Chiefs Square Off with Raiders; Chargers Take On Tough Colts Team
Trevor Phipps
Denver Broncos fans were shocked across the state when the team came up with their big Week 5 win against the previously undefeated, former Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles. In fact, after the showdown ended in a huge 21-17 Broncos’ victory in lovely Philly, the announcers in the game said, “The Broncos are for real!”
Many Colorado sports columnists referred it to the Broncs’ biggest win since Super Bowl 50 in early 2016. Easy does it, there Colorado media pundits. Of course, TMJ sports buffs found themselves eating their preliminary pro-Philly dooms-day predictions
The Broncos worked out some kinks and proved that they can win when it counts. The Broncos struggled a bit in the first half, but then they basically dominated during the second half on both sides of the ball.
The team’s offense made some big plays and were effective on the ground against the tough Eagles’ defense. The Broncos’ defense was then able to pressure Eagles’ QB Jalen Hurts and their running backs enough to keep the scoring down. The combination made for the perfect storm for the Broncos.
Now the team should have good confidence moving forward, especially as they return home. Prior to the Broncos win against the Eagles, many would argue that Philly best team in the league and Super Bowl bound for the second year in a row.
However, it is still a long season ahead.
New York Giants at Denver Broncos, Sunday 2:05 p.m.
One thing the Broncos have proven this season is that they are above average and capable of beating teams that don’t have winning records. And given their home field advantage this week, the Broncos should prevail.
The team seems to improve each week and I think QB Bo Nix is finally getting into his groove in a desperate attempt to not get labeled as having a “sophomore slump.” The defense is on fire and they don’t really give up very many points per game. Plus, defense all-star Nick Bonitto has been on a different level this year with nearly 10 sacks and averaging one each game.
However, the Giants have seemed to improve ever since they ditched the washed-up former Broncos QB Russell Wilson for rookie Jaxson Dart. Remember, the Giants did pull it together enough to upset the Los Angeles Chargers in week 4. And, the Chargers did beat the Broncos this year.
But I think it was just a matter of time before the Chargers started getting beat. And, the Giants success seemed to be short-lived after they gave the New Orleans Saints their first win in week 5. Overall, I just don’t feel the Giants’ offense will be able to handle the defensive pressure from Bonitto and the Broncs.
Trevor’s Pick: Denver Broncos 28, New York Giants 17
Vegas Line: Broncos by 7.5.
Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday 11 a.m.
Well after the first five games it’s fair to say that both of these teams have proved me wrong. The Chiefs turned things around and look like they could be a strong competitor in the AFC once again. The Raiders, on the other hand, haven’t met the expectations me (or pretty much anyone else) had for them.
The Chiefs started out struggling, but they did have one of the toughest schedules in the league. The team has rebounded (with their record at least) and they most likely will be a top AFC West contender.
The Raiders though, seemed to have a hard time getting on top. Despite their recent changes to their QB and head coach they still have morphed into the team their fans hoped for.
However, if you look at the both of the team’s stats, they are more evenly matched than you think. On offense, the Raiders actually had more passing and rushing yards than the Chiefs over the first five games. On defense, the Chiefs are much better at defending the pass than the Raiders, but they are pretty equal when it comes to stopping the run.
Both teams will be ready to play this week and I think an upset is brewing.
Trevor’s Pick: Las Vegas Raiders 27, Kansas City Chiefs 24
Vegas Line: Chiefs by 9.5.
Indianapolis Colts at Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday 2:05 p.m.
The Colts are definitely one team that has surprised just about everyone this year. In fact, they both were one of six teams that started the season 3-0.
The Colts really came out swinging to start the season especially when they stumped everyone and beat the Broncos by one point in Week 2. And they haven’t seemed to slow down much even though they are no longer undefeated.
When it comes to stats, the Colts actually edge out the Chargers in both rushing and passing yards this season. On defense though, the Chargers are better at stopping the pass but not as good as the Colts when it comes to defending the run.
Overall, it seems to me that the Chargers have kind slipped into a slump. The Colts on the other hand seem to win the award for the best improved team of 2025. I sense another upset on the horizon that should help the Broncos take the lead in the AFC West.
Trevor’s Pick: Indianapolis Colts 31, Los Angeles Chargers 27
Vegas Line: Chargers by 6.
