Broncos Defense Could Be Eagles Offense Biggest Test Yet

The Broncos ended the 2024 season strong behind their dominant defense, and they may be even better. Led by the reigning Defensive Player of the Year in cornerback Patrick Surtain II. They made a huge addition to their secondary in the form of Talanoa Hufanga, signing the former 49ers safety in free agency. They also have a lot of talent in their front seven. Two of the most underrated players in football are defensive linemen Zach Allen and Nik Bonitto. The combination of the dominant defensive line, along with the Defensive Player of the Year, has made it brutal for opposing offenses to try to throw the ball. The Broncos’ defense ranks in the top 10 in terms of total passing yards allowed, while also only allowing two passing touchdowns this season, the lowest in the league. They have also only allowed four total touchdowns defensively, also the best in the league. As if that wasn’t enough, they also lead the league in sacks with 15 already.

Denver’s defense is also strong in the run game. They currently rank 11th in the league in rushing yards, with only two rushing touchdowns allowed. Even in the areas where Denver’s defense hasn’t been dominant, they are still an above-average defense.

Bad Timing for the Eagles’ offense

As everyone knows, the Eagles’ offense has not exactly been dominant to start the season. While they have had stretches where the offense looks dominant, they have not been able to consistently string these performances together. Nothing better captures this than the fact that the Eagles are the seventh-highest scoring team, while also leading the league in three-and-out rate.

When an offense that has this much talent is this inconsistent, it is definitely eye-opening. Whether it’s a new offensive coordinator, a star wide receiver making controversial tweets, or inconsistent play from your quarterback and offensive line, something is a bit off. When looking at this glass half full, you can view this in a much more positive way. The Eagles are 4-0, and their offense has yet to play a complete game. The offense’s best showings this season were in the second half in their comeback against the Los Angeles Rams and the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as they were building a big lead. When they can consistently string together full games with the offense looking this way, the sky will be the limit. Unfortunately, it likely won’t be this week.

The Eagles will likely need to rely on a similar formula from previous weeks. Timely offense, specifically in the red zone, combined with sound defense and special teams, should lead the Eagles to 5-0. They will need to step up their offensive play, and will have some easier games after Week 5 to do so. For now, it should look like more of the same, with just finding a way to win.