The 9-2 Denver Broncos play the 3-8 Washington Commanders in Week 13. One team is close to the No. 1 seed in their conference, while the other is closer to the first pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. That said, with impending free agents on both teams, each team has something to play for. That’s why it’s laughable to think teams tank. Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph agrees and is wary of the Commanders this week as a trap.
Broncos vs. Commanders
He said, “They’re getting some of their receivers back in the fold. Both runners are young runners. And both (are) aggressive runners. And the o-line, to me, is well coached and tough and big. And when they gameplan to run the football — in their three wins — they’ve averaged like 195 rushing a game. … It won’t be an easy out. It’s an NFL game. It’s an NFL team. Both teams are playing for something. And it’s never easy. Playing our best is a must.”
The Broncos are No. 1 in PFSN’s Defense Impact Score, while the Commanders are No. 11 in PFSN’s Offense Impact Score. Specifically, the Broncos’ defense allows the third-fewest rushing yards per game, while the Commanders’ offense totals the fourth-most rushing yards per game. This is why the Commanders are a trap this week. Washington’s offense can play keep-away with long drives running the ball.
Shortening the game inflates the value of every possession — and potential turnovers. Even without Jayden Daniels, Marcus Mariota can command Washington’s offense to execute this game plan. Especially with Pat Surtain II back alongside fellow cornerback Riley Moss. The Commanders’ offense is incentivized to run the ball, which is their strength. To combat this, the Broncos’ defense must sit in 3-4 base defense and sell out on the run.
Elsewhere, the Broncos are looking forward to Surtain II returning in Week 13. He’ll be able to help fellow cornerback Riley Moss cover a returning Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel Sr., although the latter may hide in the slot. It’ll be interesting for Broncos fans to see if Surtain II follows Samuel Sr. in the slot. That said, Joseph is glad to have Surtain II back to have the optionality.
