New England Patriots linebacker Jamie Collins is expected to play in Sunday's AFC Championship game against the top-seeded Denver Broncos, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald. Collins was officially listed as questionable after suffering a back injury against the Kansas City Chiefs in last weekend's divisional round playoff matchup.
The Patriots are looking to repeat as Super Bowl Champions, but they face a top ranked Broncos defense. While the Patriots have been an offensive powerhouse again this season, head coach Bill Belichick will look for his defense to step up in this crucial AFC Championship game. Collins was a second round draft pick by the Patriots back in 2013, and he has shown improvement each season in New England. The Patriots linebacker recorded a career-high 5.5 sacks this season and also forced five fumbles.
The Patriots placed linebacker Jerod Mayo on injured reserve earlier this week, and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will look to have his defense ready despite injuries. While much of the focus of Sunday's AFC Championship game will be directed towards the Tom Brady and Peyton Manning rivalry, defense will likely be the key factor in deciding who will advance to Super Bowl 50.
Collins missed the Patriots' loss to the Broncos back in Week 12 and will look to make his presence felt on Sunday by creating pressure on Denver's offense.
