By
DJ Siddiqi
(Featured Columnist)
on December 11, 2013
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The San Diego Chargers (6-7) visit the Denver Broncos (11-2) in a matchup of two AFC West teams battling for playoff position.

Both teams are operating on a short week—which should affect the play of both teams.

In the case of the Broncos, defensive end Derek Wolfe and receiver Wes Welker have been ruled out for Thursday night's game. Cornerback Champ Bailey is questionable for the game after having been ruled inactive for Sunday's 51-28 victory over the Tennessee Titans.

Both teams are in the playoff hunt—in the case of the Broncos, they will be looking to increase their one-game lead over the New England Patriots for the AFC's top seed by defeating the Chargers for the second time this season. The Chargers need to win this game if they look to keep their playoff hopes reasonably alive—San Diego trails the Baltimore Ravens and the Miami Dolphins by a game in the race for the AFC's last playoff spot.

Following Denver's bye in Week 10, the Broncos visited the Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Denver defeated San Diego 28-20 by holding off a late rally by the Chargers in the second half. Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas caught three touchdown passes in the game.

With the short week due to play a role in the performance of players in this game, it should be interesting to see whether it's to the benefit of the Broncos or the visiting Chargers.

Either way, this is a must-win game for the Broncos if they look to remain in control of the AFC's top spot—while this is a must-win game for the Chargers if they look to have a shot at making the playoffs.

The game kicks off at 8:25 p.m. ET on NFLN.
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