The Bills pulled out a dramatic victory in Duval this past weekend, and their reward is a trip to the Mile High City to face the Denver Broncos. Buffalo survived Wild Card Weekend despite having one of their worst rushing performances of the season. Can James Cook and the otherwise elite Buffalo rushing attack get back on track? Or will the Broncos put a stopper on them once again?
Here’s a look at my favorite James Cook prop on DraftKings Sportsbook to consider from this contest.
Best James Cook Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
James Cook 18+ Rushing Attempts (-119)
Last week’s matchup with the Jaguars was brutal for James Cook. Jacksonville was tops in total run defense during the regular season, and it completely shut down the NFL’s rushing yards leader. Jags linebackers Devin Lloyd and Foyesade Oluokun were in Cook’s lap all night, limiting him to 15 carries for just 46 yards.
Denver’s run defense is similarly formidable. The Broncos were second in total rush yards allowed and third in opponent yards per carry. And with a couple of weeks of rest behind them, they’re recharged and ready for another thumping performance. While Cook was incredible during the regular season, we saw last week what an elite run defense can do to him.
Here’s the problem for the Broncos: their offense is not nearly as good as Jacksonville’s. I don’t trust them to hold on to the ball or maintain long drives consistently. Yes, Denver’s defense is incredible, but there is a path for Buffalo to dominate time of possession. Even if Denver’s run-stuffers are doing their job, the Bills will go back to the ground over and over again.
I have my doubts that Cook can be effective in this matchup, but he should garner plenty of opportunities to make an impact. With the season on the line, they’re not going to head home without letting their star back have his chance to dictate the flow of the game. Count on Cook to log at least 18 carries on Saturday night.
