The Broncos have started the season 2-0 after facing two difficult teams and their defense played a big part in those wins. The first road game of the season will be in Cincinnati against the Bengals will be another test for the defense, facing an explosive offense that’s led by Andy Dalton.
All-Pro cornerback Chris Harris feels great going into this week, especially with the talented teams the Broncos have faced thus far.
“I think the first two games we have had great tests, gone against great quarterbacks and great teams,” Harris told Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro of Afternoon Drive on AM 1340 | FM 104.7. “Being able to come out 2-0 is huge, that’s a great start. We still know we haven’t played up to our caliber as a team yet. We still have a lot of growth. I’m just excited for this team because we’re definitely ahead compared to where we were last year.”
The Bengals have showcased a great offense so far. Andy Dalton threw for 366 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions against the Steelers last week. Harris and the defense know what they are up against with their first road game of the season.
“We know it’s a huge game on the road,” Harris said. “You always want to start off your road games with a win. It’s going to be a huge test for us. We’re going against great receivers and a great quarterback and their experience of playing against us. It’s going to be a tough game.”
The Broncos are 3.5-point underdogs going into Cincinnati, but that doesn’t mean a thing to this Broncos team. They love the pressure that is put on them.
“We love the added motivation for us,” Harris said. “Going on the road, we expect to be underdogs. We feel like we thrive under pressure on the road games.”
Harris and Aqib Talib are a great duo that no opposing quarterback enjoys facing. With the pick-six that Talib nabbed against the Colts, Harris saw that as a plus for his game. Every week there is a different defensive player that could have a stand-out game.
“There’s always competition but I love seeing that,” Harris said. “That is going to make sure I get even more action. Then when I make plays it definitely helps get him [Talib] more action. There is nobody that has a duo like me and him to be able to change the game. I changed the game in the first week and he changed it this week. That’s what I love about our defense. Every week could be somebody’s week to be able to make that game changing play.”
As the Broncos head into Week 3, the defense knows there are still things to work on. According to Harris, the defense is always looking to create more takeaways.
“I think we need to get some more. But it’s so hard,” Harris said. “Teams come out and they’re not as aggressive all the time like when they play other teams. They want to be a little bit conservative. We have to be able to create those plays and make those takeaways even if those teams are being cautious.”
To hear the whole conversation with Chris Harris, Jr., including his thoughts on Von Miller’s incredible start, click the podcast below…
https://soundcloud.com/milehighsports/9-20-16-chris-harris-joins-ad-talks-about-the-tough-road-game-coming-up-against-the-bengals
Catch Afternoon Drive with Goodman and Shapiro Monday-Friday from 4p-6p on Mile High Sports AM 1340 | FM 104.7 or stream live any time for the best local coverage of Colorado sports from Denver’s biggest sports talk lineup.