Denver Broncos: 4 Observations from Loss to Raiders
Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders tackle
Khalif Barnes(69) pass protects on Denver Broncos outside linebacker
Von Miller(58) in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
A TALE OF TWO HALFS
Sunday’s game at home against Oakland showed two different sides of the Denver Broncos defense. The Broncos defense is one of the best in the league, and showed in the first half on Sunday. In the first and second quarters, the Denver defense limited the Raiders’ offense to -12 yards. It was a clinic in defensive efficacy and showed that even when the offense is struggling, the defense can win games.
The second half was a completely different story. The Raiders had 138 yards in the second half (not much mind you), but still were able to score when the needed two. Two touchdown passes from Derek Carr in the beginning of the third quarter and the beginning of the fourth quarter were all the Raiders needed to mount a comeback. Limiting opposing offenses is great, but you also have to prevent scores.
Next: Denver Broncos Squander Lead, Fall to Raiders 15-12
The Denver Broncos defense must prepare accordingly if they hope to prevent a similar showing next week against one of the best teams in the AFC in the Cincinnati Bengals.