Denver Broncos on the Brink of AFC West Glory Against Struggling Commanders
The Denver Broncos stand at a critical juncture in their pursuit of AFC West dominance. With the opportunity to control their own destiny, the Broncos must capitalize on their chances, a feat they have often struggled with in seasons past. This year, the stakes are high; they cannot afford to rely on other teams’ misfortunes in the playoff race. A favorable matchup against the 3-8 Washington Commanders offers a pathway to a potential 10-2 record, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal game.
RJ Harvey Poised for a Big Game
As the Broncos gear up for this encounter, all eyes will be on running back RJ Harvey, who could exploit the Commanders’ vulnerabilities. Denver’s game plan may shift to emphasize the passing attack, particularly through Harvey, in what is anticipated to be a rainy matchup. Although Harvey has faced challenges as a runner, his ability as a receiver out of the backfield has been impressive, providing him an opportunity to elevate his game. With the Commanders’ defensive struggles, Harvey is in prime position to showcase his value as a legitimate threat in the passing game.
Bo Nix Takes the Lead in a Rainy Showdown
Questions surrounding the Broncos’ rushing game loom large, especially with inclement weather in the forecast. The coaching staff may turn to quarterback Bo Nix to bolster the ground attack. Utilizing run-pass options and designed quarterback runs, Nix could emerge as the leading rusher for Denver, racking up over 50 yards on the ground. In what might be a challenging night for traditional rushing, the Broncos might rely on quick passes and screens as an extension of their running game, adapting to the conditions and looking for efficiency.
Defensive Dominance: Broncos Target Marcus Mariota
The Commanders have managed to protect their quarterback well this season, ranking 10th in sack rate and 15th in pressure rate. However, when pressure does materialize, the likelihood of a sack increases significantly. With defensive coordinator Vance Joseph’s ability to dial up simulated pressures, the Broncos’ pass rush is expected to make its presence felt against Marcus Mariota. Despite a slight dip in production over recent weeks, the Broncos’ defense has the potential to overwhelm Mariota, leading to multiple sacks and shifting the momentum of the game.
Holding the Commanders Under 200 Yards
The Broncos’ defensive prowess is underscored by their ability to limit opponents’ offensive output; they have held teams under 200 yards on four occasions this season. In contrast, the Commanders have not yet been restricted below this mark, with a season-low of 230 yards. While the Commanders have faced formidable defenses, they have struggled offensively, especially in adverse conditions. With rain expected, the Broncos’ relentless defensive approach could further stifle the Commanders and keep them from finding any offensive rhythm.
Special Teams Making Strides
In a potential game-changer, the Broncos’ special teams have shown improvement in recent weeks after a rocky start to the season. They have already managed to block a punt, and another can be expected against the Commanders. This added layer of pressure can shift the dynamics of the game, giving the Broncos the edge on all fronts.
As the Broncos prepare to clash with the struggling Washington Commanders, the implications of this matchup extend beyond the field. A victory would not only inch them closer to their playoff aspirations but also serve as a testament to their resilience and ability to seize opportunities when they matter most.
