Denver Broncos vs. Oakland Raiders Week 12 Preview
By Tylor Walden
The Denver Broncos and Oakland Raiders face off for the second time this season. I take a look at the game, determine key matchups, and much more.
If the Denver Broncos are going to have any hope at reaching the postseason, they will most likely have to win out and get some help. The same can be said about the Oakland Raiders. Both teams, who were supposed to be battling for the AFC West title, are in the cellar.
Who would thought at this point in the season that the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers would be leading the way. It is what it is. The important thing for the Broncos to do is get off this losing streak and take care of business. It all starts with their biggest rivals.
However, there will be a new quarterback under center for the Broncos. It was announced that Paxton Lynch will be making his season debut against the divisional rivals. Lynch will most likely start the rest of the season. So, he has six games to prove himself.
If he succeeds, it is likely the Broncos will roll with him going forward. If not, the quarterback position will be something to address in the offseason.
Luckily, Paxton Lynch will be going up against a Raiders secondary that has yet to intercept a pass all season. (knock on wood) As long as Paxton just clears his head and makes smart decisions, it could be a win.
Let us take a look at the tale of the tape between these two teams.
Key Matchups
Paxton Lynch vs. Raiders defense
Derek Carr vs. Broncos Defense
What to Watch For
How Does Paxton Lynch do in his first start since Jacksonville?
This is going to be the biggest test not only for Paxton Lynch, but for the Broncos organization. Is Paxton Lynch ready to take the reigns and play like a first round draft pick? He had a lot of time to learn the system. And it appears as if his shoulder is fully healed.
I would not be surprised to see him struggle a bit. The team might have to go through some growing pains with Paxton Lynch. But if he can show that he can be a franchise quarterback by the season’s end, then there could be some hope yet.
Who gets out of the cellar?
The Broncos and Raiders are two of the proudest teams in the league. It has been some time since Denver has been in this situation. Oakland has shown promise from last season, but it is not looking good for them.
No matter what the records are, expect this game to be a nitty-gritty battle between two long standing teams.
Prediction
This game is going to be tough to call with Paxton Lynch starting this game. I expect him to make some plays, but there could be some struggles too. Luckily, the Raiders have dealt with their own struggles too.
Like the first game, I believe this will be a low scoring affair. I think a simplified playbook for Lynch will help quite a bit. This will come down to defense. And Denver’s defense is going to come out looking for a reason to get back to the Orange Crush and Super Bowl defense they have been looking for.
Broncos 13 Raiders 10
Next: What I Am Thankful For as a Denver Broncos fan
Game Information
Map Courtesy of 506sports.com:
If you are in the BLUE, you will get the Broncos vs. Raiders game.
Who: Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
When: Sunday November 26th, 2017
Where: Oakland Coliseum
Time: 4:25 PM EST/2:25 PM MST
TV Station: CBS
Announcers: Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon