49ers schedule: Predicting wins and losses over second half of 2018

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SANTA CLARA, CA – AUGUST 19: Pierre Garcon #15 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Justin Simmons #31 of the Denver Broncos at Levi’s Stadium on August 19, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Week 14 vs. Denver Broncos

The 3-6 Denver Broncos have been one of the league’s bigger disappointments this season, especially after attempting to solve their quarterbacking woes by grabbing Case Keenum in free agency.

Granted, Keenum has been better than anything Denver fielded the last two years. But he hasn’t brought over the magic he discovered with the Minnesota Vikings a season ago, registering a meager 83.9 passer rating in 2018.

The Broncos running game, not quarterbacking, has been the main factor on offense. And their once-vaunted defense has found itself, statistically, right in the middle of the pack.

Why the 49ers Win

Four of the Broncos’ six losses on the year have been one-score games. And Denver has seemingly found a knack to lose these close games, putting pressure on head coach Vance Joseph.

But the Niners have also struggled to close out games. Perhaps some of the earlier wins have rectified this issue, giving Kyle Shanahan his so-called “closers” to ensure a late lead is maintained.

That should be a major difference if the 49ers hold the lead in the fourth quarter.

Why the Broncos Win

Remember that running game? Well, Denver’s rushers are averaging 5.2 yards per attempt this season — second best in the NFL.

The 49ers have done a good job against the run this season, allowing an average of just 4.0 yards per carry. And Denver’s offensive line is a bit banged up too. But if the Broncos manage to get their ground attack going, taking pressure off Keenum to make plays, the 49ers will have a tough showing.

Prediction: 49ers 23, Broncos 21