NFL defenses are kind of like umpires: The less you see of them, the better.
Which brings us to the Broncos’ new-look defense of 2007, the one Jim Bates is trying to re-invent after last season’s late-season collapse that cost Larry Coyer his job.
The Broncos have had their share of issues during the preseason. At the top of the list is the defense’s inability to get off the field. Instead of getting to the sideline and handing things to the offense, the Denver defense has allowed 22 third-down conversions in 45 attempts.
The Broncos’ offense, meanwhile, has converted 11 third downs in 35 attempts. Those numbers will have to change once the real season rolls around. But first, the Broncos will have to improve their pass rush, which, of course, is the key to third-and-long situations.
That will be easier said than done, what with Ebenezer Ekuban finished for the season.
Make no doubt, the pressure is on second-year defensive end Elvis Dumervil and rookie Jarvis Moss. If they don’t put consistent pressure on the quarterback, Bates’ first season in Denver could be a long one.
