Key Matchups
Broncos Running Backs vs. Oakland front seven
Royce Freeman and Phillip Lindsay combine to run for 142 yards in the season opener. Perhaps the Broncos found the running attack that they have been searching for. Sure, C.J. Anderson ran for 1,000 yards last season. But having two running backs that can run the ball can be trouble for opposing teams. The Raiders allowed around that many yards against the Rams on Monday. Sunday might be a long day for them.
Broncos Edge Rushers vs. Raiders Offensive Line
The Denver Broncos might have something going here with their pass rushers. Von Miller recorded three sacks, Shaquil Barrett recorded another one. Rookie Bradley Chubb got in on the sack party with half of a sack.
While the Raiders offensive line only allowed one sack, there was a ton of pressure on Derek Carr for the majority of the game. If the Broncos can provide that kind of pressure, it will be a long day for Carr.
X-Factors
Todd Davis
The big issue with the Denver Broncos on defense is their coverage when it comes to tight ends. In Oakland’s loss to the Rams, Carr threw for 303 yards. 180 of those yards went to tight end Jared Cook. If the Los Angeles Rams learned anything, they need to cover the tight end position.
This is one of Denver’s glaring weaknesses, Todd Davis will need to be on top of his game if the Broncos hope to slow down the tight end position and get the win.
Jared Cook
If Todd Davis cannot slow down Jared Cook, he could have a field day against the Broncos defense. The Broncos have struggled in a big way on covering tight ends. They allowed Seattle’s rookie tight end Will Dissly to accumulate 105 yards and a touchdown on just three catches. Allowing that against a rookie is simply uncalled for.
If Denver can’t contain Cook, he will have a field day against the Broncos.