Sep 3, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Shaquil Barrett (48) and linebacker Shane Ray (56) tackle Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson (27) in the first quarter of a preseason game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
X-Factors
Brock Osweiler
I do not think I need to explain how big of a game this will be for Brock Osweiler. That reason alone is why he will be one of the X-Factors for the game. Depending on how he handles his first career start will answer these three questions.
Is he the quarterback of the future for the Broncos?
Would the Broncos be comfortable rolling with Osweiler for an extended period of time?
Can he provide the spark for the Broncos offense that they have been looking for?
If he can answer these questions, then there is no doubting that things will go well for the Broncos. I am a firm believer in him and I am certain that he will get the job done.
Shane Ray
With Demarcus Ware still out with a back injury, I am going to turn my attention to Shane Ray. Von Miller and Shaquil Barrett have done tremendous in the defense set up by Phillips. For a first round pick, I have not heard a lot from Ray.
In his rookie year, Ray has only recorded five tackles and two sacks. He was out for an extended period of time this season with an MCL sprain. With his first game action since the injury, I look for Ray to have a huge game on Sunday.
Hopefully he will record at least one sack and help Miller and Barrett disrupt Cutler for the game. I believe he will step up and make a huge difference.