Through the Years: Photos from the Broncos' eight AFC Championship victories

Oakland Raiders running back Mark van Eeghen (30) tries to elude Denver Broncos linebacker Bob Swenson (51) during the 1977 AFC Championship Game on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos quarterback Craig Morton (7) drops back to pass during the 1977 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos running back Otis Armstrong (24) runs upfield during the 1977 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Haven Moses (25) celebrates after scoring on a 74-yard reception during the 1977 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos linebacker Tom Jackson (57) and safety Bill Thompson (36) congratulate a teammate during the 1977 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos linebacker Godwin Turk (55) celebrates after the 1977 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders on January 1,1978. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 20-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)

Denver Broncos safety Steve Foley (43) and cornerback Louis Wright (20) bring down Browns running back Kevin Mack (34) during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos runs with the football after being flushed from the pocket and gains 34 yards during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos running back Steve Sewell (30) gives his team a first and goal during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos running back Gerald Willhite (47) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos head coach Dan Reeves watches the action during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Steve Watson (81) catches the football for a 28-yard gain during the winning drive in overtime of the Broncos 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

In this Jan. 12, 1987 file photo, Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway prepares to send the ball down field en route to a 23-20 overtime victory in the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/File)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Mark Jackson (80) celebrates after making a touchdown during an AFC championship game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987, in Cleveland. The Broncos defeated the Browns 23-20. (Tony Tomsic via AP)

Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-20) at Cleveland.

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7), inducted into the Pro Foorball Hall of Fame class of 2004, rushes eleven yards for a first down during the AFC Championship Game, a 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns on January 11, 1987, at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Quarterback John Elway of the Denver Broncos throws a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Mark Jackson celebrates after scoring a 5-yard touchdown catch with 0:37 seconds remaining in regulation time of the Broncos 23 - 20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Denver Broncos kicker Rich Karlis (3) is held aloft by Rick Dennison (55) after Karlis' overtime field goal gave the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns for the AFC Championship Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987 in Cleveland. (AP Photo)

Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Owner Pat Bowlen holds up the Lamar Hunt (AFC Championship) Trophy after the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-30) in Cleveland as coach Dan Reeves, the media's interviewer Ahmad Rashaad and Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt look on.

Cleveland Brown Kevin Mack (34) has the ball stripped away by Denver Broncos Tony Lilly (22) during the first period Sunday Jan. 17, 1988 in the AFC Championship game at Denver, Colorado. Other Broncos players are Dennis Smith (49) and Steve Wilson (45). (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) fires a pass during the AFC Championship Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, CO, Jan. 17, 1988. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (Paul Spinelli via AP)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar cocks his arm to throw during the second quarter of the AFC Championship game in Denver, Jan. 17, 1988. At right is Denver Broncos Karl Mecklenburg tries to get past Cleveland's Cody Risien (63). (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Denver Broncos defensive back Steve Wilson (45) celebrates retrieving the ball in the AFC Championship Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, CO, Jan. 17, 1988. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (Paul Spinelli via AP)

Quarterback John Elway of the Denver Broncos yells his cadence at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns in the 1987 AFC Championship Game at Mile High Stadium on January 17, 1988 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)

A Cleveland Browns defender attempts to take down Denver Broncos wide receiver Ricky Nattiel (84) during the AFC Championship Game in Denver, CO, Jan. 17, 1988. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (Paul Spinelli via AP)

Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille (28) strips the ball from Cleveland Browns Earnest Byner in the closing minutes of the AFC Championship game in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988 to get the ball for the Broncos who won the game in the losing seconds, 38-33. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway leaves the field with a smile on his face after his team defeated the Cleveland Browns 38-33 winning the AFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway vs the Cleveland Browns in the AFC Championship game on January 14, 1990. (AP Photo/Tom DiPace)

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) is congratulated by defensive end Simon Fletcher (73) after sacking Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Mike Young (83) celebrates as he scores on a 70-yard reception during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Running back Sammy Winder runs through the hole during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Coach Dan Reeves watches from the sideline during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) eyes Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) as he pass rushes during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Kip Corrinton grabs an interception as Steve Atwater and Randy Robbins celebrate in the 1989 AFC Championship versus the Browns on January 14, 1990.

John Elway avoids a tackle during the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14,1989.

John Elway avoids a sack in the AFC Championship game on January 14, 1989 against the Cleveland Browns.

