Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning has admitted that he was far from his best in his side's defeat to the New England Patriots.

The 38-year-old threw two costly interceptions for his side and his offense looked out of rhythm as he was held to his lowest quarterback rating of the season.

"I've got to play better," Manning told reporters. "It's pretty plain and simple. [When] the quarterback stinks, usually you're not going to win many games.

"I don't usually stink, but I stunk today."

The Broncos lost possession of the number one seed in the AFC with their loss on Sunday.