When the Broncos run
Denver took a huge step backward with its running game against San Diego. It’s too early to question whether Devontae Booker can truly replace , but the “nonexistent” running game clearly bothered coach . The Raiders may provide an opportunity to get back on track as they have the fifth-worst run defense in the NFL, allowing 125 yards per game. Edge: Broncos
When the Raiders run
Oakland’s run game and pass game both rank in the top eight. is the Raiders’ lead back, but Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington are also talented and receive touches. Denver’s overall defense has excelled, but its run defense is leaky at times, allowing 117.4 yards per game, which ranks 24th. Big run plays and quarterback scrambles have plagued them the most. Edge: Raiders
When the Broncos pass
Denver’s passing game success typically correlates to how well it runs the football. Kubiak admitted ‘s decision-making waned in his last game vs. Chargers and the Broncos can’t count on the near interceptions remaining the same. The Raiders spent a lot of money in the offseason on their defense, but they haven’t seen many results yet. They only have 11 sacks. Edge: Even
When the Raiders pass
had the 20th 500-yard passing game in NFL last week in a win over Tampa Bay. It’s the second time this season the Broncos are facing a passer fresh off a 500-yard passing game (Atlanta’s was the other). and are one of the better receiving duos in the NFL. Still, the Broncos have the highest ranked pass defense and are tied for the NFL lead in sacks. Edge: Broncos
Special teams
Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski has had a rough season, having missed five field goals. Broncos kicker is having a solid season, having made 16-of-18. Raiders punter Marquette King is one of the best in the league. Broncos punter Riley Dixon has been inconsistent, but boomed his best punt of the year in the clutch last week. Edge: Broncos
3 keys to a Broncos win
- Take, don’t give
Oakland (plus-7, fourth) and Denver (plus-5, sixth) have terrific turnover margins and it’s a big reason why both teams are 6-2. The Broncos have won a NFL-best 27 consecutive games when winning the turnover battle. Denver is tied for the NFL lead with 16 takeaways, which it has turned into a league-high 80 points. It could decide the game again Sunday.
2. Play with urgency and discipline
The battle for the AFC West lead and appearing on Sunday Night Football should be enough to motivate the Broncos, but with a struggling offense falling behind early isn’t a recipe for success. Denver has been snakebitten by penalties, particularly on offense, but Oakland has been far worse, easily leading the league. They had 23 penalties last week, most in NFL history.
3. Contain Khalil Mack
The Broncos remember vividly their only loss to the Raiders in their last nine matchups, a 15-12 defeat at home last December. Raiders’ defensive end Khalil Mack terrorized the Broncos’ offensive line for five sacks. Mack has begun to heat up after a slow start (five sacks in eight games), but right tackle Donald Stephenson can’t let him take over the game.
