Broncos vs. Patriots Week 6 betting odds: Melvin Gordon facing suspension but likely to play Sunday as is Drew Lock

Denver Broncos top running back Melvin Gordon, whom the team signed to a two-year, $16 million free-agent contract this offseason, is looking at a 2-3 game suspension by the NFL after being cited for a DUI in Denver on Tuesday night. However, with how slow league discipline is handed out, it seems very likely Gordon plays Sunday's game at New England and perhaps at least a few more after that. The Patriots opened as 10-point favorites on the NFL odds.

Coaches and front office types worry most about players getting into some trouble during a bye week, and the Broncos had the bye foisted upon them in Week 5 because some COVID-19 issues on the Patriots forced a few rescheduled games. Broncos-Patriots was originally to be played in Week 5.

Under the new collective bargaining agreement, first-time offenders in this type of scenario like Gordon face up to a three-game suspension and the league has begun reviewing things. Gordon was also ticketed for speeding between 25-39 mph above the speed limit and is scheduled to be arraigned in Denver County Court on Nov. 13.

In theory, the team could opt to suspend him for this week's game, but that type of thing almost never happens. Denver returned to practice Wednesday, but Gordon was sent home without participating. Coach Vic Fangio did say that there would be "consequences" and wouldn't commit as of yet to Gordon playing. Still, it would be an upset if he doesn't. 

The former Chargers Pro Bowler leads the Broncos in carries (65), rushing yards (281) and rushing touchdowns (3). Gordon comes off his best game with his new team, rushing for 107 yards and two scores on Oct. 1 in a 37-28 victory at the Jets – the Broncos' first win of the year.

For a point of reference on a timeframe for discipline, Broncos safety Kareem Jackson was suspended for the final two games of the 2019 season after a September DUI arrest last year, also in downtown Denver.

It's looking good for Broncos QB Drew Lock to play Sunday for the first time since a Week 2 shoulder injury as he was at practice Wednesday. Lock has never faced the Patriots. 

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