Will Sunday’s Broncos vs. Colts matchup turn into a defensive struggle when the two teams kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET from Lucas Oil Stadium? Or is there a better bet for this NFL preseason matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Denver Broncos (+2) at Indianapolis Colts (-2); o/u 37.5
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
TV: NFL Network/NFL+
Broncos vs. Colts: Public Bettors Leaning towards Indianapolis
Our NFL Public Betting Information page indicates that 57% of public bettors are currently backing the Colts when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Stidham to start preseason opener
Sean Payton named rookie QB Bo Nix the Broncos starter for the team’s Preseason Week 2 game against the Packers. Journeyman QB Jarrett Stidham will start this Sunday against the Colts, with Nix operating as his primary backup. Payton is dividing the offense repetitions into three phases, stating “The first phase will be somewhere between 15 and 20 (plays). Nix might get the final series in phase one. We just got to see where we’re at rep wise.” Zach Wilson now appears firmly entrenched as the No. 3 quarterback, effectively removing even nominal consideration for the starting role.
Colts to play starters a series or two
Colts HC Shane Steichen said Anthony Richardson and the starters “will play a series or two” in Sunday’s preseason game against the Colts. This will be our first look at Richardson in a game environment since his rookie campaign ended in Week 5 against the Titans.
When he was healthy, Richardson flashed elite potential, displaying a rocket arm and an elite ability to move the ball on the ground. In the two complete games he played, Richardson rushed for 96 yards and three touchdowns and had a rushing line of 25-136-4 in total. The fantasy upside he displayed was that of an overall QB1, but how he’s recovered from his shoulder surgery will determine how far he can carry the Colts and his fantasy managers this season. By all accounts, reports of Richardson’s health have been encouraging in camp. We’ll likely get an extended look at Richardson later in the preseason, but Sunday will be a good first test for him.
Broncos vs. Colts Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Indianapolis’ last 11 games at home.
Colts are 9-3 SU in their last 12 games against Denver.
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Denver’s last 16 games against an opponent in the AFC South division.
Broncos are 4-19 SU in their last 23 games on the road.
Broncos vs. Colts Prediction:
Take the under. The under has been a sound play to start preseason play this summer. Before Saturday’s action, the under was 5-0. While overs started to cash throughout the day yesterday, the under still finished 5-3 in the eight NFL preseason contests on Saturday. The Broncos don’t know who their starting quarterback will be for Week 1 and there’s plenty of uncertainty for Payton at other offensive positions as well. While there’s no uncertainty at the QB spot for the Colts, the team figures to play it cautiously with Richardson coming off injury.
Broncos vs. Colts NFL Prediction: UNDER 37.5
