49ers vs. Broncos: How to watch, TV, live stream, odds, prediction as Jimmy Garoppolo takes on Russell Wilson

Although they don’t play each other often, there is a bit of history between the 49ers and the Broncos. The two teams faced each other in Super Bowl XXIV in a matchup between future Hall of Famer quarterbacks Joe Montana and John Elway. San Francisco bested Denver that day as the 49ers crowned their dynasty by setting Super Bowl records for points scored (55) and wins (45 points).

Sunday’s Week 3 matchup between the two teams promises to be significantly more competitive. Both teams are coming off wins after dropping their season openers. The 49ers come to Denver after a 27-7 win over Seattle last Sunday. The Broncos got their first win of the 2022 season in a defensive struggle with the Texans. Both teams are now looking to get above .500 before entering week four of the regular season.

We will preview the game and give our prediction for Sunday’s result. So you can follow the action in real time.

like watching

Date: Sunday 25 Sept | Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
Location: Empower Field at Mile High (Denver)
TV: ABC | Electricity: fuboTV (try for free)
Consequences: CBS Sports App
Opportunities: 49er -1.5, O/U 44

When the 49ers have the ball

With Trey Lance injured, Jimmy Garoppolo has resumed his role as the 49ers’ starting quarterback. Garoppolo played well in last Sunday’s win to relieve Lance. He went 13 of 21 for 154 yards, including a touchdown pass to Ross Dwelley and a late touchdown run to freeze the game.

Deebo Samuel continues to be a focus of the 49ers’ offense. Samuel was an All-Pro last season and has 105 rushing yards and one point this season, as well as 58 yards on seven receptions. Perennial Pro Bowl right end George Kittle is hoping to make his season debut on Sunday after missing the first two games with a groin injury.

The San Francisco defense meets an impressive defense from Denver, which currently ranks third in the NFL in points allowed. The Broncos’ leaders on defense include linebackers Bradley Chubb and Alex Singleton, defensive end Dre’Mont Jones and cornerback Patrick Surtain II. Surtain is one of 16 Broncos players on injury reports this week as Denver’s roster was beset by injuries in its opening month.

When the Broncos have the ball

The Broncos offense ranks only 24th in the league despite being in the top 10 in rushing and passing in the NFL. Denver’s lack of success in the red zone is the biggest problem for the lack of goals since the Broncos offense is ranked 31st in the NFL inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. The Broncos will face a 49ers defense that is a 19th walker in the league in red-zone efficiency.

Another reason for the Broncos’ scoring chances was the inconsistent play of quarterback Russell Wilson, who completed less than 60% of his shots in his first two games against Denver. Wilson has developed a quick relationship with Courtland Sutton, who is second on the team in receptions and first with 194 receiving yards. The strength of the Broncos offense so far has been running back duo Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon. Williams is the team’s read rusher and also Denver’s leading pass catcher. Gordon has 105 yards through two games at 4.8 yards per carry.

San Francisco is Denver’s biggest defensive challenge yet. Like the Broncos, the 49ers have conceded the third lowest points allowed in the NFL for two weeks. The 49ers also have the best pass defense in the league and are second in the league against run. The unit continues to be led by Nick Bosa, who comes into play with three sacks on Sunday.

Featured Game | Denver Broncos vs. San Francisco 49ers

forecast

The Broncos have the playmakers and defense to create an upset, but I’m taking the 49ers into what should be a good game. Denver’s injuries coupled with the 49ers’ talent on defense should give him an edge in an otherwise even matchup. Choose: 49ers 23, Broncos 20