Broncos' Greenlaw returns from injury to face Bills' top-ranked rushing offense
The Denver Broncos are set to face the formidable Buffalo Bills this Saturday, bolstered by the return of linebacker Dre Greenlaw from injury.
Why it matters: Greenlaw's presence could significantly impact the outcome as the Broncos aim to improve their run defense against the NFL’s top rushing team.
- The Bills lead the league with an average of 159.6 rushing yards per game, making them a critical challenge for any opposing defense.
- Last season in the playoffs, the Bills rushed for 210 yards against the Broncos, with running back James Cook contributing significantly with 120 yards on 23 carries.
What’s new: Greenlaw, who signed a three-year, $31.5 million contract with the Broncos last March, has missed a total of nine games this season due to injuries and one suspension.
- After suffering a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the last two games of the regular season, his return is seen as vital for Denver's defensive scheme moving forward.
- Head coach Sean Payton expressed optimism: "It's good to have a healthy Dre Greenlaw back in the game."
Yes, but: While Greenlaw's addition strengthens the Broncos' lineup, it's essential to note that they still face a formidable opponent in the Bills.
- Despite finishing second in the league for run defense with just 91.1 rushing yards allowed per game, the Broncos struggled against the Bills in previous encounters, indicating the need for a solid defensive game plan.
What to watch: The matchup between Denver’s run-stopping ability and Buffalo’s rushing attack will be pivotal.
- The Broncos excelled in stopping runs at or behind the line of scrimmage with a rate of 30.3%, which they will need to replicate to contain Cook and the Bills’ ground game.
Between the lines: Nik Bonitto, the Broncos’ outside linebacker, reflected on last year's playoff loss, stating, "Obviously they whupped our butt last year," underscoring the motivation for redemption in this rematch.
- This sentiment echoes throughout the locker room as the Broncos look to turn the tide in their favor.
What's next: As both teams prepare for the showdown, the Broncos will focus on integrating Greenlaw back into the defensive scheme while also strategizing against the Bills’ high-octane rushing offense.
- Staff and players alike are eager to demonstrate how much they’ve improved since last season, with Payton emphasizing the need for growth after last year’s playoff performance.
The bottom line: With the stakes high and memories of the previous playoff defeat fresh in mind, the Broncos are poised to leverage Greenlaw's return as they seek to establish dominance over a powerful Bills offense.
