Sanders has been a huge part of the Broncos 8-2 season thus far. Thomas has had some impressive games and leads the team in receptions (76) and yards (875) but it has been Sanders that has made the big plays down the field. He has two 75-yard touchdown grabs and is the safety valve in the passing game when defenses often double-team Thomas. His absence last week surely forced Osweiler to look to short crossing routes and check-downs more often than Kubiak and the Broncos would have liked. His ankle injury from the loss against the Kansas City Chiefs needed an extra week to heal but the receiver believes he is ready to go.
“I’m good. My ankle feels good. I practiced all week. I started off on Wednesday and finally got a full week under my belt. It felt good to do that. I think that I’m mentally and physically prepared for the game.”
Sanders will have a favorable matchup against Ryan, a third-year cornerback out of Rutgers University. Sanders may also have Butler cover him to start the game but with the attention Thomas will garner, it should be a big opportunity for Sanders. The emergence of the Broncos tight ends in recent weeks will also help him get loose for some big plays. The remaining two cornerbacks that may cover Sanders, Melvin and defensive back Tavon Wilson will not be able to stick with the veteran consistently. If the Broncos offensive line can give Osweiler the right amount of time, it could result in more game-changing plays from Sanders.
If last year’s game is any indication of what Sanders day will be like, he may be the MVP when it concludes. Last November in New England, Sanders caught 10 passes for 151 yards. The extra week of rest should be enough to get Sanders back in the swing of things. Monday he stated quietly why he sat out last week. “Its like a race car. You can’t get to top speed on a flat tire.” Knowing he feels ready to hit top speed should strike fear in Patriots fans and have Broncos fans keeping their eyes on No. 10 all day.
