Broncos Game Preview: vs. Raiders Week 14

Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib (21) reacts to a personal foul penalty on him following a punt in the second quarter against the New England Patriots at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

X-Factors

Emmanuel Sanders

With the Raiders front seven pretty solid, Brock Osweiler will need to find Sanders early and often. Last week, he was a nonfactor in the passing game as he only recorded three receptions for 19 yards.

This was after he came off a 100+ yard receiving performance against the Patriots. So, I can foresee Sanders having a solid game for the Broncos. In the last meeting, he recorded 111 yards on nine receptions. Maybe lightning will strike twice.

Sanders always finds a way to bounce back after a subpar game the week before. I would not be surprised to see him do some damage against a Raiders pass defense that ranks near the bottom.

Aqib Talib

Talib will be instructed to defend the rookie Amari Cooper. We have not heard a whole lot from Talib since his pick six against the Cleveland Browns and then his “eye poking” incident in Indianapolis. But he has made some big plays when needed.

This game would be perfect for him to make some noise once again. With the Broncos bringing in the top pass defense in the league, combine with a young quarterback, it could spell some huge plays to come for the secondary. This would be especially true if Carr is going to look Cooper’s way.

Next: Prediction