Packers vs Broncos Week Three Preview

How Are Their Seasons Going?

The Denver Broncos season has not turned out the way they’ve wanted it to so far. Starting 0-2 is not ideal, but a silver lining is they should be 1-1. After taking the lead with 31 seconds left, the Chicago Bears were able to start their drive with a bogus roughing the passer call that moved the ball up 20 yards. Five plays later, Chicago kicked a game winning field goal as time expired. Although the Broncos offense hasn’t been bad, their defense is not helping them at all. Posting zero sacks, interceptions, and forced fumbles in two games is not ideal when you have two elite pass rushers and an all-pro corner.

Key Matchups

Emmanuel Sanders vs Jaire Alexander

Emmanuel Sanders had a big game last week vs Chicago, posting 11 catches for 98 yards and a touchdown. Jaire has mostly shut down whoever he’s matched up with and although he doesn’t have an interception yet, he has dropped a handful of potential picks and is looking to get his first this week.

Davante Adams vs Chris Harris Jr

Chris Harris Jr is one of the leagues better corners. Traditionally he has played in the slot but this year he has been used to shadow opposing teams number one receivers. Adams had a good game last week and being able to get open vs Harris Jr will be key to the offense moving the ball.

David Bakhtiari and Bryan Bulaga vs Von Miller and Bradley Chubb

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Bryan Bulaga has only allowed 1 pressure on his last 182 pass-blocking snaps. With Bulaga on the right side and all pro tackle David Bakhtiari on the left, Miller and Chubb will need to be playing their best to get to Rodgers.

Aaron Rodgers vs Vic Fangio

Vic Fangio knows Aaron Rodgers very well, as Fangio was the Chicago Bears defensive coordinator from 2015-2018. Fangio’s defenses have mostly played Rodgers very well, and with some elite players in Denver, he hopes to attack Rodgers all day. Though, in two career games vs Denver, Rodgers is 43/60 for 485 yards, six total touchdowns and only one interception. It’ll be two masterminds, who know each other very well, going back and fourth.

Prediction

Although the tackles have been good for the Packers, the offensive line has been vulnerable up the middle. Look for Fangio to move Miller and Chubb around to find mismatches to try and get some pressure. Rodgers and the new offense showed improvement and with another week, they should be even better. I don’t expect a blow out, but I think the Packers will start 3-0 with a 30-20 win.

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