ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – This week’s matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens holds substantial weight for both teams’ postseason aspirations, with the Broncos working to secure their standing in the AFC playoff race and the Ravens determined to solidify their place in the AFC North. Denver, standing at 5-3, has surged in recent weeks under rookie quarterback Bo Nix, whose development has been closely tied to the Broncos’ newfound offensive rhythm.

A win against Baltimore could provide the Broncos with the momentum needed for a legitimate postseason push. On the other side, the Ravens, sitting at 5-3, seek to extend their already impressive season and continue their dominance at home, where they’ve built a strong reputation for an aggressive, run-focused offense powered by dual-threat quarterback Lamar Jackson.

When these two teams last clashed in 2022, it was a defensive battle that saw Baltimore narrowly edge out Denver 10-9. The Ravens’ defense imposed their will on Denver, limiting scoring opportunities and showcasing a defensive scheme that has remained effective. But this is a totally different Broncos. Denver’s current rank of third in total defense could set up another tightly contested game, as the Broncos try to stifle Baltimore’s top-ranked offense, which leads the league in total yards.

Head Coach Sean Payton knows the challenge his team faces and is realistic about the Ravens’ ability to control the game’s pace. As he noted,

“This is one of those teams that we’ve seen in the postseason… for a reason. They’re rushing it extremely well, throwing it extremely well, and scoring,” highlighting the complete and complementary style that Baltimore brings to each game.

One significant change from the last matchup is the addition of Derrick Henry to the Ravens’ offense. Known for his powerful running style, Henry joined Baltimore midseason, adding a new dimension to an offense that was already difficult to contain. The combination of Jackson’s dual-threat capability and Henry’s presence in the backfield presents an unprecedented challenge for the Broncos, who have emphasized maintaining a strong pass rush and disciplined containment strategies. As Pat Surtain II, one of Denver’s defensive leaders, pointed out, the Broncos have to stay focused and prepared for what could be a physical battle.

“Yes, we know Baltimore is a good team, but we believe in ourselves as well… once we set our minds to it and we prepare the right way, we should be able to come out with the result in our favor,”

Surtain shared, reflecting the defense’s confidence and readiness for the task.

For Denver’s offense, Bo Nix’s steady development has been central to their recent success. The rookie quarterback is coming off a stretch of strong defensive discipline as a top priority this week. Denver’s defensive coordinator is tasked with preparing his unit for the combination of Jackson’s explosive playmaking and Henry’s bruising runs. As cornerback Pat Surtain II noted,

“We know how dynamic [Henry] is as far as running the ball. Defensively, some defenses fill the box, but that sets up a lot of opportunity with the passing game.”

This preparation includes a focus on limiting big plays and forcing Baltimore into situations where they are one-dimensional, especially in the passing game.

The Ravens’ offensive versatility doesn’t end with their rushing attack. Jackson has grown as a passer, able to extend plays and locate his receivers effectively, creating a difficult challenge for opposing secondaries.

“These guys are throwing the ball very well down the field,” Payton commented, “and their red zone numbers are at the top of the league.”

Denver will need to find ways to pressure Jackson, not just by collapsing the pocket but also by disrupting his timing with the receivers. This defensive game plan is crucial, especially considering Denver’s high ranking in total defense. Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, who has been on a sack streak, is expected to play a pivotal role in this strategy, as his ability to pressure the quarterback could shift Baltimore’s game plan if he disrupts Jackson’s rhythm early.

As for Denver’s offense, quarterback Bo Nix has shown promise in his rookie season, contributing to the Broncos’ recent success with consistent improvements in decision-making and execution. Payton, while acknowledging Nix’s inexperience, has pointed to his college background and maturity as assets.

“[Nix] is very much routine-driven,” Payton noted. “I think he’s further along… and we’ve seen the adversity he’s come back from early on.”

Nix’s familiarity with high-stakes games from his college years has equipped him with the poise needed to face a team like Baltimore, but the Ravens’ defense, known for its physicality and aggressiveness, will be one of the most formidable units he has faced in his young NFL career.

Nix’s progression has been aided by the performances of young wide receivers like Devaughn Vele and rookie Troy Franklin, who are starting to establish themselves as reliable targets. Payton remarked on their development, saying,

“These are young players that are growing right in front of our eyes.”

In recent games, both receivers have shown the ability to make impactful plays, stretching the field and giving Nix additional downfield options, especially on third downs where Denver has struggled earlier in the season. Franklin’s speed, in particular, has added a new dimension to Denver’s passing game. As Nix noted,

“Whenever you can stretch the field like that… it’s tough on defenses.”

Baltimore’s secondary will be tested by this deep-threat potential, especially if Denver can establish a balanced attack with the run game to keep the Ravens’ defense guessing.

However, Denver’s offense still faces hurdles, notably in ball security. In their last game, wide receiver Courtland Sutton and Lil’Jordan Humphrey both lost fumbles, and Payton was clear that such mistakes could be costly against a team of Baltimore’s caliber.

“These guys [Ravens] have forced fumbles at a high rate,” Payton emphasized. He expects his players to recognize when “the ride is over” and focus on protecting the ball rather than pushing for an extra yard or two in high-traffic situations.

While Denver aims to minimize mistakes and capitalize on each possession, they also know that the Ravens will bring a heavy dose of physicality, typical of an AFC North matchup. Surtain acknowledged this, saying,

“Yes, [AFC North teams] play physical football, but we play physical ball as well… that’s our standard.”

Denver’s defense, built on this standard of toughness, hopes to match Baltimore’s intensity, especially in containing the Ravens’ ground game and limiting their explosive plays downfield. This game may ultimately be decided by which team can establish control in the trenches, especially given Baltimore’s emphasis on scoring early and forcing opponents into passing situations to play catch-up.

In the lead-up to Sunday’s showdown, both teams are acutely aware of the stakes. Nix spoke about the weight of the game:

“It’s just one of those games that is going to be really important for the outcome of both our seasons. We know it’s important for us and obviously it’s going to be really important for them.”

With both teams poised to fight for key playoff positioning, Sunday’s game has implications that stretch far beyond the final whistle. For Denver, it’s a chance to build credibility as a legitimate playoff contender with a defining road win. For Baltimore, a victory would help maintain their position atop the AFC North and potentially set them up for a postseason run.

Ultimately, Sunday’s clash between the Broncos and Ravens will be a test of resilience, strategy, and execution. Each team knows the importance of this game in shaping their playoff fates. Denver’s focus will be on maintaining ball control, applying defensive pressure, and capitalizing on their young playmakers, while Baltimore will rely on their balanced offensive attack, experienced leadership, and physical style to defend their home field.

KICKOFF: Sunday, November 3, 11:00 AM at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD