San Francisco 49ers (4-2) at Denver Broncos (4-1)
This matchup could be one of the best games of the season. Both teams have struggled to find their identity early on in the season. The Broncos are one of the best offensive teams in the league, but they’ve shown a commitment to running the ball, sometimes to a fault. The 49ers are winning now, but they’ve had their fair share of adversity to start the season.
Statistically, Denver has the advantage, but it’s really close. The defenses rank sixth and seventh in the league, in terms of points allowed. Offensively, Denver is much better than San Francisco, especially if Ronnie Hillman can rush for 100 yards consistently.
The 49ers are really banged up after their Monday night win in St. Louis. They’re already on a short week, and now have to travel back to San Francisco before heading to Denver. Throw in Denver’s home field advantage of high altitude and San Francisco doesn’t have a prayer in this game.
Even if the 49ers take an early lead or bottle up the Broncos early, Peyton Manning is still going to drop back, and he still has at least four weapons to throw to on any given play. Over the course of the game, having to chase Emmanuel Sanders, Demaryius Thomas, Julius Thomas, and Wes Welker all over the field will be enough to wear down the 49ers physical defense.
Denver 34 San Francisco 23