Pack vs. Broncos Mini-Preview

This will be brief -- more later if time permits...

The Broncos are favored by 3 -- home field advantage. The Packers are 5-1 coming off a bye week. The Broncos are 3-3, with their 3 wins coming on last-second field goals.

The Packers have the worst rushing offense in the NFL. The Broncos, coincidentally, have the worst rushing defense in terms of yards allowed. So, one team or the other will improve their standing in that area. The Packers will start rookie DeShawn Wynn and play Vernand Morency on passing downs and for a change of pace. And let's not forget rookie fullback Korey Hall, who also is becoming a fine receiving option ala William Henderson. If Wynn can toughen up and play with the dings that seem to take him out quickly, the Packers could have a good night rushing...that's assuming the offensive line can effectively employ its zone blocking scheme, which it hasn't so far this season. If the Broncos bring up safeties to help with the run -- assuming that would be needed -- then look for Brett and the receivers to have a big night. This despite the fact that Brett has never thrown a TD in Denver. It's about time.

What can the Broncos bring on offense? Depends on whether second-year QB Jay Cutler continues the type of play he had last week against the Steelers, where he had the best game of his young career. He has a couple capable receivers, although that guy that used to play in GB before whining his way out of town (what was his name? Walker?) is out with a knee injury. They also have a pretty good running back in Travis Henry. But if the Packers defense performs as it has been, they should be able to rattle the young Cutler and keep things in check.

Give the Packers the edge at QB -- obviously! -- and at receivers. Give the Broncos the edge at RB. Give the Pack the edge on defense. Home field advantage goes to Denver, of course. This seems to add up to a tight one. I'd still take the Pack to beat the spread...and win the game.