Predominantly Orange
FanSided

Division Preview: AFC West

By Aric Manthey

Jun 6, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; The Vince Lombardi Trophy and an honorary jersey rest on a table prior to a ceremony honoring the Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos in the Rose Garden at The White House. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 6, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; The Vince Lombardi Trophy and an honorary jersey rest on a table prior to a ceremony honoring the Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos in the Rose Garden at The White House. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 5
Next

2nd Place: Oakland Raiders

2016 Record Prediction: 9-7

Explanation: The idea of the Raiders having a winning record makes my stomach turn but at the same time, I can’t ignore the facts. The Raiders have put together a young and competitive roster that can compete in this division for many years going forward.  The ingredients for this team are in place.

Young QB on the rise- Check

Jun 9, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet of defensive end Justin Tuck (not pictured) at minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet of defensive end Justin Tuck (not pictured) at minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Dynamic talent at the skill positions- Check

A young and consistent Offensive Line- Check

Premiere pass rusher- Check

Clutch specialists- Check

Experienced coaching staff- Check

Yes, Oakland can no longer be considered as “pushovers”.  While I don’t expect them to overtake the Broncos for the division in 2016, I do see them making a strong push and possibly, a playoff berth.

So with all of that said, this leads me to ask one important question to Broncos Country.. Are you excited to have the Bronco-Raider rivalry re-ignited? I know, the answers on this will vary.

We’ve always had a heated rivalry with the Raiders, but I just feel like the rivalry is at its zenith when both teams are legitimate playoff contenders.  Whether we want to admit it or not, the greatest threat to the Broncos sixth consecutive AFC West title is the Raiders.  Do I think they’re a Super Bowl contender? Not quite, but there’s no doubt that they are a vastly improved team that can finish with a winning record and a playoff berth in 2016.

Next: Next

Home/Broncos News