Week fifteen finds the Denver Broncos in a must-win situation; read what they must do to secure a win against the New England Patriots.
The Denver Broncos by no means are out of the playoff race, but they definitely have a monumental task ahead of them over the next three weeks if they hope to be one of the six teams in the AFC that move on to see who represents the AFC in Super Bowl XLI. First up on the list, is the New England Patriots! For my thoughts on this game, as well as the other week fifteen games featuring AFC West teams, please continue reading.
New England Patriots at Denver Broncos
I don’t care how the Broncos do it, but they must find a way to win this game! Win, and the “Broncos playoff run” continues; lose and chances this team gets into the playoffs look very bleak, if not dead.
The Broncos offense has to start early. It is frustrating to watch the offense sputter for half to three-quarters of the game, and then sometimes come to life. If there is a game the Broncos offense needs a complete game, it is this game.
While I am not a fan of Tom Brady, he is a great quarterback so to keep him on the bench will be a huge key. Plus, long sustained drives by our offense will keep the Broncos defense rested. I can’t imagine how tired the Broncos defense is when they only get three plays to rest.
Sure, the defense for the Broncos doesn’t appear to be as strong as last year but in my biased opinion, they are good enough to compete for the conference championship. That being said, they will have to bring their A-game on Sunday if the Broncos want to send New England home with a loss.
Prediction: Denver 28; New England 10 – My analysis comes true – the Broncos offense has breakout day and totally dominates from the opening kickoff, allowing the rested Broncos defense to totally shut down Tom Brady and the mighty New England Patriots.
Tennessee Titans at Kansas City Chiefs
I will keep this short and simple – it is going to be cold in Arrowhead (forecast high at kickoff in Kansas City is 5 degrees). I hope the cold impacts both teams and takes the crowd of it (or maybe keeps them at home).
With a trip to Arrowhead next up on the docket for the Broncos, I am hoping Tennessee is able to get their second consecutive win against the AFC West.
A win by the Titans may bring the Chiefs, some of their fans, and some media members back down to earth a bit – you listen to some and Chiefs should already start planning for trip to Houston, Texas for the Super Bowl.
Prediction: Tennessee 16; Kansas City 6 – the weather does impact the game. A mistake by the Kansas City Chiefs allows the Titans to secure the victory.
Oakland Raiders at San Diego Chargers
Coming off the Kansas City loss, and long rest, the Raiders come out and totally manhandle the Chargers. Oakland has everything to play for, the Chargers are trying to salvage a season, if possible, and are unsure where home will be next year.
Derek Carr rebounds nicely, and his receivers prove they prefer Southern California in December instead of Kansas City, Missouri at night and catch more passes than they drop. So, will Jack Del Rio let his team see the score of the early Titans/Chiefs game considering the division is still undecided?
Prediction: Oakland 38; San Diego 17 – Derek Carr throws for 300+ yards while Philip Rivers throws multiple interceptions!
Enjoy the game Broncos Country!
Go Broncos – beat the Patriots!