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Week One Predictions: Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers

By Jared Hill

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 30: Quarterback Trevor Siemian #13 of the Denver Broncos throws a pass while outside linebacker Melvin Ingram #54 of the San Diego Chargers tries to block it down in the second quarter of the game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 30, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 30: Quarterback Trevor Siemian #13 of the Denver Broncos throws a pass while outside linebacker Melvin Ingram #54 of the San Diego Chargers tries to block it down in the second quarter of the game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 30, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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Melvin Gordon
DENVER, CO – OCTOBER 30: Running back Melvin Gordon #28 of the San Diego Chargers carries the ball for 17 yards in the fourth quarter of the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 30, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /

Andy Tallon: Broncos 20, Chargers 17

GAME PREDICTION

Football is finally upon us, and I couldn’t be happier! On Monday, our Broncos open up the year at home against the Chargers. This match up will promise to be a defensive battle, as these two squads both boast talented defenses and key playmakers to disrupt each other’s gameplans.  Due to the defensive firepower on each side, I anticipate a low scoring, close ballgame. Each offensive line will be tested as the strength of each team is in their elite edge rushers, evidenced by Von Miller of Denver and Joey Bosa of Los Angeles. Three and outs will be abundant in this match, with the winning field goal coming off the foot of Brandon McManus in the fourth quarter.

BOLD PREDICTION

As I have stated above, defense will shine during this closely contested game. The Broncos will look to continue their streak of dominance as the Chargers attempt to climb the rank of defensive prowess. While there will be sacks, tackles for loss, and even an interception or two, my bold prediction lies with the Broncos’ run stoppers:

Melvin Gordon, the Chargers’ stud third year tailback, will NOT rush for a touchdown or 100 yards in this game.

For a back that gained nearly 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns just a year ago, Gordon has been impressive in his young career. The Broncos will be confronted with this task, as I am sure the defense will see a heavy dose of Gordon throughout the night.

Bottling up a successful back like Gordon would be a huge accomplishment for a Broncos’ team that did not rank high in run stopping a year ago. I believe that this team has the capability of doing so, and if they do, it will set the tone for this unit and their expectations over the course of the season.

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