Jul 24, 2025; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) during Denver Broncos Training Camp. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Denver Broncos vs San Francisco 49ers Prediction 8/9/2025 Today’s NFL Picks

Pick details

Denver (0-0) vs San Francisco (0-0)

August 9, 2025 at 08:30 PM EDT

The Line: Betting Odds: San Francisco — Over/Under:

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In this article, we will formulate a Broncos vs 49ers prediction for this NFL game on Saturday, August 9th at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Let’s take a look at the prediction for this Week 1 matchup in the preseason.

Denver Broncos Team Preview

The Denver Broncos head into the 2025 season with a renewed sense of optimism and hope, following a 10-7 record in 2024, which represented their first winning season since 2016. This success also earned the team a Wild Card berth, which unfortunately ended in a 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Under the guidance of Sean Payton, the promising cornerstone quarterback Bo Nix, who was chosen in the first round of the 2024 draft, is set to begin his sophomore year after showcasing his potential as the offensive leader.

To bolster his supporting cast, the Broncos have acquired tight end Evan Engram on a two-year deal, as well as wide receiver Trent Sherfield, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, and safety Talanoa Hufanga in free agency, thereby enhancing their offensive versatility and defensive depth. The offensive line remains stable, with tackle Matt Peart re-signed for an additional two years, while veteran Jarrett Stidham returns to serve as backup quarterback depth.

Defensively, the team has renewed standout lineman Zach Allen’s contract for four years and has drafted cornerback Jahdae Barron, running back R.J. Harvey, wide receiver Pat Bryant, defensive end Sai’vion Jones, edge rusher Que Robinson, and punter Jeremy Crawshaw.The Broncos have also enhanced their special teams by re-signing long snapper Mitchell Fraboni and signing punter Matt Haack. Under the leadership of Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II, Denver’s defense, which was ranked third in points allowed and led the league in sacks in 2024, is aiming for consistency as it transitions into 2025. With continuity on both sides, strategic upgrades, and increasing experience in Payton’s system, the Broncos are positioned to effectively build on the momentum from the previous season.

San Francisco 49ers Team Preview

One year after their Super Bowl journey, the San Francisco 49ers are stepping into 2025 to recover from a disappointing 6–11 season that caused them to miss the playoffs. The 2024 season was disrupted by injuries to star players, including running back Christian McCaffrey, who was out for eight games, and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who was placed on injured reserve. Additionally, the defense fell to 29th in the league for points allowed. Consequently, defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen was terminated after the season, and Robert Saleh was brought back to oversee the defense. The offseason saw significant roster changes: explosive receiver Deebo Samuel was traded to Washington, while starting linebacker Dre Greenlaw, safety Talanoa Hufanga, cornerback Charvarius Ward, and left guard Aaron Banks departed through free agency.

To address the gap, San Francisco has brought in veteran safety Richie Grant, receiver Demarcus Robinson, and former Patriots quarterback Mac Jones to serve as a backup to Brock Purdy. In spite of the changes, essential pillars remain — All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner and edge rusher Nick Bosa continue to lead the defense, while Purdy retains offensive assets such as a hopefully fit McCaffrey and Pro Bowl tight end George Kittle. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has elevated Klay Kubiak to the position of offensive coordinator, and with a restructured staff and a reliable core, the 49ers aim to recover and secure a playoff spot in 2025.

Broncos vs 49ers Prediction

Figuring out the motivation in this matchup is a bit complex, but I am inclined to side with Denver. San Francisco’s foremost goal, even for their reserve players, should be to emphasize health, considering the multitude of injuries this team has experienced over the past year. I think Denver has an advantage in terms of quality depth, which is likely to see the majority of the playing time in this game. In conclusion, I believe Denver is in a better position here, so I will support the Broncos in this matchup.

Oliver Zivic's Pick: Broncos -6.4

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