Broncos vs. Colts: Individual Matchups to Watch For

Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) and defensive end DeMarcus Ware (94) react to a sack in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Von Miller/DeMarcus Ware vs. Andrew Luck

The offensive line for the Colts has been serviceable this year. It hasn’t been awful, but it hasn’t exactly been good, either.

While Indy’s offensive line might have only allowed 29 sacks this year, which is 8th best in the NFL, they still gave up the fourth most quarterback hits in the league (101). Now, that number isn’t all on the offensive line but it’s still too high to say that most of those 101 hits are all Andrew Luck’s fault.

Luck actually makes his line look better than they actually are. His quick release, coupled with Luck’s ability to move and escape the pocket, allow him more time to throw.

This is where Denver’s dangerous duo of pass-rushers come in. Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware combined for 24 sacks in the regular season and must carry over that success into the playoffs, especially with Luck in town.

Being the edge rushers for the Broncos’ defense, Miller and Ware will be tasked with keeping Luck from utilizing his escapability. He will pick Denver’s defense apart on broken plays if Miller and Ware cannot get to him.

Yes, the two pass-rushers should be getting to Luck enough to register quarterback hits in the box score. Actually bringing him down, though, is a different story and we should expect to see more sacks on Sunday if the Broncos want to contain Peyton Manning’s predecessor.