Since losing to the St. Louis Rams on November 16th, the Denver Broncos have completely changed their identity. And the results have been promising as the Broncos move to 3-0 since that embarrassing defeat. Peyton Manning has topped 200 yards passing just once in the three games since, but the rushing attack has exploded onto the scene.
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The balance is something that John Fox believes is key heading down this stretch, so its doubtful we'll see it go away anytime soon and as long as this team keeps winning then that's all that matters. About that balance and if it could negatively affect the rhythm of the passing attack, Fox alluded, "I think it can. Having never played quarterback I can’t speak to that. There are guys more qualified to answer that than me. I do think that it keeps a very good D-line off of you. I think sometime when you pass a lot they can tee off on you, so I think balance is important, especially against the kind of opponent we played tonight."
Yesterday's game was a little different though as the Broncos offense really didn't do much outside of a couple of solid drives. It was the Broncos defense that stood up to the challenge, harassing Buffalo Bills quarterback Kyle Orton all day long. It wasn't until the Broncos were up 24-3 that they seemed to completely forget how to play defense as Orton shredded them for some awesome garbage time stats. It was still a fantastic defensive effort and that unit is why the Broncos are now 10-3 and in control of the AFC West.
David Bruton played a significant role on defense yesterday and was instrumental in helping this team win their tenth game. On the importance of generating turnovers, Bruton said, "Our plan is simple. It’s just execute. Execute whatever the game plan is. We have a different game plan every week for different opponents. We just pride ourselves in going out there and execute. We have to go out there, get off the field on third down, make the plays that we make with picks, pass breakups, whatever it is. When the offense struggles, the defense steps up. When the defense struggles, the offense steps up. Special teams step up. It’s a complementary game and we played that."
That's exactly what happened against the Bills as the defense was able to smother the Orton-led offense drive after drive. Chris Harris Jr. thinks this is the second game in a row where the defense has come together to play a complete game, saying "It’s just guys that love playing with each other right now. It started last week in and we’re just carrying it on."
Of course, Harris Jr. was in full beast mode himself finishing with five tackles, a sack and one very huge red zone interception. How this guy isn't in the conversation for best cornerbacks in the league is beyond me.
The biggest post-game quote of the afternoon came from Brandon Marshall who aptly described the Broncos defense saying, "I think we’ve been getting better each week, every week the whole season. I think we’re just clicking now, and we’re clicking at the right time."
Yes sir. The right time is now through February. It's almost time for the games that really matter, Broncos Country.
Horse Tracks
Full Highlights: Broncos 24, Bills 17 | DenverBroncos.com
Look back at all the action and big plays from the Broncos' win over the Bills on Sunday.
Defense steps up with vital turnovers | DenverBroncos.com
While the Broncos’ offense wasn’t its usual explosive, high-flying self, the Broncos defense stepped in with key turnovers and stops. After two consecutive outings with three turnovers, the Broncos’ defense is making a statement.
Ground game grinds Bills | DenverBroncos.com
The Broncos have found the balance on offense and even with Peyton Manning at quarterback, will continue to scheme in whichever way gives them the best chance to win.
Defense 'clicking at the right time' | DenverBroncos.com
The Broncos defense sacked Kyle Orton four times and forced three turnovers in Sunday's 24-17 victory over the Bills.
Week 14: Bills vs. Broncos highlights | DenverBroncos.com
Broncos running back C.J. Anderson was an essential component to his team's 24-17 victory over the Buffalo Bills, running for 58 yards and three touchdowns.
Broncos 24, Bills 17: Three Keys, Unlocked | DenverBroncos.com
A defense that limited the big plays and a patient offense were crucial in giving the Broncos their 10th win of the season.
Peyton's Take: 'Comfortable with winning' | DenverBroncos.com
Peyton Manning's streak of 51 consecutive games with a touchdown pass came to an end on Sunday, but the Broncos QB certainly didn’t mind after the team picked up its third consecutive win to move to 10-3.
Reality is Broncos can run the ball, win - ESPN
The Denver Broncos aren’t worried about fantasy numbers. They want to be a Super Bowl team.
Broncos Beat Bills With 3 Rushing Touchdowns - Scout.com
The (10-3) Broncos beat the (7-6) Bills today 24-17, as they continued to ride the hot hand of C.J. Anderson.
Hochman: Broncos defense is rising to the challenge - Denver Post
Can you be one of the best defenses in the league if you're still considered an offensive team?
Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos - Recap - December 07, 2014 - ESPN
These Denver Broncos aren't as slick as last year's high-flying, record-breaking bunch, the one that was stopped cold in the Super Bowl.
Comeback falls short in Buffalo's 24-17 loss - Buffalo Rumblings
The Buffalo Bills made too many errors to come all the way back from three scores down in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos, falling 24-17 and all but eliminating their shot at the playoffs.
Referees Inexplicably Fist-Bump After Broncos Score TD (GIF) | NESN.com
Referee Ronald Torbert and his crew worked Sunday’s game between the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills, and did a heck of a job.
Peyton Manning's posts historically bad fantasy day - NFL.com
Fantasy football players hoping to ride the right arm of Peyton Manning through the fantasy playoffs were sorely disappointed by his performance Sunday.
Von Miller has a small animal nesting on his head - SBNation.com
Broncos linebacker Von Miller just upped the NFL fashion game with this ... hat? It sure looks like a hat, but it could be a lot of other things, too.
Bears have 'buyer's remorse' over Jay Cutler contract, nearly benched him - SBNation.com
Chicago signed the quarterback to a seven-year deal at the start of the year.
What happened Sunday in Week 14 - SBNation.com
The Seahawks are rolling, the Rams are trolling and everything else that matters from a busy Sunday of NFL action.