Indianapolis Colts vs Denver Broncos: Odds, Predictions & Key Insights | December 15, 2024

Playoff hopes are on the line as the Broncos host the Colts in a crucial Week 15 matchup. Both teams are coming off wins before their bye weeks, but only one can keep their postseason dreams alive. With the stakes this high, expect a hard-fought battle in Denver.

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2024 NFL Write ups this season 25-28 (-8.37 Units)

Week 14 Recap: 1-5 (-4.9 Units)

Colts vs Broncos Odds

Can Bo Nix lead the Broncos to yet another win in hopes of making the playoffs?

All NFL odds are courtesy of BetOnline as of Friday, Dec 13 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Odds from other sportsbooks may also be mentioned in this article

Spread

Colts: +4 (-105)

Broncos: -4 (-115)

Total

Over: 44 (-105)

Under: 44 (-115)

Moneyline

Colts: +180

Broncos: -210

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Colts vs Broncos Predictions

In a week filled with wins, I found an intriguing matchup. The 8-5 Broncos host the 6-7 Colts in Week 15, with playoff implications on the line. Denver is fighting to keep its postseason hopes alive, holding an 89% chance of making the playoffs with a win, while Indianapolis clings to slim hopes, reaching a 55% chance with a victory. A Broncos loss drops their chances to 48%, while a Colts defeat essentially ends their season, leaving them with just a 7% chance. Both teams are coming off wins before their bye weeks, setting the stage for a competitive clash.

Ugly Week 13 Victories

Despite both teams riding a bit of luck in their previous wins, I lean toward the home team in this matchup. The Colts squeaked out a one-point victory over New England, despite being outgained by nearly 200 total yards. They were outplayed in every major statistical category except one: red zone efficiency. The Patriots struggled, going 2-for-6 in the red zone, while the Colts capitalized, converting 3-of-4 opportunities. Meanwhile, the Broncos benefitted from two pick-sixes off Browns quarterback Jameis Winston to secure their win.

Broncos Defense vs. Colts Offense: Who to Trust?

Regardless of who had the uglier win, the Broncos are the better team in this matchup. Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, while showing flashes, is still too raw to trust, especially against a Denver defense that excels at stopping the run. Denver ranks fifth in rush yards allowed per game, holding opponents under 100 yards on the ground. This forces Richardson into a passing game where he has struggled, throwing for over 200 yards in only three of his nine games this season. At home, the Broncos defense allows fewer than 230 passing yards per game and should be ready to handle a Colts offense with limited weapons.

Prediction

If the Broncos offense can exploit an Indianapolis secondary ranked 26th in pass yards allowed and a rush defense ranked second-to-last, they should have no trouble covering the spread. Bo Nix looks like the offensive rookie of the year, while Richardson is still finding his footing in the league. I will gladly take the better quarterback and defense to win and cover on Sunday.