The 10-2 Denver Broncos play the 2-10 Las Vegas Raiders in Week 14. The first time around, the former downed the latter 10-7 in Week 10 on “Thursday Night Football.” Cornerback Pat Surtain II was out with a pectoral injury. This time around, Surtain II’s in the starting lineup for the Broncos’ defense. He’s expected to cover Raiders tight end Brock Bowers. Let’s see how this affects Denver’s defense.
Pat Surtain II vs. Brock Bowers
“In the Raiders’ previous matchup against Denver, Bowers was held to one catch for 31 yards and three targets. With CB Pat Surtain II back in the lineup, it’s expected that he will match up against Bowers, possibly making it a challenge for the All-Pro TE to get his fair share of targets. In Week 12 last season, Surtain lined up against Bowers on 15 snaps, holding him to just one catch for 9 yards on four targets,” ESPN‘s Ryan McFadden wrote.
Expect more Jahdae Barron, No. 92 in PFSN’s CB Impact Score, in Week 14. And Kris Abrams-Draine, No. 77 in PFSN’s CB Impact Score, as well. The two cornerbacks platooned replacing Surtain II in 3-4 base defense and nickel defense while he was out with a pectoral injury.
Because Surtain II is likely going to cover Bowers, that takes nickel cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian off the field — assuming nickel or big nickel defense. There’ll be a lot of moving parts post-snap with Surtain II on Bowers. One of the safeties, meanwhile, could take the slot wide receiver after Surtain II passes it up to cover Bowers. Then one of the backers could drop back into coverage with the safety that stays home.
If Surtain II lines up against Bowers, the Broncos’ defense could run a dime defense disguised as nickel. That would keep McMillian on the field as well. Either way, it should bode well for the Broncos’ defense. The Raiders have no legitimate threat at wide receiver since trading Jakobi Meyers to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Broncos’ defense is No. 2 in PFSN’s Defense Impact Score, while the Raiders’ offense is No. 30 in PFSN’s Offense Impact Score. The Broncos are looking to sweep the Raiders in Week 14.
