Broncos Need To Slow Jamaal Charles

Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) runs with the ball during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. (Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports)

If you ask defensive captain Wesley Woodyard who he looks forward to playing twice per year, one name he’ll mention is Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles.

Charles is putting up 4.3 yards per carry for a total of 725 yards and six touchdowns through nine games. He’s also a big time threat as a receiver as well. In fact, he leads the team in catches as well with 47. He’s also tacked on two receiving touchdowns.

“To me he’s one of the top three backs in the league with his speed and his vision for finding holes to rush up through there,” Woodyard said. “He’s going to be a challenge but we definitely welcome it.”

Champ Bailey said that Charles is more dangerous this year because Andy Reid is using him a lot, and he’s getting Charles more space to run.

The Broncos have the fourth best rush defense in the league, and they’ll certainly be put to work against the Chiefs who presumable want to milk the clock and keep the ball out of Peyton Manning’s hands, much like the Chargers tried in the first quarter last week.

The Chiefs aren’t looking for this to be a shootout. That not their style. They haven’t given up more than 17 points all season.

The Broncos’ front seven have to come through big on Sunday because if Charles gets going, then that buys Alex Smith more time to find his receivers.

A full team effort is needed to pick up the ‘W’ and take over first place in the AFC West.

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