We’ve got a big Week 6 matchup between two AFC West opponents in the Chargers and Broncos. A month into the season, and the two squads are in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race.
This matchup could be a deciding factor in earning a playoff spot later this season. With that, here are a few Broncos players to watch for Sunday’s key contest.
RB Javonte Williams
Williams is finally looking like his old self now over two years removed from a significant knee injury. He looked mostly ineffective in the first few weeks, but the former Tar Heel has seen his burst reappear in recent weeks. He’s been able to run the ball much better for an average of 4.8 yards per carry in the last two games. Williams is still searching for his first touchdown of the season, but he’s still someone that the Chargers defense will need to contain in Week 6.
WR Troy Franklin
This one is a bit of a sleeper, as the rookie has just five catches for 29 yards this season. Franklin was just selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft out of Oregon where he played with Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. The rookie duo just barely missed on a deep ball touchdown last week, which could be a sign of things to come. Franklin has the speed that should keep the Chargers’ defense honest.
DL Zach Allen
His name still goes a bit under the radar to casual fans, but he’s quietly having an elite 2024 campaign. The six-year veteran has established himself as one of the best defensive linemen in football. The Chargers cannot allow him to take over this game or else it could be a long day. In five games this season, Allen has registered three sacks, five tackles for loss, and 12 quarterback hits.
LB Justin Strnad
Due to injuries, Strnad has stepped into the starting lineup in the last two games. He’s played awfully well, particularly in the run game. In the two starts, he has had 13 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack. Strnad’s impact on Sunday’s game will play a deciding factor in who wins this divisional tilt.
CB Riley Moss
Pat Surtain II gets the attention in this secondary, but Moss has been phenomenal in 2024. The two have formed arguably the best cornerback duo in the NFL through the first month of the season. The Iowa product snagged his first career interception in Week 4, and Pro Football Focus ranks him as the seventh-best cornerback in 2024. In other words, the Chargers may have some trouble throwing the ball at these Broncos cornerbacks.