Dennis Smith and Tyrone Braxton tackle Reggie Langhorne during the AFC Championship against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday January 14, 1990 in Denver, CO. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Denver Broncos wide receiver Michael Young (83) runs with the football after catching a second quarter pass during the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Giving chase is Cleveland cornerback Frank Minnifield (31). Young scored on the 70-yard pass play from Bronco quarterback John Elway. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) scrambles with the football during second quarter action in the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Cleveland defensive tackle Chris Pike (75) reaches for Elway on the play. The Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-21 to earn their third trip to the Super Bowl in four years. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) leaves Cleveland Browns defenders Kyle Kramer (40) and Frank Minniefield (31) in the dust as he breaks away on a 39 yard touchdown reception during action in the AFC Championship game, Sunday, Jan. 15, 1990, Denver, Colo. (AP Photo/Billy Haber)

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) blocks Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Tony Jones (66) during an AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990, in Denver. The Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-21 to earn their third trip to the Super Bowl. (Tony Tomsic via AP)

Dennis Smith of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Mel Bratton of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) flashes the number one sign as he leaves the field following the Broncos win over the Cleveland Browns in the AFC Championship game, Jan. 14, 1990, in Denver. (AP Photos/Ed Andrieski)

Denver Broncos linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (77), head coach Dan Reeves, and linebacker Bruce Klosterman (97) kneel in prayer in the locker room after the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

John Elway drops back to complete a pass to Ed McCaffrey against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Terrell Davis rushed for 139 yards against the Steelers against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

John Elway drops back to pass during the AFC Championship game against the Steelers against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998.

Everyone celebrates after Howard Griffith's touchdown during the AFC Championship game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998.

Terrell Davis begins the game with a long rush during the AFC Championship game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998.

Jason Elam kicks what turns out to be the deciding field goal of the game as the Broncos win 24-21 against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Howard Griffith goes on a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Rod Smith makes a reception and stretches for a first down to keep a third-quarter drive alive against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Darrien Gordon deflects a pass and intercepts it in the end zone against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Quarterback John Elway celebrates a short touchdown pass to Ed McCaffrey against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Head Coach Mike Shanahan argues with a referee after a questionable call against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Allen Aldridge celebrates after a play with Keith Burns and Ray Crockett against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Shannon Sharpe catches a crucial 3rd and 6 pass to give the Broncos a first down in the final minutes of the fourth quarter. The catch enabled the Broncos to run out the clock after the next first down against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

Owner Pat Bowlen carries off the AFC Championship trophy after the win against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998 in the 1997 AFC Championship Game.

John Elway celebrates with Tony Jones after their victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers for the AFC Championship against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium January 11, 1998.

Mike Shanahan holds up the AFC Championship trophy and says, "This is not the one we want," after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 11, 1998.

John Elway listens to the National Anthem against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway takes part in the coin toss against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway heads onto the field for what could be his last time at Mile High Stadium against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Members of the Broncos defensive unit head off the field into the locker room against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Ray Crockett wraps up Keyshawn Johnson for a minimal gain against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Terrell Davis rushes the ball for a 31 yard touchdown against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Terrell Davis rushes the ball against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Terrell Davis rushes the ball against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Howard Griffith breaks a tackle and leaps into the endzone against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Darrien Gordon returns a punt against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Alfred Williams celebrates a strong Broncos defensive stand against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Terrell Davis is congradulated by Howard Griffith after Davis broke loose for a 31 yard touchdown against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Broncos fans show their support for all the great years John Elway has provided for them against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway acknowledges the fans cheers against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Bill Romanowski celebrates after the Broncos victory over the Jets against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway is greeted by Pat Bowlen after the Broncos victory over the Jets against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Shannon Sharpe embraces Bryan Cox after the Broncos victory against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway shows his enthusiasm after receiving his second consecutive AFC Championship trophy against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway gives a thumbs up to fans as he takes a final lap around Mile High Stadium against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Shannon Sharpe listens to the post game talk against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Shannon Sharpe is congradulated by John Beake after the game against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

John Elway gives a thumbs up to all the fans who have supported him throughout the years against the New York Jets at Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO on January 17, 1999.

