Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/15/2024 4:25 PM EST

We have your Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Indianapolis Colts hit the road to face the Denver Broncos.

Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Indianapolis Colts +184 (FanDuel) / Denver Broncos -180 (DraftKings)
Best Spread Odds: -3.5 - Indianapolis Colts -110 (bet365) / Denver Broncos -110 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 44.0 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -110 (Caesars)

Game Info

Date: 12/15/2024
Time: 4:25 PM EST
Location: Empower Field at Mile High (Denver, CO)
TV: CBS

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

In the past three seasons, the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos have faced each other once, with the Colts emerging victorious. This matchup took place on October 6, 2022, and saw the visiting Colts defeat the home team Broncos. The Colts also managed to cover the spread in this game, while the Broncos did not. The game went under the total points line, as the combined score was significantly lower than the over-under set by oddsmakers. This single encounter provides a limited sample size, but it highlights the Colts' ability to win on the road against the Broncos and cover the spread in the process.

The most recent game between these two teams was characterized by a defensive battle, with neither team managing to score a touchdown. The Colts secured a 12-9 victory, with all points coming from field goals. Indianapolis kicker Chase McLaughlin was successful on attempts from 52, 51, and 31 yards, while Denver's Brandon McManus converted field goals from 33, 44, and 45 yards. Both teams struggled offensively, with the Colts recording 306 total yards and the Broncos slightly ahead with 375 yards. Turnovers were a significant factor, as both quarterbacks, Matt Ryan for the Colts and Russell Wilson for the Broncos, threw two interceptions each. The Colts had a slight edge in time of possession, holding the ball for 34:36 compared to the Broncos' 32:51, and their defense was effective in limiting Denver's red zone efficiency.

In terms of individual statistics, the Colts' offense managed 106 rushing yards on 26 attempts, averaging 4.08 yards per carry, while their passing game accounted for 251 yards on 26 completions out of 41 attempts. The Broncos, on the other hand, rushed for 125 yards on 28 attempts, averaging 4.46 yards per carry, and their passing game produced 274 yards on 21 completions out of 39 attempts. Both teams' defenses were active, with the Colts recording four sacks and two interceptions, while the Broncos' defense also tallied six sacks and two interceptions. Penalties were relatively even, with the Colts committing eight for 64 yards and the Broncos seven for 49 yards. This game was a testament to the defensive prowess of both teams, as they managed to keep the scoring low and prevent any touchdowns.

Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Preview

The Indianapolis Colts are set to face the Denver Broncos in a crucial Week 15 matchup that carries significant playoff implications for both teams. The Colts, currently holding a 6-7 record, are in desperate need of a victory to keep their postseason hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Broncos, sitting at 8-5, are looking to solidify their playoff position with a win at home.

Indianapolis enters this game with a sense of urgency, knowing that a loss could severely diminish their chances of making the playoffs. The Colts have shown resilience in recent weeks, winning two of their last three games since the return of quarterback Anthony Richardson. Despite his struggles with accuracy, completing just 47.4% of his passes this season, Richardson's ability to make plays with his legs and his potential to be an X-factor cannot be underestimated.

On the other side, the Broncos have been riding high on the performance of their rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Nix has impressed with a 63.8% completion rate, throwing for 2,842 yards and 17 touchdowns against eight interceptions. His dual-threat capability, with 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground, adds another layer of complexity for the Colts' defense to manage. Denver's defense has also been a formidable force, ranking third in points allowed and sixth against the rush, which could pose a significant challenge for the Colts' offense.

Historically, the Colts have had the upper hand in this matchup, leading the all-time series 15-14, including a narrow 12-9 victory in their last encounter in 2022. However, the Broncos have been strong at home and are currently favored by 4 points, according to BetMGM. Both teams are coming off a bye week, which should have provided ample time for preparation and recovery.

With the stakes so high, this game promises to be a tightly contested battle. The Colts will need to execute flawlessly and capitalize on any opportunities presented by the Broncos. Meanwhile, Denver will aim to leverage their home-field advantage and maintain their recent momentum to edge closer to a playoff berth.

Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Pick: Denver Broncos Moneyline

The Denver Broncos are poised to secure a crucial victory against the Indianapolis Colts in this pivotal Week 15 matchup. With the Broncos currently holding an 8-5 record and sitting in the seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC, a win here would significantly bolster their postseason aspirations. The Broncos have been in impressive form, winning three consecutive games, and they have been particularly strong at home, making them a formidable opponent for the Colts.

One of the key factors in favor of the Broncos is the performance of their rookie quarterback, Bo Nix. Nix has been a revelation this season, completing 63.8% of his passes for 2,842 yards and 17 touchdowns, while also contributing 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat capability adds a dynamic element to the Broncos' offense that the Colts' defense will find challenging to contain. In contrast, the Colts' quarterback, Anthony Richardson, has struggled with accuracy, completing only 47.4% of his passes, which could hinder Indianapolis' ability to keep pace with Denver's scoring potential.

Defensively, the Broncos have been one of the league's best, ranking third in points allowed and sixth against the rush. This stout defense will be crucial in limiting the Colts' offensive production, especially given Richardson's inconsistency. The Broncos' ability to pressure the quarterback and create turnovers could be pivotal in swinging the game in their favor.

Moreover, the Broncos have been a reliable team for bettors, boasting an NFL-best 10-3 record against the spread, covering in seven straight games. This trend underscores their ability to perform well under pressure and deliver results when it matters most. With both teams coming off a bye week, the Broncos' home-field advantage at Empower Field at Mile High further tilts the scales in their favor.

Given these factors, the Denver Broncos are well-positioned to emerge victorious in this encounter, solidifying their playoff position and continuing their strong run of form. The combination of Nix's impressive play, a robust defense, and the advantage of playing at home makes the Broncos the clear choice for the moneyline pick in this crucial matchup.

Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Top Player Prop Picks

Bo Nix Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns -120 (DraftKings)

Bo Nix has been a standout performer for the Denver Broncos this season, showcasing his ability to lead the offense with precision and poise. With a completion rate of 63.8% and 17 passing touchdowns to his name, Nix has consistently demonstrated his capability to find the end zone through the air. Facing a Colts defense that has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in high-pressure games, Nix is well-positioned to exceed the 1.5 passing touchdowns mark. His dual-threat nature, combined with the Broncos' home-field advantage, further bolsters the likelihood of Nix continuing his impressive touchdown tally in this crucial matchup.

Anthony Richardson Under 200.5 Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

Anthony Richardson's season has been marked by inconsistency, particularly in the passing game, where he has completed just 47.4% of his passes. This inefficiency, coupled with the formidable Denver defense that ranks third in points allowed and sixth against the rush, suggests that Richardson may struggle to reach the 200.5 passing yards threshold. The Broncos' ability to apply pressure and force turnovers could further limit Richardson's opportunities to accumulate significant yardage through the air. Given these factors, the under on Richardson's passing yards appears to be a prudent choice.

Bo Nix Over 25.5 Rushing Yards -115 (Caesars)

Bo Nix's dual-threat capability has been a key component of the Broncos' offensive strategy, with the rookie quarterback amassing 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground this season. His ability to extend plays with his legs and exploit defensive gaps makes the over on 25.5 rushing yards an attractive proposition. The Colts' defense will have its hands full trying to contain Nix, who has consistently demonstrated his knack for picking up crucial yards on the ground. With the stakes high and Nix's propensity to make plays with his legs, surpassing this rushing yardage line is a strong possibility.