October 16th 2024.
Ever since his rookie season in 2021, it has been almost a sure thing to see Pat Surtain II in his Denver Broncos uniform on game day. But as they prepare to face the Saints on Thursday night, the team is facing a new reality. Surtain, their All-Pro cornerback, has not missed a game since January 8, 2022, but that streak may come to an end due to a concussion that kept him out of Tuesday's practice.
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has the opportunity to plan and prepare for life without Surtain, unlike the previous game against the Chargers where he had to make adjustments on the spot. Joseph recognizes Surtain's unique abilities in coverage and believes that having a few days to adjust the game plan without him is advantageous.
But unfortunately, the game against the Chargers took a turn for the worse when Surtain was injured on the very first defensive snap. He was taken out of the game and later ruled out with a concussion. Joseph admits that losing a cornerback like Surtain is harder to overcome than losing a defensive lineman, as Surtain often covers the opponent's top receiver and helps dictate the direction of the ball.
The Chargers were quick to take advantage of Surtain's absence, with quarterback Justin Herbert finding holes in the middle of the field. This led to the Broncos struggling to get off the field on third downs. Joseph acknowledges that losing Surtain and not being able to make stops on third down was a major obstacle for the team.
Although the Broncos were able to make adjustments and limit the Chargers to just three points in the second half, the damage was already done in the first two quarters. Surtain's absence also meant that other players had to step up and fill new roles. Ja'Quan McMillian, usually a nickel cornerback, had to play both nickel and outside cornerback. This was a challenge for him, as he doesn't usually get many practice reps at outside cornerback.
But the team also has veteran players like Levi Wallace, who can play multiple positions in the secondary. In Week 5, Wallace had a strong performance, giving up only two catches for 14 yards on three targets in 24 coverage snaps. He may see an increase in playing time against the Saints, especially considering that their top two wide receivers, Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, may not be available.
In addition, the Saints will be starting backup quarterback Spencer Rattler, as their starter Derek Carr is out with an oblique injury. This may require some adjustments in the Broncos' defensive strategy, but Joseph is confident that they will be able to handle it. And with players like Wallace who can step up and fill in wherever needed, the Broncos should be in good shape for the game.
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