The Denver Broncos (0-1) are set to host the Washington Commanders (1-0) in Week 2 of the 2023 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here is our quick preview for the AFC vs. NFC showdown.
Commanders’ keys to victory: Washington QB Sam Howell is a capable game manager, helped by having three extremely talented WRs in Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson and Curtis Samuel. The Commanders will look to establish the ground game early with RBs Brian Robinson and Antonio Gibson to draw attention away from Howell. If they can get going on the ground, that will open things up for Howell to continue executing his effective run-pass option plays at a high level. Denver’s secondary is tough to beat through the air, but Howell should be able to find short-yardage openings on RPOs. On defense, Washington’s fearsome pass rush will look to disrupt the Broncos’ passing game, giving their talented safeties opportunities to create turnovers.
Buy Broncos TicketsBroncos’ keys to victory: Protecting QB Russell Wilson will be a big key. Wilson was sacked a career-high 55 times last season despite playing in 15 games (he missed two because of injury). New HC Sean Payton addressed the team’s protection this offseason by signing G Ben Powers and RT Mike McGlinchey during free agency. The new-look line had a mostly positive performance in Week 1, allowing two sacks. If given time this week, Wilson can attack the Commanders’ linebackers, who are a weaknesses in coverage. Sunday’s game could prove to be a good matchup for TE Adam Trautman, who will be asked to step up this week with Greg Dulcich (hamstring) sidelined. On defense, Denver will aim to harass Howell and force mistakes from the young QB.
Matchup to watch: Commanders DT Jonathan Allen vs. Broncos G Ben Powers. Powers excels as a run blocker but has struggled at times in pass protection. This week, Powers will face Allen, a two-time Pro Bowler who has totaled 22.5 sacks over the past two seasons. Washington’s defensive line likely has the edge over Denver’s offensive line.
Who wins? The Broncos will look to bounce back after last week’s one-point loss to a division rival. The Commanders are coming off a win over Arizona, but Denver will have the edge at home. Broncos 23, Commanders 17.
This post originally appeared in Sports Weekly.
