Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs has been…read more
The Denver Broncos are set to host the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High for their regular-season finale on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 2:25 p.m. MT. This matchup marks the Broncos’ final opportunity to secure a spot in the playoffs for the first time since 2015. Denver enters the game following two consecutive road losses, which leaves them needing a victory to stay in the playoff race.
Denver’s offense, which has been efficient this season, is currently ranked 10th in the league for points scored per game. Quarterback Bo Nix, a rookie, is expected to continue leading the charge. In Week 17, Nix delivered a strong performance, completing 24 of 31 passes for 219 yards, three touchdowns, and a passer rating of 114.9. His performance helped keep the Broncos competitive, and they’ll look for him to build on this momentum in the regular-season finale. Nix will likely benefit from the protection provided by his offensive line, which has allowed just 24 sacks this season, tying them for the third fewest in the NFL. With ample time in the pocket, Nix will be looking to distribute the ball to Denver’s key playmakers.
One of those playmakers is wide receiver Courtland Sutton, who is just 17 yards away from reaching his first 1,000-yard season since 2019. Sutton has been a key target for Nix all season, recording a team-leading 76 receptions and seven touchdowns in 2024. If the Broncos win on Sunday, Nix would make history, joining the legendary John Elway as the only rookie quarterbacks in Broncos history to lead their team to the playoffs in a season where they were also the leading passer.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Broncos are hoping to finish the regular season on a high note. Denver’s defense has been one of the league’s most dominant units, ranking first in the NFL with 58 sacks, setting a franchise record for sacks in a season. Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, who was recently selected for his first Pro Bowl, leads the team with 11.5 sacks. Bonitto will be a key player in Denver’s defensive game plan as the Broncos look to pressure the Chiefs’ offense.
In Week 18, it’s expected that veteran quarterback Carson Wentz will be starting for the Chiefs. The Broncos’ defense will need to capitalize on any potential mistakes made by Wentz, who is still adjusting to his new team. Defensive lineman Zach Allen will be looking to apply significant pressure on Wentz. Allen recorded a career-high 3.5 sacks in Week 17 and is currently leading the NFL with 39 quarterback hits this season. The Broncos are hoping Allen can disrupt Wentz’s rhythm and make key plays that could turn the tide in Denver’s favor.
In the secondary, cornerback Pat Surtain II has been one of the league’s top performers in 2024. Surtain has allowed the lowest passer rating among the 120 cornerbacks with 25 or more targets as the closest defender in coverage. His exceptional coverage skills will be critical as the Broncos try to shut down the Chiefs’ potent passing attack, which includes stars like wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Surtain’s ability to neutralize key targets will be a major factor in the Broncos’ defensive strategy.
This game represents a huge opportunity for the Broncos to not only secure a much-needed win but also potentially make a playoff push. With a strong performance from both the offense and defense, Denver could end their regular season with a victory that propels them into the postseason, marking a significant achievement for the franchise. With the combined efforts of Nix, Sutton, Bonitto, Allen, and Surtain, the Broncos are hoping to make a statement as they face off against a divisional rival in what could be a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 season.
