Denver Broncos Week 4: Proofs, Petitions and Predictions

With only 17 games in the regular season, every week in the NFL is important. Week 4 will be another opportunity for a young Denver Broncos football team to solidify its identity. To better understand this identity, proofs need to be shown, petitions need to be asked, and predictions about what will transpire tomorrow as the Denver Broncos look to stall the New York Jets need to be made.

Photo byBen HersheyonUnsplash

Proofs

Each week, some players have something to prove. The National Football League is a “what have you done for me lately” environment. It is a brutal cauldron of competition and a cold business that does not slow down for injury or lack of performance. Despite its callous nature, the NFL also produces opportunities. A player who has received a huge opportunity this week is Cody Barton. With Alex Singleton lost for the season with a torn ACL, the fifth-year linebacker and former third round pick of Seattle will be wearing the green dot for the Denver Broncos defense this week.

His task is to be the quarterback of the defense and not only not to be a leader on the defense but to fill the void of leading tackler Singleton. Barton will need to prove that he's up to the challenge against a solid New York Jets running attack. Much of the chatter surrounding the Denver Broncos this week has been about something other than football. Tyler Badie has shown a flash of brilliance in the last two games. His 70-yard performance last year, highlighted by a 43-yard burst, captured the eye of Denver Broncos Country.

But it was what captured the ears of Broncos Country that garnered even more attention. Is his name Bay-dee or Buh-day? Last year, he told reporters that it was the former, but now he prefers the latter. Bay-dee – Buh-day. Either way, Tyler needs to prove that he is worthy of the promotion that he received this week as he was lifted to the 53-man roster. Can he be the running back the Broncos have been needing? Run the rock, Badie, and no one will mind calling you Bidet.

Petitions

The win in Tampa Bay over the Buccaneers last week was a big step forward in the development of Bo Nix. Head Coach and play-caller Sean Payton had called very conservative games in the first two weeks of the season. Then, on the very first play of the game in Tampa, Payton took the reins off and let the rookie quarterback play football. The result was a wonderful back-shoulder completion to Wide Receiver Courtland Sutton.

Payton needs to let Nix be more aggressive. Let the 12th overall pick shine and see what he is made of. He will make mistakes – let him make the mistakes. The reason the Denver Broncos won last week and were competitive in the first two weeks is in large part because of the defense. The temptation of Denver Broncos Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph is to be conservative in stopping the run and letting Aaron Rogers throw the ball with the intent that Pat Surtain and Riley Moss can contain the passing attack.

Vance Joseph must not let the loss of Alex Singleton frighten him. He should continue to pressure the quarterback like he did last week. He should be aggressive and dominant with the stellar defensive front. It will be fun to see the Broncos defense matches up with the future first-ballot Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers.

Predictions

The Denver Broncos still have a lot to prove and improve on both sides of the ball. They will hold their own in the first half, but the inexperienced offense will not be able to produce the sustained drives to keep Rodgers off the field. Bo Nix will throw his first NFL touchdown this week but, unfortunately, will throw at least one more interception. He will continue to show development and will have a measure of success, but the Jets will prevail in the end. New York Jets 27 – Denver Broncos 17

For More Great Content

Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips and sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play. Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out—explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.

Article originally written by Ryan Arkema