OFFENSE

The Broncos’ formula has worked for two straight games to keep the ball away from big-name quarterbacks. They ran 40 times in a 24-9 win over Kansas City and Patrick Mahomes on Oct. 29 and then 38 times in a 24-22 win on Monday over Josh Allen and Buffalo. With Javonte Williams leading the way, they will attempt that formula against Minnesota and Joshua Dobbs, who has been hot lately. Dobbs has led the Vikings to two straight wins since Kirk Cousins was lost for the season with a torn Achilles. But he won’t get an additional weapon with star receiver Justin Jefferson remaining on injured reserve with a hamstring injury and missing his sixth straight game.

DEFENSE

The once-woeful Broncos defense has completely turned around the last four games, with the last three being wins. Pat Surtain II has lived up to his reputation as a lockdown cornerback, having most recently shut down Bills star receiver Stefon Diggs. The opportunistic Broncos have forced nine turnovers in the past two games, eight by the defense and one on special teams. The Vikings have improved their defense greatly after being No. 31 in the NFL last season in total defense. They’re now No. 13. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores likes to blitz, and he also can turn loose outside linebacker Danielle Hunter, who leads the NFL with 11 sacks.

COACHING

Minnesota’s Kevin O’Connell is one of the NFL’s top young coaches and is a strong candidate for NFL coach of the year in his second season with his team. The Vikings having won five straight games after a 1-4 start, including the last two without Cousins. Sean Payton has a lot more experience as a coach and is starting to find his groove with Denver while developing a good relationship with quarterback Russell Wilson. After a 1-5 start, the Broncos can legitimately talk now about making a playoff run.

INTANGIBLES

With Denver having won three straight games, Empower Field at Mile High figures to be a raucous environment for Sunday Night Football. The Broncos started the season 0-3 at home but have turned things around with wins against Green Bay and the Chiefs. The Broncos have the advantage in the return game with wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., who most recently brought back two punts for 44 yards and one kickoff for 31 yards at Buffalo and was named AFC special teams player of the week.

TOMASSON’S PICK

The Gazette’s Broncos beat writer, Chris Tomasson, is 4-5 picking Broncos games this season, and he’s 4-5 against the spread.

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