The 2015-16 New England Patriots’ season came crashing down with a 20-18 loss in Denver to Peyton Manning’s Broncos. Judging that they were 2 points, or a made Stephen Gostkowski point after in the first quarter, from forcing overtime in the game, the task to beat Peyton Manning seemed more difficult than it was hyped about.

The Denver pass rush overmatched the injured-riddled offensive line, resulting in Brady being on his tush 20 times, more than any quarterback in any game, regular season or post-season. Von Miller and the likes of Derek Wolfe got to Brady early, setting the tone for the rest of the game. Two crucial touchdowns thrown by Manning to Owen Daniels proved that Manning rebounded from the most horrific season he’s ever had as a quarterback in his NFL career.

But regardless of how close the score looks, this game was one-sided. The defense of the Patriots is the only reason they were in this game. Aside from a clutch 4th and goal touchdown late in the 4th quarter from Tom Brady to Rob Gronkowski and a Steven Jackson TD, the Pats offense only settled for field goals, and really couldn’t capitalize on the mistakes Peyton Manning had on his side of the ball.

Both sides boasted athletic defensive play. Jamie Collins and Malcolm Butler were the MVP’s of this game for New England. They tackled well, including some sacks. They defended the ball perfectly.

But the miscues for New England were too much for them to rebound. They lose again in Denver, as Peyton Manning and the Broncos advance to play Cam Newton and high powered Carolina Panthers in Santa Clara for Super Bowl 50.

But there’s reason for optimism.

Aside from the Patriots parting ways with their offensive line coach, they will, barring any pre-season injuries, enter the new 2016-17 season injury free. In addition to the healthy players that played in Denver, they will get a healthy LeGarrette Blount, Dion Lewis, Dominique Easley, Ryan Wendell, Nate Solder, Jerod Mayo and others back on both a revamped offense and defense.

Although they got stripped of a first round draft pick for no reason, they will still have the opportunity to either trade for a first round pick, or still keep their other picks. And they will still probably draft someone from Rutgers University.

One would hope that the Patriots also work the free agency market. Besides the draft, they do need help at the offensive line position, and who knows, maybe they will land a big-name free agency pickup (Alshon Jeffery or Josh Gordon, anyone?) that will provide the deep ball threat Tom Brady needs, like Randy Moss did back in the three seasons he played for them.

And with the possibility of retirement for Peyton Manning, the AFC looks like still within reach for Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick’s bunch. Barring from any draft picks or free agent acquisitions that prove to be genius, New England will still undoubtedly win the AFC East, and maybe go to another AFC Championship game. And although they will have to go on the road to Arizona, Pittsburgh and Denver, and defend home turf against Baltimore and Seattle, they Patriots should also be able to notch another 12, 13+ win season.

We’ll have to see.