To say that the upcoming Thursday Night contest is irrelevant would be an understatement. For the Denver Broncos (9-3), who have already clinched a Playoff berth and a division crown in the weak AFC West, Thursday’s matchup against a struggling Raider squad has little significance in the minds of the Bronco team. The Manning led Broncos continue to dominate opponents week in and week out, and look to be a force to be reckoned with when the Postseason arrives. The only factor that stands between the Broncos and a deep Playoff run is the ability of the key Denver players to stay healthy.
For the (3-9) Raiders, the season has not gone as planned. Injuries to Darren McFadden have forced Oakland to throw the ball on almost everyday, eliminating the deception of offensive play calling. The upside for this Raider team is the re-emergence of Carson Palmer, and the production of his favorite targets, TE Brandon Meyers and WR Denarius Moore. Despite the poor record, which is primarily due to inconsistent defensive play, the Raiders do have some optimism heading into next season. In what will be the second NFL Draft since the passing of former owner Al Davis, the Raiders may have a legitimate shot to contend by adding the necessary pieces in the off-season.
Though the Raiders have a solid team on paper, the game is played on the field, where the Broncos will have the distinct advantage. It will be interesting to see what Head Coach John Fox does with his team on Thursday Night. Though Week 14 is too early to start resting your starters for the Playoffs, Fox has certainly got to limit the number of snaps Manning takes against a violent Raiders D in their home stadium. Oakland fans, who have got to be disappointed with this season, may be calling for Manning’s head in the Primetime matchup. Expect Fox to treat this game like he would a preseason contest for the sake of entering the Playoffs with a fresh and healthy squad.
The big question mark in this one will be the status of McFadden, who was thought to be good for last week’s game before being a late scratch. McFadden is still sure to be a game-time decision with the status of his right ankle still in jeopardy. With McFadden available, Palmer will have a number of options to contend against the stout defensive unit of the Broncos.
Sorry Raider fans, with or without McFadden, the Broncos will have no issues in handling their AFC West rivals. Bronco fans should also expect to see a few of the rookies and guys lower on the depth chart in this one; also because the score will be that lop-sided. Palmer has played well and will do a solid job in leading scoring drives, but Elvis Dumervil, Von Miller, and Champ Bailey will have their way in defending the lesser Raiders players.
Prediction: Denver 31, Oakland 13
Fantasy Performer To Watch: Peyton Manning (275 yards and 3 TDs)
Matchup to Watch: Demaryius Thomas/ Eric Decker vs. Raiders Secondary
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