Broncos' linebacker Mario Haggan
The Denver Broncos’ defense ranks near or at the bottom in many critical categories.
Denver allowed the Detroit Lions to score on their first four possessions during Saturday Night’s preseason game, according to Jeff Legwold of The Denver Post.
Although three of those four drives resulted in field goals, some feel that there is nothing positive about allowing field goals instead of touchdowns.
“They had four scoring drives,” linebacker Mario Haggan said. “That says it all. We’ve got to be more firm . . . some things we just have to clean up.”
Denver has been without starters Elvis Dumervil, D.J. Williams, Champ Bailey, and Brian Dawkins at different times this preseason.
Dumervil (pectoral muscle) is expected to miss much, if not all of the season, while the Broncos hope to have veterans Bailey, Williams, and Dawkins back on the field soon.
At the preseason’s mid-way point the Broncos rank 30th in the NFL in points allowed per game (29.0), 31st in total yards allowed per game (400.5) and 32nd in yards rushing allowed per game (171.0).
“You’re always going to think you can do better,” defensive end Justin Bannan said. “But it’s all about being ready for that opener, and we’re working toward that.”
Denver opens the regular season Sept. 12 at Jacksonville.