Week 15

Broncos Preview

Oakland Raiders (4-9) at Denver Broncos (8-5)

Following a tough road loss in Indianapolis, this week the Broncos welcome the Oakland Raiders to town. Despite the Raiders' 4-9 record, they have posted impressive wins over the Bengals, the Eagles and the Steelers, proving that on any given Sunday they have the ability to play the spoiler. Nonetheless, this is a game that the Broncos should win, especially if they want to remain in the AFC play-off race. Here are a few match-ups that may figure prominently in Sunday's game:

Brandon Marshall vs. Nnamdi Asomugha

Last week's record-breaking performance of 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns by Marshall made him look like the NFL version of Superman. But, if Marshall is Superman, then Asomugha and the Raiders secondary might very well be his kryptonite. Marshall has never broken 100 yards recieving in his six games against the Raiders. Although he's had a down year statistically, Asomugha is one of the league's premiere defensive backs and has always played well against Marshall. I don't think the Broncos need Marshall to have a huge day in order to win. But, the Raiders had better slow him down or they likely won't stand a chance.

Broncos running game vs. Raiders run defense

Despite the Broncos backfield being riddled with injuries -- Correll Buckhalter (ankle), Knowshon Moreno (ankle) and Lamont Jordan (back) -- the Broncos will likely lean on their running game this week. That could mean some rare playing time for Peyton Hillis. The Raiders rank 30th in the league against the run, allowing more than 154 yards per game this season. The Broncos' offense ranks 12th in rushing, averaging 123 yards a game. With cold weather expected in Denver this weekend, Knowshon Moreno and company should get plenty of chances to exploit the weak Raiders run defense.

Charlie Frye vs. Broncos Defense

The Raiders may be getting close to giving up on JaMarcus Russell, the team's former No. 1 overall pick. With recently named starter Bruce Gradowski ailing with injuries to both knees, the Raiders passed on restoring Russell to starting status and handed the job to Frye, the team's rarely used third-stringer. Frye had some starting experience in Cleveland but you can bet the Broncos second-ranked pass defense will be turning up the heat to try to prevent Frye from getting in a groove.

Fantasy pick:

With questions about the health of Moreno and Buckhalter, and considering Marshall's lack if success against the Raiders, I feel that the strongest fantasy play for the Broncos this week is their defense. The often hapless Raiders offense should provide plenty of sack and turnover opportunies for the Broncos, as well as a minimal scoring threat.

--- SONNY PLATT.