5 bold predictions for Broncos against Steelers

2 of 5

DENVER, CO – SEPTEMBER 26: Running back Melvin Gordon III #25 of the Denver Broncos runs with the football during the second quarter against the New York Jets at Empower Field at Mile High on September 26, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

Broncos rely heavily on the running game

The Broncos will have to rely on their running game quite a bit on Sunday, especially with the state of the passing game.

With Lock showing signs of his play from last season while coming off the bench against the Ravens, their receiving corps is in shambles. From Jerry Jeudy hitting the injured reserve with a high ankle sprain to K.J. Hamler being lost to a torn ACL, their strength has become a weakness. That could very well mean that the Broncos rely on their running game against Pittsburgh.

The Broncos’ running game is relatively solid thus far into the season, as they have averaged 121.8 yards per game, ranking 11th in the NFL. Melvin Gordon tallied 248 yards and two touchdowns on 51 carries. Rookie Javonte Williams rushed for 186 yards and one touchdown on 46 attempts.

While relying on the running game would be a sound strategy, things can go awry. The Steelers rush defense has allowed an average of 99.0 yards per game, per ESPN, and surrendered one touchdown on the year, which came on a goal-line run by Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers this past Sunday.

Home/Denver Broncos