Top Five Ranked: Who Leads Today?
In an upcoming matchup, the Denver Broncos (6-2) will face the Houston Texans (3-4) on Sunday. This game features two of the NFL’s strongest defenses, promising an exciting battle.
Defensive Rankings and Statistics
The Texans currently hold the top spot in scoring defense, allowing just 14.7 points per game. They also lead in total yardage allowed, giving up only 266.9 yards per game. In comparison, the Broncos rank first in yards allowed per play at 4.6 and sit well ahead of the competition with 36 sacks, ten more than any other team.
Denver Broncos’ Defensive Strategy
Denver is on track for a record-breaking season with a projected total of 76.5 sacks, which would surpass the 1984 Bears’ record of 72. The Broncos’ defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, has developed a strategy that maximizes the strengths of his team.
- Key Players: The Broncos feature two first-round picks: defensive backs Patrick Surtain II and Jahdae Barron.
- Notable Free-Agent Acquisitions:
- Zach Allen: Three-year deal worth $45.75 million (2023)
- Brandon Jones: Three-year contract of $20 million (2024)
- Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw: Average salaries of $13 million and $10.5 million, respectively.
Effective Pass Rush
The Broncos have an impressive lineup of pass rushers, including Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, John Franklin-Myers, and Zach Allen. This group has already combined for 22 sacks this season, following a total of 39.5 sacks in 2024.
Blitzing Strategy
Joseph’s defense is known for its aggressive blitzing tactics. Last season, Denver ranked fourth in the league for blitz percentage at 35.7%. This year, they maintain a similar rate with 34.9%. The defensive scheme also features simulated pressures that pair four pass rushers with maximum coverage.
Denver utilizes double-A-gap pressures and Cover 0 disguises to force opposing quarterbacks into difficult decisions. Joseph has emphasized a calculated approach to pressure, aiming to create favorable matchups without compromising the defense’s integrity.
“I want us to be smart bullies,” Joseph remarked recently. “Every pressure we have is calculated and thought through on matchups.” This strategic mindset aims to ensure that the Broncos remain a top defensive unit in the league.
