Broncos’ Defensive Strategy Against Raiders’ TE Brock Bowers
Without Pat Surtain II available against the Raiders, the Broncos employed a rotating defensive approach to contain tight end Brock Bowers. Vance Joseph, the defensive coordinator, planned to distribute Surtain’s responsibilities across multiple players.
During the previous Sunday’s game in Houston, Denver successfully managed man-to-man coverage without Surtain, relying on their cornerbacks and safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones to neutralize threats over the top.
Thursday Night Challenge Against the Raiders
On Thursday night, the Broncos faced the Raiders’ top offensive threat, Brock Bowers, who previously recorded 12 catches and three touchdowns in a game against the Jaguars. Since Surtain missed his second consecutive game due to a pectoral strain, Denver’s answer was not just one cornerback but a collective rotation of defenders.
- Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph implemented a rotating coverage system.
- Linebacker Barron covered Bowers on third down during the Raiders’ opening drive.
- Safety McMillian shadowed Bowers multiple times in the slot.
- Cornerback Riley Moss also took turns covering Bowers on different alignments.
"The toughest job with him is getting him tackled. 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?" – Vance Joseph
Game Status
Broncos 7, Raiders 7: Both teams punted on their first drives of the second half during Thursday Night Football.
Summary
The Broncos adapted to the absence of their star cornerback by rotating multiple defenders to contain Brock Bowers, reflecting a flexible and collective defensive strategy.