Rams @ Broncos
Graham Tiedtke
The Broncos host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday after another horrible loss on the season, this time to the New York Jets.
Los Angeles has the top-scoring offense in the league. That is likely going to pose problems for the Denver Broncos.
Denver allowed New York to run all over their defense, giving up 219 yards on 15 carries (14.6 yard average) to just one of the Jets’ running backs, Isaiah Crowell.
Now comes one of the top running backs in the league in Todd Gurley. Gurley is averaging 4.2 yards per carry so far this season, while generating 415 yards on 101 carries.
The Rams also have quarterback Jared Goff, as well as receivers Brandin Cooks and Cooper Kupp. Cooks and Kupp both suffered concussions last week, and their status for the game is unknown, but if I had to guess, I would think at least one of the two would play.
The Broncos also allowed rookie Sam Darnold to toss three touchdowns through the air.
The Rams also have some stars on defense, especially their defensive line: Ndamukong Suh and Aaron Donald.
Former Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib, who signed with the Rams this past offseason, will not play due to injury, which is huge.
On paper, this looks like the type of matchup where the Broncos might get humiliated.
Rams 38, Broncos 17
Baylor Bradac
The Denver Broncos (2-3) will welcome the red hot LA Rams (5-0) at Mile High. I don’t even know where to begin with this one.
LA is a premier team in the league this year and demands respect from its opponents. The Rams lead the NFL in overall offense and passing, paired with a top 10 defense and rushing attack.
The Broncos are second in the NFL in rushing. If Denver wants ANY hope of winning this game, run the ball. Run the ball hard, and in their face, and don’t give up on it.
The only edge the Denver Broncos have on the Rams is a great running attack. Wear down the defense and force them to respect the run, and receivers will open up over the top. Do this and hope it’s enough.
For the Rams, they need to focus on scoring early. Put the ball in Todd Gurley’s hands to fight off the pass rush, and use the talent receiving core against a thin Denver secondary.
If they can put Denver in a hole and force them to move the ball through to air, and let Suh and Donald go nuts on Keenum, this game will be an easy win.
Rams 31, Broncos 17