Broncos Defense Might Bend, But Has Yet To Break

Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) during the second half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos defense had a major facelift over the offseason signing players like Aqib Talib, T.J. Ward, and Demarcus Ware. After the first two games, they have shown that there is still work to be done but that they can get the job done when needed.

Just like in last week’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, the Broncos had to hold on by the skin of their teeth in order to come away with a win. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, it literally came within inches of the game going into overtime. Bradley Roby played the hero last weekend and the role this week belongs to Terrance Knighton, who did his best J.J. Watt impression and batted a ball down at the line of scrimmage to prevent a touchdown pass from Alex Smith. Even if Smith got the ball past the line of scrimmage, there might not have been a whole lot of success with the pass defense making it difficult to find a receiver to throw the football to.

The Broncos defense does have a little bit more work to do. As a fan, I was a bit annoyed that the defense could not get the Chiefs off the field, especially on that ten minute drive to begin the third quarter. The defense had so many chances, especially on long third downs to get the offense off of the field. However, missed assignments and penalties prevented that from happening. It was a good thing that the long drive did not result in any points because it gave the Chiefs less time to mount a possible comeback. The best thing that the defense can take away from this is that the mistakes that they made can be easily fixed.

Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is sacked by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Brandon Marshall (54) in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

This defense reminds me of the offense when Peyton Manning first came to the Broncos. The offense was trying to get adjusted with the change from Tim Tebow to Manning, but they were able to gel together and put together a solid offense that is dangerous every time they take the field. I believe that the defense will gel together and get better as the season goes on.

Even though that they bend, they certainly have not broken yet. There was actually two times in the last drive that could have sealed the game away. Aqib Talib would have had a game ending pick six if not for an offsides penalty. Then Demarcus Ware appeared to have strip sacked Alex Smith and ended any hope of a comeback, but a questionable overturn kept the drive alive.

I believe that the Broncos defense will be okay. They have all the potential of being a solid unit and have a chance to prove themselves next week against the Seattle Seahawks. I think their defense is good enough to stall their offense. So, do not fear Broncos’ fans, this defense is just getting used to each other and will become a force as the season goes on.