Broncos’ 34-20 home upset by the Jaguars exposes Denver’s defensive slide and rookie RJ Harvey’s breakout; bettors may lean toward Jacksonville ATS or consider Denver’s team-total under while the Broncos’ defense remains a concern entering crucial Week 17.
Broncos Upset at Home: 34-20 Loss to Jaguars Exposes Defensive Woes
Denver fell at home, 34-20, to Jacksonville in a result that raised alarms about the Broncos’ defense just before the playoffs. The Jaguars moved efficiently in the red zone, Trevor Lawrence delivered multiple touchdown drives, and Denver’s late-game injury to receiver Pat Bryant overshadowed the final score.
Defensive Collapse Puts Playoff Hopes on Edge
Over the last two weeks Denver’s defense has allowed 708 yards and 60 points, a troubling trend for a team aiming for top playoff seeding. Jacksonville converted 4-of-5 trips in the red zone and Trevor Lawrence completed 63.9% of his passes for 279 yards with three passing TDs and a rushing score. The Broncos’ inability to stop sustained drives creates matchup concerns against high-powered AFC offenses.
What went wrong
Penalties and missed assignments compounded schematic issues. Denver finished with six penalties for 61 yards, and while some calls were by-the-letter fouls, the miscues stalled drives and extended Jaguars’ possessions.
RJ Harvey Breakout: A Receiver Turned Weapon
Rookie RJ Harvey delivered a spark, rushing seven times for 50 yards and a touchdown and catching four passes for 71 yards — 121 yards on 11 touches. Harvey’s explosiveness helps offset the loss of J.K. Dobbins and gives Denver a fresh rushing option alongside Jaleel McLaughlin.
Officiating Controversies Again Draw Attention
Key penalties, including roughing the passer and a pass interference flag, created contentious moments that frustrated fans. While the officiating influenced field position, Jacksonville still outplayed Denver across multiple phases.
Playoff Picture: Broncos Still Control Fate
Despite the setback, Denver can still clinch the AFC West and the No. 1 seed. A Week 16 win plus a Chargers loss would secure the division before the Week 18 regular-season finale. Winning out guarantees the top seed; the team’s destiny remains largely in its own hands despite defensive concerns.
Pat Bryant Injury Overshadows Result
A frightening injury to receiver Pat Bryant late in the game sent him to a local hospital with concussion-like symptoms. Coach reports said Bryant had movement in his hands and legs and he is believed to be OK. His health is the priority heading into the holiday stretch of the season.
Looking Ahead: Christmas Day Test vs. Chiefs
Denver will travel to face the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday Night Football in Week 17 — a crucial game with playoff seeding on the line and a tough matchup for a defense struggling for consistency.
Betting Implications
Given Denver’s recent defensive slide, bettors might favor Jacksonville against the spread in similar matchups or take Denver’s team total under if lines reflect continued defensive struggles. RJ Harvey’s surge makes Denver’s run game more attractive in player props, while uncertainty around Bryant’s status could dampen Broncos receiving props. Always shop lines and consider recent defensive trends before wagering.
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