The Denver Broncos are ranked No. 16 in Nate Davis’ NFL power rankings for USA TODAY Sports following Week 1.
“Even without OLB Von Miller, Denver may actually live or die with a defense that should make a jump in second year under Vic Fangio,” Davis wrote alongside the Broncos’ ranking.
Denver lost to the Tennessee Titans (ranked No. 7) 16-14 on Monday. The Broncos are the second-highest ranked team in the AFC West, trailing the Kansas City Chiefs (No. 1).
The Los Angeles Chargers (No. 18) are ranked third in the division, followed by the Las Vegas Raiders (No. 21.) Denver was the only AFC West team that lost in Week 1 but Davis clearly believes the Broncos are better than the division standings would suggest.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who will host Denver next week, are ranked No. 4. The New York Giants are ranked No. 32, last in the league. The complete NFL power rankings can be viewed on USATODAY.com.
