Tag: things to watch

Broncos vs. Bills: 5 things to watch for in NFL playoffs

The Bills will host the Broncos in the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs. Here are five things to watch for on Sunday.

The Denver Broncos (10-7) are set to face the Buffalo Bills (13-4) in the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs on Sunday, Jan. 12. Here are five quick storylines to watch for going into Sunday’s showdown.

1. Denver’s defense vs. James Cook: The Bills ranked ninth in the NFL this season with 131.2 rushing yards per game. Cooked topped 1,000 yards in 16 games and scored an eye-catching 18 total touchdowns. The Broncos had the third-best run defense in the NFL in 2024, allowing 96.4 yards per game, but Sunday will be a tough matchup.

2. Bo Nix’s first playoff game: Nix had a brilliant rookie season, but he now needs to take the next step and play at a high level on the sport’s big stage. He’s certainly saying all the right things. “[W]e can go further than just the playoffs,” Nix said Wednesday. “I don’t want to be handcuffed by just making it just because we haven’t done it in so long. If we’re going to make it, we might as well go win some games.” You said it, rook.

3. Broncos’ pass rush vs. Josh Allen: Denver’s defense led the NFL with 63 sacks this season (a new franchise record), but they haven’t met an offensive line like Buffalo’s — or a QB like Allen — thus far. The Bills allowed a league-low 14 sacks in 2024. Fortunately, history is on the Broncos’ side:

4. Sean Payton against a bald coach: Payton is 30-12 (.714) against bald head coaches since 2017, which is a good sign going into Sunday’s game against Sean McDermott. OK, meme stats aside, the Payton vs. McDermott showdown is intriguing after the Broncos won 24-22 in Buffalo last season.

5. Von Miller playing against his old team: Miller has made it clear that he still has plenty of love for Denver and the Broncos, but he’ll be looking to win on Sunday. Miller is chasing a third Super Bowl ring with his third team and he’s coming into the postseason hot with a sack in each of Buffalo’s last two games. Nix, meanwhile, was sacked 24 times in 2024, tied for the third-lowest total in the league. This game — like most — will be decided in the trenches.

Sunday’s game will be nationally televised on CBS. Playing on the road, Denver is considered a big underdog against the Bills.

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Broncos vs. Chiefs: 5 things to watch for on Sunday

The Broncos will host the Chiefs in their regular season finale. Here are five storylines to watch for going into the game.

The Denver Broncos (9-7) are set to host the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 18 of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here are five storylines to watch for going into the game.

1. Carson Wentz vs. Broncos’ defense: The Chiefs will be resting key starters in Denver, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, so Wentz is set to start against the Broncos. Wentz threw four touchdown passes when the Philadelphia Eagles beat Denver 51-23 during the 2017 season. That was, of course, a different offense and a different Broncos defense. This year, Denver’s squad ranks sixth in takeaways (25), fifth in points allowed (19.4 per game) and first in sacks (58). Wentz last started in Week 18 for the Los Angeles Rams last season, completing 70.83% of his passes for 163 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Wentz has a career win-loss-tie record of 47-45-1.

2. Courtland Sutton’s push for 1,000 (and incentives): Sutton is 17 yards away from a 1,000-yard season, which would make him the team’s first receiver to hit that mark since 2019 (when Sutton had 1,112 yards). Additionally, Sutton is 82 yards away from 1,065 receiving yards, which is his target mark for a $500,000 bonus. Don’t be surprised if quarterback Bo Nix looks Sutton’s way often on Sunday.

3. Riley Moss bouncing back: In his first game back from a knee injury last week, Moss struggled in coverage against Tee Higgins. Moss owned up to the poor performance after the game and he did not blame his injury, but it’s fair to wonder if he was back on the field perhaps a little too early. Now with another week of recovery, Moss will look to bounce back against the Chiefs in Week 18.

4. Bo Nix vs. Kansas City’s defense: When the Broncos played the Chiefs on the road in Week 10, Nix went 22-of-30 for 215 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. KC won on a last-second field goal block, but Nix put his team in position to win the game. He is now set to face a Chiefs defense that could be missing a few key starters, so Nix will be expected to have another strong performance.

