Dec 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) hands off to running back C.J. Anderson (22) in the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Bills 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Stop Broncos Running Game
In Denver’s three losses this season, their running game has been shut down. Against Seattle, the Broncos finished with 36 yards on 20 carries (1.8 yards per carry). Versus New England, the Broncs rushed for 43 yards on 17 carries (2.5 yards per carry). And in a game with St. Louis, the Broncos were stuffed for 28 yards on 10 carries.
That is the good news.
The bad news is that starting running back C.J. Anderson is good at being an NFL running back. In his past five games, he has averaged 102.4 yards per game as well as 40.8 receiving yards per game. Last game, Anderson was relatively shut down, but still scored three of the Broncos three touchdowns.
Had Anderson not been able to score inside the Buffalo red zone, the Bills would have beaten the Patriots last week. This Sunday, it is imperative that the Chargers top the Broncos rushing attack. If not, it will a tough time indeed.