The Denver Broncos (8-5) are set to host the Indianapolis Colts (6-7) in Week 15 of the 2024 NFL season in a game with massive playoff implications in the AFC. Ahead of Sunday’s showdown, here are five quick storylines to keep an eye on leading up to and during the game.
1. Denver’s cornerback rotation: Riley Moss (knee) seems unlikely to play this weekend and Levi Wallace was a disaster in his place in Week 13. Might the Broncos turn to rookie Kris Abrams-Draine this week? Josh Downs (shoulder) has returned to practice for the Colts and Indy’s offense also features Michael Pittman, Alec Pierce and Adonai Mitchell. Denver needs to get the cornerback rotation right against a talented group of Colts receivers.
2. Containing Colts QB Anthony Richardson: He’s had his share of struggles as a passer, but Richardson has a big arm and dangerous legs. The 22-year-old quarterback has rushed for 383 yards and four touchdowns through nine starts this season, picking up 28 first downs along the way. The Broncos have a brilliant group of pass rushers, but the unit will need to be careful to not get too far upfield and allow Richardson to get outside of the pocket and beat them around the edge.
3. Broncos’ rushing attack: Jaleel McLaughlin has been the team’s most productive running back in their last two games, but Denver will likely continue its committee approach against Indy. The Colts allow 147 rushing yards per game, second-most in the NFL. That’s good news for McLaughlin, Javonte Williams and rookie Audric Estime. Building an early lead and running over Indy’s defense could be a winning game plan on Sunday.
4. Denver’s defense vs. Jonathan Taylor: The Colts also have a productive rushing attack. With one of the NFL’s best rushing quarterbacks and an elite running back in Taylor, Indy has averaged 118.8 rushing yards per game this season. The Broncos’ defense, meanwhile, has allowed 94.7 rushing yards per contest. Denver’s defensive line against the Colts’ offensive line will be one of the most important matchups in Week 15.
5. Bo Nix coming out of the bye week: For the first time in his career, Nix is set to play an NFL game coming out of a bye week. He should be well-prepared as coach Sean Payton is 10-6 coming off a bye in his career, including a 24-22 win over the Buffalo Bills last season. Nix has totaled 3,148 all-purpose and 22 total touchdowns through his first 13 games in the NFL. This week, he’ll look to build on those totals against an Indy defense that has allowed the fourth-most yards (379.4) per game this season.
Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS (view the TV map). Playing at home, the Broncos are considered favorites against the Colts.
