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Week 9 Preview: Denver Broncos vs. Atlanta Falcons

By Shelby Manning

Aug 1, 2019; Canton, OH, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) stands on the field against the Atlanta Falcons in the first half at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 1, 2019; Canton, OH, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) stands on the field against the Atlanta Falcons in the first half at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Broncos, Sylvester Williams
Denver Broncos, Sylvester Williams Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Key Matchups

Preview the key matchups here.

X-Factors

Todd Gurley

While the Broncos’ pass rush has revived itself, even after losing Von Miller, Denver’s front seven is majorly struggling against stopping the run this season. The Denver Broncos are currently averaging 100+ rush yards allowed in a game, and with a back like Todd Gurley stepping up to the plate, the Broncos’ defense needs to step it up.

Slowing down Matt Ryan should be no problem for Denver’s pass rush, so this matchup looms very large for the Broncos’ defensive line. Todd Gurley is currently ranked fourth in rush yards in the NFL, and has eight touchdowns on the season.

Last time the Broncos faced Todd Gurley, he set his career high in rush yards in a single game-208. The Broncos have to ensure this, or nothing like it, is repeated on Sunday, or it is hard to imagine that they will come away with the victory.

Sylvester Williams 

This is where Sylvester Williams enters the conversation. Much of Broncos Country was shocked when the Broncos were able to stash the former Bronco and Super Bowl 50 Champion on the practice squad, thanks to the new rule that allows veterans on the practice squad. Although he has been released, resigned and activated a few times since then, it has been a worthwhile transaction so far.

With Shelby Harris missing on Sunday, and Mike Purcell on IR, Sylvester Williams is getting a huge opportunity for himself. He has been given a second chance in Denver, and this game would be the perfect opportunity to prove that he deserves a full-time roster spot in Denver. If Sly Williams can help contain the run and put out a solid performance on Sunday, he can work his way to being a fan favorite among Broncos Country once again.

Sylvester Williams will once again be a household name in the Mile High City.

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