The Denver Broncos have long been a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), boasting three Super Bowl titles and an illustrious history that includes Hall of Famers like John Elway and Peyton Manning. Yet, since their last championship in 2015, the team has struggled to regain its former glory. Now, in 2024, the tide appears to be turning. With momentum on their side and impressive performances across the board, the Broncos have a legitimate chance to not only make the playoffs but also win the Super Bowl. This article explores their current form, strengths, and the challenges they face in pursuing NFL glory.
A Turnaround Year: What’s Different in 2024?
The Broncos entered the 2024 season with tempered expectations, given recent struggles. However, after a sluggish start, the team has turned things around, currently riding a three-game win streak and boasting a record above .500 . This resurgence can be attributed to several key factors, including dominance in the trenches, a revitalized offense, and the extraordinary play of their defense.
The Denver Broncos’ success begins with their performance in the trenches. Both their offensive and defensive lines rank among the league’s best, a significant improvement over previous seasons. On the offensive line, tackle Alex Palczewski and guard Ben Powers have excelled in both pass protection and run blocking . On the defensive side, players like Zach Allen and DJ Jones have terrorized opposing quarterbacks, ranking among the top players in pass rush and run defense . This dominance has allowed Denver to control the line of scrimmage, which is crucial for any team with Super Bowl aspirations.
A Balanced Attack: Offense and Defense in Sync
One of the Broncos’ greatest strengths this season has been their ability to complement a powerful defense with an efficient offense. Quarterback Russell Wilson, after a difficult 2023 season, has found his rhythm again. Wilson’s resurgence has been aided by improved protection and a more balanced offensive approach. The Broncos are scoring an average of 23.3 points per game during their winning streak , a testament to the offensive line’s ability to give Wilson time to operate and the emergence of a strong running game.
But it’s not just about offense. The Broncos’ defense has been a force to be reckoned with, allowing just 11.3 points per game over the last three weeks . Cornerback Patrick Surtain II has been pivotal, recently making waves with his 100-yard interception return against the Las Vegas Raiders . Surtain’s play, along with that of his defensive counterparts, has stifled opposing offenses, creating turnovers and giving Denver’s offense advantageous field position.
The Surtain Factor: A Defensive Player of the Year Candidate
If Denver’s defense is the backbone of the team, Patrick Surtain II is its heartbeat. The 24-year-old cornerback is having a phenomenal season, not only anchoring the Broncos’ secondary but also delivering game-changing plays. His 100-yard pick-six against the Raiders cemented his reputation as one of the league’s elite defenders .
Surtain’s ability to shut down opposing wide receivers and make critical interceptions is a huge asset, especially in a league dominated by passing attacks. If the Broncos make a deep playoff run, it’s likely that they would go all the way and win the competition.