Denver Broncos set sights on AFC West title in pivotal matchup with Jaguars
Last week, the Denver Broncos made headlines as the first team in the NFL to secure a playoff spot, triumphing over the Green Bay Packers with a 34-26 victory at home. This win not only extended their remarkable winning streak to 11 games but also solidified their position as the top seed in the AFC following the New England Patriots’ first loss since Week 3, which snapped their impressive 10-game run.
High-stakes clash in Denver
Now, with a record of 12-2, the Broncos are gearing up to host the 10-4 Jacksonville Jaguars in a crucial second consecutive home game against a formidable playoff contender. Denver has been nearly unbeatable at home this season, boasting an unblemished record of 7-0. This marks the Broncos’ second straight year clinching a postseason berth, but they have their sights set on more than just participation.
A victory against Jacksonville could not only secure the AFC West title but also ensure the No. 1 playoff seed, provided the stars align. For that to happen, the Los Angeles Chargers, currently at 10-4, would need to lose or tie, alongside defeats for both the Patriots and the Buffalo Bills.
Jaguars arrive riding high
The Jaguars, on the other hand, come into Denver with a five-game winning streak, holding a narrow one-game lead over the 9-5 Houston Texans in the AFC South. Their recent performance has been nothing short of dominant, exemplified by a 48-20 rout of the New York Jets, who currently sit at 3-11. This matchup marks the final meeting for the Broncos against an AFC South opponent this season, with Denver holding a 2-1 record against the division so far.
Significance of the matchup
Sunday’s game carries substantial implications for both teams in the AFC playoff race. For the Broncos, the opportunity to clinch the division title for the first time since 2015 is within reach. Head coach Sean Payton is also determined to secure home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, making it clear that the path to the Super Bowl will run through Denver.
As the Broncos prepare for this vital clash, they must remain focused and not underestimate the challenge posed by the Jaguars. In light of this high-stakes matchup, it’s essential to examine three critical factors that could lead Denver to its 12th consecutive victory.
