The Denver Broncos are looking to end the 2019 NFL season on a high note at home against the Oakland Raiders in Week 17.
Both teams have made some significant changes since they first met in the season opener when the Raiders emerged victorious with a 24-16 win. Of course, the biggest change for the Broncos has come under center with Drew Lock.
Denver has cycled through quarterbacks this season from Joe Flacco to Brandon Allen and are now hoping Lock can leave this team with something to build on going into the offseason. Fortunately, there is good reason to be optimistic considering how well he has played in his first few starts.
The Broncos had high hopes for Lock as a future franchise quarterback after taking him with the 42nd overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. The rookie now has a chance to solidify this notion by capping the year off with a stellar performance in a favorable matchup against the Raiders.
1. Lock Will Secure Hat Trick Without An Interception
Lock has already shown he is capable of doing the first part with a breakout performance against the Houston Texans in Week 14 when he completed 22-of-27 passes for 309 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, he is still struggling with turnovers after throwing an interception in three of his first four career starts.
The rookie will be going up against a rather porous Raiders secondary this week and their inconsistent pass rush should allow him to find his rhythm early on to keep from turning the ball over.
2. Lock Will Complete 75 Percent Of His Passes
Although it is still a small sample size, Lock has shown to be quite accurate from the pocket. The only game where he really struggled to get anything going was during the team's abysmal 23-3 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15.
Fortunately, he was able to bounce back during the 27-17 win against the Detroit Lions last week where he completed 25-of-33 attempts for 192 yards and a touchdown. Look for Denver to take a similar approach on offense this time around.
3. Lock Will Record First Rushing Touchdown
One element of Lock's game that remains up in the air has been his mobility. Although he does not possess blazing speed by any means, he used his legs to rush for six touchdowns during his senior year at Missouri, showing that he has a nose for the end zone.
While Lock may not boast the type of playmaker ability that other more mobile quarterbacks around the league do, it is important for him to show that he is not afraid to tuck and run when the situation calls for it.
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