NFL Picks: Week 1 Raiders vs Broncos

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The pristine Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, CO, stands ready for an electrifying NFL face-off slated for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 10, 2023. As the Las Vegas Raiders and the Denver Broncos lock horns, the echoes of their past season’s journey reverberate with lessons and hopes for the imminent duel.

BUSR NFL Odds

Spread: Raiders +4 (-110), Broncos -4 (-110) 

Moneyline: Raiders +167, Broncos -207 

Total: O 44 (-110), U 44 (-110)  

A Tale of Two Teams

The Raiders trudged through the previous season with a 6-11 finish, finding equilibrium in their division games but faltering in away matches. While they clocked an average of 23.2 points per game, their defense ceded a slightly higher 24.6 points. Under Derek Carr’s leadership, amassing 3522 passing yards, and with Josh Jacobs bulldozing with 1653 rushing yards, the team showcased resilience. Not to be left behind, Davante Adams with a whopping 1516 receiving yards, demonstrated why he’s a force to reckon with.

The Broncos, on the other hand, grappled with an even more challenging 5-12 season record, further troubled by their away game performances. Russell Wilson, the stalwart quarterback, accumulated 3524 passing yards. The rushing front saw Latavius Murray’s determination with 703 yards. Jerry Jeudy, the receiving maestro, clocked in 972 yards, demonstrating his undeniable importance to the team.

Match Analysis

BUSR NFL Odds current odds place the Raiders as a 4-point underdog, but this game is far more nuanced than statistics suggest. 

While last season wasn’t the Raiders’ shining moment, anticipation for this year is high, primarily because coach McDaniels embarks on his sophomore year. With profound knowledge of the team’s strengths and pitfalls, he’s more equipped than ever. The infusion of Jimmy Garoppolo, affectionately known as Jimmy G, is another ace up their sleeve. His rapport with McDaniels and adeptness with the system might be the catalyst the Raiders need.

The Broncos, despite their subpar 5-12 scorecard last season, embark on a fresh chapter under the seasoned Sean Payton. Although Wilson’s prowess is undeniable, the support from the rest of the squad, especially due to an impeded running game and a slew of injuries, remains a concern. Payton’s strategic acumen is commendable, but realigning a team riddled with challenges, especially in the very first game under his leadership, might be an uphill task. Still, their defense, known to be their saving grace, might throw a spanner in the Raiders’ works. 

However, weighing all variables, the Raiders, with their enhanced consistency and the element of surprise with Garopollo, emerge as potential dark horses. For those placing their bets, leaning towards the Raiders to cover the spread seems like a plausible gamble.

Injury Report

The Raiders’ preparations have been marred by multiple injuries. Key players like D. Wagner (OT), I. Zuber (WR), B. Brown (RB), A. Butler (DT), J. Perryman (CB), and A. Walter (RB) are on the injured reserve list, which might challenge the team’s depth.

For the Broncos, their injury list appears more daunting. A. Palczewski (OT), P. Locke (S), B. Browning (LB), K. Williams (CB), J. Jeudy (WR), and J. Virgil (WR) are sidelined for an uncertain duration due to varied injuries. Moreover, with J. Williams (RB) facing a knee concern and E. Uwazurike (DL) out for the season on suspension, their line-up depth might be severely tested. R. Moss (CB) remains a game-time decision, while T. Patrick (WR) and J. Griffith (LB) are confirmed absentees, further denting their lineup.

As the Raiders and Broncos set foot on Empower Field, the stakes are higher than ever. Both teams, bearing the weight of last season’s statistics, aim to carve a triumphant path ahead. This game is not just about points; it’s about pride, strategy, and laying down the marker for the rest of the season.