When the Broncos run
Denver struggled for the first time this season to get much movement in the run game against Cincinnati rushing for just 52 yards. The Bengals’ hostile crowd had an effect on communication in the Broncos’ first road game. They hope to better that this week. Bucs defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is a talented run stuffer and he’s backed by a pair of steady linebackers in tackling machine Kwon Alexander and all-pro Lavonte David. Edge: Broncos
When the Bucs run
Tampa Bay’s star back, Doug Martin, is expected to miss Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury. Charles Sims, who has versatility as a rusher and receiver, has taken the lead role in his absence. The Bucs ran for 83 yards last week in Martin’s absence. Denver has struggled against the run at times this season giving up 127.7 yards per game, sixth most in the NFL, but some of that can attributed to QB runs. Edge: Broncos
When the Broncos pass
Trevor Siemian is no longer a secret for NFL defenses after his AFC offensive player of the week performance against Cincinnati. Teams now know if they load up the box to stop the run, Siemian can hit receivers Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas. The Bucs have a talented trio of cornerbacks in Brent Grimes, Alterraun Verner and Vernon Hargreaves, but they haven’t got much in the way of sacks (five) and turnovers (two) through three games. Edge: Broncos
When the Bucs pass
Tampa Bay quarterback Jameis Winston threw the ball 58 times Sunday against Los Angeles for 405 yards. He plays with a bit of a gunslinger firing the ball into tight coverage meaning a higher chance of big plays and turnovers for this ballhawking Broncos defense. Winston has eight touchdowns and six interceptions through three games. Denver hasn’t allowed a quarterback to throw for over 206 yards this season. Edge: Broncos
Special teams
Tampa Bay traded up to draft kicker Roberto Aguayo in the second round in April’s draft. He’s 1-of-3 on field goals this season and he’s also missed an extra point. Broncos kicker Brandon McManus is 5-of-6 this season. Linebacker Zaire Anderson forced a punt return fumble against Cincinnati last week. Edge: Broncos
