Denver Broncos vs. Oakland Raiders: Can Tim Tebow Turn It Around?

Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Sunday December 19, 2010 4:15 PM EST
Line: Oakland -8

 

Overview

The Broncos organization is in shambles.

Ex-head coach Josh McDaniels gutted the franchise and left a path of destruction with every turn he made. The Broncos are in a valley and it is shocking that the organization gave McDaniels so much power that he was able to do damage that probably set the franchise back ten years.

Last week, they got blown away by the Cardinals in a 30-point loss.

The Raiders are 6-7 this season, but they have made strides. They have lost three of their last four and have hit a low point, but look like they may be able to bounce back against the lowly Broncos. This is one of the most bitter rivalries in sports and when one of them is down, the other shows zero remorse.

 

Keys to the Game

Tim Tebow is getting his first career start. This is an interesting move, as the only thing the Broncos have been able to do this season is throw the ball well. It is very possible that the Broncos want to evaluate what their first round pick is actually worth.

Tim Tebow lost his biggest supporter in Josh McDaniels and management probably wants to see exactly what they are working with. Tebow can’t hurt this lost season and he will certainly improve the run game to some extent.

Darren McFadden hit 123 yards last week, giving him seven games of 95 yards or more this season. He has enjoyed a break out year and has given the Raiders an identity. The Raiders have youth in their receiving corp and a quarterback who can take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. McFadden gives them an elite running back and something to build around.

It is unclear as to how Brandon Lloyd and the rest of the Denver offense will react to Tim Tebow. Lloyd has had one of the best seasons of any wide receive...

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