Predominantly Orange
FanSided

Broncos Game Preview: vs. Chargers Week 17

By Tylor Walden

Dec 6, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) is defended by San Diego Chargers cornerback Steve Williams (23) and cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) during the fourth quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) is defended by San Diego Chargers cornerback Steve Williams (23) and cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) during the fourth quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next
Emmanuel Sanders
Dec 28, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) runs with the ball past wide receiver Jordan Norwood (11) after catching a pass during the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

Key Matchups:

Phillip Rivers vs. Broncos Front Seven

Perhaps the only positive thing the Chargers have going for them this season is Rivers’ efforts in the passing game. They currently rank fourth in the pass. But he will have to deal with a Broncos defense that can dial up the pressure.

Rivers did not fair well against the Broncos in the last meeting, especially when Wade Phillips blitzed the quarterback. He did finish with over 200 yards, but no touchdowns for his team. However, he did throw one touchdown to the Broncos by virtue of a pick six.

The key for the Broncos here is to put pressure on Rivers. Because he can make mistakes when under pressure. I foresee a heavy dose of Von Miller and Demarcus Ware with a dash of Shaquil Barrett and Shane Ray.

Broncos Wide Receivers vs. Chargers Secondary

Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders both have reached 1,000 yards receiving for the season and have caught 171 passes from their quarterbacks combine.

Both men will be a challenge for the Chargers secondary, who have lost Eric Weddle for the year and the possibility of Jason Verrett missing the game with a hamstring injury.

Look for both of the receivers and players like Jordan Norwood, Bennie Fowler and company to have a solid day catching the football. A depleted secondary is not a good thing for a team. The Broncos know this first hand.

Next: X-Factor

Home/Broncos News