Broncos’ Fox Talks Raiders Ground Attack, Bailey, Dreessen Return to Practice

Joel Dreessen (81) carries the ball against Oakland Raiders defensive back Joselio Hanson (23) during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports)

The Denver Broncos got back to work Thursday after having Wednesday off. Back at it were Champ Bailey (foot) and Joel Dreessen (knee), who haven’t participated in practice since training camp. Both were limited, but are not ruled out for Monday night’s contest against the Raiders.

Also, back practicing fully was running back C.J. Anderson. Anderson had a monster preseason but then sprained his MCL in practice causing him to miss the team’s final two preseason games.

The Broncos began preparing for the Raiders, who have the best ground game in the league. Darren McFadden and Terrelle Pryor have 85% of the team’s 397 rushing yards on the year.

While the Broncos typically can allocate plenty of guys to rush the quarterback, the team has to take a different approach with the Raiders.

“When you have a mobile quarterback like that, there’s a little bit more emphasis in your rush lanes, keeping the guy contained and not letting him get out of the pocket,” John Fox said after Thursday’s practice.

Pryor doesn’t have the best arm in the league, but he provides a dual threat, which is challenging for any defenses. Pryor had 50 yards on nine carries last week against the Jaguars and 13 carries for 112 yards in week one against the Colts.

“They’re doing a terrific job utilizing him in the run game,” Fox said. “Their standard run game or conventional run game is very good. They lead the league in rushing so Terrelle will be a test for our defense.”

The Broncos lead the league in rush defense, allowing just 40.5 yards per game.

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