5. Denver’s push for the NFL playoffs: The Broncos have already posted their first winning season since 2016. Now they can clinch a spot in the NFL playoffs for the first time since 2015 with a win or tie against Kansas City. Playing in front of their home fans in their beautiful throwback uniform, Denver will look to end its eight-year playoff drought.

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS (view the TV map). With the Chiefs resting starters, the Broncos are considered favorites in Week 18.

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Broncos vs. Bengals: 5 things to watch for on Saturday

The Bengals are set to host the Broncos on Saturday. Here are five things to watch for in Week 17.

The Cincinnati Bengals (7-8) are set to host the Denver Broncos (9-6) in a Week 17 showdown with massive playoff implications for both clubs. Here are five quick storylines to keep an eye on going into Saturday’s game.

1. NFL’s sack title: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson currently leads the NFL with 13.5 sacks. Broncos OLB Nik Bonitto is tied for fourth with 11.5 sacks (Bonitto also has two defensive touchdowns this fall). If he’s going to have a shot at winning Defensive Player of the Year, Bonitto will likely need to lead the league in sacks. Cincy QB Joe Burrow has been sacked 37 times this fall, tied for ninth-most in the NFL. Denver QB Bo Nix has been sacked 22 times (26th-most).

2. Broncos running back rotation: After Audric Estime led the Broncos in carries (nine) and rushing yards (48) and scored his first NFL touchdown last week, coach Sean Payton said he wants to see more of the rookie going forward. Denver also promoted rookie Blake Watson from the practice squad to the 53-man roster this week, and Tyler Badie (back) opened his window to return from injured reserve. Jaleel McLaughlin returned from a quad injury this week and Javonte Williams remains the team’s best blocking and receiving back, so Estime, Williams and McLaughlin figure to be the top three RBs against the Bengals. It remains to be seen in what order, though.

3. Pat Surtain vs. Ja’Marr Chase: QBs who have targeted Surtain this season have posted a combined passer rating of 39.1, which is worse than their rating would have been had they spiked the ball into into the ground each play (39.6). Chase, meanwhile, leads the NFL in catches (108), receiving yards (1,510) and receiving touchdowns (16). PS2 vs. Chase will be a huge matchup, one that just might decide the game.

4. Bo Nix’s big opportunity: Cincinnati’s defense has allowed 359.9 total yards per game, fifth-most in the NFL. They allow the seventh-most passing yards (231.6) and the fifth-most points per game (26.2) in the league. Hendrickson has had a strong individual season, but collectively, the Bengals’ 30 sacks are the sixth-fewest this year. On paper, this matchup is a good opportunity for Nix to have a big game and go blow-for-blow against an explosive Cincy offense. One area where the Bengals do rank well is turnovers — their 23 takeaways rank eighth in the NFL. After throwing five interceptions in a two-game stretch, Nix protected the ball well against the Los Angeles Chargers last Thursday. He’ll need another clean performance in Cincinnati.

5. NFL playoff implications: The Bengals need to win on Saturday to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Broncos need one win or a tie over the next two weeks to clinch their first playoff berth since 2015. “We have to get to 10 [wins],” Payton said this week. “That’s the first thing. We have to get to 10, let’s focus on that. All our preparation, everything we do — Courtland [Sutton] just said it best, ‘We put ourselves in this position. Let’s take advantage of it.’” If Denver fails to beat or tie Cincy, the AFC’s playoff race will come down to Week 18.

Saturday’s game will be televised on NFL Network. Denver is considered an underdog playing on the road this week.

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5 things to watch for when the Broncos host the Colts in Week 15

The Broncos are set to host the Colts on Sunday. Here are five things to watch for in Week 15.

The Denver Broncos (8-5) are set to host the Indianapolis Colts (6-7) in Week 15 of the 2024 NFL season in a game with massive playoff implications in the AFC. Ahead of Sunday’s showdown, here are five quick storylines to keep an eye on leading up to and during the game.

