The Chargers are looking to climb into the playoffs after digging themselves into a hole, with their last two games resulting in losses, as they’re set to take on the Broncos this Sunday.
Here are three key things to know about Los Angeles’ Week 17 opponent:
COVID-19 tracker
The Broncos only have two players on the COVID-19 list as of today: defensive end Jonathan Harris and center Lloyd Cushenberry.
Struggling offense
Since the last time the Broncos faced the Chargers, they have averaged just 10.7 points per game. Last weekend against the Raiders, Denver rushed for 18 total yards and was 1-of-10 on third down. They’ve been hindered by a quarterback carousel between Teddy Bridgewater and Drew Lock, an inconsistent run game and dropped passes. In Lock’s first start last Sunday, he finished 15-of-22 for 153 yards, no touchdowns, no interceptions and an 87.9 rating. Bridgewater is currently questionable with a concussion.
Dominant defense
While the Broncos have struggled to put points on the scoreboard, they’ve ensured their opponents haven’t been able to, either. Denver is currently tied for the top scoring defense, allowing just 17.3 points per game. In addition, they have the fourth-best red zone defense, as opponents have scored just 50% of the time on possessions inside the 20-yard line. Vic Fangio has gotten the better of opposing quarterbacks, limiting them to just 210.3 passing yards per game.