How to watch, odds, expert picks with Denver trying to win the playoffs

Trends adra. New Sunday 05th January 2025 05:08 PM REPORT

Facing a win-win scenario to make the playoffs, the Denver Broncos host the Kansas City Chiefs. One game ahead of Miami and Cincinnati for the final AFC playoff spot, Denver controls its destiny against the top-seeded Chiefs. While Kansas City is likely resting key players with its postseason status already set, the Broncos are favored by nearly double digits.

How to watch the Chiefs at the Broncos

Denver’s below-average offense (22nd in total yards per game) has been integrating new pieces in recent weeks in hopes of becoming more dynamic. Running backs Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime, with additional carries, have allowed the Broncos’ inconsistent running game to surpass 100 yards in each of the last two weeks.

The emergence of electric second-year receiver Marvin Mims Jr. as a credible second option for quarterback Bo Nix is another positive late-season development for Denver. The NFL leader in punt return yards, Mims has gained 383 of his 452 receiving yards this season over the last six games. During that span, Mims is stretching the field to the tune of 16.6 yards per catch with four touchdowns.

Sluggish during the first half of the season, the Denver secondary has growing concerns regarding star corner Patrick Surtain II. The Bengals and Joe Burrow torched the Broncos’ overwhelmed secondary for 412 passing yards in Week 17 – constantly attacking corner Riley Moss in his return from injury.

After a convincing Christmas victory over the Texans – and three games over 11 days – Kansas City could rest its contributors for a possible 24-day layoff. Kansas City does not need to play its starters until a possible home game on Jan. 18 or 19 in the divisional round of the playoffs.

In a similar spot to close out the 2020 regular season, Andy Reid rested his starters, with Kansas City ultimately losing in the Super Bowl to Tampa Bay.