Preview of the Upcoming Week 2 Matchup Between the Broncos and Colts.
Colts are looking to avenge the Broncos at home after the disappointing 31-13 loss last season.
The NFL's second week will kick off with intrigue, but Sunday afternoon's matchup between the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts emerges as a crucial early test for the Colts. The Broncos (1-0) travel to Lucas Oil Stadium to face the Colts (1-0) in a game broadcast on CBS. Both teams were victorious in Week 1, but this rematch of last season's 31-13 Denver victory could hinge on quarterback play and defensive dominance with the Broncos favored by 2.5 points.
Week 1 Recap:
The Broncos opened their 2025 campaign at home against the Tennessee Titans, a team rebuilding around No. 1 overall pick QB Cam Ward. Despite having four turnovers, including three from second-year QB Bo Nix. Denver's defense stifled Tennessee, limiting them to 133 total yards and 12 points in a 20-12 win. Nix completed 25 of 40 passes for 176 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, showing flashes but struggling with consistency. Rookie RB R.J. Harvey added a key 50-yard run to set up a score, while the defense, anchored by reigning Defensive Player of the Year CB Pat Surtain II, sacked Ward six times. Nevertheless, it was an ugly victory, but Denver snapped a 3-year week 1 losing streak and improved to 1-0 for the first time since 2021.
The Colts ended a 11-year week 1 drought with a dominating 33-8 win against the Miami Dolphins at home. New starter QB Daniel Jones, played well in his Indianapolis debut completed 22 of 29 for 272 yards, one passing touchdown, two rushing scores, and zero turnovers. The offense scored on every possession—a feat not accomplished since 1977 fueled by rookie TE Tyler Warren's seven catches for 76 yards and RB Jonathan Taylor’s 71 rushing yards, signaling a balanced attack. Defensively, new DC Lou Anarumo's unit harassed QB Tua Tagovailoa into three turnovers, with free-agent acquisition S Cam Bynum snagging his first interception with the team and DE Laiatu Latu snagging his first career interception. This blowout victory honored the late owner Jim Irsay.
Key players to watch:
Denver Broncos
QB Bo Nix - The second-year quarterback showed flashes in Week 1 (25/40, 176 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs) but needs to cut down on the turnovers. His mobility and quick reads could exploit Indy’s secondary, but he’ll face pressure from a revamped Colts pass rush.
CB Pat Surtain II - The reigning Defensive Player of the Year locked down Tennessee’s receivers and will likely shadow Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. His ability to erase Indy’s top target could force Daniel Jones into riskier throws.
RB R.J. Harvey - The rookie’s 50-yard run in Week 1 sparked Denver’s offense. With RB J.K. Dobbins as a change of pace back, Harvey could test Indy’s run defense, which only allowed 78 total yards, 55 yards of it to RB De'von Achane last week.
S Talanoa Hufanga - The offseason acquisition brings physicality and range. He’ll be tasked with covering rookie TE Tyler Warren, Indy’s emerging weapon, and preventing big plays over the middle.
Indianapolis Colts
QB Daniel Jones - He shined in Week 1 (22/29, 272 yards, 1 TD, 2 rushing TD’s), but Denver’s league-leading sack defense (63 in 2024) will test his pocket presence. Avoiding mistakes is critical after having nine turnovers in 10 starts with the New York Giants.
RB Jonathan Taylor - The star back ran for 71 yards against Miami. His ability to control the game’s pace could challenge Denver’s stout run defense (96.4 yards allowed per game in 2024, which was third-best).
TE Tyler Warren - The rookie tight end caught seven passes for 76 yards in his debut, posing a mismatch for teams. If he exploits Denver’s linebackers like Alex Singleton, Indy’s passing game could open up.
DE Laiatu Latu - The edge rusher snagged an interception in Week 1 and will target Bo Nix, who was sacked one time against the Titans. With DeForest Buckner clogging the middle, Latu’s pressure could disrupt Denver’s rhythm.
My prediction: Colts will win in a close game 27-20.