Clayton: Broncos and Giants have a lot in common in season opener
May 12, 2021, 5:05 PM
The Broncos open their season visiting the New York Giants, which is an interesting matchup. Although Teddy Bridgewater could win the starting job, it would be interesting to see Drew Lock go against Daniel Jones.
Lock regressed last year, throwing 15 interceptions and completing less than 60 percent of his passes. Jones seems to have more potential, but his numbers got worse last year too.
His completion percentage got a little bit better, going from 61.9 to 62.5. His passing yards dropped from 3,027 to 2,943, even though he played one more game.
The really big drop was in touchdown passes. He went from 24 to 11.
Like Lock, Jones is in his judgement year. If he doesn’t get better, the Giants might be in the market for a quarterback next year, even though Jones isn’t a free agent until 2023.
Oddsmakers are expecting a defensive game. The over-under for the opener is 42.5.
The Broncos might have a top-five defense, particularly with what they have in the secondary along with the return of Von Miller. Miller and Bradley Chubb could put the pressure on Jones.
But don’t discount the Giants defense. Their defensive line is good and they have some very good players in the secondary.
At least there is some respect for the Broncos. Normally, the home team gets a three-point edge in the odds. At open, the Broncos were a 1.5-point favorite on the road.
