Nov 1, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos offensive guard Louis Vasquez (65) and center Matt Paradis (61) and guard Evan Mathis (69) at the line of scrimmage in the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Packer 29-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Key Matchups
Raiders Wideouts vs. Broncos Secondary
Without T.J. Ward in the lineup, the Denver Broncos will have the task of going up against Derek Carr and the Raiders wideouts Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree (who just signed a new extension this week.) The Broncos secondary did a good job in the last meeting limiting both receivers to 47 and 54 yards respectfully.
Just like in Week 5, it will be the secondary’s job to limit them once again. If the front seven can get some pressure on Derek Carr, look for the secondary to take some of those forced throws and return them in the other direction.
The Broncos secondary is one of the best in the business when it comes to passing defense. Let us see if they can pull off another solid performance against their AFC West rivals.
Broncos Offensive Line vs. Raiders Front Seven
If the Broncos are going to get anything going on offense, it is going to come down to the offensive line. While they have performed well recently, they are going to need to step it up in order to get this running game going and to keep Brock Osweiler upright.
The Raiders were able to get to Manning twice in the last meeting and we all know Osweiler holds on to the football longer than Manning. So, the offensive line needs to hold their blocks and also create some holes for a running game that is pretty banged up.
The Raiders rank near the middle in run defense, so this might not be so easy. But teams have found success running the ball. So, it will come down to who executes the play better.
Next: X-Factors