Denver Broncos to Watch vs. Miami

Nov 16, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Tre Mason (27) breaks the tackle of Denver Broncos strong safety Quinton Carter (38) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The phrase “must-win game” is thrown around way too much in sports.

In most cases it’s lazy.

It’s used to drive up interest when there is none. It’s used to get people riled up.

To use another cliche, it’s like the boy who cries wolf. When the wolf does show up, no one believes it.

The wolf has shown up for the Denver Broncos.

Whether the rest of Broncos Country wants to admit it, this is a must-win for the Broncos.

Win this game against the Miami Dolphins and not only is Denver in control of the AFC West with five games to go, it still can get the No. 1 seed and home field advantage in the playoffs.

If the Broncos lose this game … let’s not go there.

Denver has to play a complete game – in all aspects, from every facet of the team. Coaches to players, Denver can ill afford another mentally and physically challenged effort.

No stupid penalties.

No mistakes on special teams.

Execute.

Dominate.

In other words, the Broncos (7-3) have to play as they did against the Arizona Cardinals. Do that, and they will flush the embarrassment in St. Louis out of their system.

Here are the five Denver players to watch against the Dolphins (6-4).