The NFL announced that the Week 16 matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos will now be played on Thursday Night. The Chargers will be hosting the Broncos in what should be a close battle between the AFC West rivals.
As a result of the change, the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals’ Week 16 game was moved to Sunday.
The Chargers (7-3) have found immediate success under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. The defense has led the way and is holding opponents to a league-best 14.5 PPG. Justin Herbert has been getting more comfortable each week and has built a nice rapport with rookie wideout Ladd McConkey.
If the defense continues to play well while Herbert guides the offense, the Chargers will be a tough out by the time the postseason comes along.
Sean Payton has the Broncos rolling in Year 2. Denver (6-5) ranks second in defense (16.6 PPG) and is led by All-Pro CB Pat Surtain II. Some questioned the pick of QB Bo Nix in the first round, but the former Oregon standout has played well as a rookie. Nix is in the race for Offensive Rookie of the Year and seems to improve each week.
In their first meeting this year, the Chargers won in Denver by a score of 23-16. Herbert led the way with 237 passing yards and 1 TD, while RB J.K. Dobbins rushed for 96 yards and a score. Nix passed for 2 TDs and had 61 rushing yards.
It will likely be a crucial matchup for both teams. The Chargers are better situated right now, but a lot can change by Week 16. The move to Thursday makes it a short week for both teams, but it’s a more challenging change for the Broncos.
The Broncos host the Indianapolis Colts (another playoff hopeful) in Week 15 and will have to travel to Los Angeles on a short week for a crucial divisional game. The Chargers will already be home as they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at SoFi Stadium in Week 15.
The NFL wants the spotlight on pivotal games at the end of the season. While this change does impact both teams, it ultimately allows fans to key in on a matchup with major playoff implications.
