Denver Broncos vs. New Orleans Saints Predictions & Picks: NFL Week 8 Preview
The Denver Broncos take on the New Orleans Saints in what promises to be a highly anticipated Thursday Night Football showdown. With both teams needing a win to stay competitive in their respective divisions, this NFL Week 8 matchup holds significant playoff implications. Betting enthusiasts and fans alike are eager for predictions and picks on how this game will play out.
Game Overview: Denver Broncos vs New Orleans Saints
Date: Thursday, October 19, 2024
Time: 8:15 PM Eastern / 5:15 PM Pacific
Venue: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
Broadcast: Prime Video
Betting Odds and Line Movements
As of the beginning of the week, the New Orleans Saints opened as slight road favorites, with a line of -2.5 points.
The over/under for the total points is currently set at 43.5, reflecting expectations for a relatively low-scoring game given both teams’ defensive strengths and recent offensive struggles.
Denver Broncos: A Struggling Offense
Recent Performance
The Denver Broncos have had a tumultuous season so far, with inconsistent offensive performances and a defense that has struggled at key moments.
Their record heading into Week 8 is 3-4, and they will be looking to even that out in front of their home fans.
Quarterback Bo Nix has been under pressure, but he remains a key figure for the Broncos offense. If Nix can recapture some of his early-season form, Denver could surprise the Saints on Thursday night.
However, the Broncos’ offensive line has struggled to protect Nix, and their ground game has been inconsistent. Running back Javonte Williams will need to step up if Denver is to control the pace of the game and keep the Saints’ defense off balance.
Key Matchups
Bo Nix vs. Saints Secondary: New Orleans has one of the stronger pass defenses in the NFL, and Nix will need to be sharp to avoid turnovers. The Saints have been particularly effective in generating pressure, which could spell trouble for the Broncos’ offensive line.
Broncos Run Game vs. Saints Front Seven: Establishing the run will be crucial for Denver, but New Orleans’ stout front seven will present a tough challenge.
Betting Insight
The Broncos are home underdogs, and while they have the potential to cover the spread, their inconsistency makes them a risky pick.
Unless Denver can find balance on offense and avoid turnovers, they may struggle to keep up with New Orleans.
New Orleans Saints: Defensive Dominance
Recent Performance
The New Orleans Saints come into this game with a 2-4 record, buoyed by a defense that has kept them competitive throughout the season.
Quarterback Derek Carr has shown flashes of brilliance but will likely be out for this game.
That said, New Orleans’ defense has been elite, ranking among the top five in the NFL in several categories, including sacks, passing yards allowed, and points per game.
On offense, Alvin Kamara remains the focal point of the Saints’ attack, both as a rusher and a receiver. Kamara’s versatility will be key in exploiting Denver’s defense, which has struggled against dynamic running backs this season.
The Saints will look to Kamara and Chris Olave if healthy to lead the offense while backup Spencer Rattler manages the game and avoids mistakes.
Key Matchups
Spencer Rattler vs. Broncos Pass Rush: The Broncos’ pass rush, has been effective in getting to the quarterback, but they’ll need to be at their best to disrupt Rattler’s rhythm.
Alvin Kamara vs. Broncos Linebackers: Kamara’s ability to exploit mismatches in the passing game will be critical. Denver’s linebackers will need to step up to contain Kamara and prevent him from breaking big plays.
Betting Insight
The Saints are slight favorites, and with their dominant defense and superior offensive weapons, they are in a good position to cover the -2.5 point spread.
Final Prediction: Saints Cover the Spread
Taking all factors into account, New Orleans should emerge victorious in this Week 8 matchup. Here’s why:
Superior defense: The Saints’ defense has been one of the best in the league this season, and they should be able to contain the Broncos’ inconsistent offense.
Offensive balance: With Alvin Kamara leading the rushing and passing attack, the Saints have a versatile offense that can exploit Denver’s defensive weaknesses.
Recommended Bet: Saints -2.5 and Under 43.5
Given both teams’ reliance on defense and their struggles to consistently score points, betting the under is a strong play. Additionally, the Saints are well-positioned to cover the spread with their defensive prowess and balanced offense.
Key Takeaways
Pick: New Orleans Saints -2.5
Prediction: New Orleans Saints 24, Denver Broncos 17
Betting Strategy: Bet the Saints to cover the spread and consider the under for a lower-scoring game.
Conclusion
The Denver Broncos vs. New Orleans Saints matchup on Thursday Night Football will be a hard-fought game between two teams with plenty on the line.
With the Saints’ defense playing at a high level and Alvin Kamara leading the offense, New Orleans looks set to take home the win and cover the spread.
If you’re looking for a smart bet this week, back the Saints -2.5 and expect a lower-scoring game with value on the under.
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