Win, and the Oakland Raiders would be AFC West champions for the first time since 2001 — simple as that. But actually going out and accomplishing that, sans Derek Carr, would not be so simple.
There were many factors in play for both teams heading into this contest. The 12-3 Raiders had a division title to play for, and a win would also afford them a first-round bye in the playoffs — time that would be well-spent in getting Matt McGloin prepared.
The Broncos didn’t have any personal playoff aspirations to play for as they had already been eliminated from contention, but they sure would love to play spoiler to the Raiders.