Monday Night Football: Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos

Still, let’s try to figure out why you should watch a game that on paper looks like a blowout, and where the oddsmakers have installed Denver as a 16.5 point favorite over Oakland.

• It’s a rivalry game, and one where the home team doesn’t have much advantage. Crazy stuff could happen. The Raiders are 7-2 against the spread against the Broncos when they have been a touchdown or more underdog in the last decade.
• Peyton Manning has been a large favorite many times throughout his career. Remember what happened when he played a young unknown guy and his team came in as a big favorite twelve years ago?
• In all truth, though, the Broncos defense has not been very good, but has been opportunistic. They have allowed 50 points while getting 6 turnovers. If the Raiders can avoid those turnovers, they can keep Manning off the field.
• So far, Denver has played two Super Bowl winning pocket passing statues. Terrelle Pryor, at least, is a complete change of pace, an x-factor. If Pryor can make plays with his feet, extend drives, and shorten the number of possessions, maybe the Raiders can keep it close.