The Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs are set to face off in a highly anticipated matchup, with both teams vying for supremacy in the AFC West. As we approach the big game, let's take a closer look at five key matchups that could determine the outcome.
Overview of the Rivalry
The Broncos and Chiefs have a long and storied history, with the two teams having played each other 124 times. The Chiefs hold a slight edge in the all-time series, with a record of 63-59. However, the Broncos have won three of the last five meetings between the two teams.
The rivalry between the two teams is fueled by their geographic proximity and the fact that they are both members of the AFC West. The teams have been division rivals since the NFL merger in 1970, and their games against each other are always highly competitive and closely watched.
Key Matchup 1: Patrick Mahomes vs. Denver's Pass Rush
One of the most intriguing matchups of the game is between Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Broncos' pass rush. Mahomes is one of the most dynamic players in the league, known for his ability to extend plays with his feet and make throws on the run. However, the Broncos have a strong pass rush, led by edge rushers Von Miller and Bradley Chubb.
The Broncos' pass rush has been one of the strengths of their team this season, with Miller and Chubb combining for 14 sacks. If they can get pressure on Mahomes, it could be a long day for the Chiefs' offense. On the other hand, if Mahomes is able to avoid the rush and make plays outside of the pocket, it could be a big day for the Chiefs.
What to Expect
The Broncos' pass rush will likely be aggressive in their approach, trying to get to Mahomes quickly and disrupt his timing. The Chiefs, on the other hand, will likely try to use their quick passing game to get the ball out of Mahomes' hands quickly and avoid the rush.
Key Matchup 2: Tyreek Hill vs. Denver's Secondary
Another key matchup to watch is between Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill and the Broncos' secondary. Hill is one of the fastest players in the league, with the ability to take the top off of a defense with his speed. The Broncos' secondary, led by cornerback Chris Harris Jr., will have to be at their best to contain Hill.
The Broncos' secondary has been solid this season, but they have struggled at times against speedy receivers like Hill. If they can find a way to slow Hill down, it could be a big boost to their chances of winning.
What to Expect
The Broncos' secondary will likely try to use a combination of man and zone coverage to try to slow Hill down. They may also try to use safety help to provide extra support over the top.
Key Matchup 3: Denver's Running Game vs. Kansas City's Front Seven
The Broncos' running game, led by running back Phillip Lindsay, will be crucial to their chances of winning. The Chiefs' front seven, led by defensive tackle Chris Jones, will have to be able to stop the run if they want to slow down the Broncos' offense.
The Broncos' running game has been solid this season, with Lindsay averaging over 4 yards per carry. However, the Chiefs' front seven has been stout against the run, allowing just 3.8 yards per carry.
What to Expect
The Broncos' running game will likely try to use a combination of power and speed to try to break through the Chiefs' front seven. The Chiefs, on the other hand, will likely try to use their speed and agility to try to shut down the Broncos' running game.
Key Matchup 4: Kansas City's Tight Ends vs. Denver's Linebackers
The Chiefs' tight ends, led by Travis Kelce, will be a key matchup to watch. The Broncos' linebackers, led by Todd Davis, will have to be able to cover Kelce and the Chiefs' other tight ends if they want to slow down the Chiefs' passing game.
The Chiefs' tight ends have been a key part of their passing game this season, with Kelce averaging over 70 yards per game. However, the Broncos' linebackers have been solid in coverage, allowing just 40 yards per game to tight ends.
What to Expect
The Broncos' linebackers will likely try to use a combination of man and zone coverage to try to slow down the Chiefs' tight ends. The Chiefs, on the other hand, will likely try to use their tight ends to attack the Broncos' linebackers in the passing game.
Key Matchup 5: Denver's Special Teams vs. Kansas City's Special Teams
The special teams units for both teams will be a key matchup to watch. The Broncos' special teams, led by kicker Brandon McManus, will have to be able to outperform the Chiefs' special teams if they want to win.
The Broncos' special teams have been solid this season, with McManus making 85% of his field goal attempts. However, the Chiefs' special teams have been equally impressive, with kicker Harrison Butker making 90% of his field goal attempts.
What to Expect
The special teams units for both teams will likely try to use a combination of kicking and punting to try to gain an advantage. The team that is able to outperform the other in the special teams department could have a big advantage in the game.
As the Broncos and Chiefs prepare to face off, it's clear that there are several key matchups that could determine the outcome of the game. Whether it's Patrick Mahomes vs. Denver's pass rush, Tyreek Hill vs. Denver's secondary, or Denver's running game vs. Kansas City's front seven, there are plenty of intriguing matchups to watch.
What is the all-time record between the Broncos and Chiefs?
+The Chiefs hold a slight edge in the all-time series, with a record of 63-59.
Who is the leading rusher for the Broncos this season?
+Phillip Lindsay is the leading rusher for the Broncos this season, averaging over 4 yards per carry.
What is the key to the Broncos' success on defense?
+The key to the Broncos' success on defense is their strong pass rush, led by edge rushers Von Miller and Bradley Chubb.
As the game approaches, it's clear that there are several key matchups that could determine the outcome. Whether you're a Broncos fan or a Chiefs fan, it's going to be a fun and exciting game to watch. So grab some snacks, sit back, and enjoy the show!