Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts 8/11/24 – The NFL’s preseason is about to start in an interesting match-up involving Denver Broncos versus Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. For both teams, the beginning of the season will matter most as the Broncos ended last season 8-9 and the Colts only slightly better 9-8. This early clash that is slated for Sunday, August 11th, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET will serve as a critical test for each team’s growth and adjustments during the off-season. This game also presents a golden chance for those bettors who want to have NFL no-cost picks but are searching for value within preseason plays.
Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts 8/11/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Sunday, August 11, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | NFLN |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Denver Broncos (8-9 Last Season) vs. Indianapolis Colts (9-8 Last Season)
The Denver Broncos have high hopes for their offense, especially their running and passing games. The team will rely heavily on Javonte Williams who finished the season with 774 rushing yards and three touchdowns. His breaking of tackles and getting off crucial first downs are very important as they play against Colts who have shown some weakness in stopping the run. On the other side, Courtland Sutton sticks out as a primary player to watch in terms of receiving. He had 772 receiving yards last season that were accompanied by ten touchdowns showing his worth as a main target man. It is however his match up outside that might just prove decisive for this game if he can create gaps between defenders moving downfield.
In contrast, Indianapolis Colts are big on rushing and pass threats. Jonathan Taylor will be one of the key players of Indianapolis’ approach after scoring seven touchdowns and recording 741 rushing yards in only ten matches last season. His explosive runs and ability to spot defenses’ holes will definitely challenge Denver’s front seven. Meanwhile, Michael Pittman Jr., who managed to record 1152 receiving yards last year, offers consistency and a credible danger in the passing game. The relationship between him and Indiana quarterback may be critical, particularly when it comes to exploiting poor defensive backfields like those of struggling Broncos last season.
Jarrett Stidham QB vs. Anthony Richardson QB
The role of starting quarterback in the Broncos is not an easy one for Jarrett Stidham, with all its challenges and expectations. Stidham finished the season before last with a 60.6% completion rate and 496 passing yards in three games, showing glimpses of potential but also areas to work on particularly in reducing sack losses. One key thing will be Stidham’s ability to connect deep to receivers like Sutton while his adaptability under pressure will determine how effective he can be.
On the other hand, the Colts have a more dynamic option in Anthony Richardson. While he has passed for 577 yards and had similar completion percentages as Stidham, Richardson is able to add another layer of complexity because of his dual-threat capabilities. The Colts need him to play big especially when it comes to extending plays and making connections under pressure. It is likely that the match-up between Richardson and Denver’s defensive schemes will reveal strategic dimensions both teams employ.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Denver Broncos -2 -110, Total Odds: 37
The current betting odds reflect a slight favor towards the Broncos, with a spread of -2 and an over/under of 37. The trends suggest a cautious approach, considering both teams’ past performances and preseason unpredictability.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos have struggled against the spread, particularly in their recent matchups against the Colts, where they are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 encounters. Their trend towards UNDER in total points in many of their recent games could influence betting strategies, especially with preseason dynamics in play.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
The Colts, while showing a stronger record SU in their last nine games, have issues with consistency ATS, going 1-4 in their last five. However, their trend of scoring OVER in the majority of their home games suggests potential for a high-scoring affair, making the over an interesting consideration.
Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts 8/11/24 Betting Picks
From the analysis and the observed trends, the game slightly favors Broncos owing to their possible receiving of explosiveness and tactical rushing. But do not underrate Colts’ home court advantage coupled with their Taylor as well as Pittman’s offensive capabilities.
Regarding gamblers, Broncos in covering seems like a good choice since they are capable of dictating a game’s rhythm holistically. Also, one might be tempted to go over the total points because both teams can score and preseason defenses are usually weak. An ideal way of playing safe with NFL preseason games who would be combining an over total with Broncos covering according to premium picks and parlays.