Broncos’ Solution for Raiders TE Brock Bowers
Without Pat Surtain II in the lineup against the Raiders, the Broncos relied on a diverse defensive plan to contain tight end Brock Bowers. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph arranged a rotation of players to share Surtain’s usual workload, demonstrating adaptability in coverage.
Denver had already succeeded the previous Sunday in Houston, with its cornerbacks holding their man-to-man matchups effectively and safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones limiting deep threats, despite missing the reigning defensive player of the year.
Defensive Strategy in the Raiders Game
On Thursday night, Denver faced its biggest challenge yet: controlling the Raiders’ most dangerous offensive target. With Surtain sidelined for a second consecutive week due to a pectoral strain, Joseph’s response was an all-hands approach rather than relying on a single cornerback like Riley Moss.
“The toughest job with him is getting him tackled,” Joseph said of Bowers. “You can kind of cover him with a safety or a defensive back body, but can you get him on the ground after he catches the ball?”
The Broncos rotated multiple defenders on Bowers throughout the game. Barron matched up with him on a key third down early in the Raiders' first drive. In the first quarter, McMillian covered him several times in the slot, and Moss shadowed him on another formation during the Raiders’ second offensive series.
Key Matchup Highlights
- Denver and Las Vegas traded punts on their first drives of the second half during Thursday Night Football.
- Bowers entered the matchup after a dominant performance against the Jaguars, recording 12 receptions and three touchdowns.
- Joseph’s rotation succeeded in keeping Bowers contained for much of the game through physical coverage and immediate tackling.
Author’s summary: Denver’s defensive rotation under Vance Joseph successfully limited Brock Bowers’ damage, showcasing adaptability despite Pat Surtain II’s continued absence.