Denver Broncos: Key matchups vs. the New England Patriots

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 01: Jerry Jeudy #10 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a touchdown against the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 01: Jerry Jeudy #10 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a touchdown against the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 01: Jerry Jeudy #10 of the Denver Broncos catches a pass for a touchdown against Pierre Desir #35 of the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2020, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 01: Jerry Jeudy #10 of the Denver Broncos catches a pass for a touchdown against Pierre Desir #35 of the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2020, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Matchup 1: Jerry Jeudy and Tim Patrick vs. the Patriot Secondary

I know…I picked two players but hear me out.

It is time for the Broncos to really unleash Jerry Jeudy this week. Jeudy has shown an uncanny ability to make big plays downfield.

As he displayed Thursday night, Jeudy has the talent to be a WR1 in the NFL.

Jeudy is a plus route runner already, and he is only four games into his NFL career. Last week, he maximized only four targets and should be in line to get closer to his average of 7.

Additionally, The Patriots’ defense leaves something to be desired when it comes to yards per attempt. The Patriots give up some big plays, and with Stephon Gilmore out, the Broncos have a chance to get a few big plays.

Tim Patrick flat out balled out last week with 6 grabs for 118 yards and a TD. I would not be surprised if he does it again this week. The Patriots lack the size to defend him, so he has an advantage outside for either Rypien or Lock.

The Patriots run primarily man coverage, so recognizing the defense should be easier for either of the Broncos QB options unless Belichick wants to come out with something different for the Broncos QB’s.

If Jeudy and Patrick can establish themselves outside, the Broncos have a real chance to win on Sunday.