Case Keenum isn’t the glitziest of signal-callers in the NFL, but he’s doing just fine under center for the Denver Broncos, who are +1,200 to win the AFC championship. Keenum and Broncos will be gunning for their third-straight win next Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, who are eyeing to return to the win column after falling prey to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2. The Ravens are +1,400 to rule the AFC.
The Broncos are proving to be a tough nut to crack, as both their wins this season were via fourth-quarter comebacks. Last Sunday, Denver overcame a 19-10 deficit entering the last period to defeat the Oakland Raiders, 20-19. Broncos quarterback Case Keenum wasn’t spectacular, but he made throws when it mattered the most and finished with 222 passing yards on 19 of 35 yards. It’s not a shiny stat line, but he’s shown the ability to lead successful drives. However, he’ll be facing Baltimore’s defense that ranks third in the league so far this season with only 167.5 passing yards allowed per game, so Keenum needs his receivers to be on point. That’s a message the Broncos hope would be heard by wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, who secured just five of the team-high 11 targets he got in the Oakland game. Meanwhile, rookie running back Philip Lindsay will look to build on the 107 rushing-yard performance he had against the Raiders.
The Broncos are 3-1 ATS in their last four meetings with Baltimore.
Betting on the Baltimore Ravens (1-1)
Joe Flacco struggled in Week 2, as he needed 55 passes to get 376 passing yards and two touchdowns in a 34-23 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Part of the reason why he struggled was because of Baltimore’s flimsy pass protection that surrendered four sacks. Considering that Denver has Von Miller and is tied for fourth in the league with 7.0 sacks, the Ravens need to show up with a sturdier offensive line next Sunday at home. Baltimore’s defense can dish it as well, as the Ravens are allowing only 263.0 total yards per game this season. Speaking of Baltimore’s home, Flacco has been a much better passer when he’s throwing at the M&T Bank Stadium. He is 16-2 with a total of 31 touchdowns against only eight interceptions and a 99.5 passer rating in September games at the said stadium.
