By the time this game kicks off, Denver should realize the end of its playoff aspirations. Victories by any one of four teams would put the Broncos out of reach of the second AFC wild-card spot.
The Raiders will know if the 3-11 Cardinals lost again, as well as the trio of 4-10 teams. Of course, they’ll deny they are playing for draft position, but it is interesting to follow.
That would make the last Monday Night Football game of the season kind of a dud, involving no one in the playoff race and without any real sense of urgency to win.
Denver could hope a .500 record might save their coach’s job. Or they might just figure it looks nicer than 7-9 or 6-10.
But it will be hard to come off disappointing losses to the lowly 49ers and a heartbreaking 1-point loss to the Browns in front of their home fans. If the weather is cold or rainy, a half-empty stadium might make the task even tougher to get up for.
Oakland has played harder of late. They might sense that Denver is an emotionally depleted team and jump on them early.
Hopefully, pride and 2019 auditions will be enough to provide some entertainment in this final game of the weekend.
Injuries and notes
Neither team expects any significant players to miss this contest. No new injuries were reported.
Coaching matchup
Jon Gruden has the security of a 10-year contract to take any approach he wants to this game. Things are looking up a bit for the former-new Raiders coach. Just a few weeks after ownership claimed Gruden did not want to trade Khalil Mack before the season, wide receiver Amari Cooper went on record as saying Gruden was out of the loop on his trade to the Cowboys.
It makes you wonder about the relationship between Gruden and his general manager until you remember the general manager was just fired. Will Gruden play both roles next season?
Will Vance Joseph play any role in Denver next season? After being lauded for keeping his team in position to battle for a wild-card spot despite one of the toughest first-ten week schedules, Joseph’s team let him down. Losses to the Cardinals and Browns might spell doom for the embattled coach.
How to watch the Broncos-Raiders game
ESPN will send this game out to its contracted providers across the country Monday night. That means you can watch the live stream action on DirecTV Now.
DirecTV Now is a leading internet TV provider, offering all the local and national channels you need to follow your favorite teams all year round.
When there’s no game, DirecTV Now, like Fubo TV, Sling, and other internet TV providers, bring dozens of movie and entertainment channels to your favorite Internet-connected device.
Better yet, Fubo, DirecTV Now, and Sling do all that or just a fraction of what most people pay for a basic cable or satellite service. Plus, they don’t make you drill holes in your house or stick unattractive equipment on your roof.
You can watch this final Monday Night Football contest for free by taking advantage of the standard obligation-free viewing period offered by DirecTV Now, Fubo TV, or Sling.
After the game, check out what else they offer and learn why so many NFL fans already cut the cord with their satellite and cable provider to join the internet TV revolution.
Read More: NFL Week 17 Game Preview: Browns at Ravens
Who will win the Broncos-Raiders game?
Denver has the superior team and the home field advantage for this primetime contest. They also have a ton of disappointment on their shoulders weighing them down.
Enough Raiders are auditioning for their next team to keep the visitors in this match. Look for a close contest.
