Denver Broncos Week 18 Preview

Introduction

As we wrap up Week 18 of the 2023 NFL season, the Denver Broncos find themselves in a peculiar position. After a hard-fought victory against the Los Angeles Chargers, where they emerged victorious with a score of 16 to 9, the Broncos are looking to build on that momentum. With a mix of stats that show promise and areas that need improvement, let’s dive into how the Broncos fared in Week 17 compared to their upcoming matchup and what it all means for the team moving forward.

Power Ranking

The Broncos currently sit at a power ranking of 27, which is a stark reminder that while they managed to snag a win, they still have a long way to go. With a win rate of just 36.0% against a median opponent, it’s clear that consistency has been an issue this season. However, winning when it matters—like in a close game against a division rival—can be a catalyst for change. If they can harness this victory and channel it into future performances, who knows? They might just climb out of the bottom half of the league.

Overall Drive Efficiency

In terms of overall drive efficiency, the Broncos rank 28th in the league. While this is not exactly a badge of honor, it’s worth noting that they managed to put together a solid performance against the Chargers, accumulating 313 yards without turning the ball over. This is a significant improvement from previous weeks, suggesting that the offense is starting to find its rhythm, albeit slowly. If they can continue to build on this efficiency, they might just surprise a few teams in the coming weeks.

Defensive Drive Efficiency

Now, let’s talk defense—specifically, the Broncos’ defensive drive efficiency, which currently ranks dead last at 32nd. Ouch! While they did manage to limit the Chargers to 301 yards, the overall trend has been concerning. The defense has struggled to prevent opponents from moving the ball, and this week was no exception. They need to find a way to tighten up and make stops when it counts. If they can improve their defensive metrics, it will take a significant amount of pressure off the offense.

Offensive Drive Efficiency

On the flip side, the Broncos’ offensive drive efficiency ranks a respectable 13th in the league. This is a silver lining amidst the clouds of mediocrity. The offense showed that it can move the ball effectively, which is crucial for keeping the defense off the field. However, they need to convert those drives into points more consistently. A field goal here and there is nice, but touchdowns are what truly matter. If they can find the end zone more frequently, they’ll be in a much better position to win games.

Defensive Turnover Efficiency

When it comes to defensive turnover efficiency, the Broncos rank 19th. This means they’re somewhat average in generating turnovers, which is a bit of a letdown considering the talent on the roster. They need to capitalize on opportunities to create turnovers, especially against teams that are prone to mistakes. If they can improve in this area, it could turn the tide in close games, allowing the offense to capitalize on short fields.

Offensive Turnover Efficiency

The Broncos’ offensive turnover efficiency sits at 14th, which is a mixed bag. While they did not turn the ball over against the Chargers, they have had their fair share of blunders throughout the season. Maintaining this level of efficiency will be key in their upcoming matchups. If they can keep the ball secure while also finding ways to exploit the defense, they’ll be in a much better position to win games.

Drive Time

Drive time is another area where the Broncos shine, ranking 10th in the league. This indicates that they can chew up the clock effectively, which is a double-edged sword. While it’s great for maintaining possession and controlling the game, it also means they need to be more efficient in scoring. It’s all about finding that balance—taking time off the clock while also ensuring that the drives end in points. If they can master this, they’ll be a formidable opponent.

Preview For Next Week

Looking ahead to Week 18, the Broncos are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders, who are favored by 2.5 points. The over/under is set at a modest 37.5 points, which suggests a low-scoring affair. According to our simulations, the Broncos have a 56.1% chance of winning and a 59.5% chance of covering the spread. The most common final score predicted is a close 20-17 in favor of the Broncos. This matchup is crucial, not just for playoff implications but also for establishing a sense of momentum heading into the offseason. If the Broncos can harness the energy from their last win and improve on their weaknesses, they could very well end the season on a high note.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Denver Broncos have shown glimpses of potential, but consistency remains the name of the game. With a mix of solid offensive performance and glaring defensive issues, the team is at a crossroads. As they prepare to face the Raiders, it’s imperative that they address their weaknesses while building on their strengths. A win in Week 18 could provide the perfect springboard into the offseason, setting the stage for a more competitive 2024 season.

Stay tuned to advancedfootballstats.com for more data-driven insights and analysis as we continue to follow the Denver Broncos' journey throughout the 2023 NFL season.