Denver at Jacksonville
11 a.m., Alltell Stadium, KCNC-4
KOA 850 AM and
KBNO 1280 AM (Spanish)
Latest line: Jaguars by 4
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RUN THE BALL
Rushing to improve
Denver’s offense came alive Monday night in a 30-10 victory over Kansas City. The offense awakened because the running game was productive throughout the game. Denver’s offense is dangerous when the run game sparks the attack. The Jaguars have a tough run defense, so finding that groove will be difficult.
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OVERVIEW
Home playoff cookin’
The Broncos have long talked about the importance of getting a home playoff game, which would be the first in the five-year history of Invesco Field at Mile High. For a team that has made the playoffs three times in the past six seasons, only to be bounced in first- round road defeats, a home postseason game may be the answer.
To ensure a home playoff date and their first AFC West title since 1998, the Broncos must win tough road games such as today’s.
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PLAY PATIENT
Don’t drop the ball
This game could be just like the second week last season in Jacksonville, when the Jaguars won 7-6. Denver moved the ball well on offense and played great defense, but it made key mistakes. The game ultimately was lost when running back Quentin Griffin fumbled at the Jaguars’ 21 before Jason Elam had a chance to attempt a game-winning field goal that obviously was well within his range.
The Jaguars are better this year, so Denver will have to work hard to stay with them. Denver must not push it on offense and make mistakes. This is a winnable game, but Denver can’t force the issue.
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FRESH PERSPECTIVE
Sticky situation
It is likely to be hot and humid today in Jacksonville, and the Broncos have had problems in such sticky situations. In their season opener at Miami on Sept. 11, the Broncos couldn’t do anything offensively and the defense wilted in the second half, with some players needing IVs during the game. It was a loss sponsored in part by the weather. Conditions shouldn’t be as brutal today, but could be a factor. Denver’s players, especially on
defense, need to stay aware and keep their legs for a game that likely will
be in doubt in the fourth quarter.
Staff writer Bill Williamsoncan be reached at 303-820-5450
or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
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After two impressive AFC West home victories, the 2-1 Broncos have turned their fortunes around and appear to be in good shape. So no must-
win business hangs over them today, as it did the past two weeks. They will attempt to win at Jacksonville for the first time and in the state of Florida for just the third time in team history. The Broncos don’t have to beat the Jaguars. But it would be a good idea. Broncos reporter Bill Williamson analyzes what the team needs to do to win at Jacksonville today.
