As the Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) prepare to take on the Denver Broncos (12-2) in Week 16, we sat down with Ian St. Clair of Mile High Report To learn more about the opposite side.
Question 1: What are some of the first reasons that come to mind why the Broncos have the best record in football?
The biggest reason is Sean Payton. Since arriving in Denver, he has completely changed the culture within the organization. Before Payton was hired by the Broncos, this franchise could not have found its way to relevance if it had a map and a compass. But in his three seasons, he has proven himself to be one of the best coaches in the NFL. Related to that is Payton, George Paton and the Broncos ownership group led by Greg Penner, who are united on the same goal of making this the best team and franchise in the league. Having that synergy throughout the franchise is a big reason why Denver is where it is now. Of course, players have to do that on the field, and that starts with Bo Nix and his elite defense. The players have agreed to that, and they are on board with Payton and his expectations. That’s why the Broncos have the best record in the league right now.
Question 2: What, if any, are some concerns for this team as it prepares for its second straight playoff berth?
As with any team at this stage of the season, it’s about health. To make a deep run in the playoffs, teams need to remain injury-free. Obviously this isn’t something teams can control, but it’s always top of mind. The other thing is consistency on both sides of the ball. If the Broncos played the way they did in the second half of their win over the Green Bay Packers, no team would be able to beat them. So consistency is key from now on.
Question 3: What are the main strengths and weaknesses of Bo Nix’s game at this stage of his young career?
Let’s focus on the latest game to find the answer. The Knicks are coming off the best game of their career. In the win over the Packers, he was 23-for-34 passing for 302 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 10 rushing yards on seven carries. And even though the stats are off the charts, they still don’t do justice to how good the Knicks were in the win over Green Bay. The Knicks haven’t been sacked despite some tough moments in the pocket. He also did not commit any turnovers. And when the Broncos needed big throws, the Knicks made it happen. Now, can he do it again? Can the Knicks stack up great performances on each other? To go from good to great or even elite, he has to do what he did against the Packers this Sunday. This is where he put it all together for the first time.
Question 4: Who are one or two players Jaguars fans should watch on Sunday?
On defense, the replacement will be safety Brandon Jones. Whether it’s PJ Locke, JL Skinner, or perhaps someone else, keep an eye on who will replace Jones this weekend. I think Luke is the one who will get the nod this Sunday. As for the offense, let’s talk to Evan Engram. This may not seem like an “under the radar” player, but the tight end hasn’t done much this season. Facing his former team, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Payton use the tight end position in a way he hasn’t yet this season on Sunday.
Question 5: Do you expect the Broncos to top the 3-point favorites, and do you like any prop bets in the game?
Once again, Denver is one of the toughest places to play in the NFL. The Broncos haven’t lost a home game since last season. They also had a big win, but this team still knows it hasn’t achieved anything yet. Payton will have this team primed and ready, and I expect them to cover the spread. As for props, I like the Nix 3+ alt who passes TDs at +280 on FanDuel.
Thanks Ian for taking the time to answer our questions!
advertisement
Jaguar fans, let us know your thoughts in the comments below!