How Raiders Can Succeed vs. Broncos' Defense
The Las Vegas Raiders will face off against a divisional opponent in Week 1 of the 2023 NFL regular season today when they take on the Denver Broncos.
The Raiders are looking to start their season off on the right note, with another win against their AFC West foes. They have won six in a row against them dating to 2020.
The Broncos are looking to change their fortunes against the Raiders, and they provide a tough test for Coach Josh McDaniels, having to deal with their stout defense.
Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph is back in Denver, implementing his 3-4 defense and coaching his players to aggressively pursue the football.
This could present challenges to McDaniels and the Raiders’ offense, so here are three ways the Silver and Black can succeed against Joseph and the Broncos’ defense.
Establish the Run -- An efficient ground attack is a great way to keep a defense honest, so the Raiders will have to be effective running the ball so they can eventually open up the pass.
Fortunately for the Raiders, running back Josh Jacobs will be playing in this game, and he has caused issues for the Broncos for years.
The better the Raiders are on the ground, the wider variance of plays McDaniels will be able to run, which keeps a defense on its toes. If Jacobs is gashing the Broncos on the ground, the passing game opens up, leading to more efficient offensive drives.
Utilize Meyers and Renfrow -- The Broncos will commit resources to stopping wide receiver Davante Adams on the outside.
This is where the Raiders’ No. 2 and 3 wide receivers can thrive, as Jakobi Meyers and Hunter Renfrow will see more one-on-ones. Both are skilled players who can beat defenses in their own ways.
Once the Broncos make adjustments to stop Meyers and Renfrow, Adams once again becomes a massive threat. Game planning for three very good wide receivers is not an easy thing to do.
Win the Trench Battles -- The Raiders’ offensive line will be dealing with a tough defensive line.
The offensive tackles will deal with quick-twitch outside linebackers in Randy Gregory and Jonathon Cooper. On the interior, they will deal with D.J. Jones and Zach Allen.
The Raiders must win these match-ups and open up running lanes, as well as protect quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in the pocket. Winning in the trenches sets the tone for the entire offense.
The Silver and Black open the regular season at the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Sept. 10, at 4:25 p.m. EDT/1:25 p.m. PDT.
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