|
Denver's defensive unit was on full display on Sunday when
they dominated the previously unbeaten Green Bay Packers in a
29-10 victory that took them to a perfect 7-0 record.
With swarming lineman and linebackers, and a lockdown secondary,
the Broncos harassed quarterback Aaron Rodgers and held the
decorated signal-caller to the lowest passing total of any start
in his career (77 yards).
"This is the biggest test we've had all season," Denver
defensive back Aqib Talib told reporters. "(Seventy-seven) yards
passing -- we got an A-plus on that test."
The performance against the Green Bay offense was so resounding
even Packers coach Mike McCarthy was left impressed.
"I haven't had my ass kicked like that in a long time," McCarthy
said. "They covered us well."
Despite building an impressive undefeated record, the Broncos
had still accumulated doubters this season because of Manning's
advanced age and decreased arm strength.
However, Denver's defense has been their backbone and entered
Week Eight leading the NFL in fewest yards allowed.
With eight-time Pro Bowl lineman DeMarcus Ware, tenacious
linebacker Brandon Marshall and Talib the Broncos are able to
attack quarterbacks and running backs while sustaining strong
coverage on wide receivers.
It is therefore easy to see why their secondary calls itself the
"No Fly Zone".
"That's what we do -- we work together on the front and the back
end," Broncos defensive back Chris Harris Jr said. "As long as
we continue to play like this, we have to win this Super Bowl."
Whether the Broncos can win it or not, their championship hopes
are now carried by their defensive muscle as much as Manning's
right arm.
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by John
O'Brien)
[© 2015 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.] Copyright 2015 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. |
|
