Broncos vs. Ravens NFL Week 9 Picks: Can Denver Surprise Baltimore?

Denver Cruised Past Carolina

Bo Nix led the Denver Broncos to a 28-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, throwing three touchdown passes and rushing for another score, while Denver’s defense held firm against Bryce Young and the injury-plagued Panthers.

Nix, in his most impressive outing of the season, threw for 284 yards. He connected with Nate Adkins for a 3-yard touchdown and found Adam Trautman for a 19-yard score in the second quarter, helping Denver build a commanding 21-7 lead at halftime.

Denver’s Patrick Surtain II rebounded from allowing Carolina’s opening-drive touchdown, intercepting Young at the Denver 11 on the Panthers’ following possession.

Courtland Sutton was a key target, hauling in eight receptions for 100 yards—his first 100-yard game since Week 2 of 2022. His final catch ended in a costly fumble at the Carolina 1-yard line when Trevin Wallace forced the ball loose, and Shy Tuttle recovered it, marking his second recovery of the game.

On defense, Nik Bonitto extended his sack streak to six games, the longest for Denver since Von Miller’s 2018 streak, while Ja’Quan McMillian intercepted Young in the end zone midway through the fourth quarter.

Cleveland Upset Baltimore

The Cleveland Browns stunned Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens with a 29-24 win, snapping their five-game losing streak.

Jackson orchestrated a late comeback, driving the Ravens to Cleveland’s 24-yard line in the final seconds.

However, two end-zone attempts fell incomplete, the last aimed at Zay Flowers as time expired, ending Baltimore’s five-game winning streak. Jackson finished the game with 23 completions on 38 attempts, totaling 289 yards and two touchdowns.

The Ravens briefly took a 24-23 lead with 2:36 left on Derrick Henry’s 2-yard touchdown run, a score that also tied him with Hall of Famer Barry Sanders for 10th place on the all-time scoring list.

But Cleveland quarterback Jameis Winston, signed on a one-year deal, benefited from a missed interception by Baltimore’s Kyle Hamilton on the Browns’ final drive, setting up Cleveland’s game-winning rally.

Key Matchups

Nix is coming off a career-best performance, displaying poise and precision, while Baltimore’s Jackson continues to be an explosive dual-threat. Each team boasts defensive playmakers capable of turning the tide, making this matchup a potential defensive showdown.

Bo Nix vs. Ravens’ Defense

Nix’s 284-yard, three-touchdown performance on Sunday showed his ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially with targets like Sutton and Trautman.

Sutton’s 100-yard game last week showcased his threat level, although his issues with ball security could be problematic against a Ravens defense known for its physicality and knack for forcing turnovers.

If Nix can spread the field while keeping Sutton involved, he could stretch Baltimore’s secondary. However, the Ravens’ defense has shown its resilience, and any slip-ups by Nix or his receivers could lead to costly turnovers.

Lamar Jackson vs. Broncos’ Defense

Jackson’s athleticism and passing accuracy, as demonstrated in his 289-yard, two-touchdown game on Sunday, remain constant threats. Denver’s secondary, featuring Surtain, who rebounded last week with a timely interception, will be crucial in containing Jackson’s downfield attack.

Surtain’s ability to close gaps quickly will be essential in limiting Jackson’s options. Additionally, McMillian’s end zone interception last week highlighted Denver’s red zone defense, a key factor if they are to limit Jackson’s scoring chances.

Nik Bonitto vs. Ravens’ Offensive Line

Bonitto’s streak of sacks, stretching six consecutive games, makes him a critical factor in pressuring Jackson. His speed off the edge could disrupt Baltimore’s timing and prevent Jackson from getting comfortable in the pocket.

With a Ravens offensive line that has struggled with consistency, Bonitto’s presence may force Jackson into quicker, riskier decisions, potentially setting up turnover opportunities.

Turnovers and Field Position

Both teams have had key turnovers impact recent games, making ball security paramount. Sutton’s fumble at the 1-yard line nearly jeopardized Denver’s victory, while Baltimore’s Hamilton missed a critical interception that led to Cleveland’s game-winning drive. Whichever team can limit these errors and capitalize on short-field opportunities could hold the upper hand in this game.

The Pick

Expect a tight battle as both defenses apply pressure early. Denver’s reliance on Nix’s passing game could pose challenges against a physical Ravens defense, especially if they struggle to establish a balanced attack.

On the flip side, Baltimore’s offensive line inconsistencies and Jackson’s reliance on improvisation might lead to costly errors under Denver’s defensive pressure. In the end, Nix’s playmaking keeps Denver in the game.

NFL Pick: Broncos +9.5 (-115) at BetOnline

Broncos +9.5 (-115)

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