Sep 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive back Darian Stewart (26) celebrates with teammates after catching an interception in the end zone during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 19-13. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
One week of the NFL season is in the books. 16 more glorious weeks remain until the real quest for the Lombardi Trophy begins. ESPN released their Week 2 power rankings after action concluded on Monday night. The Broncos now sit at number four in the new rankings, climbing one spot from number five.
Latest NFL @SUBWAY Power Rankings:
— ESPN (@espn) September 15, 2015
1. Pats
2. Packers
3. Seahawks
4. Broncos
5. Cowboys
6-32: http://t.co/qYLaqf7YNQ pic.twitter.com/8JwxdZYepj
The Denver Broncos could thank their defense for the climb up the ladder. As of right now, the team is the top defense in the NFL. And we all know the old saying when it comes to defense. That unit it scary right now, especially with T.J. Ward coming back this week.
However, ESPN has some concerns surrounding one Peyton Manning. In his last four games, The Sheriff has recorded a 59.3 completion percentage, three touchdowns, five interceptions, and a 32.2 total QBR rating.
Now understand that Manning was hurt the final few games of the Broncos 2014 season and that he is still adjusting to the new offense this season. And the offensive line still has some work. I, for one, am not concerned. I known Manning will find his way back.
Another ranking that was released was Peter King’s Fine Fifteen. And his ranking on the fifteen best teams might pump up Broncos fans on the defense.
The first Fine Fifteen of the year has some on a Rocky Mountain high:http://t.co/wGVeiPIAai
— Peter King (@peter_king) September 15, 2015
Due to their performance, Peter King ranks the Broncos number one in his Fine Fifteen Power Rankings. He points out that the defense was able to completely shut down Joe Flacco (117 passing yards, zero touchdowns, two interceptions) and that perhaps the Broncos do not need to rely on Peyton Manning in order to get far into January.
The fact that Peter King has the Broncos on the top spot on the list proves that he knows the old saying that defense wins championships. He is not worried at all about the offense. And that is how I believe all Broncos fans should be thinking, especially since it is only one week into the season.
Having the Broncos in the top five showcases that something is going well in Denver. But let us see how they can keep up the performance in Week 2 against the AFC West rival Chiefs.