MINNEAPOLIS, MN – NOVEMBER 17: Courtland Sutton #14 of the Denver Broncos runs with the ball the ball in the first quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 17, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
Both the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers are currently occupying wild-card spots in the AFC. Here are 5 factors that could shift the momentum for either team in what is a must-win game on Thursday Night Football.
Chargers Secondary vs. Bo Nix
TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 22: Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos celebrates after a touchdown during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
Baker Mayfield torched the Chargers last week with four passing TDs, but that isn’t the norm. Can Bo Nix do something similar? LA has quietly been a top defense this season, allowing just 19 passing scores while snagging 14 interceptions.
Will Mack and Bosa Take Over?
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 15: Joey Bosa #97 of the Los Angeles Chargers in a defensive stance during the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at SoFi Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)
Pass rushers Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa have combined for nine sacks this season, a slightly underwhelming figure. If they can get into the Broncos backfield more often, it could spell big trouble for Denver.
Coaching Battle
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 01: Newly appointed head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Los Angeles Chargers speaks to the media during a press conference at YouTube Theater on February 01, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
It will be a battle of two different ideologies on TNF. Who will outfox the other: Sean Payton’s offensive mind or Jim Harbaugh’s defensive wit?
Bo Nix Turnovers
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OCTOBER 17: Quarterback Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos hands to the ball to Audric Estime #23 against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on October 17, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Gus Stark/Getty Images)
Although the Broncos got the job done at home against the Colts, it was no thanks to rookie passer Bo Nix. His three interceptions kept Indy in the game for far too long, and he’ll have to do better on the road against LA.
Can Herbert Prove Doubters Wrong?
LANDOVER, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 12: Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrates after defeating the Washington Football Team 20-16 at FedExField on September 12, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Despite years of solid play, Justin Herbert is criticized for inconsistency and lack of performance in big moments. A big performance and a win tonight would quiet said criticism.
