QB Teddy Bridgewater vs. Chargers secondary
As the Broncos’ offense continues to search for an identity this season, Teddy Bridgewater & Co.’s challenge this Sunday is a top-five secondary with a bevy of playmakers.
Los Angeles ranks fifth with 209.9 passing yards allowed per game. The success of the Chargers secondary is anchored by Pro Bowl safety Derwin James Jr.
“(James) is a playmaker, he’s versatile, runs really well, and he’s a good hitter,” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said. “He has good instincts and a feel for the game. His mindset and attitude permeate through the defense.”
Cornerback Asante Samuel is out with a concussion, meaning Chris Harris Jr.
(who has played most of the season in the nickel) will move outside. Even with Samuel out, offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur acknowledged passing on Los Angeles is “going to be a challenge across the board.”
“They’ve proven it the last couple of weeks and when you throw the ball, they do a good job of getting pressure on you,” Shurmur said. “Their corners are sticky and they can get on you.”
Courtland Sutton has more TD receptions against the Chargers (three) than any other team in his four-year career. Meanwhile, wideout Jerry Jeudy should be itching for redemption against Los Angeles. The last time the teams played the then-rookie had five drops in a 19-16 road loss.
But, as Fangio pointed out, much of the success of the Denver passing game will depend on Bridgewater’s ability to decipher the disguises implemented by Chargers’ defensive coordinator (and former Broncos assistant) Renaldo Hill.
“They do a lot of things out of a twoshell look to try and disguise their intentions pre-snap and they do a good job with that,” Fangio said. “They have a good pass rush led by (Joey) Bosa … think it’s a combination of rush in coverage disguise that’s making him good (in pass coverage).”