Broncos Seek Seventh Consecutive Win Against Struggling Raiders on TNF
As the Denver Broncos gear up for a Thursday night showdown, the stakes are high. With their sights firmly set on extending their six-game winning streak, the Broncos will host the Las Vegas Raiders, who are looking to play spoiler during this key divisional matchup.
The Broncos’ Primetime Challenge
Sean Payton’s squad returns to primetime for Week 10, facing the 2-6 Raiders at Empower Field. The Broncos’ current six-game winning streak ties them with the New England Patriots for the longest active streak in the NFL, a testament to their impressive turnaround this season. The team will sport their nostalgic ’77 Throwback uniforms, a style they have thrived in, boasting a perfect 3-0 record while wearing them this year.
Last week, the Broncos managed to hold off the Houston Texans, grinding out an 18-15 victory to maintain their lead over the Los Angeles Chargers in the AFC West. Meanwhile, the Raiders are reeling from a narrow 30-29 overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, highlighting their struggles and signaling a shift towards rebuilding as they sit at the bottom of the division.
Raiders in Rebuild Mode
In a surprising move, the Raiders traded away key wide receiver Jakobi Meyers just before the NFL’s trade deadline, receiving future draft picks in return. His departure exacerbates the challenges for Las Vegas as they attempt to find their footing this season. The Raiders’ offense is currently among the worst in the league, averaging a mere 283.3 yards per game and scoring only 16.5 points per game, leaving them vulnerable as they face a formidable Broncos defense.
The Broncos will need to be particularly vigilant against second-year tight end Brock Bowers, who has emerged as the primary target for quarterback Geno Smith. Bowers, who recently dazzled with 12 catches for 127 yards and three touchdowns against the Jaguars, poses a significant threat. His ability to exploit defenses has already shown dividends this season, and Denver’s linebackers, including Alex Singleton and Dre Greenlaw, will need to put forth their best efforts to contain him.
Key Matchup: Bolles vs. Crosby
As the Broncos prepare for battle, one critical matchup to watch will be between Denver left tackle Garett Bolles and Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. The Raiders have consistently refused to trade Crosby, who remains a cornerstone of their defense. This season, he leads Las Vegas with five sacks and has proven himself a versatile player, excelling in both run defense and pass coverage.
Bolles, the Broncos’ longest-tenured player, will be tasked with keeping Crosby at bay. In their past encounters, both players have showcased their talent, but Bolles has been particularly effective this season, allowing just two pressures in his last game against Houston. The Broncos’ offensive line has performed admirably, allowing only nine sacks throughout the season, a stark contrast to the Raiders’ defensive struggles.
Looking Ahead
With the Broncos riding high and the Raiders in disarray, the stage is set for an electric TNF matchup. The Broncos’ defense will need to rise to the occasion and neutralize Bowers while Bolles must hold his ground against Crosby. As both teams vie for supremacy in this heated rivalry, the outcome could have lasting implications for their respective seasons. The Broncos are poised for a seventh straight victory, but the Raiders, despite their struggles, will undoubtedly be eager to reclaim their pride.
