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Colts, Broncos set to battle for 2‑0 season start
Indianapolis Colts (1‑0) welcome the Denver Broncos (1‑0) to Lucas Oil Stadium this Sunday afternoon, September 14, 2025. Both teams opened their seasons with wins, and now each looks to build momentum in this pivotal AFC matchup. The Colts dominated Miami behind turnovers and a strong Daniel Jones performance last week. The Broncos leaned on their defense, limiting Tennessee and getting big plays despite some offensive miscues.
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Colts Can Win If…
- Their secondary holds up. With Charvarius Ward (concussion protocol) and Jaylon Jones (hamstring) both questionable, the Colts will need replacements like Mekhi Blackmon and Johnathan Edwards to step up.
- Jones (QB) continues protecting the ball. Last week’s win included turnovers by Tennessee; if Denver can force mistakes, Colts could lean into short fields.
- The offense balances run and pass effectively. Indy’s ground game and short‑to‑intermediate passing will help control pace and avoid big plays by Denver on defense.
Broncos Can Win If…
- Their defense stays dominant. The Broncos limited Tennessee to 133 total yards and just seven first downs in Week 1, despite missing some pieces up front. Pressuring Daniel Jones and forcing mistakes will be key.
- Their offense fixes the errors. Bo Nix had a solid debut but had turnovers to clean up. The Broncos need better protection and more consistent passing.
- They take advantage of Colts’ weak secondary depth. Injuries in Indy’s CB room give Denver opportunities to exploit mismatches.
Key NFL Betting Trends & Injury Notes
| Category | Colts | Broncos |
|---|---|---|
| Injury Watch | Charvarius Ward (CB) questionable – concussion protocol; Jaylon Jones (CB) limited with hamstring; Tyler Goodson (RB) limited. | Evan Engram (TE) limited (calf); Dre Greenlaw (LB) questionable; Malcolm Roach (DT) out with calf strain. |
| Offensive Strength | Daniel Jones impressed vs. Miami; looked sharp passing + running. | Strong run game options; big play potential with Courtland Sutton; but some inaccuracy and turnovers to clean up. |
| Defensive Edge | Forcing turnovers; new CBs need to hold up vs. receivers. | Very strong defense last week; pressure at the line and secondary key strengths. |
| Betting/Odds Movement | Colts as small home underdogs; injuries could move the line. | Broncos favored by a field goal‑spread in many previews; expected to cover or keep close. |
The Lean
Pick: Broncos Moneyline
Projected Final Score: Broncos 23, Colts 17
Reasoning: The Broncos’ defense gives them the edge in what’s likely to be a close, low‑to‑moderate scoring game. With some possible injuries in Indy’s secondary and Denver’s ability to generate pressure, I expect them to force a couple of mistakes and pull ahead in the second half. Colts might hang tough early, but Denver has the better margin for error.
Howard lean: consider the UNDER 43 or 44 points, depending on the sportsbook. Likely more punts, fewer explosive plays given the defensive strengths.
Check our NFL Week 2 Forecasts hub for updated lines and prop bets as the week progresses.
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