Is Denver’s defensive dominance sustainable? Broncos’ defense thinks so: ‘We can stop anybody’

Is Denver’s Defensive Dominance Sustainable? Broncos’ Defense Thinks So: ‘We Can Stop Anybody’

The Broncos began the game struggling to meet their own high defensive standards. Early on Thursday night, on the Raiders’ second drive, quarterback Geno Smith completed precise throws through tight coverage, setting up a touchdown by rookie Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty delivered a hard hit on safety Talanoa Hufanga before scoring Denver’s first red-zone touchdown allowed at Empower Field since Week 8.

The Broncos’ defense appeared deflated, walking to the sideline as if in a timeout after the score. At halftime, with the game tied 7-7, safety Talanoa Hufanga rallied the team in the locker room, emphasizing the need for improvement and placing responsibility on the defense.

“We gotta be better,” Hufanga recalled telling the team.

Despite the offense's ongoing struggles to advance, Hufanga was clear that allowing any touchdowns was unacceptable.

“It’s set every week that — they can’t score at all,”
Hufanga said after the game.
“It’s tough for us to even give them a touchdown. We want to hold teams to field goals, or get off the field if we can’t get turnovers.”

The defense delivered, shutting down the Raiders completely after the early touchdown and securing a 10-7 victory. Vance Joseph’s unit dominated the final three quarters with six sacks and no points allowed, following a familiar script for the team.

Author’s summary: Denver’s defense, led by Talanoa Hufanga, remains steadfast in its goal to shut down opponents, proving its resilience despite early setbacks and guiding the Broncos to a tough victory.

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The Denver Post The Denver Post — 2025-11-07

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