Broncos’ Defense Strategy Against Raiders Tight End Brock Bowers
Without Pat Surtain II in the lineup, the Broncos employed a rotating defensive approach to limit the impact of Raiders tight end Brock Bowers. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph planned to share Surtain’s coverage responsibilities among multiple players.
Last Sunday in Houston, Denver’s cornerbacks effectively won their man-to-man battles even without the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, while safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones provided support over the top.
Thursday Night Game vs. Raiders
In the game against the Raiders, the Broncos intensified their efforts to contain Bowers, who had recently delivered 12 catches and three touchdowns against the Jaguars. Instead of relying solely on cornerback Riley Moss, Joseph rotated several defenders to cover Bowers.
"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?"
Examples of this rotation included Barron covering Bowers on third down during the Raiders' opening drive, McMillian shadowing him in the slot in the first quarter, and Moss tracking him on the Raiders’ second drive.
Game Progress
Both teams punted on their opening drives of the second half, maintaining a tied score of 7-7.
Summary
The Broncos adapted their defense through a collective effort to contain Brock Bowers, using multiple players and varied coverage tactics to counter his dynamic playmaking ability in Surtain’s absence.
Author’s summary: The Broncos effectively countered Raiders tight end Brock Bowers by rotating defensive players, compensating for key absences with strategic team coverage.