NE's D is so beat up it isn't even funny. I really don't see how you think they are better off. NE has to run the ball to be successful considering their shitty offensive weapons on the outside, so what happens when Peyton opens up a quick lead against their horrendous D? Denver has so many more outs to win this game IMO
With the lack of outside receivers (these guys suck hard) Brady's rarely had good ones, and when he did have some good players like Brandon Lloyd he rarely relied on them. Still, outside of Vereen + Edelman + maybe Amendola he doesn't have much, but if anyone can do it, it's Brady.
Of course it's better to just have elite receivers with your elite QB. But you saw the way the Patriots' D played last week, they swarmed Andrew Luck and put a bunch of pressure on him. Young guys are stepping up in big ways to cover for the injured guys. Logan Ryan, Jamie Collins, etc. while Denver's D did really well last week until Harris went down. Maybe they'lll find a way to replace him. Just have enough faith in the Pats to slow down Peyton.
Hell, whoever wins, this is going to be a game we're really going to enjoy. Have a great time watching!