3 Keys for the Third Ring
By Aric Manthey
Match-up #2: Broncos Offensive Line vs. Panthers Defensive Line
On the flip side, we have a suspect Broncos Offensive Line facing off against a heavy hitting Panthers Defensive Line.
Lost in the defensive shuffle of the Panthers success has been the dominance of their Defensive Line. Anchored by Pro Bowler Kawann Short, this Panthers Defensive Line boasts a punishing wall of defenders that have plenty of experience to their game. On the outside, decorated veterans Jared Allen and Charles Johnson bookend the collapsing presence that Short and Star Loulelei provide on the inside.
On the other side of the line, we find the suspect and often times, inconsistent Broncos Offensive Line. Few teams have had more struggles with their line play this season than the Broncos. It’s not very often you see an offensive line have their third starting Left Tackle of the season and have that guy be arguably your best Offensive Lineman heading into the big game.
The Broncos struggles with this unit have been well documented but the good news for them is, they only have to play well for one game. If this undersized, underwhelming unit can find a way to hold of the vicious Panthers Defensive Line, then I like the Broncos chances on Offense. If they can’t slow the Panthers line down, then we may be in for a long day against that attacking Panthers Defense.