Broncos vs. Saints

The Broncos and Saints have faced each other infrequently due to being in different conferences, the AFC and NFC, respectively. Their matchups are limited to once every four years in the regular season, making each encounter a special event. Historically, the Broncos have held a slight edge in head-to-head meetings, but the games are often competitive, with several coming down to the final moments.

The most memorable clash between the two teams came in 2016 when the Broncos secured a dramatic 25-23 victory after blocking a late Saints extra point and returning it for two points. Such games highlight the unpredictable nature of this matchup and the potential for exciting finishes.

Team Strengths: Breaking Down the Broncos and Saints

Both the Broncos and Saints have distinct identities shaped by their team rosters and playing styles:

• Denver Broncos: The Broncos have traditionally been known for their strong defense, often referred to as the “Orange Crush” defense. They have a history of dominant pass rushers and stout run defenders. In recent seasons, the Broncos have also looked to develop a young and dynamic offensive unit, with emerging talents at wide receiver and a promising running game.
• New Orleans Saints: The Saints are known for their high-octane offense, historically led by legendary quarterback Drew Brees. Even post-Brees, the team continues to emphasize a potent passing attack combined with a versatile running game. Their defense has also shown significant improvement over the years, making them a more balanced team capable of winning games in multiple ways.

Star Players to Watch in a Broncos-Saints Game

Key players on both sides could make a significant impact in any Broncos vs. Saints matchup:

• Denver Broncos: Keep an eye on the Broncos’ pass rushers like Randy Gregory or their secondary stars such as Patrick Surtain II, who could disrupt the Saints’ passing game. On offense, wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton are potential game-changers with their ability to make big plays downfield.
• New Orleans Saints: For the Saints, running back Alvin Kamara is always a threat to break open the game with his dual-threat capability as a runner and receiver. Additionally, the defense, led by Cameron Jordan, could pose a significant challenge to the Broncos’ offensive line, potentially making quarterback protection a key factor.

Keys to Victory for the Broncos

To win against the Saints, the Broncos will need to:

• Establish the Run Game: Controlling the ground game with a steady rushing attack can help keep the Saints’ explosive offense off the field.
• Pressure the Quarterback: Disrupting the Saints’ passing rhythm by applying pressure on the quarterback is essential to limit big plays.
• Capitalize on Turnovers: The Broncos need to create and take advantage of turnover opportunities to swing the momentum in their favor.

Keys to Victory for the Saints

For the Saints to secure a victory over the Broncos, they should:

• Exploit Matchups in the Passing Game: Target mismatches against the Broncos’ secondary and linebackers to maximize their passing efficiency.
• Stay Disciplined on Defense: Limiting penalties and playing sound defense can prevent the Broncos from gaining easy yardage.
• Utilize Alvin Kamara Effectively: Mixing up the play calling to get Kamara involved in various ways will keep the Broncos’ defense guessing.

The Importance of Coaching in a Broncos-Saints Matchup

Both teams have experienced coaching staffs capable of making critical in-game adjustments:

• Broncos Coaching: The Broncos’ staff may focus on leveraging their defensive prowess to stifle the Saints’ offense while also crafting a balanced offensive approach.
• Saints Coaching: The Saints’ coaches, known for offensive creativity, might look to devise plays that exploit the Broncos’ defensive schemes.

FAQs

What is the all-time head-to-head record between the Broncos and Saints?

The Denver Broncos have a slight advantage in the all-time series, leading the Saints by a few games. Their meetings have often been close contests, with dramatic plays deciding the outcomes.

Which team is stronger on defense?

Traditionally, the Broncos have been stronger defensively, boasting a history of elite pass rushers and a solid secondary. However, the Saints have significantly improved their defensive unit in recent years, making them more balanced.

Who are the standout players for each team?

For the Broncos, players like Patrick Surtain II and Jerry Jeudy stand out. For the Saints, Alvin Kamara and Cameron Jordan are key contributors who can change the game.

What strategies do the Broncos and Saints use to win games?

The Broncos rely on a strong defense and a developing offense to control the tempo, while the Saints use a high-powered offense combined with an improving defense to outscore opponents.

When was the last time the Broncos played the Saints?

The last matchup took place in 2020, where the Saints won 31-3, taking advantage of the Broncos’ quarterback situation.

What are some memorable moments from Broncos vs. Saints matchups?

The blocked extra point returned for two points by the Broncos in 2016 is one of the most memorable moments in this rivalry, highlighting the dramatic and unpredictable nature of these games.