The Denver Broncos are one of the best teams in the league in three key defensive areas: Sacks, interceptions and defensive touchdowns allowed. That strength will meet its opposite Sunday night when they face the Oakland Raiders, who are among the best at preventing sacks and interceptions and finding the end zone.
Raiders quarterback Derek Carr has passed for 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions through eight games, tied for third in the league through three games. He’s been sacked just nine times this year and his 2.71 sack percentage is the best in the league. He’ll battle a Denver defense that has posted equally dominant statistics through their eight games.
At the midway point of the season, Denver has allowed 1.6 touchdowns per game – tied for second-best in the league. Their eight interceptions are tied for fifth and their 26 sacks are tied for the best in the league.
Denver will be without two of its cornerbacks, Aqib Talib and Kayvon Webster, but the guys at 120 Sports still think Carr will have his hands full with the “No Fly Zone.”
“Derek Carr may have only been sacked nine times this year, but Von Miller and Demarcus Ware, those two dudes are a different type of pass rusher,” Clement Townsend said about the matchup. To his point, Oakland has not faced particularly dangerous passing defenses through eight games. Their toughest test came against Kansas City in Week 5. The Chiefs emerged with a win, as they accounted for two sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles.
Under the bright lights of Sunday Night Football, Bryant McFadden is leaning towards Denver and their experience in big games, not to mention their big name pass rushers.
“This is Sunday Night Football, right? The primetime stage … Von Miller, he’s coming. DeMarcus Ware, Shane Ray, [they’re] coming. I can’t wait to see these guys face off. I think, most importantly, I give the nod to Denver time and time again. It’s hard to block both guys.”
