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This Broncos vs Rams matchup comes on the heels of Denver naming Teddy Bridgewater its starting quarterback over Drew Lock in what was a surprising decision. Lock won’t be able to do anything to change that, but it’s an interesting backdrop. As for the Rams, they’ll play reserves in their preseason finale. Below, we preview this Broncos vs Rams game.
Denver Broncos vs Los Angeles Rams: What you need to know
- The Broncos host Los Angeles at Empower Field in Denver on Saturday Aug. 28 at 6:05 PM ET.
- Sportsnaut forecasts the Denver Broncos will beat the Los Angeles Rams, 27-17.
- Odds: Broncos are 8.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 33.5.
Teddy Bridgewater vs Rams defense
Even after naming Bridgewater the starter over Lock for Week 1, we’re expecting to see the former take to the field in the preseason finale. He’s going to need some reps with the first-team offense.
As for Lock, he has to be disappointed that Denver went against conventional wisdom and didn’t name him the starter. While he can’t do much to change the narrative here, there’s a chance that the former second-round pick will be showcasing his talents for other teams.
- One last chance: Teddy Bridgewater will see action against a cast of Rams backups. Even if he continues to perform at a high level, there’s going to be a number of Broncos fans unhappy about him being named the starter.
- Getting more from Drew Lock: Last week saw Lock complete 9-of-14 passes for 80 yards in Denver’s 30-3 win over Seattle. It’s the same game that saw Bridgewater complete a more efficient 9-of-11 passes for 105 yards and a touchdown. This was a close decision. At the very least, a strong performance from Lock here could force the Broncos into giving Teddy a short leash during the regular year.
Click here to find out where the Rams and Broncos stand in our latest NFL power rankings
Denver Broncos running backs against backup Los Angeles Rams defense
Denver’s running back situation has proven to be somewhat questionable through two preseason games. Last week against Seattle, the Broncos gained a mere 63 yards on 31 attempts. That’s just not going to get it done, especially considering the quarterback situation in Denver.
As for Los Angeles, it’s not a surprise that Sean McVay has pushed back against playing his starters. It’s all about seeing what the team has in terms of depth on defense.
- The Javonte Williams show: This rookie second-round pick from North Carolina gained just 20 yards on seven attempts last week. Denver traded up for Williams to be the 1A guy with veteran Melvin Gordon. Can he prove it come Saturday?
- The backups in Los Angeles: Rams backup defenders played extremely well last week against the Las Vegas Raiders. Ernest Jones and Chris Garrett were among those to stand out the most. That could be big at linebacker given the questions for the Rams in this regard.
Los Angeles Rams offensive line vs Denver Broncos defensive line
We’re likely going to see Bryce Perkins play the entire game against Denver come Saturday. He played all four quarters last week, completing 26-of-39 passes while being sacked just one time.
When it comes to the Broncos, they need to show more consistency from a pass-rush standpoint. If that were to happen this season, an elite-level secondary will help this unit to a top-five standing.
- Los Angeles Rams depth: The likes of Bobby Evans, Chandler Brewer and Joseph Noteboom have seen extensive action this summer. It’s now small thing given that the Rams lack depth a long the offensive line. Giving them extensive play should only help once the regular season comes calling.
- Packing a punch in Denver: We know what Bradley Chubb and Von Miller bring to the table. It’s now all about seeing more from lesser-known individuals such as Jonathon Cooper, Malik Reed and Pita Taumoepenu.
Bottom line: This Broncos vs Rams preseason finale couldn’t be any less significant for Sean McVay’s squad. As for Denver, there’s still a lot to work out. That obviously includes the quarterback situation. This will be the thing to watch come Saturday at Mile High.