The Denver Broncos are poised to go undefeated in the regular season. A high-scoring offense led by Peyton Manning, a solid defense and Denver's remaining schedule will give the NFL its second-ever 16-0 team.
Manning helms the league's highest-scoring offense. With Manning's improved arm strength, he's breaking records and making a strong case for his fifth NFL MVP award. His receiving group is arguably the best in the NFL. Wes Welker and Julius Thomas are lethal when working the middle of the field. If the defense adjusts and tries to shore up the middle, Manning has Demaryius Thomas, who can blow the top off a defense, and Eric Decker on the outside. No team has enough quality corners to cover all four receiving options.
Some of the pressure on Denver's passing game is alleviated by its running attack, which is averaging 119 yards per game and ranked 15th in the league.
The Broncos are the highest-scoring team in the NFL with 44.8 points per game - by contrast, the Green Bay Packers are ranked second with 32. Denver's offense also ranks first in total offense with 483 yards per game. Through the first four weeks of the season, no team has been able to keep up with the Broncos offense.
The NFL has seen teams before with high-powered offenses like Denver's lose games. New England enjoyed a potent offense for several years, but was unable to win a Super Bowl. The difference in Denver is the defense.
With teams struggling to match the points Denver's offense scores, the defense only needs to be decent. And Denver's is. They rank first in rushing yards allowed and have given up just 22.8 points per game - a mediocre number, but more than sufficient when your offense is scoring 44.8 points each game. The defense should be bolstered with the eventual returns of cornerback Champ Bailey and linebacker Von Miller.
Finally, the remaining schedule: Dallas, Jacksonville, Indianapolis, Washington, San Diego, Kansas City, New England, Kansas City, Tennessee, San Diego, Houston, Oakland.
No team stands out as a sure-bet to beat Denver. New England would likely give the Broncos a close game, but it's doubtful the Patriots' secondary can stifle Manning's passing attack, and Tom Brady's inexperienced offense is averaging only 22.25 points per game.
Kansas City and Houston are the next best bets to upset Denver, but barring injuries, Denver looks unstoppable against its remaining opponents.
Will we see the next 16-0 team this season?
