Enter the Film Room: Denver Broncos vs Houston Texans

Aug 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware (94) looks to rush the line of scrimmage early 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

Texans OL vs Denver’s DL

Run-

The Texans offensive line as a unit is a strong bunch. Their running system helps them out a lot. If they get their hands on the defensive linemen, it’s not often the defensive linemen makes a play. They know their assignments and get off the snap quickly, for the rapid engage. That gives them an edge when maneuvering to open a hole.

However, the Broncos defensive line is really quick off the snap as well. They also have the strength in the right spots. With the Falcons, they have strength in the middle of their DL, which gave the Texans OL some fits in the run game. The Texans OL does not seem to be able to handle a strength based push up the middle, Terrance Knighton, Sylvester Williams and the rest of the interior DL, all have the strength to get a consistent push. If the Broncos edge guys can set the edge, they should be able to slow the Texans run game to a near stop.

Pass-

The pass blocking is where the Texans OL seems to struggle. They have a couple obvious weak points that Denver can easily exploit. Outside of their starting LT, the other offensive tackles have a tendency to get in their set slowly, which is countered by speed. They are easy to knock off-balance, or just dip under. When they do get in their set, they tend to play high, which is a no, no for offensive linemen. When they play too high, it is easy to knock them off-balance and easily let the rusher win the battle.

On the interior, they struggle against strength, like they do in the run game. The starting RG, tends to be lost and miss his assignments. If he does engage, a simple bull rush will push him back. He does not seem to set his anchor. Another way to beat them is to use stunt rushes. The Cardinals did it often and with great success.