Mile High Maniac
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Broncos: Everything Running Game and Offensive line

By Gordon Trickel

Oct 2, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson (22) scores a touchdown in the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson (22) scores a touchdown in the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short (99) tackles Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short (99) tackles Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Debunking a Broncos Run Game Myth-Weight

There has been a big myth floating around that claims the reason for the Broncos lack of success on the ground the last two games has been the weight of the defensive lines. It claims that the first two games the Broncos faced smaller defensive lines than in the last two. Well, that is far from accurate.

The average weight of the defensive linemen in their first game was 293.5 pounds. Not only that, it was a stud defensive line that many claimed would eat Denver alive. Then week two they faced a line that wasn’t as talented, but weighed an average of 307.2 pounds. Big weight difference between the two lines, but the talent difference is opposite.

The last two games? The Bengals averaged 291.7 pounds, while the Buccaneers a measly 277.7 pounds. So the claim of facing the heavier defensive lines is simply wrong. Now could they have been stronger or more talented? There can be arguments made, but mostly no.

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Debunking a Broncos Run Game Myth-Talent

Of the four defensive lines they faced, the Panthers were easily the most talented group and who the Broncos had the most success against. Not only that, they have star linebackers that are outstanding against the run and help out the defensive line.

The Indianapolis Colts, well their best run defender was hurt and they are notorious for being bad against the run. Then the Bengals, who the Broncos had their worst run game against, are the second most talented group of the bunch. Not just on their defensive line, but with their linebackers as well.

As for the Buccaneers, they have talent at linebacker and on the defensive line, but they have also been beat up. Their best defensive linemen got hurt against Denver, and left the game. Yet, they still held up against the Broncos running game.

So no, their last two games have not been against the heavier, or more talented defensive lines than in their first two games. Not to mention they have talented defensive lines coming up that are not far behind the Panthers and the Bengals.

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