USA TODAY Sports Weekly

Rams (5-0) at Broncos (2-3)

- Jon Heath

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Broncos Stadium at Mile High, Denver TV: Fox

Danny Sheridan’s line: by 7

Rams’ keys to victory: The Broncos have a strong rushing attack this season (they are averaging 137 yards per game, fourth best in the NFL), but that won’t do them any good if they have to play from behind against Los Angeles. If the Rams can build an early lead and force Denver to rely on QB Case Keenum to win the game, L.A. should be in good shape. On offense, WR Brandin Cooks likely will face Chris Harris or Bradley Roby, two talented cornerback­s. So the Rams should target WRs Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp — either of them would be a mismatch against 35-year-old CB Adam Jones.

Broncos’ keys to victory: Run until the wheels fall off. RBs Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman have been outstandin­g, combining for 664 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns. If the Broncos can establish a running game early, it will make life easier for QB Case Keenum. On defense, OLBs Von Miller and Bradley Chubb must generate a pass rush to disrupt L.A.’s menacing passing attack.

Matchup to watch: Rams DT Aaron Donald vs. Broncos LG Ron Leary. Donald is arguably the best defensive player in the NFL, so he’s worth watching every week. He might face a tough test in Leary, who has yet to allow a sack this season.

Who wins? Keenum hasn’t been good enough to beat good defenses this season, and Los Angeles has one of the most talented teams in the NFL. Denver’s defense might play better than expected, but it won’t be enough for the Broncos to pull off an upset.

Rams, 28-17 Rams

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