Sunday’s Game is a Huge Turning Point for the Denver Broncos

Nov 10, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) gives a thumbs up to fans as he leaves the field after the Broncos defeated the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

With Peyton Manning slightly hobbled by an ankle injury, it’s fair to say that Broncos fans are eager to see what Sunday night will bring as the Broncos play host to the Kansas City Chiefs, the league’s last remaining undefeated team and right now, the Broncos’ most hated division rival.

The intensity of the game will be significantly ramped up because both teams are very good, the entire nation (or world) will be watching, and because of the implications this game has on the AFC West divisional race, which is looking like it could come down to a photo finish.

Despite the big picture fact that neither team will likely miss the playoffs, the enormity of this game cannot be ignored for either side. For the Chiefs, it’s not as big of a deal because, well, they have yet to lose a game and still have a home game against the Broncos on the first of December. For the Broncos, this game couldn’t be bigger.

Facing two tough road tests after this game by going to New England and then going to Kansas City for major in-conference games, the Broncos must win on Sunday at home against Kansas City if they want home field advantage in the playoffs.

Last year, home field didn’t seem to make much of a difference for the Broncos, but aside from Indianapolis, it looks like it’s going to be cold for the Broncos throughout the postseason, no matter where the games are being played.

I’m going to put this next sentence in bold to showcase my over-excitement here. This is the biggest game of the year for the Denver Broncos.

Yep. I’m not one to over-react to one game throughout the course of the season, but this home game against the Chiefs is a must-win game for Denver to get Kansas City at least a reality check and put some pressure on them to win in the second half of the season, so Denver can take back the AFC West divisional lead.

I realize it’s just one regular season game, but there’s so much more at stake here. If Kansas City wins this game, they essentially take a 2.5 game lead over the Broncos with Denver having road games against New England and KC coming up.

Does that sound like an ideal scenario to you? Me either.

The Broncos have to beat the Chiefs, and I believe that they will. Not because I underestimate the Chiefs, discredit their hot start, or think they are simply that much lesser than the Broncos. I just believe that the Broncos are the better team, they are playing at home, and this is a must-win scenario for a well-coached, well-prepared team that will do whatever it takes to get the W.

I just hope it’s not at the expense of our quarterback.

Anybody else on the edge of their seat already?