New England Patriots franchise quarterback Tom Brady has had an illustrious career in the National Football League (NFL), but even he cannot believe that Sunday's game will be his 10th conference championship appearance.
"It's beyond what I'd ever imagined, in my wildest dreams," Brady said in a radio interview, according to ESPN.
Brady remembered his first conference championship game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2001 season and he added, "Fifteen years later, to be part of 10 of those, I'd never imagined that any of this was even possible. I just knew that I loved the game and I've played with so many great teammates who have sacrificed so much. ... You never take it for granted."
The Patriots are aiming to again be Super Bowl champions this season, but they have to first defend their American Football Conference (AFC) title against the Denver Broncos.
It is a tough task for Brady and the Pats since they must accomplish it on the road, with Denver finishing on top of the AFC after the regular season.
Along with playing on the road, Brady will also have to overcome a close friend and a bitter rival on the field, the Broncos' superstar quarterback Peyton Manning.
ESPN mentioned in its report that Brady and Manning already clashed 17 times and New England's star is holding an 11–5 advantage in the matchup.
Brady is hoping he could add another win to that record against Manning, since in the regular season, the Patriots' perfect year ended in Week 12 after losing to the Broncos.
However, it is tougher now for the Pats since in that game, Manning was out with a foot injury but still the Broncos managed to win.
Now they will have to deal with Manning, who is having a solid performance since returning from the health woe that made him miss a number of games in the regular season.
The AFC Championship Game between the Patriots and Broncos will take place at Sports Authority Field at Mile High this Sunday.
