Denver Broncos: Mile High Mailbag: Just How Good Is This Team?
By Chad Jensen
Thanks for the question, Jack. As it stands now, Chris Clark is the first-team right tackle. Many thought that rookie 3rd round pick, Michael Schofield, would contend for that spot, but seeing as how he didn’t receive one single snap in the Broncos’ first preseason game vs the Seahawks, I don’t think he’s really in the conversation for RT.
Jan 12, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos offensive tackle Chris Clark (75) against the San Diego Chargers during the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Winston Justice is, however. Running with the 2nd team, Justice had a really good game last Thursday. Clark’s performance was average.
This battle between Clark and Justice will continue throughout the preseason, but at the end of the day, I think Clark will prevail.
He played admirably last season, filling in at LT for the injured Ryan Clady. I think he can translate that performance to the right side. He just needs to get tougher in run blocking and keep guys from beating him around the edge.
As for Emmanuel Sanders, he’s going to have a huge year. I don’t know that he’ll be as effective as Eric Decker in the redzone, but he’ll get his share of TDs.
Decker had the size to be a real weapon in the red area. And he had the savvy and technique to put it to good use. Sanders, on the other hand, is 5’11, 190lbs. Decker has 4 inches and 25lbs on Sanders.
Aug 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) runs downfield in the first quarter of a preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
However, let us not sell Sanders short. He possesses a speed and quickness that Decker can only dream of. Sanders will allow the Broncos to stretch the field, something that they were unable to do in the Super Bowl, and keep defenses honest. Expect him to have a big year.
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