As the Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) prepare to face the Denver Broncos (12-2) in Week 16, we sat down with Ian St. Clair of Mile High Report to learn more about the opposing side.
Question 1: What are some
of the first reasons that come to mind as to why the Broncos have the best record in football?
The biggest reason is Sean Payton. Since his arrival in Denver, he has completely changed the culture within the organization. Prior to Payton’s hiring by the Broncos, this franchise couldn’t have found its way back to relevance if it had a map and a compass. But in his three seasons, he’s proven he’s one of the best coaches in the NFL. Connected to that is Payton, George Paton, and the Broncos ownership group, led by Greg Penner, are aligned on the same goal to make this the best team and franchise in the league. Having that synergy throughout the franchise is a massive reason Denver is where it is right now. Of course, the players have to do it on the field, and that starts with Bo Nix and an elite defense. The players have bought in, and they’re aligned with Payton and his expectations. Hence why the Broncos have the best record in the league right now.
Question 2: What are some areas of concern for this team, if any, as it prepares for its second straight playoff berth?
As is the case with any team at this point in the season, it’s health. To make a deep run in the playoffs, teams need to stay injury-free. Obviously, that’s not something teams can control, but it’s always top of mind. The other thing is consistency on both sides of the ball. If the Broncos play the way they did in the second half of their win over the Green Bay Packers, no team is beating them. So consistency is the key from here on out.
Question 3: What would you categorize as the top strengths and weaknesses of Bo Nix’s game at this point in his young career?
Let’s focus on the most recent game to find the answer. Nix is coming off the best game of his career. In the win over the Packers, he was 23-for-34 passing for 302 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 10 yards rushing on seven carries. And while the stats are off the charts, they still don’t do justice to just how good Nix was in the win over Green Bay. Nix wasn’t sacked despite some hairy moments in the pocket. He also didn’t commit any turnovers. And when the Broncos needed big-time throws, Nix delivered. Now, can he do it again? Can Nix stack great performances on each other? To go from good to great or even elite, he needs to do what he did against the Packers this Sunday. That’s where he put it all together for the first time.
Question 4: Who’s an under-the-radar player or two that Jaguars fans should watch for on Sunday?
On defense, it’ll be the replacement of safety Brandon Jones. Whether it’s P.J. Locke or JL Skinner, or perhaps someone else, keep an eye out for who replaces Jones this weekend. My guess is that it’ll be Locke who gets the nod this Sunday. As for the offense, let’s go with Evan Engram. This may not seem like an “under-the-radar” player, but the tight end hasn’t done much this season. Going against his former team, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Payton utilize the tight end position in a way he has yet to do this season on Sunday.
Question 5: Do you expect the Broncos to cover as 3-point favorites, and do you like any props bets for the game?
Once again, Denver is one of the hardest places to play in the NFL. The Broncos haven’t lost a home game since last season. They’re also coming off a huge win, yet this team still knows it hasn’t accomplished anything yet. Payton will have this team prepared and ready, and I do expect them to cover that spread. As for props, I like the Nix 3+ alt passing TDs at +280 at FanDuel.
Thanks to Ian for taking the time to answer our questions!
Jaguars fans, let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
