Denver Broncos: Week 8 Position Grades

Defensive Line Grade: C+

During Sunday’s game with the San Diego Chargers the Denver Broncos’ defensive unit found its 2015 identity, punching San Diego in the mouth. Despite all the punches thrown, Sylvester Williams and the rest of the line upfront struggled did a good job limiting a big run from Melvin Gordon. That was until late in the second half.

The rush defense is a continued problem for the Broncos that need to be corrected quickly with week nine coming this weekend. For the defensive line to allow its first 100-yard rusher since last year speaks to the depth Denver has as a whole unit. The depth is lacking without Malik Jackson, but the defense is still leading the team in sacks. As sack leaders in the NFL, that is more to do with Von Miller, Shane and the rest of the pass-rushing linebackers. However, the push from the inside cannot be understated.

A change in rush defense starts upfront by Williams. He needs to perform better than previous weeks in gap integrity. Williams is struggling to get consistent pressure in the backfield on the quarterback and the runner. There is a positive to glean from the Chargers game. Phillip Rivers’ quirky delivery allows linemen to time the throw blocking it at the line of scrimmage.