Peyton Manning is introduced during pregame introductions against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Miles the mascot leads the team onto the field during pregame introductions against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

The Denver Broncos are introduced before the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos fans cheer on the team before kickoff against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

The Denver Broncos defense readies to line up against the New England Patriots during second-quarter action in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) drops back to pass during second quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos tight end Jacob Tamme (84) scores on a 1-yard reception during second-quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos defensive end Robert Ayers (91) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during second quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo by Gabriel Christus)

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) audibles during third quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo by Gabriel Christus)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) makes a catch for a touchdown against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos Champ Bailey (24) between plays against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) in action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) signals at the line of scrimmage during third quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos tight end Julius Thomas (80) hangs onto the football on a 14-yard reception during third-quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton (94) sacks New England quarterback Tom Brady (12) for a 10-yard loss on fourth down during third-quarter action in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) in action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) breaks up a pass during fourth-quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) celebrates after a big play during fourth-quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball (28) pushes to get a first down on one of the last plays during fourth quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo by Gabriel Christus)

Denver Broncos Omar Bolden, Wesley Woodyard and Sylvester Williams celebrate after defeating the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

The Denver Broncos hold an AFC Championship towel after game against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo by Gabriel Christus)

Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) cheers with teammates after winning the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo by Gabriel Christus)

CBS' Jim Nantz interviews Peyton Manning and Demaryius Thomas after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

CBS' Jim Nantz interviews Demaryius Thomas after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Mike Adams and teammates hoist the Lamar Hunt AFC Championship trophy after defeating the the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos celebration confetti fills the air after action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

The Denver Broncos hold up the Lamar Hunt Trophy after action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (45) wears a AFC Championship T-shirt after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) holds up the Lamar Hunt AFC Championship Trophy with teammates after beating the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014. (Photo credit: Ben Hays/Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos players hoist the Lamar Hunt AFC Championship trophy after defeating the New England Patriots 26-16 in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO on January 19, 2014.

Owen Daniels and Bennie Fowler get ready in the tunnel before playing against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware (94) huddles with the defense before action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Von Miller prepares to play against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Derek Wolfe during player introductions prior to kickoff against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Peyton Manning watches jets conduct a flyover during the national anthem before facing the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) tackles New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) during first quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos wide receiver Andre Caldwell (12) reacts after a 15-yard short pass up the middle for a first down during first quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) drops back to pass during first quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos tight end Owen Daniels (81) catches a 21-yard touchdown during first quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos tight end Owen Daniels (81) catches a 21-yard touchdown during first quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) celebrates his sack of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) for a 2-yard loss during first quarter action in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson (22) gets tackled during first-quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) makes an interception during second quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Denver Broncos tight end Owen Daniels (81) catches a 12-yard pass for a second-quarter touchdown against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos tight end Owen Daniels (81) catches a 12-yard touchdown during second quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos safety T.J. Ward (43) tackles New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) during second quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware (94) pressure New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during second quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris Jr. (25) reacts after breaking up a pass during third quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) scrambles for a 12-yard gain during third quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) for a 6-yard loss during third quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos cornerback Kayvon Webster (36) celebrates Denver's downing of a punt at the New England Patriots 4-yard line during third quarter action in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) throws downfield during fourth quarter action against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) reacts after a reception for a first down during fourth quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos safety Shiloh Keo (33), cornerback Aqib Talib (21) and safety Josh Bush (20) cover New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) in the end zone during fourth quarter action against the New England Patriots during the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos cornerback Bradley Roby (29) intercepts a two-point conversion attempt by the New England Patriots with 12 seconds remaining in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos quarterback coach Greg Knapp congratulates Peyton Manning (18) as time expires as Denver defeats the New England Patriots 20-18 in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) congratulates Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) at midfield after Denver defeated the New England Patriots 20-18 in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) celebrate in confetti after beating the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Brandon Marshall, Von Miller and Lerentee McCray during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos Head Coach Gary Kubiak gives Peyton Manning (18) a celebratory pat postgame after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

DeMarcus Ware hugs Demaryius Thomas during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) looks on as confetti falls during the postgame celebration the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris Jr. (25), Von Miller (58) and Danny Trevathan (59) celebrate with the Lamar Hunt Trophy postgame after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Peyton Manning smiles as he talks with CBS' Jim Nantz during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Von Miller during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware (94) celebrates after beating the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Ben Hays.

Gary Kubiak speaks to the team in the locker room during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus

DeMarcus Ware huddles the team postgame in the locker room after Denver defeated the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Denver, Colo. January 24, 2016. (© Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos)

Defensive backs during the postgame celebration after the AFC Championship Game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, January 24, 2016. Photo by Gabriel Christus