Broncos Extend Win Streak Amid Defensive Concerns
The Denver Broncos celebrated their 10th consecutive victory on Sunday, completing a sweep over the Las Vegas Raiders. This win not only solidified their dominance in the matchup but also secured a crucial common-opponents tiebreaker against the New England Patriots. Such a development could prove pivotal as the Broncos contend for the coveted No. 1 playoff seed in the AFC.
Defensive Woes Emerge
While the Broncos bask in the glow of their winning streak, troubling signs are emerging on the defensive side of the ball. In their last two games, the defense has shown vulnerabilities that, if not addressed, could become problematic as they face stronger opponents in the season’s final stretch. Though the Broncos performed well statistically against the Raiders, and individual player grades were favorable, the lapses in defensive execution are raising alarms.
Upcoming opponents—the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers—are all equipped with the offensive firepower to exploit these weaknesses.
Cornerback Rotation Challenges
A key factor contributing to these defensive inconsistencies has been the recent rotation of cornerbacks. Over the past two games, the Broncos have opted to shuffle their secondary, pulling Riley Moss or Ja’Quan McMillian off the field to give Jahdae Barron and Kris Abrams-Draine additional playing time. This strategy has inadvertently led to confusion and chaos within the defensive unit.
Against the Raiders, the repercussions of this rotation were evident. The Broncos experienced multiple plays marked by busted coverages, notably a significant communication breakdown between Abrams-Draine and McMillian. Defensive backs thrive on confidence and rhythm, and frequent substitutions have disrupted this vital communication flow. A glaring example occurred during the Raiders’ fourth-quarter touchdown, where another lapse in communication was evident between Moss and the safeties.
Looking Ahead
As the Broncos prepare to face their remaining opponents, the need for a cohesive defensive strategy becomes increasingly urgent. With the stakes higher than ever, the team must address these communication issues and ensure that their win streak does not mask underlying problems that could hinder their playoff aspirations. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, and the Broncos will need to tighten their defense if they hope to maintain their momentum.
