Defensive Line Grade: A+
Guess what? The Broncos defensive line is really good, in case you have lived under a rock these past few years. Jameis Winston took shots and pressure all game from the hungry Derek Wolfe, Shane Ray, Jared Crick and Sylvester Williams (oh and Von Miller). Wolfe sacked Winston two and half times, while Shaquille Barrett, Miller and Williams also recorded sacks or half sacks of their own.
Also, the Broncos defensive line unit forced a fumble on a critical third and one forced by Miller and TJ Ward. Billy Winn recovered the fumble after the ball fell into his lap; an easy turnover for a defense built off turnovers. Winn is a nice surprise for a defensive line looking to replace Malik Jackson and both he and Crick’s motor are non-stop. Winston found out how underrated Crick is to the Broncos defense in week four.
It was a great sight to see a nose tackle get a sack for a change on defense as Williams pushed the pile like Warren Sapp of old to get the sack of Winston. Williams, who is in a contract year will be relied heavily again this season and is looking to get an extension and paid in the offseason.
The Broncos defensive line was one of two big stand out performances on the day and deserve an A+ grade.