Denver Broncos: Andy Janovich Becoming “The Punisher”
The fullback position is a dying breed in the NFL, but you would not know it with how Denver Broncos fan favorite, Andy Janovich plays on the field.
In an interview with Troy Renck of Denver7, Denver Broncos fullback Andy Janovich has now earned a nickname by his play as a blocker in the running game. Renck named him “Manovich” due to the amount of helmets he has broken clearing a path for CJ Anderson and Devontae Booker. Janovich received the nickname by shattering four facemasks and two helmets.
Yes, you read that correctly! The Broncos’ fullback is punishing linebackers and safeties that run his way. Janovich’s strength cannot be understated. During the NFL Combine, an unwatched program to many, he out benched 36 of the 45 offensive linemen.
As a fullback, Janovich out-benched 36 of the 45 offensive linemen this year at the NFL Combine. #huskers
— Sean Callahan (@Sean_Callahan) April 30, 2016
Fast forward now to week 8 of the NFL season, Janovich is proving to be a vital piece in the offense for the Broncos. The running attack saw its best performance against the Carolina Panthers and the Houston Texans. Janovich made his presence felt in the first game of the season neutralizing terrific, run stuffing linebackers Thomas Davis and Luke Kuechly. It is safe to say one of the facemasks Janovich broke happened in that game.
Janovich’s versatility as a fullback presents the Broncos an easier transition in the loss of Anderson. However, it is not the best scenario for Janovich to assume the backup running back role behind Booker. Janovich did play some running back at the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers to spell an injured corps at that time. The best alternative is still to keep Booker and Kapri Bibbs in the backfield, while Janovich remains at fullback.
Despite the loss of Anderson, Janovich is putting the league on notice. The fullback is alive and well in the Mile High city; therefore, Janovich embraces himself as “The Punisher.”