Raiders at Broncos Under 43 1/2
Where do the points come from?
Jimmy Garoppolo is a game-manager facing a Denver defense that has many underrated players such as Alex Singleton, Josey Jewell and Justin Simmons. Unlike last year, the Broncos defense is healthy. Garoppolo is one of the least explosive quarterbacks in the league.
Sean Payton has a reputation for being an offensive guru. But what does he have? A washed-up Russell Wilson, a cluster injury problem at wide receiver, a hole at tight end and a mediocre offensive line that has to deal with Maxx Crosby, who led the NFL with 22 tackles for losses last season.
Even if Payton can fix Wilson – certainly not a given – that’s going to take time. This is opening week. The Raiders have had Denver’s number winning the past six times, while holding the Broncos to an average of 17.3 points during the last three meetings.
I see special teams as being a plus for the Under. Yes, the Raiders have a tremendous kicker in Daniel Carlson. But they also have an excellent punter, AJ Cole. He had the fourth-highest punting average in the NFL last season and he’ll be punting in Denver’s high altitude.
Wil Lutz is the Broncos’ new kicker. He wasn’t very good with the Saints last year and that was kicking in a dome. He’s also one of the least accurate long-range kickers in the league.
This has all the makings of being a tight, low-scoring division game.
(I am looking to beat the NFL for the 26th time in the last 31 years. I really like today’s card with seven premium plays in addition to this free selection. If you’re interested in my sports service please email me at scriber26@gmail.com, or message via X (Twitter).)
