Lions Pose Unique Challenges For Broncos

The Broncos have their second preseason game coming up against the Detroit Lions this Saturday. The team is already well educated on the Lions and they used some segments in today’s practice to prepare for them.

Before practice, Josh McDaniels said, “We started our preparation for the Lions this morning, and we’ll have a few periods in practice dedicated to Detroit. It’s quite a different scheme than we’re use to seeing from one another. They play a 4-3 style that try to get into the backfield and penetrate. Offensively, they’ve got a lot of talented young players. They’re probably as fast in a coverage unit on special teams that we’re going to see. We need to improve on our coverage units and our return game.”

Coach McDaniels held true to his word as a lot of time was dedicated to special teams coverage and returns this afternoon.

When asked about defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (2nd overall 2010 draft pick from Nebraska), McDaniels said, “He was a great college football player. I’m sure he’ll have a very bright career here in the NFL, and it will be a good challenge for J.D. [Walton]. Their whole entire defensive line is pretty darn good. They’ve all made plays already in their preseason. I think they haven’t been shy about talking about the fact that they want their strength in defense to be at the defensive line.

The Broncos face a slew of 4-3 defenses to open the 2010 season, so playing the Lions in preseason is very helpful.

“I think there’s always going to be a place for the 4-3. Our first four games are against 4-3 teams. This game will be great for us to be able to get use to blocking those types of players and schemes. I think the Lions are an example of why the 4-3 will probably stay in vogue because they’ve got smaller linebackers, but they can all run.”

Saturday’s test against the Lions will be unique in that they’ve got a lot of young talent just waiting to blossom.

“We’re excited about the challenges they pose,” McDaniels said.

Make sure to follow Predominantly Orange on Facebook!