posted August 13, 2007 at 18:43 in NFL Free Picks

Tonight’s matchup between the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers could turn out to be the best week one preseason matchup of all as both head coaches like to win every game they coach.

Here is a look at each team, followed by my Free NFL Betting Pick:

Denver Broncos – 2006 preseason record: 3-1 SU, 2-2 ATS

The Denver Broncos have extended postseason hopes because of the promise of young quarterback Jay Cutler and the additions of running back Travis Henry and wideout Brandon Stokley.

Defensively, Denver has two excellent cornerbacks in Champ Bailey and Dre Bly that will allow the team to isolate their cornerbacks in one-on-one coverage while they mix up their blitz packages on opposing quarterbacks.

If the Broncos can get some consistent pressure on the quarterback this season, they could sneak up on several teams.

San Francisco 49ers – 2006 preseason record: 2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS

The 49ers had a solid 7-9 season last year and showed marked improvement under head coach Mike Nolan.

With a legitimate candidate to lead the league in rushing in running back Frank Gore, a smart young quarterback in Alex Smith and an especially athletic tight end in Vernon Davis, the Niners have nowhere to go but up.

If Nolan, a former defensive coordinator, can get his team’s defense to not be a liability this season, the Niners could be looking at their first postseason berth in years.

Analysis: The 49ers, even without Gore tonight (broken hand) are the pick here as San Francisco’s head coach, Nolan has already gone on record to say that his team is preparing for the regular season right now, not the preseason. The Broncos will rest some of their older veteran players while the younger Niners will likely run through a brick wall just to win this game.

NFL Free Picks: 49ers 24 Broncos 17

08:00 PM EST Football Odds

Denver Broncos +2½ -110 

San Francisco 49ers -2½ -110

Pre-Season Week 1

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