Last year, the Denver Broncos surrendered 70 points to the Miami Dolphins. That result placed the Broncos on the wrong side of history for the fourth occurrence of a 70-point explosion by an NFL team. However, much has changed since then, as the Broncos now boast one of the league’s top defensive units.
As the NFL on CBS account on X/Twitter pointed out, the Broncos have allowed only 73 points in their first five games this season. The Broncos had a rough start to their campaign, surrendering 39 points to the Seattle Seahawks and Pittsburgh Steelers. However, they’ve turned the corner in their last three assignments, limiting opponents to 34 points.
Points Allowed by Broncos
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) October 9, 2024
2023 Week 3 70
2024 Week 1-5 73 pic.twitter.com/mSwUsnn2Ff
Denver’s defense limited the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to seven points, the New York Jets to nine, and the Las Vegas Raiders to 18. Those numbers helped the Broncos establish a three-game winning streak, putting them in second place in the AFC West standings.
In addition to shutting down their opponents, the Broncos are third in fewest yards allowed (271.2) and fifth in passing yards allowed (159.8) per game. While they are tenth in rushing yards allowed (111.4), they are tied for second in points allowed at 14.6 per match.
Pat Surtain II is a massive factor in their success, as he has two interceptions and four passes defended in five games. Meanwhile, fellow cornerback Riley Moss leads the team with 33 tackles. Jonathon Cooper, Nik Bonitto, and Zach Allen power their pass rush, combining for ten sacks and 12 tackles for losses.
With their defense in a nice groove, the Broncos are in an excellent position to prolong their winning streak by defeating their division rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, in Week 6.
-Lance Fernandez