Parker Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos 28, Falcons 27 This feels like a sneaky-tough matchup given the way Kirk Cousins has been playing, the diversity of Atlanta’s offense and the group’s terrific run game. It’s the kind of challenge that can test even the best secondaries. The brain keeps saying “upset alert.” Sometimes you go instead with the gut. And the gut says Sean Payton’s team is ready for this challenge.
Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos Ryan 24, Falcons 21 Inside the McFadden locker room in Kansas City, the Broncos were frustrated by letting a victory over the defending champs slip through their fingers. Expect Denver to carry that aggression over to Sunday’s matchup against Atlanta. Bo Nix will take advantage of Atlanta’s inability to generate pressure and have a strong performance at home.
Troy Troy Renck, Renck columnist: Broncos 23, Falcons 20 The Broncos insist this team is different. Time to prove it. If they are a playoff team, they need to win at home against a good team. Bo Nix will join Peyton Manning as the only rookie QB to pass for at least 200 yards and multiple touchdowns in four straight home games. And Denver will benefit as slumping Younghoe Koo misses a key kick, staying on brand since Week 4 (8 for 15).
Sean Sean Keeler, Keeler columnist: Broncos 21, Falcons 20 Only two NFL defenses have given up more rush attempts per game to opposing QBs than the Falcons (6.3), and only five are allowing more QB rush yards per tilt than ATL (28.6). Good defense (Broncos) vs. good offense (Atlanta) + meh offense (Broncos) vs. meh defense (Atlanta) means special teams could swing this one. Wil Lutz for the win, kids. What could possibly go wrong?