After winning Super Bowl 50, the Denver Broncos find themselves in a unique situation, with major questions at the quarterback position. Head coach Gary Kubiak hasn’t been done any favors by the NFL schedule makers as he tries to get the backfield in order. Here are three of the most pivotal match ups for the Broncos in the 2016 season.
Carolina Panthers — Sept. 8
Denver kicks off the season with a Super Bowl rematch against the Panthers, who will no doubt be motivated to avenge their defeat and prove they once again belong in the conversation as one of the league’s best teams. The Broncos’ one saving grace is that they get Carolina on their turf at Sports Authority Field.
Houston Texas — Oct. 24
The Texans roll into Denver during Week 7, bringing with them a quarterback who spurned the Broncos in the off season. Defying the predictions of most pundits, Brock Osweiler signed as a free agent with Houston after sitting in Peyton Manning’s shadow for four seasons. Denver hopes to show Osewiler that he chose the wrong team.
New England Patriots — Dec. 18
A rematch of last year’s AFC Championship, the Patriots come to town in Week 15 in a game that could have monumental playoff implications for both teams. With a revamped offense and Tom Brady more motivated than ever, look for the Patriots to give the Broncos all they can handle, even at home.