ANDERSON ON PRESSURE: “I’VE GOT NOTHING TO LOSE”
With a young quarterback, Denver would like to lean on its running game to be the catalyst of the offense.
The Broncos started the season strong, rushing for more than 130 yards in each of their first two games, but they’ve failed to eclipse 90 yards in each of the past four. A leaky offensive line has been at the center of their struggles, but the entire offense has some role in the regression, including lead back C.J. Anderson.
Coach Gary Kubiak said the Broncos intend to get rookie Devontae Booker — who has played well in limited reps — more touches. Anderson isn’t worried about his job security.
“I’ve got nothing to lose. I wasn’t supposed to be here. I wasn’t supposed to be in this position or this spot,” said Anderson, signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2013. Anderson said former Broncos and current Colts safety Mike Adams had some advice for Anderson: “Pops told me, my rookie year, you can go out there and make 10 great plays and one bad play and that’s why you were undrafted. Other guys, they can go out there and make 10 bad plays and one amazing play and that’s why they were drafted.”
“When my back is against the wall, I just find a way to rise up and play my best,” Anderson said. “I definitely don’t want to be put in a backed-up-againstthe-wall position all the time. But I think as an offense, our back is against the wall.”
Booker has rushed for 161 yards and a solid 4.7 yards-per-carry average. Anderson has 330 yards and a 3.5 average. Anderson has historically been a much better player in the second half of seasons.
“There’s nothing wrong in the National Football League when two running backs can make plays,” Anderson said. “I’m actually happy that he’s coming along, I’ve been helping him through the whole way. I’m just glad he’s here.”
Remembering a late friend. Coach Gary Kubiak
and defensive coordinator Wade Phillips have fond memories of longtime Houston sportscaster Bob Allen, who spent 40 years in local TV and had several encounters with both coaches. Allen died after a battle with cancer Thursday. He was 70.
“I knew Bob since I was a 16-year-old kid in high school. He came to my house. He’s a legend down there, great person,” Kubiak said. “I talked to him a few weeks ago. What a great man. He’ll be dearly missed.”
Phillips added: “He was really a key guy in Houston sportscasting and a good friend. I hate to lose him.”
Ware update.
The Broncos hope they can get outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware some field action by the end of the weekend as he continues to progress from his fractured forearm. Kubiak said Ware is doing well. The veteran pass rusher is not expected to play Monday against the Texans.
Kubiak said receiver Cody Latimer (concussion) was behind left tackle Russell Okung in his chances to play Monday. Latimer hasn’t practiced this week. Cameron Wolfe,