The NFL's Week 7 action sees Sean Payton's return to the city of New Orleans, albeit on the sidelines of the Denver Broncos, a team he now leads following his departure from the Saints after the 2021 season. Scheduled for an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff at the iconic Caesars Superdome, this Thursday night matchup against the Saints holds particular significance.
Changing of the Guard in New Orleans
With Payton gone, the Saints have moved forward under the guidance of Dennis Allen. While trying to find a winning rhythm, the team has struggled somewhat, recording a 27-30 mark since the start of the 2022 season. Adding to their challenges, the Saints will face the Broncos without key players Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, both sidelined due to injuries. The situation places a brighter spotlight on Juwan Johnson, who is expected to play a significant offensive role.
Broncos' Offensive Dynamics
On the Denver side, the spotlight is on quarterback dynamics. Sean Payton's once-promising relationship with seasoned quarterback Russell Wilson soured, leading to a significant shift. Enter rookie Bo Nix, who has taken the reins as starting quarterback. Nix showcased his dual-threat capabilities by leading the Broncos in rushing during their Week 6 clash against the Los Angeles Chargers. Additionally, facing challenges on their offensive line, the Broncos may need to depend on undrafted rookie Frank Crum, who has risen to the occasion amidst a cascade of injuries.
Defensive Matchups
This game promises intense defensive battles. For the Broncos, the defensive strength is anchored by the play of Zach Allen, whose performance will be vital in containing the Saints' offense. On the other side of the field, Cameron Jordan stands as a pillar of the Saints' defense, notorious for his ability to disrupt the opponent's game plan. Meanwhile, Trevor Penning continues to solidify the right tackle position for New Orleans, protecting their backfield and creating opportunities for offensive maneuvers.
The Odds and Projections
The betting odds give a slight edge to the Broncos, listing them at -2.5, with an over/under set at a low 37, reflecting the expectation of a tightly contested defensive skirmish. Analytic models project a victory for Denver, forecasting a 24-15 scoreline in their favor. However, in a game with so many variables, especially the palpable history between Sean Payton and his former team, predictions can easily be turned on their head.
This game is more than just a typical regular-season matchup. It carries the added weight of personal histories and team legacies, setting the stage for potential fireworks at the Superdome. As Payton steps onto the field where he once celebrated substantial successes, the game will be as much about strategy as it will be about emotion, offering both the Saints and Broncos plenty to prove.