The Denver Broncos (1-4) host the Tennessee Titans (2-3) at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday as the Titans look to even out their record and the Broncos aim to record a second consecutive win.
Ahead of the matchup, Broncos Wire managing editor Jon Heath spoke with us on the Titans’ latest opponent. Be sure to follow Jon and Broncos Wire for analysis and news on Broncos this year.
Here are five things to look at ahead of Tennessee’s sixth game of the year.
1. How much of a factor will Von Miller be, especially considering that he’s essentially all the Broncos have in the pass rush?
That’s a good question. With Bradley Chubb sidelined, Miller didn’t have any sacks last week but he did generate some pressure. Malik Reed looks like a promising young rusher, so Denver won’t have to solely rely on Miller to generate pressure. Shelby Harris was moved from nose tackle to defensive end last week, too, and he’s a pretty good rusher now that he’s back at his natural position.
2. What is your take on the current quarterback situation?
The Broncos have plenty of problems this year, but Joe Flacco isn’t one of them. He’s a game manager and he does that role just fine. Flacco obviously isn’t the long-term option, but he’s good enough to start until either Drew Lock is ready or until Denver signs or acquires an upgrade.
3. Considering this team has only won one game, what is the most glaring issue?
They’ve had some bad luck, like two poor roughing the passer calls that led to them allowing last-second FG attempts in two-point losses. The most glaring issue is probably consistency. The offense can move the ball and the defense has had some good games, but the offense hasn’t played a good four consecutive quarters and the defense hasn’t had back-to-back good games yet. Maybe that’s coaching? The Broncos just need to be more consistent.
4. Is there an under-the-radar Broncos player we should keep an eye out for?
Linebacker Malik Reed is an undrafted rookie out of Nevada or started at outside linebacker last week in the place of an injured Chubb. Reed has six tackles and one sack in limited action this season, and Miller believes he could become the next Shaq Barrett.
5. Final score and predictions.
Denver has been inconsistent this year, but the Broncos are always hard to beat at home and they have some momentum coming off last week’s win. Our official Broncos Wire prediction is a win for Denver. Broncos 27, Titans 17
