The defense is still awesome
We’ve been so focused on Peyton Manning, Brock Osweiler and the Broncos offense this last week that we’ve seemingly forgot that we’ve got a world-class defense on the other side of the ball.
I think that’s a fairly important factor.
Remember, this a defense that single-handedly won six games for the Broncos and held Aaron Rodgers, reigning MVP and all-around superquarterback, to 70 yards passing. They proceeded to have an underwhelming performance against the Colts, but rebounded in a massive way against the Chiefs last weekend.
Now, because the defense gave up 29 points to Alex Smith and and some guy named Charcandrick West, it would be easy to call this their second straight letdown, but that’s just not true. Denver’s defense was playing against an offense that started seven of their 14 drives in Broncos territory; it’s a minor miracle they were able to hold them to just 29 points.
Last week was an anomaly; I’d be shocked if the Broncos had another five-interception, one-failed-onside-attempt game this season. To be successful, all this defense needs is an offense that doesn’t blatantly gift wrap the game to the opposing team each week. If Gary Kubiak uses Brock Osweiler like I think he’s going to — a lot of runs, complemented by some efficient, easy play-action passes — I think they’ll be just fine.
