In 2002, the NFL experimented with Saturday night scheduling for playoff games. The result was a ratings bonanza. This weekend the NFL has reserved Saturday night for the Broncos and Patriots. Will the game measure up to these Saturday night classics? 5. Jets 17, Colts 16 (Jan. 8, 2011) » Adam Vinatieri kicked a 50-yard field goal with 53 seconds left to give Indianapolis the lead. But Antonio Cromartie returned the ensuing kickoff 47 yards and Mark Sanchez threw twice to Braylon Edwards to set up Nick Folk’s 32-yard field goal.
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4. Seahawks 21, Cowboys 20 (Jan. 6, 2007) » Dallas quarterback Tony Romo botched the hold on a potential game-winning, 19-yard field goal with 1:19 left and was stopped at the line of scrimmage as he tried a desperation run.
3. Patriots 17, Titans 14 (Jan. 10, 2004) » The temperature dropped to 2 degrees, and the wind chill was minus-11. Tom Brady and the Patriots never trailed, then won it with 4:02 left on a 46-yard field goal by Vinatieri.
2. Broncos 27, Patriots 13 (Jan. 14, 2006) » Denver forced five turnovers — including a 100-yard interception return by Champ Bailey — to topple the two-time defending Super Bowl champs, snap New England’s 10-game postseason winning streak and hand Tom Brady his first playoff loss.
1. Patriots 16, Raiders 13 (Jan. 19, 2002) » In the unforgettable Snow Bowl, Vinatieri kicked the game-tying 45-yard field goal in impossible conditions at the end of regulation, then made the clincher in overtime from 25 yards out.
– Kevin Dunleavy
