Mile High Report
Good morning, Broncos Country. The Denver Broncos were able to deliver a decisive victory against the Cincinatti Bengals on Monday Night Football. It was a dominant effort with the offense and defense performing better than they have all season long. By ending September on a high note, the Broncos are now 2-2 as October begins—a month where Head Coach Sean Payton’s teams have historically performed well.
Next up for the Broncos? A road trip to take on the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday. Make no mistake, this will be the team’s toughest game thus far. The Eagles are a formidable foe and one of two remaining unbeaten teams in the National Football League. It won’t be easy to come away with a victory in Philadelphia, but if the Broncos perform at a high level, it’s certainly within the realm of possibility.
In order to topple the reigning champs, Denver will need to have their offense put together another solid performance in enemy territory. That’s easier said than done, as they will be going up against a familiar face and one of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL. That would be Vic Fangio, who spent several years as Head Coach of the Broncos, prior to being dismissed and replaced with Nathaniel Hackett.
“Vic’s one of those guys who’s always stayed ahead of the curve. You know you’re getting someone who is going to have a real good gameplan that’s going to understand your strengths and weaknesses. You’re going to have to be on point with the details, and that’s one of his strengths, all the little things,” stated Head Coach Sean Payton when asked about this weekend’s game
The Eagles’ defense has started off slower than last season. They’ve been a little banged up and missing some good players. As a unit, Fangio’s squad ranks middle of the pack in most areas but are worse than average when it comes to stopping the run. That’s one way I’d attack Fangio’s defense if I were Payton. Establishing a strong rushing attack is my top priority for the game.
Against the Bengals, the Broncos were able to amass nearly 200 yards the ground and J.K. Dobbins had a breakout performance. In turn, we saw how that helped open up things for quarterback Bo Nix and the passing game. Playing on the road is always tough, but pounding the ball on the ground will help the Broncos control the pace of the game. Not only that, but it will help keep Philadelphia’s offense, which has explosive playmakers at various positions, off the field.
Will the Broncos be able to upset the Eagles on Sunday? I can’t wait to find out. If they do, there is no doubt it will certainly give them some swagger and confidence over the next several weeks. As always, thank you for reading. Here is today’s slate of articles for your enjoyment.
