Broncos at Seahawks

The Broncos like to send linebackers and defensive backs after the quarterback, so Huard will have an opportunity to make plays. How well the 24-year-old handles that pressure will be a key to moving the ball.

Cornerback Shawn Springs will probably see time against both Ed McCaffrey and Rod Smith today, meaning Williams will have to contain the other.

While most teams have only one feature receiver, it’s safe to say the Broncos have two. Both McCaffrey and Smith are among the AFC’s top three in receptions, and each offers a different threat – McCaffrey the size and Smith the speed.

Williams has been solid for much of the season, but he has also proved susceptible at times, especially in a loss to Kansas City four weeks ago. The Broncos will test him, and Williams’ success could be the key to the game.

That means players like quarterback Gus Frerotte and running back Mike Anderson will carry the load for the AFC’s top-ranked offense. Going against the NFL’s lowest-ranked defense can only further their name recognition.

Of course, the Broncos still have some of their star power. Wide receivers Rod Smith and Ed McCaffrey are big parts of the offensive game plan, while Bill Romanowski, Trevor Pryce and Al Wilson lead the defense.

The Seahawks don’t have quite the talent, and with Brock Huard coming back from injury, they could take a while to settle in. Coach Mike Holmgren’s weekly quote about the Seahawks not being mathematically eliminated might not hold any water after today.