TXBRONC
11-03-2009, 05:57 PM
http://www.denverpost.com/premium/broncos/ci_13699055
broncos premium
Steelers' Ward to test value of Broncos' nickel
Posted: 11/03/2009 01:00:00 AM MST
Whether it was some bobbles in the pass rush or how the Broncos were aligned in coverage, two of their last four opponents have gone after the Broncos' nickel defensive back.
And when it comes to working the middle of the field out of the slot, the Steelers have one of the best wide receivers in the NFL in veteran Hines Ward.
The Patriots completed 11 passes for just over 100 yards against the Broncos to receivers who primarily lined up in the slot, as a third wide receiver in the formation.
The Ravens took their swings as well Sunday, converting some big plays at key times, including 18- and 21-yard completions to Kelley Washington on third down in Baltimore's scoring drive that made it 23-7 early in the fourth quarter.
Both of those throws came with Jack Williams in pursuit, but the Broncos used Williams and rookie Alphonso Smith in that role during the game.
Broncos coach Josh McDaniels said the issue at times was in the pass rush as opposed to the coverage. But either way, the Steelers load the formation with wide receivers a lot, so the Broncos will have to find a way to keep a lid on Ward's activity.
Ward ranks eighth in the league in receptions with 42 and fifth in yards with 602.
broncos premium
Steelers' Ward to test value of Broncos' nickel
Posted: 11/03/2009 01:00:00 AM MST
Whether it was some bobbles in the pass rush or how the Broncos were aligned in coverage, two of their last four opponents have gone after the Broncos' nickel defensive back.
And when it comes to working the middle of the field out of the slot, the Steelers have one of the best wide receivers in the NFL in veteran Hines Ward.
The Patriots completed 11 passes for just over 100 yards against the Broncos to receivers who primarily lined up in the slot, as a third wide receiver in the formation.
The Ravens took their swings as well Sunday, converting some big plays at key times, including 18- and 21-yard completions to Kelley Washington on third down in Baltimore's scoring drive that made it 23-7 early in the fourth quarter.
Both of those throws came with Jack Williams in pursuit, but the Broncos used Williams and rookie Alphonso Smith in that role during the game.
Broncos coach Josh McDaniels said the issue at times was in the pass rush as opposed to the coverage. But either way, the Steelers load the formation with wide receivers a lot, so the Broncos will have to find a way to keep a lid on Ward's activity.
Ward ranks eighth in the league in receptions with 42 and fifth in yards with 602.