Keep Your Enemies Close – 5 Questions with Predominantly Orange on the Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Denver Broncos
By Daniel Lago
Aug 24, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) during the second half against the St. Louis Rams at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
The Jacksonville Jaguars head into probably the most lopsided matchup in franchise history this weekend when they face Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. The Jaguars are going to need all the help they can get, so we decided to head to our Fansided friends at Predominantly Orange to get some inside intel on the Broncos. Here’s what senior editor Kim Constantinesco had to say about my five questions:
1. The Broncos gave up a lot of points last week to the Cowboys, how is the defense looking? Will Von Miller’s return fix most of their problems?
The defense suffered some big time injuries last week against the Cowboys. They lost starting middle linebacker Wesley Woodyard, starting cornerback Chris Harris, and starting defensive end Robert Ayers at the beginning of the game. It’s no wonder the Cowboys put up 48, especially without Miller providing any pressure in addition to the injuries. Miller’s return will be huge for the Broncos. The secondary can only do their job for so long without much of a pass rush, and that’s why the team’s pass defense has been troubled this season. When Tony Romo starts to look like Michael Vick scrambling around in the pocket, you know it’s time for Miller to come back as soon as possible.
2. Peyton Manning has had a record breaking season and looks unstoppable every time he gets the ball. Have any opposing defenses found a way to slow his offense down at all so far this season?
The only way to slow Manning this season is to keep him off the field. He’s better than ever at reading blitzes and he protects himself by getting the ball out quickly. The best defense for Manning is a good run offense by the opposition.
3. Some people have suggested the Broncos rest Peyton Manning for this game. Is the rest of the team talented enough to pull off a win with Brock Osweiler at QB?
I could see the Broncos pulling Manning in the second half (late third quarter to early fourth) if the team has a four score lead. Manning won’t let the team completely rest him this week. Heck, even Osweiler doesn’t see many reps in practice because Manning wants them all. To answer your question though, if Manning were to get hurt walking down the stairs at his house, yes Osweiler could pull off a win. He’s a talented QB with a big accurate arm, and he’s learning under Manning. Plus, he’s got three very talented wide receivers and a tight end to throw to. That’s a deadly combination for the second year player out of Arizona State.
4. When do the Broncos get their first loss?
If a loss is to come this season, I could see it happening in week 13 when the Broncos are at Kansas City.
5. What’s your prediction for Sunday’s game?
Broncos- 48 Jaguars – 17
– Daniel Lago
Yell at me on Twitter @dlago89