Broncos’ solution for Raiders TE Brock Bowers? Vance Joseph sends the cavalry.

Broncos’ Solution for Raiders Tight End Brock Bowers

Without Pat Surtain II in the lineup against the Raiders, the Denver Broncos employed a rotating strategy to limit tight end Brock Bowers. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph opted for a collective effort to replace Surtain’s presence and maintain stability in coverage.

Earlier, in Houston, Denver’s cornerbacks held their own in man-to-man matchups even without their star defender. Safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones helped contain deeper threats, keeping the defense balanced and cohesive.

Strategic Shifts on Thursday Night

When facing Bowers again, the Broncos adapted once more. Denver’s defense—missing Surtain for a second consecutive game due to a pectoral strain—threw varied looks against the Raiders’ most dangerous offensive weapon. Joseph relied on multiple defenders, including Riley Moss, Ja’Quan McMillian, and others, to rotate in assignments on Bowers.

“The toughest job with him is getting him tackled,” Joseph said. “You can kind of cover him with a safety or a defensive back body, but can you get him on the ground after he catches the ball?”

During the opening drives, Barron shadowed Bowers on a critical third down, while McMillian matched up with him in the slot early in the game. Moss later tracked him across formations to prevent another breakout performance like Bowers’ dominant showing against Jacksonville the week before.

Author’s Summary

Denver’s defense managed to contain Brock Bowers through rotation and disciplined coverage, showcasing strategic flexibility despite missing their top cornerback.

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The Denver Post The Denver Post — 2025-11-07

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