NFL Week 18 Preview: Picks & Predictions (Chiefs vs. Broncos)
The Broncos must win to make the playoffs, and they have a great chance, according to the odds. The Chiefs have already locked up the No. 1 seed in the AFC thanks to their 15-1 record and plan to rest their starters.
Sean Payton should have his team ready for whoever the Chiefs send on the field. Their playoff odds drop to 22% with a loss, as they need the Bengals and Dolphins to lose in that scenario. The easiest scenario, though, is for them to win this game.
The Chiefs dominated the Steelers last week, 29-10. They are starting to heat up right before the playoffs and likely make a deep run again with Patrick Mahomes. They are resting all their key players, including Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Chris Jones, Isiah Pacheco, George Karlaftis and Trent McDuffie.
The Broncos lost to the Bengals 30-24 last week, which was their second consecutive loss. They could have locked their playoff spot but could not find a way to win. They are down to their last chance to control their destiny. They do not have many injuries heading into this week. Tackle Frank Crum (illness) is the only player who missed practice on Thursday.
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Chiefs vs. Broncos Betting Preview
(Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook)
Will Bo Nix Lead the Broncos to the Playoffs?
Bo Nix has been playing well since the Broncos’ bye in Week 14 but has not done enough to get a victory in the last two weeks. The defense has taken a step back, allowing 25.7 points per game in their last three and 19.4 overall on the season. I expect them to return to form against the Chiefs' second unit, which makes Nix's job much easier.
Nix will not beat any team by himself but is good enough to get victories with good defensive play. He has thrown 25 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in his rookie season, which is respectable. Nix also has 383 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. He can use his legs if necessary, but I do not think it will be necessary this week.
Will Carson Wentz Spoil the Broncos' Season?
Carson Wentz has been sitting behind Patrick Mahomes all season and has only played a handful of snaps. He has thrown two passes this season, completing both in Week 15 against the Browns. The Broncos' defense will be a much tougher test for Wentz and Chiefs backups.
The Broncos have 15 interceptions this season and 25 total takeaways. Wentz has performed at an MVP level, but that was years ago. I would not expect a huge game from Wentz, but he still may have something left in the tank. He is on his fifth team in as many years. His last good season was in 2021 with the Colts. He only played two games last season for the Rams, finishing with two touchdowns and one interception. The Broncos should win this week against the Chiefs' backups.
Pick: Broncos -10.5 (-108)