Alright, Week 1 is here, and the NFL is kicking off with a rivalry showdown on Monday Night Football: Denver vs. Kansas City. This isn’t just any opener; it’s a huge test for the Broncos right out of the gate. We’re talking about a game that sets the tone, especially with what they’re up against at Arrowhead, including a familiar face making a debut in the Chiefs’ backfield that’s got everyone talking.
Ground and Pound? Or Get Shut Down?
Let’s be real, for the Broncos to have any shot on the road against the Chiefs, their offense has to hit the ground running, literally. We know Bo Nix and the aerial attack need to make some splash plays, but a consistent running game? That’s just as crucial. Remember last season after J.K. Dobbins went down in the second half of ’25? The run game sputtered, averaging barely over three yards a carry. That’s just unacceptable. They’ve been working diligently this offseason, from blocking schemes to adding players, and it has to show up Monday night. Dobbins is expected to get most of the carries, but watch out for second-year back RJ Harvey and rookie Jonah Coleman. Harvey’s speed could break a big run or two, and Coleman excelled in short-yardage in college, so expect him there. This isn’t some walk in the park, though. The Chiefs had a Top 10 run defense last year, so Denver’s O-line has a massive job paving paths for this talented trio. This is a HUGE test.
D-Line Shakes, Edge Rushers, and Stopping That Chiefs Offense
Now, let’s talk defense. The Broncos have a lot of continuity, but there are two massive changes on that defensive line, and they need to click fast. First, who’s stepping up to replace John Franklin-Myers? Zach Allen, D.J. Jones, and Malcolm Roach are the starting three, but who gets those next snaps? My money’s on Eyioma Uwazurike. The fourth-year player has had a standout camp, and Coach Sean Payton has already highlighted him as a potential breakout candidate. They’re going to NEED him to step up big to chase down Patrick Mahomes, but also to stop Kenneth Walker III from having a massive debut game with the Chiefs. Yep, Kenneth Walker III! You heard that right. Plus, the edge rusher rotation is a puzzle without Jonathon Cooper, who’s sidelined on the NFL Commissioner’s Exempt List. Cooper started all seventeen regular season games last year, so figuring out that right formula is absolutely critical.
This Monday Night Football matchup isn’t just a Week 1 game, it’s a statement. For the Broncos, it’s about whether their offseason work translates onto the field, especially against a tough Chiefs team. Can they establish the run? Can their D-line and edge rushers step up against Mahomes and a new-look backfield? We’re about to find out, and it’s gonna be must-watch TV!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
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