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How Do the Buccaneers Stop the Broncos’ Defense?

By Alan Schechter

Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) against the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 at Levi
Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) against the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 at Levi /
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Sep 25, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws a pass during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws a pass during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

Alan Schechter

The Broncos’ defense is aggressive. They are also relentless. Von Miller and company stop at nothing to get to the quarterback. It’s basically their lot in life for sixty minutes per week. It didn’t even matter last week that DeMarcus Ware was out, because Shane Ray picked up three sacks in his place. Needless to say, this is about the biggest challenge the Bucs will face all year.

So what do they do about it? Well, the running game will help, but the way to really slow them down is to use short passes. Hit them with quick slants, quick crosses, and passes into the flat. Why? Three-step drops like these passes require allow Winston to get the ball out of his hands before the rush gets there.

Screen passes will also help slow them down. Get Sims on the outside as Winston flips the pass over the rush’s head. That will give them something to consider, and Wade Phillips will have to slow them down and make adjustments.

Next: Where is the Bucs' Secondary?

There is our take, what’s yours? How do you think the Bucs go about slowing down the Denver defense? Let us know in the comments.

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