Broncos Host Raiders in Key AFC West Showdown Thursday Night

The Denver Broncos will face the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium, with kickoff set for 18:15 local time. The Broncos, currently holding a strong record of 7-2, will be looking to extend their winning streak against a struggling Raiders team that stands at 2-6.

Historically, the Broncos have faced challenges against the Raiders, with a series record of 55 wins, 72 losses, and 2 ties in 129 encounters. Nonetheless, Denver secured victories in both matchups last season, largely due to the standout performances of quarterback Bo Nix, who threw for five touchdowns and zero interceptions against Las Vegas.

The spotlight for this game will be on how the Broncos manage without their star cornerback, Pat Surtain II, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. His absence is significant, as defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has typically relied on Surtain to neutralize opponents’ top offensive threats. Last season, Surtain effectively contained Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, limiting him to just four catches for 38 yards in their second matchup.

Bowers, however, has returned to form after a knee injury sidelined him for three games. He exploded onto the scene in a recent overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, recording 12 catches for 127 yards and three touchdowns. His resurgence indicates a formidable challenge for the Broncos’ defense, especially in Surtain’s absence.

“His healthiest and best game was last week,” said Joseph, acknowledging Bowers’ impact on the Raiders’ offensive strategy. Under head coach Pete Carroll, the Raiders have shifted their offensive approach, utilizing multiple tight-end sets to maximize Bowers’ skills.

Bowers, standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 240 pounds, presents a unique challenge in both size and speed. The Broncos will likely deploy rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron to cover Bowers, as he has shown promise in recent games, allowing only four catches on eight targets for 74 yards against tight ends. The performance of safeties Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga will also be critical in containing Bowers and providing additional support.

In evaluating the matchup, both teams have strengths and weaknesses on both sides of the ball. The Broncos’ ground game has been solid, averaging 133.6 yards per game, which ranks seventh in the league. However, the Raiders’ defense has been effective against the run, allowing only 3.9 yards per carry, placing them sixth overall in this category.

When it comes to passing, both teams have experienced inconsistency this season. Nix has struggled at times but has the potential to deliver strong performances, particularly against a Raiders secondary that has given up high quarterback ratings. The Broncos’ offensive line will need to protect Nix effectively, especially from edge rusher Maxx Crosby, who remains a constant threat.

The Raiders’ running game has also been a mixed bag. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has faced challenges but can be explosive if given the opportunity. Denver’s defensive line, known for its ability to stifle opposing ground attacks, will need to maintain that momentum.

As the teams prepare for this critical AFC West clash, key statistics highlight the stakes. The Broncos rank third in total defense, allowing just 279.9 yards per game, while the Raiders sit at 19th with 333.4 yards allowed. The Broncos also boast a solid points allowed per game average of 18.4, compared to the Raiders’ 26.3.

In special teams, the Broncos have encountered issues, particularly with their return units. However, their punter, Jeremy Crawshaw, has performed well as of late. Meanwhile, Raiders returner Raheem Mostert leads the league in average yards per kickoff return, posing a potential threat.

Coaching strategies will play a significant role in the outcome. Carroll’s experience as an all-time great contrasts with Broncos head coach Sean Payton, who has navigated his team through a successful season thus far. The Broncos have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, while the Raiders are still in the early stages of a rebuild under Carroll.

As both teams look to capitalize on the matchup, predictions suggest a favorable outcome for the Broncos. Analysts have projected a score of 31-13 in favor of Denver, citing their recent performance and the Raiders’ struggles.

As the Broncos aim to solidify their playoff position, this Thursday Night Football game promises to deliver excitement and intensity as they seek to build on their successful season against a Raiders team desperate for a turnaround.