Broncos Set Sights on AFC West Title with Showdown Against Jaguars
The Denver Broncos find themselves on the precipice of clinching the AFC West title and potentially securing the top seed in the conference. However, to achieve this milestone, they will need to navigate through a challenging matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this week. Winning this game is crucial, as it will set the stage for a possible clinching opportunity on Christmas Day against their archrivals, the Kansas City Chiefs.
Yet, the task at hand is anything but simple. The Jaguars, who have proven to be a formidable opponent, present a significant hurdle for the Broncos. Over the course of their impressive 11-game winning streak, the Broncos have consistently met at least one of the bold predictions outlined for each game. As the saying goes, “the proof is in the pudding,” and achieving even one of these predictions could significantly enhance Denver’s chances of victory.
Broncos Aiming for Low Pressure Rate Against Jaguars
To secure a win, the Broncos must keep the Jaguars’ pressure rate under 25%. Currently, Jacksonville boasts a season-average pressure rate of 33.9%, ranking 20th in the NFL. In contrast, the Broncos have excelled in protecting their quarterback, allowing a mere 27.5% pressure rate, which is the third-lowest in the league. Although the Broncos have managed to keep their opponents below this threshold in six games this season, they have seen their average pressure rate creep above 30% since Week 9.
The Jaguars’ defense is not to be underestimated, as they have only allowed a pressure rate below 25% on three occasions this season. One of those instances occurred just last week against the New York Jets. For the Broncos to achieve this bold prediction, their offensive line will need to rise to the occasion.
Bo Nix Aiming for 300 Yards and 3 Touchdowns
In another key prediction, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix needs to surpass 300 passing yards and throw for three touchdowns against the Jaguars. This feat has only been accomplished against Jacksonville’s defense three times this season. Notably, only once have they allowed both 300 yards and three touchdowns in a single game, which occurred in Week 2.
Nix has demonstrated his capability by surpassing 300 yards in three games this season and throwing at least three touchdown passes in three games as well. The only game in which he achieved both milestones was against the Green Bay Packers, whose defensive strengths and weaknesses mirror those of the Jaguars.
Broncos Defense Eyes a Sacking Spree
The Broncos’ defense will also be key in their pursuit of victory. They are set on sacking Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence five times in this matchup. Jacksonville has allowed at least five sacks in three games this season, all against teams with solid pass-rushing capabilities. However, the Broncos bring a unique depth and talent to their defensive line that could prove advantageous.
Denver has recorded at least five sacks in five games this season, and they are in hot pursuit of the single-season sack record of 72. With only three games remaining, they are just 15 sacks shy of breaking that record. A strong performance against the Jaguars’ offensive line could put them back on track.
Broncos Aim for Multiple Takeaways
Generating takeaways will be another focal point for the Broncos. With the defensive pressure they can apply, opportunities for turnovers may arise. The Jaguars have committed 16 turnovers this season, although they have tightened up their play recently. Lawrence has not thrown an interception or committed a fumble in the last three games, and as a team, the Jaguars have only recorded two fumbles during that span. This trend could indicate a false sense of security, which the Broncos could exploit for crucial takeaways.
A Penalty-Filled Encounter Ahead
Finally, the matchup is likely to be marked by penalties, as both teams are among the most penalized in the NFL. The Broncos and Jaguars have combined for over 229 penalties and more than 2,000 penalty yards this season. With Shawn Hochuli and his crew officiating—known for their tendency to call numerous penalties—fans should prepare for a lengthy game filled with flags.
As the Broncos gear up for this pivotal clash against the Jaguars, the stakes are high. With bold predictions on the line, each player will play a significant role in determining whether Denver can take a giant leap toward the AFC West crown.