1. Denver’s cornerback rotation: Riley Moss (knee) seems unlikely to play this weekend and Levi Wallace was a disaster in his place in Week 13. Might the Broncos turn to rookie Kris Abrams-Draine this week? Josh Downs (shoulder) has returned to practice for the Colts and Indy’s offense also features Michael Pittman, Alec Pierce and Adonai Mitchell. Denver needs to get the cornerback rotation right against a talented group of Colts receivers.

2. Containing Colts QB Anthony Richardson: He’s had his share of struggles as a passer, but Richardson has a big arm and dangerous legs. The 22-year-old quarterback has rushed for 383 yards and four touchdowns through nine starts this season, picking up 28 first downs along the way. The Broncos have a brilliant group of pass rushers, but the unit will need to be careful to not get too far upfield and allow Richardson to get outside of the pocket and beat them around the edge.

3. Broncos’ rushing attack: Jaleel McLaughlin has been the team’s most productive running back in their last two games, but Denver will likely continue its committee approach against Indy. The Colts allow 147 rushing yards per game, second-most in the NFL. That’s good news for McLaughlin, Javonte Williams and rookie Audric Estime. Building an early lead and running over Indy’s defense could be a winning game plan on Sunday.

4. Denver’s defense vs. Jonathan Taylor: The Colts also have a productive rushing attack. With one of the NFL’s best rushing quarterbacks and an elite running back in Taylor, Indy has averaged 118.8 rushing yards per game this season. The Broncos’ defense, meanwhile, has allowed 94.7 rushing yards per contest. Denver’s defensive line against the Colts’ offensive line will be one of the most important matchups in Week 15.

5. Bo Nix coming out of the bye week: For the first time in his career, Nix is set to play an NFL game coming out of a bye week. He should be well-prepared as coach Sean Payton is 10-6 coming off a bye in his career, including a 24-22 win over the Buffalo Bills last season. Nix has totaled 3,148 all-purpose and 22 total touchdowns through his first 13 games in the NFL. This week, he’ll look to build on those totals against an Indy defense that has allowed the fourth-most yards (379.4) per game this season.

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS (view the TV map). Playing at home, the Broncos are considered favorites against the Colts.

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Broncos vs. Browns: 5 things to watch for in Week 13

Here are five storylines to watch for when the Broncos host the Browns on ‘Monday Night Football’ in Week 13.

The Denver Broncos are set to host the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football on Dec. 2. Here are five quick storylines to watch for going into the game.

1. Drew Sanders status and role: Sanders was activated from the PUP list earlier this week. Now there are two questions: 1) will he play on Monday and 2) what position will he play? Sanders began last season as an inside linebacker out of necessity but later moved to outside linebacker and the Broncos hinted this spring that he would play as an OLB in 2024. Denver has plenty of depth on the edge, though, and they could use help at ILB. We’ll see what kind of role Sanders has on Monday (assuming he plays).

2. Jerry Jeudy’s return to Denver: Jameis Winston taking over as Cleveland’s starting QB was good news for Jeudy, who has totaled 24 receptions for 379 yards and one touchdown over the last four games. The receiver will undoubtedly have something to prove against his former team on Monday.

3. Broncos running back rotation: Over the last three weeks, Audric Estime, Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin have led the team’s backfield in rushing yards once each. It’s nearly impossible to predict how the RB rotation will shake out, but it looks like a good matchup for Denver on paper. The Browns are allowing 130.6 rushing yards per game, ninth-most in the NFL.

4. Denver’s offensive line vs. Myles Garrett: The Broncos held up well against Garrett last year, limiting him to just two tackles and no sacks. Garrett has just 1.5 sacks in four career games against Denver, a number he’d like to improve in Week 13. The Broncos’ offensive line ranks No. 1 in pass protection this fall, but Garrett will be a big test.

5. Broncos’ defense vs. Jameis Winston: Denver ranks 11th with nine interceptions this season and the unit’s 44 sacks rank No. 1 in the NFL. Winston has thrown four interceptions through four starts with the Browns and he’s been sacked 12 times. Monday could be a big day for the Broncos’ defense.

