Week 7 of the NFL season kicks off with an exciting interconference showdown in New Orleans. The Denver Broncos travel to face the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football. Denver arrives after suffering a 23-16 defeat at the hands of the Chargers, unable to cover the spread as a three-point underdog. Meanwhile, New Orleans faced a heavy loss of 51-27 against Tampa Bay in their previous game, also failing to cover the spread as a 3.5-point underdog. Historically, the Broncos lead the regular season series with a 9-3 record, although the Saints last triumphed with a resounding 31-3 victory on November 29, 2020.
Broncos Aiming to Reverse Their Recent Fortune
The Broncos witnessed their three-game winning streak come to an abrupt end against the Chargers, as they fell into an early disadvantage and struggled to recover. With this setback, Denver’s record now stands at 3-3, placing them third in the competitive AFC West behind the Chiefs and Chargers. In the last match against Los Angeles, Denver found themselves trailing 10-0 after the first quarter, 20-0 at halftime, and 23-0 entering the fourth quarter. A late surge yielded 16 points in the final quarter, but it was insufficient to reclaim the lead. Denver’s offense was outgained by a margin of 350-316, and they faced challenges with only 17 first downs compared to their opponent’s 22. Additionally, the Broncos struggled with time management, holding the ball for just 22:37 against the Chargers’ 37:23.
The Broncos’ offense currently ranks 27th in passing with an average of 170.8 yards per game and 23rd in rushing, totaling 107.3 yards per contest. They sit at 25th for scoring offense, averaging 18.7 points per game, while their defense shines at 4th, allowing only 16 points per game. Quarterback Bo Nix has completed 121 of 198 passes for 1,082 yards, with five touchdowns and five interceptions, while being sacked nine times. He also contributes to the running game with 180 yards and three touchdowns on 37 carries. Running backs include Javonte Williams, who leads with 213 yards on 59 carries, and Jaleel McLaughlin, who adds 116 yards on 36 carries with one touchdown. Courtland Sutton tops the receiving corps with 21 receptions for 277 yards and two touchdowns. Kicker Wil Lutz has successfully converted 13 of 14 field goals this season, including a long of 51 yards.
Injury concerns loom for Denver, particularly in the secondary. Cornerback Pat Surtain II was absent from practice due to a concussion, while Ja’Quan McMillian (ankle), Riley Moss (hip), and tackle Alex Palczewski (ankle) were limited. Updates will be crucial as the game approaches.
Saints Looking to End Their Losing Streak
The New Orleans Saints began the season with vigor, scoring 91 points in their initial two games. However, their momentum has stalled, leading to a four-game losing streak following their defeat to Tampa Bay. The Saints now hold a 2-4 record, sitting third in the NFC South, trailing the Falcons and Buccaneers by two games. In the recent matchup against Tampa Bay, New Orleans fell behind 17-0 in the first quarter but managed to take a 27-24 lead at halftime. Unfortunately, they could not maintain that performance, being outscored 27-0 in the second half. The Saints were outmatched in total yardage, with Tampa Bay accumulating 594 yards to New Orleans’ 303. The Saints also struggled with ball security, turning the ball over three times, including a scoop-and-score against them.
On the statistical front, the Saints rank 21st in passing offense, averaging 200.3 yards, while their rushing attack is slightly better at 13th, with 119.5 yards per game. They stand 5th in scoring offense, averaging 27.8 points per game, but their defense ranks 23rd, allowing 24.5 points per contest. Quarterback Derek Carr has thrown for 989 yards on 90 of 128 passing, with eight touchdowns and four interceptions. Spencer Rattler, who has taken on more responsibility, is 22 of 40 for 243 yards and one touchdown, while also contributing 27 rushing yards. The ground game features Alvin Kamara, who has rushed for 428 yards and six touchdowns this season. Chris Olave is the top target in the receiving game, with 280 yards on 23 catches. Kicker Blake Grupe has been reliable, making 10 of 10 field goals, with a long of 57 yards.
The injury report for New Orleans is lengthy, with Carr (oblique), Olave (concussion), and several others not practicing. Limited participants include Kamara (hand) and Taysom Hill (ribs), creating uncertainty as the game day approaches.
Betting Insights for Broncos vs. Saints
If Carr is unable to play, the matchup may heavily feature rookie quarterbacks Nix and Rattler. While the Saints managed to score 27 points last week, it’s important to note that seven of those points came from a punt return, and they also benefited from advantageous field position. In the second half, their offense was stagnant, failing to score at all. Facing a solid Broncos defense, which has shown strength this season, presents a significant challenge for New Orleans. Although the Broncos may struggle offensively, they had recently put together three straight wins before their loss to the Chargers. Look for Denver to rely on their defensive prowess as they aim for a road victory in this matchup.
