2. It’s now or never for Case Keenum and Vance Joseph
The Denver Broncos took a massive swing betting on a journeyman who put together a career season with Minnesota last year. Case Keenum isn’t responsible for all of the issues Denver has experienced on their three-game losing streak, but he’s the focal point along with head coach Vance Joseph.
Keenum’s streakiness and penchant for costly plays have plagued the talented Broncos’ offense. He’s thrown seven interceptions already and several more were dropped. And he’s taken 13 sacks despite having a trio of receivers that most quarterbacks would love to have.
The Broncos can do more for Keenum though, too. He’s a very good rollout passer and yet the Broncos rarely call for him to get outside of the pocket. The line has been mediocre despite recent investments, but that’s paid off more in the run game than pass-blocking.
Unfortunately for Keenum and Joseph, they’re in a must-win game against the Los Angeles Rams. The fact they host the Rams could be a deciding factor in their favor.
The Rams are incredibly talented with manageable roster holes. Even with cornerback Marcus Peters playing hobbled, a weak linebacker corps, and suspect edge-rushers, the offense has compensated by hanging no less than 33 points in each game.
Denver’s defense showed they can disrupt a top-tier offense when they nearly defeated the Kansas City Chiefs two weeks ago. Their ability to get pressure with four down linemen and clog passing lanes is a significant advantage. But they miss Aqib Talib and Joseph’s defense hasn’t been as reliable as what former defensive coordinator Wade Phillips was able to get out of a similar group in Denver.
I want to take Denver because they’re a good team and playing at home is meaningful, but how can anyone trust Keenum and Joseph to outsmart an even more talented Rams team and staff? Unless there are numerous fluke turnovers or both teams play considerably different than what we’ve seen, the Rams should win.
Prediction: Rams 30-24