Broncos’ Strategy for Raiders Tight End Brock Bowers
Without Pat Surtain II available against the Raiders, the Broncos employed a rotating mix of defenders to manage tight end Brock Bowers. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph planned to share Surtain’s coverage duties among multiple players.
Last Sunday in Houston, the Broncos’ cornerbacks effectively won their man-to-man matchups even without Surtain, the reigning defensive player of the year, while safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones managed coverage over the top.
Thursday Night’s Defensive Rotation Against Bowers
On Thursday night against the Raiders’ key offensive threat, Denver again used a rotation to contain Bowers. With Surtain sidelined due to a pectoral strain for a second straight game, the main defender was not any one cornerback, but a combination of players across the defense.
Joseph dedicated multiple defenders to slowing Bowers after the tight end had a breakout performance with 12 catches and three touchdowns against the Jaguars last Sunday.
"The toughest job with him is getting him tackled," Joseph said. "You can kind of cover him with a safety or a defensive back body, but can you get him on the ground after he catches the ball?"
Key Matchups on Bowers
- Barron covered Bowers on a crucial third down during the Raiders’ opening drive.
- McMillian shadowed him multiple times in the slot in the first quarter.
- Moss also took shifts shadowing Bowers on the Raiders' second drive.
The Broncos’ approach involved spreading defensive tasks among several players rather than relying on a single cornerback to contain Bowers.
Game Score Context
The game was tied at 7-7 midway through the second half, with both teams punting on their opening drives after halftime.
Author's summary: The Broncos adapted to Surtain’s absence by rotating multiple defenders to contain Brock Bowers, focusing not just on coverage but on making the crucial tackle after catches.
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