Chiefs @ Broncos game preview

As the Chiefs head into Week 18 with the top seed locked up, they’ll be resting key starters—including Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce—against the Denver Broncos. While Kansas City is playing for little more than keeping everyone healthy, Denver has a playoff berth on the line. The Broncos may be favored, but don’t expect this game to be a total breeze for them. With a few key matchups to watch and some X-factors in play, this could be an interesting finish to the regular season.

Key Matchup 1: Kansas City’s Backup Offense vs. Denver’s Defense

With Mahomes on the sidelines, Carson Wentz will be leading the offense, backed by a cast of second-string players. Denver’s defense has been tough all season, but can they handle a unit that’s built more for rest than for a win? The Broncos should win this matchup on paper, but a few big plays from KC’s backups could keep things interesting. The question is whether Denver’s defense can control the game or if they’ll let the Chiefs’ B-team make a game of it.

X-Factor 1: Bo Nix and the Broncos' Playoff Hopes

Rookie QB Bo Nix has shown flashes but remains inconsistent, and Sunday will be his biggest test. The Broncos need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive, and if Nix doesn’t step up, they’ll be relying on a defense that’s been good but not infallible. The stakes are high, and Denver can’t afford to miss opportunities against a team that’s not playing all of its stars. Nix will need to play his best game of the season, or the Broncos might find themselves in an uncomfortable situation.

X-Factor 2: Kansas City Playing Spoiler

While the Chiefs are taking it easy, there’s always a chance they play the role of spoiler. Their backups may not be the starters, but they're still professional athletes with a point to prove. If the Broncos aren’t careful, they might find themselves losing to a squad that has nothing to lose. The Chiefs have often thrived when the pressure’s off, and while it may not be a full-strength KC squad, their depth could surprise Denver.

Prediction:

Denver comes into this game with everything to play for, and despite the Chiefs' decision to rest key players, they’ll still be facing a challenge. The Broncos should come away with a win, but expect it to be tougher than they’d like. Kansas City’s backups might keep it close, but with Bo Nix at the helm, Denver will likely manage to scrape by and clinch a playoff spot.

Broncos 27, Chiefs 17