Monday’s game will be nationally televised on ESPN. Playing at home, the Broncos are considered favorites in Week 13.

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Broncos vs. Raiders: 5 things to watch for in Week 12

The Broncos will go on the road to face the Raiders in Week 12. Here are five things to watch for on Sunday.

The Denver Broncos (6-5) will go on the road to face the Las Vegas Raiders (2-8) in Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here’s a quick list of five storylines to watch for leading up to the AFC West showdown.

1. Denver’s running back rotation: It appeared that Audric Estime might be taking over as the new RB1, but Javonte Williams quickly put that notion to rest by leading the backfield in touches last week. So, what will the backfield rotation look like going forward? It’s tough to predict — especially if the Broncos ride the hot hand — but it seems that Williams is still the lead back with Jaleel McLaughlin and Estime rotating in behind him.

2. Brock Bowers vs. Broncos’ defense: When Denver played the Raiders in Week 5, rookie tight end Brock Bowers totaled eight receptions for 97 yards and a touchdown. Bowers has been a bright spot for a struggling Las Vegas squad in recent weeks, and he will be a tough test for the Broncos’ secondary. “You can see how they made it a point of emphasis to give him the ball in any spot and any position,” cornerback Pat Surtain said. “They even have him at ‘X’ [receiver] backside and at his tight end spot at the ‘Z.’ He is playing all positions, and they are utilizing him very well. It will be a good challenge for us.”

3. Maxx Crosby vs. Denver’s offensive line: The Broncos beat the Raiders 34-18 earlier this season, but Bowers and defensive lineman Maxx Crosby were both problems for Denver. Crosby ended the day with two sacks and he now has 15.5 sacks in 11 career games against the Broncos. “It’s important [to know where he is at],” quarterback Bo Nix said. “He’s a really good player. He played well last time we played him even though he was a little banged up. I’m sure he’s going to be fresh and ready to go this game. One thing about him is his motor never stops. He’s a hard-working player. He plays every snap really hard, and he tries to get in everyone’s head. That’s just the type of style he is and the player he is. He’s really good. One of the best in the league.”

4. Broncos QB Bo Nix chasing history: Denver’s quarterback has been setting multiple franchise rookie records this fall and he needs just one touchdown on Sunday to break the team’s rookie passing record of 14 (he’s currently tied with Marlin Briscoe). Going up against a Las Vegas defense that allows 327.8 yards and 28.5 points per game, Bo Nix might be poised to have another big performance in Week 12.

5. Denver’s seeking first-ever win in Las Vegas: Since moving to the desert in 2020, the Raiders are 4-0 against the Broncos at Allegiant Stadium. “I’m excited to go [there for] a road divisional game,” Nix said. “They’re always a lot of fun. I know it’s an important game. It’s going to be an awesome atmosphere. It’s going to be a fun game. They’re going to have a good team. They’re going to be ready to go. Playing them again, I think it’s going to be a good game. I’m excited for the opportunity we have. Any divisional games are always important.”

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on Fox (view the TV map). The Broncos are considered the favorite despite playing on the road.

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Broncos vs. Falcons: 5 things to watch for in Week 11

The Denver Broncos are set to host the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Here are five storylines to watch for in Week 11.

The Denver Broncos (5-5) are set to host the Atlanta Falcons (6-4) in Week 11 of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here’s a quick list of five storylines to keep an eye on this week.

1. Justin Simmons returns to Denver: Simmons, of course, spent the first eight years of his career with the Broncos before being cut and joining the Falcons this offseason. He expects to hear some boos when he returns to Empower Field at Mile High, but fans in Denver will likely greet him with a warm welcome instead.

2. Denver’s defense vs. Kirk Cousins and Co.: Vance Joseph’s unit ranks fifth in total yards allowed per game (295.7), third in points allowed (17.7) and second in sacks (35) this season. This week, Denver’s defense will face a Falcons offense that ranks fifth in total yards per game (375.1) and fourth in passing yards (250.4). Atlanta’s 124.7 rushing yards per contest rank 12th as Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier have proven to be a dynamic backfield duo. 

