Zach Allen Emerges as Key Challenge for Packers in Showdown Against Broncos
The Denver Broncos boast a formidable defense, brimming with talent and playmakers. Among them is Zach Allen, an interior pass rusher who may not be a household name but is poised to disrupt the Green Bay Packers’ game plan on Sunday. With All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain and standout pass rusher Nik Bonitto also in the mix, Allen stands out as a significant threat.
Understanding Zach Allen’s Impact
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur highlighted Allen’s quickness and ability to win matchups inside, noting, “Zach is a guy that can win quickly inside. I think he’s got over 50-some-odd pressures on the season, so to get that inside-outside combination is a big-time challenge because somebody’s getting a one-on-one somewhere.”
Selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Allen has quickly established himself as one of the league’s top defensive tackles. Despite not being a Pro Bowler, his contributions often go unnoticed, overshadowed by the other stars on the Broncos’ defensive line.
A Closer Look at Allen’s Skills
Adam Stenavich, the Packers’ offensive coordinator, praised Allen’s versatility: “His ability to get off the ball. He’s got great moves in the pass rush game. But he is physical and productive, getting in the backfield in the run game, too. He’s a slippery player who plays fast.”
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 285 pounds, Allen is slightly lighter than most defensive tackles but compensates with his agility and technique. His six sacks rank him fifth among his peers, but it’s his overall production that truly sets him apart.
Since joining the Broncos in free agency this season, Allen has been nothing short of spectacular, leading all defensive tackles with 98 quarterback hits, a testament to his relentless pursuit of the quarterback. He was a second-team All-Pro in 2024, having led the league in quarterback hits the previous year, and he continues to excel this season with 34 hits already.
Recent Performance and Challenges
Although Allen faced a quieter game against the Raiders, where he recorded no tackles or sacks, he still managed to pressure the quarterback three times, showcasing his ability to impact the game from various angles. Broncos head coach Sean Payton emphasized Allen’s stamina and quickness, saying, “He bends well. I would say he’s one of those guys, when you talk about stamina and play after play, it’s unique.”
The Packers’ offensive line will have its hands full. Center Sean Rhyan, who has not allowed a sack since taking over, has given up eight pressures, while right guard Anthony Belton has faced similar challenges. The inconsistency of Green Bay’s interior offensive line could be exploited by a player like Allen, especially with edge rushers Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper providing additional pressure from the outside.
The Importance of Game Planning
As the Packers prepare for this crucial matchup, they must prioritize keeping quarterback Jordan Love protected. The offensive line can’t afford to divert their attention solely to Bonitto and Cooper while neglecting Allen. If they do, they risk allowing Allen to wreak havoc on their offensive schemes.
As Rhyan succinctly put it, “They’re a good team. Got to use our technique, what we’re taught, and then go execute.” The success of the Packers may hinge on their ability to neutralize Allen, ensuring he doesn’t become the game-wrecking force he is capable of being.
