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The Broncos' Tony Carter couldn't make the catch for an interception.

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Julian Edelman had little room to run after catching this first-quarter pass. The Broncos hosted the Patriots in the AFC Championship game.

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Carter broke up a pass intended for Matthew Slater.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Peyton Manning completed a 12-yard pass to Montee Ball.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Manning completed a touchdown pass to Jacob Tamme.

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The Denver crowd erupted in celebration.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Eric Decker (left) celebrated with teammate Tamme after Tamme's 1-yard touchdown reception.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Tamme pointed to the sky in celebration.

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The Broncos were able to shut down the Patriots' running game Sunday afternoon.

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Former Patriot receiver Wes Welker hit the turf after he hauled in a pass.

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Knowshon Moreno leaped over Duron Harmon, breaking loose for a long gain.

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Shane Vereen was tripped up by Mike Adams on a second-quarter run.

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Aqib Talib grimaced in pain after he was injured in the first half. Talib had been hit by Welker.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Tom Brady threw a pass in the third quarter.

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Terrance Knighton sacked Brady for a 10-yard loss.

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The ball went over to the Broncos on downs after Knighton's play.

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The Broncos celebrated Knighton sacking Brady.

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LeGarrette Blount was brought down by Danny Trevathan.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Demaryius Thomas beat Alfonzo Dennard for a touchdown in the third quarter.

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Thomas celebrated in the end zone.

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Manning pointed out his protection in the fourth quarter.

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The Patriots struggled throughout the game.

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Jamie Collins tackled Julius Thomas after a 37-yard reception.

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The Broncos went on to take a 26-16 win over the Patriots.

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The loss meant an end to the Patriots' season, which was marked by dynamic victories and devastating injuries.

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Wesley Woodyard (left) and teammate Duke Ihenacho were jubilant over the Broncos' win.

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Brady and Manning shook hands and exchanged words after the game.

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Bill Belichick's defense hardly laid a finger on Manning — not only zero sacks, but also zero quarterback hits on 43 pass attempts.

Barry Chin/Globe Staff

Manning donned his AFC Championship gear. The Broncos advance to the Super Bowl.