Behind Drake Maye and a potent defense, the Pats beat back the elements, beat the determined Broncos and primarily did not beat themselves.

Smiles have been tough to come by for the Patriots senior personnel executive. Highsmith’s wife, Denise, died unexpectedly in late September. While he remains in the grieving process, the success of the team has lifted his spirits since her passing. It’s given him a sense of comfort.

The Patriots may lack star power, but their connectivity and resilience have carried them past the AFC's best and a berth in the Super Bowl.

The Patriots' AFC Championship Game victory in Denver was their ninth win in nine road games.

With the Patriots offense grounded by the Broncos defense and snow, Drake Maye turned to his legs for a Super Bowl 60 berth.

An early look at Patriots-Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, with picks, odds and key matchup edges

It remains possible in a league where worst-to-first happens on an annual basis. The Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears and Patriots won division titles after finishing last or tied for last the year before. Across the league, at least one team has done so in 20 of the past 23 seasons.

Mike Vrabel made a revelation about Christian Gonzalez after the star cornerback's strong performance in the Patriots' win over the Broncos.