. “Don’t buy into it. It is a red herring. It is not even real,” he said, arguing that the altitude’s effects are exaggerated. Drawing from his experience playing at the University of Colorado, Fauria recalled how visiting teams would often be overwhelmed by the altitude signage, which only heightened their anxiety. “The University of Miami came to play us and they covered it up because they didn’t want their players to freak out.”

Fauria acknowledges that while altitude fatigue exists, it is not as significant as many claim. The thin air has also contributed to record-breaking field goals at Mile High Stadium, but Fauria doubts it will drastically improve quarterback Drake Maye‘s throwing distance. “Can you kick it farther? Yes, but is Drake Maye all of a sudden going to rip back and throw it 85 yards with accuracy? Probably not.”

As the Patriots prepare for the challenge ahead, the focus shifts to how they will manage the altitude and whether they will be able to overcome the psychological barriers it presents. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this unfolds during the AFC Championship on Sunday.