Injuries abound as the Broncos face their biggest game of the season

SB Nation

The biggest game of the season is this weekend for the Denver Broncos. With the Los Angeles Chargers nipping at their heels in the race for the division, a loss makes things very precarious for the hopes

of the Broncos winning the AFC West.

The Broncos are missing their #1 cornerback in Patrick Surtain II. They will be missing their #1 RB in J.K. Dobbins. They will also be down inside linebacker Alex Singleton.

Just when I didn’t think anything else could happen that would test the mettle of this team, they have their backs against the wall at home as underdogs against the Chiefs.

I also think this is going to be a big test for Sean Payton and his coaching staff. He’s been building toward being a powerhouse that can compete with Andy Reed’s Chiefs. This is the time to show that you are the better coach.

I think this week is going to be such a big opportunity for the Broncos. Dre Greenlaw gets to show he’s the man (we know Justin Strnad can hold it down in a pinch as a starter). I think we may get to see either Tyler Badie or Jaleel McLaughlin make a bold statement as a runner this week. I also think we’re going to see Vance Joseph once again show that his defense can cover even without Surtain, as our pass rush is just that good.

The season is far from over if we lose. However, I will say if we win, this season gets so much easier for the Broncos. Their path to the postseason is simplified. Their chances of winning the division skyrocket. They would have the rare ability to dictate their own destiny in a division race for the first time since 2015.

I’m excited to see what our Broncos do with the opportunity.