Linebackers Grade: B+
Overall on the season, the Denver Broncos linebackers have done a great job in coverage and in the run game. Today, the Broncos’ linebackers struggled at times against Cameron Brate, the Tamp Bay Buccaneers passing tight end threat. It falls as a defensive statistic; the Broncos are 28th in third-down defense in the league. Brate was a nightmare to cover for Marshall and Davis, but both limited the big play; however, not the ones to extend a drive.
Do not be worried right now about the linebacker play, but if it continues, it will be a cause for concern. The Broncos linebackers did a great job of filling the gaps to stop the big running plays. Aside from the plays to the tight ends of the Buccaneers, the Broncos’ linebackers Brandon Marshall and Todd Davis both played well to earn a B+ grade. It could have been an A grade if the coverage was a bit better.
Marshall and Davis now will have the task of stopping the two-headed rushing attack of Devontae Freeman and Telvin Coleman in the Atlanta Falcons. Both linebackers will be up for the task though as the whole Broncos defense has no fear. Marshall and Davis will also have the responsibility of covering a familiar face in Jacob Tamme at tight end.