Broncos vs Packers prediction and analysis

December 17, 2025
NFL Betting Predictions
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Game context

The Denver Broncos (11-2) host the Green Bay Packers (9-3-1) on Sunday in what projects to be a low-to-mid scoring, tightly contested affair at Mile High. The market opened with Denver listed as a slim +2.5 underdog and the total at 42.5. Both teams arrive with momentum: Denver on a long winning run led by a stingy defense, Green Bay rolling through the NFC North with an improving offense under Jordan Love and a physical ground game with Josh Jacobs.

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Why this is a matchup to watch

This game is a classic clash of styles. Denver’s defense leads the league in sacks and has been elite in red‑zone defense; they generate pressure and convert it into limiting scoring chances. Green Bay is balanced offensively, averaging in the mid‑20s points per game, with a passing attack that can stretch the field (Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs) and a workmanlike rushing game behind Jacobs.

Key matchups

  • Broncos pass rush vs. Packers protection: Denver ranking No. 1 in sacks gives them a clear advantage if they can disrupt Love early. If Green Bay can protect and establish Jacobs, it neutralizes the Broncos’ tempo and forces Denver into longer drives.
  • Bo Nix (and Denver’s run game) vs. Green Bay’s secondary: Nix has been efficient and mobile, routinely surpassing 240 passing yards against NFC opponents and adding value with his legs. The Packers must account for play-action and bootlegs that open up Courtland Sutton.
  • Linebacker play and edge containment: Jaleel McLaughlin and RJ Harvey will test Green Bay’s tackling discipline. Packers linebackers must avoid giving up chunk gains that flip field position in Denver’s favor at altitude.

Trends and important numbers

Trends favor Denver at home — a substantial Mile High advantage that includes a long home winning stretch and a knack for winning tight games. The Broncos also perform well against NFC opponents and in low-line scenarios as slight underdogs. Green Bay has been prone to close road results against AFC West teams, and their road form in those matchups has been poor historically.

  • Broncos: Top of the league in sacks and stellar red‑zone defense.
  • Packers: Balanced offense, six different multi‑TD games this season showing offensive diversity.
  • Totals: Broncos’ recent low-scoring Sunday underdog games have tilted UNDER; Packers have produced mixed results on the totals following home wins.

Injury and situational considerations

Availability of pass‑protecting linemen for Green Bay and Denver’s edge defenders will be decisive. Weather is less of a factor at home for Denver, where altitude favors teams that can control the line of scrimmage and slow the game down. Green Bay’s success will likely hinge on limiting negative plays and avoiding third‑and‑longs that invite Denver’s pass rush.

Game plan implications

Expect the Packers to try to establish the run early to keep Bo Nix and the Broncos’ pass rush on the sideline. Conversely, Denver will mix heavy pressure packages with disguised zone looks to force Love into hurried decisions. Turnovers and field position will be premium — whoever wins the hidden yardage battle and avoids costly mistakes will probably win.

Prediction Summary

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This is a tight spot line — Denver at +2.5 is attractive because the Broncos possess matchup advantages on defense, enjoy a pronounced home edge and have the experience of winning close games. Green Bay’s offense is capable of putting up points, but the Broncos’ ability to generate pressure and clamp down inside the 20 should keep possessions short and the score contained.

My lean is to back Denver at the number (+2.5). I expect a low‑to‑moderate scoring game with field position and turnovers deciding the final margin. If you prefer a totals play, I’d lean UNDER 42.5 given Denver’s recent under results as an underdog and Green Bay’s tendency to grind out drives rather than produce shootouts away from Lambeau.

Final read: This will be a one‑score game. Home crowd, rush defense and situational experience give Denver the edge — take the Broncos to cover.

Prediction: Denver Broncos +2.5