The Denver Broncos are preparing to host the Chicago Bears this Sunday. Both teams are eager to get their first win of 2019 after disappointing opening losses to Oakland and Green Bay respectively. This will be an interesting matchup as both teams have advantages in regards to their defensive fronts against the opposing offensive fronts. As of now though, the Bears might hold the decisive edge with Khalil Mack. This due in large part to the problems arising up front on offense.
Denver didn't even make it a full half into the season before right tackle Ja'Wuan James, one of their prized free agent signings, left the game with a knee injury. Later reports indicate he's going to miss some time in the coming weeks including the Bears game. This presents a major concern as it means their backup right tackle, Elijah Wilkinson will be forced to step into his place. For knowledgable Broncos fans, this seems like the sequel to a possible nightmare.
This isn't the first time Denver has had to throw a backup tackle against the superstar pass rusher. They did something similar back in 2015. Left tackle Ty Sambrailo injured his shoulder early in the season, forcing him onto IR. As a result, the Broncos shifted right tackle Ryan Harris over to the left side and filled his spot with second-year man Michael Schofield. The first time the two met, Mack beat inexperienced blocker for six pressures on the quarterback but failed to register a sack.
Denver won the game 16-10. So when the two teams met again in Week 14 at Mile High, it was a far different story.
Khalil Mack railroaded the Broncos backup in the rematch
Mack wasn't having any of Schofield in their second meeting. In the best performance of his NFL career, the pass rusher sacked Brock Osweiler five times over the course of the afternoon. Three of them coming at the expense of the Broncos' overmatched right tackle. Nothing they did could slow him down. It was an absolute clinic. Now the setting appears eerily similar. Mack coming to town. A backup stepping in at right tackle. One who hasn't started a lot of games. A tall, relatively immobile quarterback under center (Joe Flacco).
The formula appears to be coming together again. What's even more frightening this time is Mack has a far better supporting cast around him. He didn't have an Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman, or Leonard Floyd on that field. It's a clear sign that he should have a big day in Denver. Perhaps not as prolific as four years ago but unless he comes out totally flat (which is highly unlikely) then multiple sacks should be expected.
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