5 Bold Broncos Predictions vs. Raiders on TNF

The Denver Broncos have the not-so-fearsome Las Vegas Raiders coming to town on a short week. Still, the Raiders are a divisional opponent, and such rivalry games are almost always challenging.

Even though the Raiders have had a terrible season, the Broncos can’t overlook them, even with the Kansas City Chiefs coming up afterward.  

These two teams have met often, with the Raiders holding the series lead at 76-56-2. However, after an eight-game losing streak, the Broncos have bounced back, winning both games last season, and they need to carry that over into this year. 

The Broncos currently lead the AFC West race, but they have already lost to the Los Angeles Chargers in their lone divisional game thus far. Beating the Raiders would keep the Broncos at the top of the division without putting them in a 0-2 hole. It would also give the Broncos a 2.5-game lead over the Chiefs, with Kansas City on a bye and coming to Denver next week. 

In this Thursday night game against the Raiders, the Broncos should be able to get close to these bold predictions, but if they reach them, it’ll mean they're walking out with their seventh straight win. Now, let's get to the bold predictions. 

Broncos Rush for 175-Plus Yards

Twice this season, the Broncos have rushed for at least 175 yards, while the Raiders have only allowed it once, though they have allowed two additional games over 150 yards. On a short week, Denver could place extra emphasis on running the ball, as the Raiders will be playing at altitude with less rest. So, the Broncos could use the run game to wear down the Raiders. 

With how inconsistent the Broncos' passing offense has been, there may be even more emphasis put on the run game. When the Broncos can run the ball, the offense shows more consistency, so they need to come out and establish the run, then stick with it.

As a result of doing exactly that, Denver breaks the 175-yard mark, with J.K. Dobbins eclipsing 100 yards once again, becoming the first Broncos running back to do that in a single season since Melvin Gordon in 2021. 

Bo Nix Gets Fewer Than 10 Pressures

Maxx Crosby is a threat, but the Raiders have struggled to generate pressure outside of him. Only two other defenders have double-digit pressures, and as a team, the Raiders have hit double-digit pressures in a game only twice this season. 

The Broncos have found more balance inside with their pass protection, and Garett Bolles continues to play at an All-Pro level as the best left tackle in the NFL so far this season. However, the Broncos have allowed four games to hit 10-plus pressures this season. 

With Crosby as the main threat, the Broncos can focus on him to keep him from taking over the game. Denver is also able to rely on the ground game to keep the pass rush on their heels. 

Broncos Generate 6 Sacks & a 55-plus % Pressure Rate