Although it probably wouldn't have been the difference between a win and loss, the Denver Broncos surely could have used WR Eric Decker on the field in the 45-10 loss to the New England Patriots. With Decker on the sidelines, the Patriots defense was able to focus more attention on Demaryius Thomas and Eddie Royal.
Despite the fact that the injury appeared to be quite serious following the victory over Pittsburgh, Decker told the Denver Post that the way his knee was improving, he definitely would have tried to play had Denver advanced:
@PostBroncos: Eric Decker said the swelling has gone down significantly in his knee, and had the Broncos advanced, he would have tried to play.
In just his second NFL season, Decker showed some great potential after an injury-riddled rookie season. Decker recorded 44 catches for 612 yards and 8 TD's. Decker did see his role diminish with the emergence of Thomas during the latter part of the season.
For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Patriots blog Pats Pulpit. Head over to SB Nation NFL for more coverage of the 2012 NFL Playoffs.