This Sunday match-up could be the preview of the AFC Championship game. It is two powerhouses going head-to-head in Denver. Both teams are riding massive winning streaks and playoff seeding is on the line.
What's at stake in the Jacksonville Jaguars game against the Denver Broncos, Sunday at 4:05 local time:
*For Denver: A victory, coupled with a Chargers loss or tie, would officially cinch the AFC West title. Depending on other results, the Broncos could even secure the number one seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs this weekend.
*For Jacksonville: The Jaguars are currently one of the hottest teams in football, winners of five straight. A win keeps them in the hunt for the top seed and would clinch a playoff berth if either Houston or Indianapolis falters on Sunday.
What to watch for:
The Red-Hot Jags Offense vs. The Historic Defense of the Broncos:
The defining story of this game is the "immovable object vs. unstoppable force" dynamic. Trevor Lawrence and the offense have been scoring at a blistering pace of 34.2 points per game. However, the Jags are walking into a buzzsaw in Denver.
The Broncos, defense is currently on a historic pace, leading the league with 58 sacks. Their pass rush, led by Nik Bonito, is the primary threat to Trevor Lawrence's recent efficiency. If the Jaguars' offensive line-which has been middle-of-the-pack in pass protection-can't hold up in the thin Denver air, Lawrence's five-touchdown momentum could evaporate quickly.
The QB Duel: Lawrence vs. Nix
This game features two quarterbacks playing at the peak of their powers. Lawrence is coming off a legendary week 15 performance, while second-year standout Bo Nix has been the model of efficiency for Sean Payton's system. Nix has thrown 23 touchdowns to just nine interceptions this season. Nix is showing a level of poise that has revitalized the Broncos Franchise.
The Jaguars path to victory lies in their ability to force Nix into Mistakes. Jacksonville ranks second in the NFL in interceptions (18). If they can bait the young QB into a couple of turnovers, it negates Denver's home-field advantage.
Expect a chess match. The Jags have proven they can win as underdogs this season, with road victories over several top contenders. However, Denver is a perfect 7-0 at home this season. The altitude and that relentless pass rush usually wear teams down in the fourth quarter.
The Broncos ability to pressure the QB without blitzing could be the difference-maker, though Lawrence should be able to keep it close to come down to a final possession.