Pump brakes on OLB Bradley Chubb's claim Broncos have the NFL's best defense

Chubb’s claim isn’t baseless. The Broncos' defense ranks among the NFL’s best at No. 3, allowing 12 points per game. But context matters.

In its first three games, Denver has faced middling QBs Geno Smith (Seahawks), Davis Mills (Texans) and Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers). They’re not Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers or Patrick Mahomes. 

Over the next three weeks, the Broncos face two Pro Bowlers in the Raiders' Derek Carr and Chargers' Justin Herbert as well as the Colts' Matt Ryan, a 37-year-old former MVP. 

If the Broncos' defense locks down these offenses, it could strengthen Chubb's case.

“I feel like we’re just getting our swagger back,” Chubb told Stevens. “You can just see the leadership the defense has along with the grit and willingness to win.”

Sound defense carried them to a victory over the 49ers. The Broncos forced three turnovers, including safety Kareem Jackson's fumble recovery that sealed the win.

“The defense was outstanding,” said head coach Nathaniel Hackett in the post-game news conference.