Around the AFC West: Chiefs maintain supremacy atop division
By Ellen Mathis
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos took on the Minnesota Vikings in what I thought would be a complete blowout. This season has been full of surprises, that’s for sure. I honestly thought that the Vikings would walk into the game and own it, especially after their great win against the Dallas Cowboys the week before. However, the Broncos came out as the dominant team. I was relatively enthusiastic as this result played out because it meant the Broncos would drop down the draft board, but alas, the Broncos forgot there are two halves to football games.
At halftime, the Broncos were up 20-0 and it seemed as if they were rolling to a victory, but Kirk Cousins hoisted the Vikings on his back and led them to victory. The Broncos had a shot for a comeback, but with three attempts, backup quarterback Brandon Allen just could not pull off the win. Allen had some beautiful throws early to Courtland Sutton, but it turned out to be just not enough. The question looms: when will we see Drew Lock? In my opinion, it’s only a matter of time.
The Broncos had one injury that was notable in the loss and if you have a queasy stomach, do not go watch it. Fullback Andy Janovich suffered a gruesome elbow injury that, in real time, CBS refused to replay. Good for them because I saw it and am scarred. The Broncos announced he is out for the remainder of the year with the elbow injury.
Next week, the Broncos travel to the Bills. The Bills need this win as they look to remain in a wild card spot (or even unseat the Patriots). The Broncos just need to finish the season. It’s that simple. If they can make it to the end, maybe they can regroup? I’m kidding of course, but they certainly aren’t looking at the playoffs and fans must be wondering what the offseason will bring. I don’t think the Broncos will pull off the win.
Opening line odds for the Broncos in Week 12: +4.0.
Game time is 12:00 p.m.