The New England Patriots are just days away from the AFC Championship game, and while Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is sidelined with a knee injury, the team still faces significant challenges. Denver’s defense is among the toughest in the NFL, and the Patriots will also have to adjust to a change in altitude. Empower Field at Mile High sits about 5,000 feet above sea level, compared with roughly 300 feet at Gillette Stadium. Despite the difference, the Patriots aren’t planning to travel until Saturday, one day before the game. >> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go <<“The name of the game for this week is just practicing with intensity, making sure that when they’re practicing, they’re really at the peak of their aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Really challenging the players in that way,” said Dr. Neal Goldenberg of Cheshire Medical Center. During media availability Wednesday, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye said passes can travel further in Denver because of reduced air resistance. That could affect not only Maye’s throws, but also kickoffs, field goals and punts.

MANCHESTER, N.H. —

The New England Patriots are just days away from the AFC Championship game, and while Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is sidelined with a knee injury, the team still faces significant challenges.

Denver’s defense is among the toughest in the NFL, and the Patriots will also have to adjust to a change in altitude.

Empower Field at Mile High sits about 5,000 feet above sea level, compared with roughly 300 feet at Gillette Stadium.

Despite the difference, the Patriots aren’t planning to travel until Saturday, one day before the game.

>> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go <<

“The name of the game for this week is just practicing with intensity, making sure that when they’re practicing, they’re really at the peak of their aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Really challenging the players in that way,” said Dr. Neal Goldenberg of Cheshire Medical Center.

During media availability Wednesday, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye said passes can travel further in Denver because of reduced air resistance.

That could affect not only Maye’s throws, but also kickoffs, field goals and punts.