NFL Week 18: Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Game Preview

broncos stadium
"Broncos vs Ravens 2013 NFL KickOff" by CDOM Photography is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.

The Los Angeles Chargers are set to travel to Empower Field at Mile High to take on the Denver Broncos in a week eighteen divisional matchup. The Chargers come into the game with a record of 10-6 and are currently in second place in the AFC West. On the flip side, the Broncos enter the contest with a record of 4-12 and currently sit in last place in the AFC West. With the Chargers already having a wildcard spot clinched and the Broncos well out of playoff contention, neither team has a whole lot to play for this week. As a result of this, do not expect the Chargers to play their star players too much this week, especially if they are able to take an early lead. 

Los Angeles Chargers Look to Get On the Same Page Before Playoff Run Begins

The Los Angeles Chargers are coming off of a dominant 31-10 win over the Los Angeles Rams. In this game, Justin Herbert had a remarkable game through the air. He finished the contest completing 21 of his 28 passes for 212 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Along with this, Austin Ekeler had an amazing day as well. He had 151 all purpose yards and two rushing touchdowns. 

Los Angeles finds themselves in a very winnable matchup this week against the Broncos. While the Broncos defense has been one of the best in the league this season, no one can stop the Chargers’ offensive attack when they are playing at this level. Last time these two teams faced off, Los Angeles took a close 19-17 win in overtime. In that game, they were without Keenan Allen. Coming into this game with all of their major offensive weapons, this should be a great warmup game for the playoffs for the Chargers. 

Denver Broncos Hope to Close Rough Season Off With Big Win

Last week, the Denver Broncos took a close 27-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. This was one of the more impressive games Denver has played this season. Although they still suffered another loss, they still managed to keep up with one of the top teams in the AFC. Russell Wilson had a solid performance throwing for 222 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Along with this, he got it done on the ground running for 27 yards and two touchdowns on four rushing attempts.

The Broncos’ offense has been holding the team back all season. While there is still a long way to go before they are performing at the level that was expected of them coming into the season, the game against the Chiefs was a step in the right direction. If they are able to once again have a solid day through the air and the defense plays how they should, Denver could end their season with a huge upset. However, Wilson will have to turn back the clock and begin to play like he did in Seattle.