The NFL has had one of its most intense seasons in recent memory, with seeding in both conferences coming down to the wire. The Los Angeles Chargers have already clinched a playoff spot (they are locked into the five seed) and have decided to rest superstar quarterback Justin Herbert for the team’s final game against the Denver Broncos. Now, it’s up to coach Sean Payton and company to the beat the Chargers second-string quarterback and clinch the one seed (and a first-round bye) for the playoffs.
The Chargers franchise quarterback has been lights out this season, experiencing a passing renaissance under the mentorship of his new coach, Jim Harbaugh. Los Angeles’ decision to rest their starters has shaken up the Broncos’ game plan Sunday. Payton will more than likely implement the same plan he had against the Chiefs’ third-string quarterback, Chris Oladokun, on Christmas night.
Denver’s stout defense will lie back to force the former first-round pick, Trey Lance, to beat them through the air.
A first-round bye and home-field advantage through the conference championship helps the Broncos immensely. The week off while other teams tough it out on wild card weekend will aid Denver in resting their players and game planning for their opponent in the divisional round.
The team has been winning week after week despite their inconsistent offense. This Sunday, knowing home-field advantage is on the line, Bo Nix and the offense need to be perfect to clinch against the Chargers. During the postseason and beyond, the defense will have to step up for the first-seed Broncos.
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