The Denver Broncos will face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11, a pivotal matchup for both teams. A Broncos victory would reduce the Chiefs’ chances of winning the division to 3% and lower their playoff probability to 46.4%. Conversely, a Chiefs win would increase their division odds to 20% and boost their playoff likelihood to 72.1%.
In the absence of J.K. Dobbins, Denver must adopt a “next man up” mentality, according to Sean Payton.
Sean Payton Says RJ Harvey Will Have More Opportunities Against the Chiefs
Broncos head coach Sean Payton spoke to the media on Wednesday. He was asked about his confidence in RJ Harvey, with Dobbins likely out this week. Payton highlighted Harvey’s running skillset and noted his continued growth.
Payton also praised rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant for growing as a football player before their eyes. Bryant had a 43-yard reception on “Thursday Night Football” in Week 10. He caught one of two targets for 43 yards.
“You’re starting to see that (growth) with RJ (Harvey). And obviously, he’ll have more opportunities here in this game. So, yeah, he’s built when you see his frame. He’s built to last, and that’s important.”
With Dobbins likely out, Payton indicated Harvey is likely to be the bellcow in Week 11.
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The Broncos’ offense ranks No. 14 in PFSN’s Offense Impact Score. Denver is on the doorstep of becoming an elite offense. That said, Dobbins is 14th in PFSN’s RB Impact Score. He will be missed in Week 11. In his absence, Harvey is projected to handle approximately 20 touches, taking on the majority of Dobbins’ vacated carries and maintaining full responsibility for passing downs over Jaleel McLaughlin.
Payton also addressed wide receiver Courtland Sutton. He said Sutton is facing double coverage and added that he cannot simply leave Sutton at the X receiver spot, noting it’s “a lot of it depending on the defensive coordinator.”