Key Highlights
- Raiders and Broncos set for Week 10 prime-time matchup in the AFC West.
- Brock Bowers’ return to full health could be a game-changer for Raiders offense.
- Denver Broncos seek to extend their win streak to seven games against last-place Las Vegas Raiders.
- Raiders defense has struggled over the past month, while Broncos have been impressive in key areas of play.
Raider-Bronco Showdown: Key Storylines for Thursday’s Game
The NFL’s Week 10 schedule is packed with compelling matchups, but none will capture the nation’s attention quite like the Raiders vs. Broncos game on Thursday night. This primetime encounter in Denver presents three critical storylines that could shape the outcome and impact both teams’ seasons.
Nixing Success in the Fourth Quarter
The Broncos offense has been a study in contrasts this season, with quarterback Bo Nix often finding success late but dawdling early. In the first three quarters of games, Nix averages 5.8 yards per attempt, with an 81.6 QB rating and a balanced touchdown-to-interception ratio. However, when the fourth quarter arrives, those numbers jump dramatically to 6.9 YPA, a 7-1 TD-INT ratio, and a 105.3 rating.
This disparity is particularly concerning for Denver as it seeks to extend its win streak to seven games.
Sean Payton, the Broncos head coach, recognizes this issue and wants his team to start faster in the early stages of games. The Raiders defense, which has struggled over the past month, will have a crucial role in limiting Nix’s late-game effectiveness if Denver is to secure victory.
The Return of Brock Bowers
Brock Bowers’ return from injury could be pivotal for the Raiders offense. Despite playing with a painful knee and bone bruise, Bowers contributed significantly against the Jaguars, racking up 127 yards on 12 catches (13 targets) and scoring three touchdowns. Even at less than full strength, his presence on the field has been beneficial, as the Raiders averaged 124.1 more yards per game with him in the lineup.
With Geno Smith’s performance improving alongside Bowers’ return, the Raiders have a potent offensive weapon. However, their path to victory remains challenging given the Broncos’ formidable defense and the loss of key players like Patrick Surtain II.
A Different Denver Defense
The absence of cornerback Patrick Surtain II has altered Denver’s defensive strategy significantly. For much of the season, the Broncos have relied heavily on man coverage, which could present new challenges for their defense in defending Bowers and the Raiders’ offense. According to Next Gen Stats, when Surtain was on the field, the Broncos played man-to-man 44.2% of the time; without him, this number drops to 27.7%.
This shift may lead to more zone coverage, which could be advantageous for Bowers if he excels in breaking down defensive schemes.
Despite these changes, Denver’s pass rush remains a formidable force, with the team boasting 40 sacks and allowing only 279.9 yards per game. The Raiders’ quarterback Geno Smith has seen his sack rate nearly halve over the past five games compared to the first three, indicating that the Broncos may have found an effective way to limit his effectiveness.
The upcoming matchup is not just a battle of two teams; it’s also an opportunity for the Broncos to solidify their position atop the AFC West and demonstrate sustained offensive success. For the Raiders, it’s a chance to pull off an upset against a formidable opponent and potentially revive their season. The interplay between these storylines will be crucial in determining the outcome of this thrilling Thursday night showdown.
