Rams-Broncos Sunday night preview: Nacua doubtful, Denver backfield clears

The Rams and Broncos meet in Denver on Sunday night with one of Los Angeles' central offensive questions unresolved: Puka Nacua was listed as doubtful after missing all three practices, according to the Rams' final injury report. The receiver missed last week's game against the Giants. Coach Sean McVay said doubtful makes him less likely than likely to play, but the team's game-day inactive list will make the decision official.

The teams kick off at 8:20 p.m. Eastern at Empower Field at Mile High. Both enter Week 3 at 1-1, according to the Broncos' game-day page. Denver's defense now faces Matthew Stafford and a Rams attack that moved the ball effectively against New York even without Nacua. Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said his unit must balance pass pressure with sound run defense; the club's preview framed Stafford as its third straight test against an established passer.

Los Angeles has another probable absence in the secondary. Safety Kamren Kinchens did not practice this week and is doubtful with a hamstring injury. Tight end Colby Parkinson is questionable with a knee issue, while receiver Jordan Whittington carries no game designation after returning to full practice Friday. If Nacua is inactive, Whittington's availability gives Stafford an option behind the established targets, but it does not predetermine how the Rams will divide touches.

Denver's backfield is in better shape than it appeared midweek. J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey both progressed to full practice and have no final game status, while rookie Jonah Coleman is out with an ankle injury. Marvin Mims Jr. is questionable with a foot issue. Those designations, also listed in the Rams' side-by-side injury report, are the last official pregame statuses before inactives.

Two matchups warrant close attention: whether Denver can disrupt Stafford without losing its run fits, and how the Rams defend Bo Nix with their safety depth reduced. The Rams' own keys to the game place containing Nix and Denver's receivers near the top. There is no result yet; the final lineup and then the game itself will settle the preview's open questions.