Defensive Line Grade: B+
As a unit, the Denver Broncos played better after its insult of a performance on Sunday Night Football. The loss of Derek Wolfe hurt the defensive line depth, but Jared Crick said otherwise Sunday. Crick’s play is underwhelming this season; however, Sunday proved Elway’s glimpse of brilliance in free agency. The defensive line played aggravated and annoyed about their past week’s performance in Oakland. This may be a sign of things to come heading into the bye.
The loss of Vance Walker still looms larger for the team, but there are still players on the line to make up for it. Derek Wolfe is expected back after the bye week confirming he is a beast and the face of the defensive line. Crick’s confidence and best performance of the season may give the team better depth than ever.
Also, Billy Winn is the intriguing player next to Sylvester Williams and Darius Kilgo that provide insurance to a nose tackle spot. Winn played exceptionally well in the preseason and it continued this season. The Broncos will need all hands on deck for the Kansas City Chiefs and getting healthy is a start. A forced turnover from Crick and better-run defense gives a grade of B+.