Earlier this week, the Cincinnati weather forecast called for “heavy rain” and 15-25 mph wind gusts on Saturday when the Bengals host the Broncos.
That was an alarming forecast for Broncos fans who remember how much rookie quarterback Bo Nix struggled in the rain against the Jets in Week 4.
“The difference is — now we’ll see how the forecast projects — we didn’t have a strong indication of rain [in Week 4], and all off a sudden it showed,” coach Sean Payton said this week. “Hopefully with the preparations this week, we’ll be ready for it.
“Obviously the biggest thing is the balls [and asking], ‘Is it actively raining during the game?’ If it is, how are the officials covering [them]? Those are all things you have to deal with. Then you also have to deal with how that might impact your play calling and what you’re doing schematically in all three areas.”
Fortunately, the forecast has chanced since earlier this week. AccuWeather is now calling for “occasional rain” with 7-20 mph wind gusts.
A little good news about the @Broncos forecast for Saturday: It looks like the heaviest rain will hold off until after the game in Cincy. Winds look lighter.
Still, some rain looks likely. Early thought would be similar to Jets game in Sept.
Again, subject to change!#COwx pic.twitter.com/jBkRUYC2RC
— Chris Bianchi (@BianchiWeather) December 26, 2024
Nix does not seem to be concerned about the possibility of rain.
“If you’ve played football, you have play in the rain,” the QB said. “We’re excited. I thought we ran the ball well against the Jets that day. We’re going to have to carry that over [and] have an open mindset and do whatever’s working.
“We’ll be able to handle the rain. We’re professionals, and they have to play in it too. It’s going to be good. It’s going to be a good environment. It will be fun.”
Saturday’s game will be televised on NFL Network. Denver is considered an underdog playing on the road this week. With two games remaining, the Broncos need one more win to clinch a spot in the NFL playoffs.
