Chargers at Broncos | The Denver Gazette’s predictions
The Denver Gazette’s predictions for the Chargers’ (11-5) matchup with the Broncos (13-3) at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday:
Paul Klee’s pick: Broncos 23, Chargers 13
Win two games, and the Broncos host the AFC championship game like it’s the 2015 season… or 2013… or 1998… or 1989… or 1987… or 1997… or any one of the six times Denver rode a No. 1 seed to a Super Bowl appearance. First, Bo Nix takes a 13-13 game into the final quarter before the usual late splurge.
Overall record: 11-5
Chris Schmaedeke’s pick: Broncos 27, Chargers 10
The ideal situation for Broncos fans has the home team up 24-0 at halftime so Denver can play some backups in the second half. But everyone knows that is not how the Broncos do things. Denver gets the win and a week off to rest up before the playoffs.
Overall record: 11-5
Chris Tomasson’s pick: Broncos 27, Chargers 10
With the Chargers resting quarterback Justin Herbert and other top players, extra points actually might be among the more exciting aspects of this game. The Broncos’ 27 is not four touchdowns with a botched extra point. It includes three touchdowns and three conversions by Wil Lutz, which would give him 101 straight. And he’ll kick two field goals to boot.
Overall record: 12-4
Mark Kiszla’s pick: Broncos 21, Chargers 17
I’m afraid what should be a joyous, on-field victory lap and an easy excuse for Broncomaniacs watching on TV to take a nap will turn out to be a nail-biter, because the only song our Bo Jovi band knows how to play is “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Tell me I’m wrong. Please.
Overall record: 10-6
Kyle Fredrickson’s pick: Broncos 21, Chargers 20
Get ready for a rowdy celebration when the Broncos clinch home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. But it won’t come easy. Denver fends off a late Chargers push with a key turnover to seal a back-and-forth affair. The best trait of this Broncos team? Winning close games. They get it done once again.
Overall record: 10-6





