Broncos vs 49ers | NFL Preseason Week 1 | Aug 9, 2025

The NFL preseason excitement continues with a promising matchup as the Denver Broncos visit the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s® Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The game is set for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 5:30 PM, with live coverage available on FuboTV. Tickets for this preseason contest are affordably priced, starting as low as $24, giving fans a fantastic opportunity to experience NFL action in one of the league’s most iconic stadiums.

With a -6.5 point spread favoring the Broncos and an over/under set at 34.5, this game is expected to be a strategic battle that offers a window into how both teams are shaping up ahead of the regular season.

Game Overview

The Broncos and 49ers come into the 2025 preseason with different goals but equal determination to use these early games as critical evaluation periods. Both teams will be testing new players, finalizing depth charts, and giving their coaching staffs valuable insights to prepare for the regular season.

Denver Broncos

Denver enters this preseason focused on building consistency on both sides of the ball. The Broncos’ offense is looking to find rhythm behind their starting quarterback while giving backups key reps to develop confidence. On defense, Denver aims to improve its pass rush and secondary coverage, making the preseason an ideal time to experiment with personnel and tactics.

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers, with their strong defensive tradition and innovative offense, are in a competitive window where every game counts—even preseason matchups. San Francisco will rely on its strong coaching staff to manage playing time carefully, balancing veteran experience with giving rookies and backups a chance to shine. The 49ers’ defense will be particularly interesting to watch, as they often emphasize pressure and aggressive coverage schemes.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. Quarterback Development

Both teams will limit the snaps of their starters, focusing on backup quarterbacks who need to prove their readiness. This game offers a chance for Denver’s and San Francisco’s QB2s to show their potential and command of the offense.

2. Roster Battles and Rookie Contributions

The preseason is where rookies and free agents make their first impressions. Both teams have promising young talent looking to carve out roles, making this game a crucial stage for evaluating their progress and potential impact.

3. Defensive Matchups

Denver’s defense will focus on pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run, while the 49ers are known for their versatile defensive fronts and strong secondary play. Watching how these units perform will give insights into how both teams plan to handle regular-season offenses.

4. Special Teams Showcases

Special teams units can often change the momentum of preseason games. Kickoff returns, punt coverage, and field goal kicking will all be under the microscope as coaches look for reliable contributors.

Betting Outlook

• Line: Denver Broncos -6.5
• Over/Under: 34.5

The Broncos’ status as favorites indicates confidence in their roster depth and recent offseason moves. The modest over/under total reflects typical preseason conservatism, with limited starter play and a focus on defense and fundamentals. Bettors should weigh how each team’s backups and special teams units perform, as these often influence preseason outcomes.

Players to Watch

Denver Broncos

• Backup Quarterbacks: Their performance could shape Denver’s offensive strategy moving forward.
• Defensive Linemen: Key players who will try to disrupt the 49ers’ offensive rhythm.
• Rookie Skill Players: Young wide receivers and running backs aiming to make their mark.

San Francisco 49ers

• Quarterback Depth: The backup QBs’ ability to lead the offense will be closely watched.
• Linebackers and Defensive Backs: Vital to the 49ers’ defensive success, especially in pass coverage.
• Special Teams Specialists: Potential difference-makers on returns and coverage units.

Levi’s® Stadium Atmosphere

Levi’s® Stadium is one of the premier NFL venues, known for its cutting-edge design, fan-friendly amenities, and passionate home crowd. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, it offers a vibrant setting for football, blending tradition with modernity.

Fans attending the Broncos vs 49ers game can expect a lively, high-energy environment, with the stadium’s excellent sightlines and facilities enhancing the game-day experience. Tickets at $24 offer an accessible way to enjoy NFL action live and up close.

Strategic Expectations

• Denver Broncos: Likely to adopt a balanced approach, emphasizing ball control and sound defense while giving backups valuable reps.
• San Francisco 49ers: Expected to mix aggressive defensive schemes with measured offensive experimentation, aiming to protect starters and evaluate depth.

The Broncos vs 49ers preseason game on August 9, 2025, is a significant early test for both teams as they prepare for the demands of the regular season. With Denver favored by six and a half points and a moderate scoring expectation, fans should anticipate a competitive, strategically played game that highlights emerging talent and coaching adjustments.

Whether you’re watching from the stands at Levi’s® Stadium or streaming on FuboTV, this matchup offers an exciting preview of the 2025 NFL season with plenty of intrigue and promising performances.