3. Broncos running back rotation: Last week, rookie Audric Estime appeared to take over as the team’s new lead running back. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi downplayed that on Thursday by saying the team was riding the “hot hand.” Denver head coach Sean Payton seems to be a big fan of Estime, though, so we expect him to continue leading the way on carries. Javonte Williams will likely remain the RB in passing situations because he is the best blocking and receiving back on the team, and Jaleel McLaughlin will continue to offer a chance-of-pace option. 

4. Alex Forsyth’s field goal protection: The entire kicking unit will be scrutinized this week after a blocked field goal cost the Broncos a win against the Kansas City Chiefs last week. Nobody will be watched more closely than lineman Alex Forsyth, who was culpable for the block in Kansas City. Denver special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica seems confident it won’t happen again.

5. Bo Nix vs. Falcons’ defense: Atlanta has a talented secondary that includes Simmons, but they struggle to get after quarterbacks. The Falcons have a league-low nine sacks this season and they have allowed the ninth-most passing yards per game (223.4) this fall. The stats suggest that Sunday could be a big game for Nix. Coming off a strong performance against the Chiefs, Nix will look to continue making strides against Atlanta. 

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on Fox (view the TV map). Playing at home, the Broncos are considered slight favorites in Week 11.

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Broncos vs. Chiefs: 5 things to watch for on Sunday

Here are five things to watch for when the Chiefs host the Broncos on Sunday.

After facing the Baltimore Ravens on the road last week, the Denver Broncos are now set to take on the Kansas City Chiefs on the road this week.

The Broncos lost to the Ravens 41-10 and coach Sean Payton must now attempt to stop the bleeding before going up against a division rival.

“Listen there’s a little bit of UFC to our league,” Payton said this week.
“You’ve got to be able to, each week, I don’t care who you’re playing, if you’re not careful you can catch one on the chin. You’ve got to get back up and you’ve got to get back to work.

“That gets back to that mental toughness, the grit, all the things that we’re looking for. Not only in our players, but our coaches and everyone. You get excited to play the next game to hopefully get the taste out of your mouth.”

With the team looking to bounce back from last week’s defeat in Baltimore, here are five storylines to watch for ahead of the Denver vs. KC matchup.

1. Weekend roster moves: The Broncos have seven players set to return to the 53-man roster in the coming weeks, and they’ll have to make some cuts to make room for the returning plays. Denver has one open spot on the active roster after trading pass rusher Baron Browning to the Arizona Cardinals, but the team will probably need to create at least one more opening this weekend. Center Luke Wattenberg and linebacker Kwon Alexander seem to be likely candidates to get activated to the 53-man roster on Saturday.

2. Denver’s center decision: With Wattenberg expected to return, the Broncos will need to make a decision at center. Wattenberg started the first five games of the season before landing on injured reserve with an ankle injury. Alex Forsyth started the last four games while Wattenberg was on IR. Will the team now stick with Forysth or go back to Wattenberg?

3. Broncos backfield rotation: The Chiefs allow just 83.9 rushing yards per game, third-fewest in the NFL this season. That will be a tough test for starter Javonte Williams and change-of-pace back Jaleel McLaughlin. Payton also hinted this week that rookie Audric Estime could be more involved in the second half of the season.

4. Pat Surtain vs. DeAndre Hopkins: It didn’t take long for “Nuk” to get on the same page with Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. In his second game after being acquired from the Tennessee Titans via trade, Hopkins hauled in eight receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns in Week 9. Hopkins is still a formidable receiver, especially in the red zone. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Surtain follow Hopkins on Sunday.

5. Bo Nix connecting on deep throws: Despite playing with Troy Franklin in college, Nix has struggled to connect on deep throws to Franklin this season. Facing a Chiefs secondary that ranks near the middle of the pack, Nix will undoubtedly aim to get on the same page with Franklin this week. Going up a stingy run defense, Nix will need to step up for Denver’s offense to have success on the road.

