Patriots v.s. Broncos Preview

After what seems like the longest Patriots bye week ever, we still need to wait til Sunday night to watch them square off with the Broncos in Denver.  This rivalry seems like its dwindling down with the lack of talent in Denver this year.  This defense is still not to be taken lightly, regardless of how many points the Eagles scored on them last week.

As badly as I want this to be an easy blowout win, that pass rush, and the cornerbacks on the Broncos say otherwise.  With a depleted Patriots receiving corp, they are going to need to have a strong running game this week to be successful.  Chris Harris matches up too well with Brandin Cooks, and it’ll be tough for Amendola to get open being the other main viable option in the offense.  Phillip Dorsett will need to step up and make a few plays.  Gronk and the running backs will be the key factor for big plays in this game.  With no more TJ Ward, nobody stands a chance against him.  The running backs are always uncoverable, and we can’t forget the addition of Martellus Bennett.  Although he may not play with a torn rotator cuff.

When the Pats are on defense, this game looks like a blowout.  The Broncos are starting Brock Osweiler again, and that worked out so well last week.  The secondary is gonna look good for the first time all year thanks to that.  Their receiving corp is just as unhealthy as the Patriots, and it doesn’t really even matter when the QB can’t get them the ball.  The running backs have been decent this year, and the defense might have some trouble with Devontae Booker.  I could see AJ Derby scoring in this game too, just because that’s what happens when we trade away guys like him.

This shouldn’t be close, and Denver has looked awful for most of this year.  It probably will be a little too close for comfort though because that’s just what happens when these two teams meet.  24-20 Patriots.

Written By: Jake Kobierski (@TheRealKobe83)