Raiders Big Dogs Against Broncos; Betting Trends Show Otherwise

NFL News - December 15th, 2009 - Written by Bryan

The Denver Broncos come into this week in the center of the playoff mix in the AFC conference. At 8-5, the Broncos are currently two games behind division leader San Diego, but in control of their own wild card destiny. Opposite the Broncos this week is the Oakland Raiders, a team that lost their fifth game by more than 20 points when they lost last week 34-13 to Washington.

Denver is a heavy favorite to win this week by NFL odds makers as they have installed the Broncos as a two touchdown favorite to take down the Raiders at home, with the line currently sitting at 14. The over/under for the contest is at 37 1/2

This past week saw Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall set an NFL record for most receptions in a single game, 22. Despite the record breaking performance, the Broncos were unable to come away with a victory as they lost Indianapolis 28-16.

"I went to my receiving coach before the game and I told him, 'I think this is going to be the best game I've ever played.' Just because of the environment, the situation of playing the Colts," Marshall said. "I believe big players step up in big games, and this was a big game for us."

Marshall will have to continue to step up for Denver as the Broncos are in a fight for their playoff lives in the three remaining weeks of the season, which begins with Oakland in this week.

Despite being favored to win easily, the Broncos will still have to execute the game plan Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels will implement for the Raiders.

The Broncos offense will try and establish the running game, taking pressure off quarterback Kyle Orton, allowing Orton to manage the game.

Orton has been solid for the Broncos this season, throwing twice as many touchdowns to interceptions, a ratio any quarterback would be happy with.

The edge in the quarterback department definitely favors the Broncos this week.

Oakland has been searching for answers at the quarterback position all year long. Opening week starter and number one draft pick JaMarcus Russell was benched following poor performances in practice and on the field. The Raiders then turned to back up Bruce Gradkowski.

Gradkowski has been more in the role of "gatekeeper" rather than franchise starting quarterback for the organization.

Then, last week Gradkowski went out with an injury and Russell took his place. Russell struggled against the Washington defense, prompting heckles from the Oakland faithful.

This week Gradkowski is listed as doubtful with a sprained knee, which would leave Russell to step in.

Kickoff between the Broncos and Raiders is at 4:05 EST and will be broadcast regionally.

NFL betting trends indicate that the Raiders are 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a straight up loss. Also, the Raiders are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game. The Raiders defense allowed 34 points to Washington last week.

The Broncos are 2-5 ATS in their last seven overall contests.