Everyone knew the question was coming.
With Spencer Larsen playing both ways vs. the Falcons last Sunday, you knew Brandon Marshall was going to be asked about the prospect of doing it. He did, after all, play a lot of safety at Central Florida before settling in at wide receiver.
“I’ve thought about that before,” Marshall said, “but I don’t think Coach Shanahan is going to let me do that.”
Ya think?
The Broncos need Marshall to keep putting up big numbers at wide receiver and only at wide receiver. Don’t be misled by the defense’s inspired performance at Atlanta. Yes, that patchwork unit played well and deserves all kinds of credit. But that’s subject to change at any moment.
The bottom line with the Broncos is this: Their defense is on pace to allow a ghastly 434 points, more than last year’s 409. So if they’re going to beat quality teams, their offense has to be sharp and putting up points.
And Marshall has to bring his “A” game. He is, with apologies to the marvelous Eddie Royal, the most gifted receiver on the team.
How gifted? Marshall, despite missing the season opener vs. the Raiders, is on pace for another 100-catch season. And given their issues on the defensive side of the ball, the Broncos are going to need every one of them.
Jim Armstrong: 303-954-1269 or jmarmstrong@denverpost.com
