Broncos Aim to Extend Winning Streak Against Packers in Denver

The Denver Broncos, riding a strong ten-game winning streak, will face the Green Bay Packers on December 10, 2023, at Empower Field in Denver. With a record of 11-2, the Broncos hold a two-game lead in the AFC West, and a victory against the Packers (9-3-1) would secure their playoff berth.

As the Broncos prepare for this key matchup, they aim to maintain momentum in both the division and conference standings. The Packers have also been on a roll, winning their last four games, including victories against division rivals Detroit and Chicago. Each team understands the importance of this game, as neither can afford a setback at this crucial juncture of the season.

Denver has established itself as a formidable team, particularly at home, where they have not lost since Week 3. Despite these successes, they enter the game as underdogs, partly due to the youthfulness of their offense. Quarterback Bo Nix, along with rookie running back RJ Harvey, has been pivotal in their recent successes.

“RJ Harvey is a freak,” said left tackle Garett Bolles. “There’s a reason why we drafted him the way we did. He’s just getting better and better.” Harvey stepped into the lead role following J.K. Dobbins’ injury, which has sidelined him since Week 10.

Nix has proven to be clutch, with eight of Denver’s wins coming by a single score. His performance has included completing 63.2 percent of his passes for 2,954 yards, with 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also ranks third on the team for rushing yards, contributing 244 yards.

A standout feature of the Broncos’ strategy has been their defense. They rank fourth in the league in points allowed per game (18.1), second in rushing yards allowed (89), and first in total sacks with 55. This defensive prowess will be crucial against the Packers, who possess a talented group of wide receivers led by quarterback Jordan Love.

The Packers have also made a mark defensively, ranking sixth in points allowed (19 per game) and fifth in total yards allowed (287.2). Micah Parsons, acquired via trade from the Dallas Cowboys, leads the team with 12.5 sacks, while Rashan Gary adds another 7.5.

Broncos’ coach Sean Payton expressed his challenges in preparing for Parsons, stating, “He’s extremely explosive. He has unique bend and balance for someone at that position, so he’s a handful.” Payton emphasized the need for his offensive linemen to constantly track Parsons’ alignment to mitigate his impact.

In terms of offensive statistics, the Broncos average 342 total yards per game, while the Packers follow closely with 340.3. However, the quarterbacks show a notable contrast. Love, in his third year as a starter, has achieved a career-high completion percentage of 67.1 and thrown for 22 touchdowns with only four interceptions. Despite early-season injuries affecting the Packers’ offensive line, Love has adapted well under pressure.

“We have to be aware; there’s not really a weak link out there,” said Packers head coach Matt LaFleur regarding the Broncos’ defense. His observation highlights the challenge of facing a team with such a strong defensive unit.

Both teams have also excelled in turnover differentials; Green Bay has only eight total turnovers this season, the lowest in the NFL, while the Broncos have managed just ten takeaways.

In the lead-up to the game, injuries have affected both squads. Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant did not practice due to a hamstring issue, while tight end Nate Adkins (knee) and guard Ben Powers (biceps) were limited. For the Packers, running back Josh Jacobs did not practice because of a knee injury, although Love participated fully despite a shoulder concern.

As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the stakes are high. The Packers aim to continue their strong run and solidify their playoff position, while the Broncos hope to extend their winning streak and claim a playoff spot. The game will air on CBS at 15:25 GMT.