January 1st 2025.
The Broncos are taking a different approach to their final regular-season game this Sunday. They're treating it like a playoff game, despite their opponent not sharing the same mindset.
Denver knows that in order to secure their first playoff berth in eight years, they need to defeat the Chiefs. And even though Kansas City plans to play mostly backups in this Week 18 matchup, the Broncos are not underestimating their opponents. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton confidently stated, "We don't care who's out there, if they're wearing red, white, and yellow, we have to beat them. The Broncos are here to win this game."
Chiefs coach Andy Reid announced that veteran quarterback Carson Wentz will be starting for the team, as their two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes and other key players will be resting. Wentz, who was once a Pro Bowler but is now considered a journeyman, last started a game in 2023 with the Rams. In that game, he threw for 163 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, leading the Rams to a 21-20 victory over the 49ers, who also had backups playing in the second half.
Reid's decision to rest key players comes after the Chiefs secured the top seed in the AFC with a dominant 29-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas. However, the Broncos' game plan remains unchanged. Head coach Sean Payton reminded the team, "Our focus has to be on the team in general." He also gave credit to the Chiefs for earning the right to make these decisions with their 15-1 record. But for the Broncos, it's all about being prepared and playing their best game.
Broncos tight end Adam Trautman is not taking this version of the Chiefs lightly. He understands that these players are competing for a spot on the team next season and expects them to give their all. Right tackle Mike McGlinchey shares the same sentiment, stating, "If you want to be a winner, it doesn't matter who lines up across from you."
The last time Kansas City rested their starters was in the 2023 regular-season finale against the Chargers on the road. Led by backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert, they beat the Chargers 13-12. Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce, running back Isiah Pacheco, and then-cornerback L'Jarius Snead did not play, but defensive tackle Chris Jones did. The Chiefs also rested their starters against the Broncos in 2017, with Mahomes leading the team to a game-winning field goal over Denver.
For the Broncos, the only thing on their mind is securing their 10th win and a spot in the playoffs. They have a chance to do so in front of their home crowd, which would be a special moment for the team. Even if they don't win against the Chiefs, they can still make it to the playoffs with losses from the Bengals and Dolphins this weekend. But the Broncos are determined to clinch their spot on their own terms.
Offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey acknowledged that it would have been ideal to secure their playoff berth earlier, referencing their losses to the Bengals and Chargers. But he also expressed excitement for the opportunity to bring the city together and give them something to cheer for in the postseason. After all, isn't that what football is all about? Don't miss out on any Broncos news by signing up for the Broncos Insider and stay updated with all our NFL analysis.
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