2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 14

Denver Broncos (6-6) at San Francisco 49ers (2-10)

Sunday, December 9, 4:05PM ET

I’m sorry San Francisco 49ers, but this was an easy decision to make. While your favorite team looked like a potential contender at the start of the season, the loss of Jimmy Garoppolo was essentially a death sentence. You’re going to lose this one.

Now that’s not to say the Denver Broncos are capable of embarrassing the 49ers. Chances are this will be a low-scoring game that’s won in the final minutes. But when it all comes down to it, I don’t see any way for San Francisco to have enough success against Denver’s defense to come away with the win.

That’s really the only reason the Broncos are still alive in the playoff race. All season long, they’ve given even outstanding offenses a run for their money. Although they’ve given up plenty of yardage, they’re only allowing about 21 points per game and have helped to accumulate a +8 turnover differential. Plus, they’re among the league leaders in sacks.

That doesn’t bode well for Nick Mullens, the 49ers’ third-string quarterback and current starter. Expect plenty of pressure on the young, inexperienced gunslinger, leading to just enough turnovers and missed opportunities for the Broncos to secure their fourth-straight victory.

Prediction: Broncos win 22-17