Broncos vs. Vikings: Five stars for the Broncos in win
The Denver Broncos are certainly making life interesting for their fans this season with some heart-pounding late-game heroics.
Denver’s defense is putting up unreal numbers, and despite a bit of a ‘bend-don’t-break’ approach to their game on Sunday against the Vikings, it seems like this team is really starting to find its stride on that side of the ball and they are making some huge plays as a unit.
There is plenty to get to in regards to the game, but I want to take a look at five players that stood out as Denver won its fourth game of the season to improve their unblemished record to 4-0.
Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) runs the ball against -Denver Broncos outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware (94) and strong safety T.J. Ward (43) during the first half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
1. T.J. Ward, Safety
It can’t be overstated how great T.J. Ward was in this game for the Broncos. He was making plays in coverage, making plays in the box, and most importantly — he started and ended this game by taking down Teddy Bridgewater for a pair of sacks.
One of the best blitzing defensive backs in football, Ward found his way around the edge into the Vikings’ backfield with a free shot on Bridgewater on the final drive of the game, popping the ball loose and into the arms of Von Miller. It seems like Ward is continually getting better and better the longer he’s been with the Broncos.
It was, in my opinion, a bit of an average start for Ward in his Broncos career, though he ended up making the Pro Bowl anyway, and now he’s playing like the All-Pro Denver signed when they got him away from Cleveland.
Ward’s performance against the Vikings was incredible, finishing with six tackles, two sacks, two TFL, and a pass breakup on the box score. He’s certainly proving to be one of the best safeties in the league and is a huge weapon for Wade Phillips in this defense.
Next: Brandon McManus