Clayton: Hobbled Broncos face first true test in Ravens

Two of the most injured teams in football meet on Sunday when the Denver Broncos face the Baltimore Ravens.

Despite his sore back, it appears Lamar Jackson should be able to play. The question is whether he will try to run the ball as much. Jackson is the Ravens offense, particularly knowing they are without their three top running backs.

Another problem is the offensive line. They won’t have left tackle Ronnie Stanley for a third consecutive game. They also lost left guard Tyre Phillips for the season. They should give some opportunities to the Broncos defensive line.

The Broncos are technically down six starters since the start of the season. Guard Graham Glasgow was officially a scratch because of a knee injury. They may be able to have Dalton Risner, who is questionable with an ankle injury. He was able to have limited practice on Friday.

The offense is without wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler. The defense is without linebackers Bradley Chubb and Josey Jewell and cornerback Ronald Darby. That leaves them with three young linebackers and Von Miller.

This game is the first true test for the 3-0 Broncos. By Sunday night we’ll have better idea how good this team is this season. I felt going into the season that this is wild card playoff team. They will have to try to prove that Sunday.