The Broncos, in the midst of winning five of their last six, have found ways to win games in the fourth quarter. The Vikings, during their 2-9 season, have managed to give games away in the fourth quarter.

The biggest component of the Broncos' recent run has been the play of the defense. It has kept the team in games, no matter how inept Tim Tebow and the offense have looked. Then, in the fourth quarter, Tebow and the offense magically generate offense to give the team the victory.

For the Vikings, the opposite has been true. The defense has been unable to get the key stop when needed, and the offense cannot make the plays in the fourth quarter that are the difference between victory and defeat.

This game will probably play out like most of the Broncos' games in the Tebow era. The Vikings' defense should have success against the run-heavy offense if it gets another big game from Kevin Williams and prevents the big play to WR Eric Decker. However, Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil will probably have big games rushing Christian Ponder and disrupting the Vikings' passing game.

The game should be close in the fourth quarter. But the narratives of the respective teams' seasons will play out. In the thick of the playoff chase, the Broncos will find a way to win behind Tebow late, while the Vikings will manage to give the game away.

Prediction: Broncos 16, Vikings 13

Season record: 5-3