Colts and Broncos Clash in Key AFC Showdown
The Indianapolis Colts (6-7) aim for their second straight victory as they prepare to take on the Denver Broncos (8-5) this Sunday afternoon. The matchup will occur at Empower Field at Mile High, kicking off at 4:25 PM ET.
Following a narrow 25-24 triumph over the New England Patriots as 2.5-point favorites, the Colts are looking to build momentum. Meanwhile, the Broncos are riding high after a commanding 41-32 win against the Cleveland Browns as 6.5-point favorites. Both teams are fresh off byes, which could play a significant role in their performance.
Historically, Indianapolis has fared well against Denver, holding a 7-3 record in their last ten encounters. The most recent matchup in 2022 saw the Colts edge the Broncos 12-9.
Which team will secure a vital win in this AFC battle? Continue reading for insights into the Indianapolis Colts vs. Denver Broncos prediction.
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Colts Focused on Keeping Playoff Dreams Alive
The Colts rebounded from a disappointing loss to the Detroit Lions to clinch a win over the Patriots, marking their second victory in three games. Currently sitting eighth in the AFC playoff standings, Indianapolis is two games behind Denver and will seek to close that gap with a Sunday win.
On offense, the Colts average 20.5 points per game, with a breakdown of 192.7 passing yards and 118.8 rushing yards per outing. Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson threw for 109 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions in their last game, while also contributing with nine carries for 48 yards and a touchdown. This season, he has completed 47.4% of his passes for 1,511 yards, accumulating seven touchdowns and nine interceptions. Notably, he ranks second on the team in rushing with 383 yards and four touchdowns, trailing Jonathan Taylor, who leads with 804 yards.
Defensively, Indianapolis has allowed an average of 22.9 points per game. They will need to improve on their last outing where they surrendered 24 points if they hope to secure a victory against the Broncos.
Injury Report: Key players include G Braden Smith (undisclosed), WR Ashton Dulin (ankle), WR Josh Downs (shoulder), and C Tanor Bortolini (concussion), all listed as questionable for this game.
Broncos Eyeing Fourth Straight Win
The Broncos enter this Sunday’s game with a three-game winning streak, solidifying their position tied for second place in the AFC West alongside the Los Angeles Chargers. A win could help them gain ground in the playoff race.
Denver averages 23.5 points per game, combining 209 passing yards and 111.2 rushing yards each game. In their recent victory over the Browns, quarterback Bo Nix completed 51% of his passes for 294 yards, tossing one touchdown and two interceptions. Running back Jaleel McLaughlin contributed significantly with 14 carries for 84 yards, while Marvin Mims Jr. showcased his talents with three receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown. Nix’s rookie season has been impressive with 2,842 passing yards (63.8% completion), 17 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He has also added 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns to his season totals.
Defensively, the Broncos have held opponents to an average of 18 points per game. However, they need to tighten up after allowing 32 points in their last matchup if they wish to come out on top this Sunday.
Injury Report: Cornerback Riley Moss (knee) is listed as questionable for this game.
Best Bets for Indianapolis Colts vs. Denver Broncos
As both teams clash in this pivotal matchup, bettors and fans alike will be keenly watching how the Colts and Broncos perform. Key player performances and injury updates will play a significant role in shaping the outcome of this AFC showdown.
