Happy Thanksgiving, #BroncosCountry –
We hope that you have an awesome and filling Thanksgiving! The Broncos practiced early today before breaking to celebrate with their friends and family, so here are a couple things to read before or after you chow down on some delicious food:
1. The battle of the defenses
While many were hoping to watch Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and Patriots quarterback Tom Brady square off on Sunday Night Football this season – there's still a matchup to watch for: defense vs. defense.
In fact, Sports Illustrated’s Greg A. Bedard thinks the matchup would have been about the defenses even if both quarterbacks were in the game. Because both squads are just flat out good.
They are No. 1 (Patriots) and 2 (Broncos) in scoring defense. They are 1 (Broncos) and 2 (Patriots) in sacks. The Broncos also lead the league in total defense, passing defense and are second in defensive passer rating (74.2).
Bedard broke down five things to watch when the defenses are on the field, starting with the contrast in styles between defensive coordinators Wade Phillips and Matt Patricia. Particularly, Phillips' simplified one-gap system and love for blitzing and Patricia's hybrid system that exploits more positives than negatives in his players.
Read the rest of the keys to watch here.
This time, the Broncos-Pats game is all about the defense, not the QBs, says @GregABedard https://t.co/xFsAF0Mfgk pic.twitter.com/rA5v60P0Pt — SI NFL (@si_nfl) November 26, 2015
2. Broncos give thanks
The Broncos have lots to be thankful for this season and they showed their appreciation today on Twitter for things like – "Yams. Sweet potato yams."
3. In case you missed it …
- Peyton Manning providing scouting report to Broncos' starting QB Osweiler
- Cody Latimer of Broncos inspires Children's Hospital patient, pays tribute with TD celebration
- Emmanuel Sanders uses JUGS Machine in backyard to stay sharp
