Broncos’ Approach to Raiders TE Brock Bowers
Without Pat Surtain II available against the Raiders, the Broncos employed a rotating defensive scheme to limit tight end Brock Bowers. Vance Joseph's strategy aimed to compensate for Surtain’s absence by distributing coverage responsibilities among multiple players.
Effective Coverage Despite Surtain’s Absence
Last Sunday in Houston, the Broncos managed to win their man-to-man matchups despite not having their reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Cornerbacks held their ground, while safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones provided strong support over the top.
Thursday Night Strategy Against Bowers
The Broncos intensified their defensive efforts Thursday night to contain Bowers, the Raiders’ top offensive threat. With Surtain sidelined again due to a pectoral strain, the team relied on a rotation of defenders rather than just cornerback Riley Moss.
Rotation to Contain Brock Bowers
Defensive coordinator Joseph implemented a rotating coverage approach after Bowers’ recent breakout game, where he recorded 12 catches and three touchdowns against the Jaguars. Joseph explained the difficulty in stopping Bowers:
“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?”
- On the Raiders’ first drive, Barron covered Bowers on third down.
- McMillian took turns covering Bowers in the slot during the first quarter.
- Moss shadowed Bowers on another formation during the second drive.
Game Situation Summary
The game saw both teams score 7 points and punt on their first drives after halftime on Thursday Night Football, with Denver’s defense adjusting dynamically to contain the Raiders’ key weapon.