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS (view the TV map). Playing at home, KC is considered a heavy favorite against the Broncos.

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Broncos vs. Ravens: 5 things to watch for on Sunday

Here are five storylines to watch for when the Ravens host the Broncos on Sunday.

The Baltimore Ravens (5-3) are set to host the Denver Broncos (5-3) in Week 9 of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here are five storylines to keep an eye on going into the AFC showdown.

1. Final injury report: Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (back/knee) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday, and Broncos safety P.J. Locke (thumb) and right tackle Mike McGlinchey (knee) are also sidelined. If Jackson can’t play, Josh Johnson would be the next man up for Baltimore. Devon Key is Locke’s backup and Alex Palczewski is McGlinchey’s backup. The final injury reports for both teams will be released on Friday.

2. Denver’s defense vs. Derrick Henry: Historically, Henry has not had as much success against the Broncos as other teams. In four career games against Denver, Henry has 77 carries for 239 yards (a modest 3.10 yards per carry average) and no touchdowns. The Broncos have never faced Henry in this Ravens offense, however, and the star running back is on pace for the second 2,000-yard season of his career.

3. Last game before the trade deadline: The NFL’s trade deadline is Tuesday and it’s possible that Sunday could mark the final time a player suits up for the Broncos. One player in particular to keep an eye on is pass rusher Baron Browning, who has been frequently mentioned as a trade candidate in recent weeks.

4. Containing Lamar Jackson: If he does play, Jackson will be one of the toughest tests Denver’s defense faces this season. Jackson has completed 66.9% of his passes for 2,099 yards with 17 touchdowns against just two interceptions this fall. The two-time NFL MVP also has 501 rushing yards and two scores on the ground. The Broncos’ defense will need to keep him in the pocket and count on the secondary to win their matchups in coverage.

5. Bo Nix vs. Ravens secondary: Coming off the best game of his career, Nix will face a Baltimore defense that has allowed 291.4 passing yards per game, most in the NFL. Nix downplayed that stat this week by noting that the Ravens build leads and force teams to throw against them, but he didn’t mention the fact that teams have been able to throw against Baltimore. On paper, this is a good matchup for Nix, and the offense will need to count on him as the Ravens allow a league-low 69.9 rushing yards per game. If the Broncos are going to get an upset win on the road, Nix will need to have a big day.

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS (TV broadcast map). Playing on the road, Denver is considered a big underdog in Week 9.

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5 things to watch for when Broncos face Buccaneers in Week 3

Here are five things to watch for when the Broncos face the Buccaneers in Week 3.

The Denver Broncos (0-2) are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0) in Week 3 of the 2024 NFL season. Here are five things to keep an eye on during Sunday’s game.

1. Denver’s new right tackle: After losing Mike McGlinchey to a knee injury, the Broncos will start Alex Palczewski at right tackle. “Palcho” will be making the first start of his NFL career after filling in for an injured McGlinchey for two snaps last week.

2. Other lineup changes: Denver coach Sean Payton hinted this week that we could see personnel changes against the Bucs. Payton did not say where the changes would be made, but all of the team’s skill players (wide receivers, tight ends and running backs) have underwhelmed through the first two games of the season.

3. Establishing a ground game: Javonte Williams and Co. have struggled to find success on the ground through the first two games of the season. This week, the Broncos will face a Bucs defense that has allowed 277 rushing yards (14th-most). Denver needs to get its rushing attack back on track.

4. Pat Surtain vs. Mike Evans: Broncos star cornerback Pat Surtain is expected to follow Tampa Bay’s Mike Evans on Sunday, an elite-on-elite matchup. The Bucs also have Chris Godwin, but he usually plays in the slot, so he’ll likely be matched up against Ja’Quan McMillian.

5. Bo Nix’s quest for improvement: Nix took small steps forward in his second game, but he has yet to throw his first touchdown pass in the NFL. After throwing two interceptions in each of his first two games, can Nix protect the ball and find the end zone on Sunday?

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