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Renck's Take: 7 things to know about Broncos vs. Giants

Posted at 4:30 PM, Oct 11, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-11 18:47:01-04

CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- What is the Broncos' motivation when the New York Giants have become Lilliputians?

The Broncos own a 3-1 record and are 15-3 at home following a bye week. It represents one of the rare instances in the NFL schedule where the Broncos might be too good for their own good. 

They can ill afford to overlook the decimated, winless Giants. New York lost its top two receivers in Odell Beckham Jr. and Brandon Marshall and suspended cornerback Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie on Wednesday for an earlier altercation with coach Ben McAdoo.  

Good times. Bad team. And frankly, not the Broncos' problem.

"They can definitely be dangerous because of that shock factor. We don't know how fast their receivers are," cornerback Aqib Talib said. "We have to prepare for everything."

Here are seven things to know as the Broncos attempt to stay undefeated at home:

1) They know better

The Buffalo game provided a slap to the forehead. The Broncos didn't practice well, and lost a game they should have won. According to coach Vance Joseph, the Broncos staged their best Wednesday practice of the season, which is an encouraging sign.

2) They throw curves

The Broncos allowed 55 points on first possessions last season. It became a source of embarrassment for a proud, productive defense. Coordinator Joe Woods promised changes. This season, the Broncos have not allowed a point in the first quarter.

"We are throwing curveballs," Vance Joseph said. 

3) They stop the run

The Broncos have allowed 203 yards rushing in the first four games, eighth best in NFL history at this juncture. Nose guard Domata Peko deserves credit for bringing energy, passion and leadership.

4) They need to finish

The Broncos start well, but have shown unintended mercy. Denver has scored seven fourth quarter points, undermined by penalties and mistakes. This is the week for the Broncos to demonstrate that they can put a team away. 

5) They need more takeaways

The Giants are ripe. They don't run well, and don't throw well. Other than that. With Eil Manning under pressure and veteran corners matched against inexperienced receivers, The Broncos should produce takeaways on Sunday night in their all-blue uniforms. The Broncos have only four takeaways, which ranks 21st, and have yet to recover a fumble. As the shirt says, they need "MORE." 

6) They need more Charles

The Giants defense remains stout. They can cover, but struggle to account for running backs in the passing game. Hello, Jamaal Charles. 

7) They, um, know better

As stated before, the Broncos realize they can't overlook anyone. A strong argument can be advanced that they are top five team right now. With three straight road games looming, including at Philadelphia and Kansas City, there's no room for hiccups. 


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Want Broncos news? Denver7 Broncos insider Troy E. Renck is your source. He talks to the players, covers the games and reports scoops on Denver7 and the Denver7 app. He is a CU grad who has covered pro sports in Colorado since 1996, including 14 years at The Denver Post. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and TheDenverChannel.com’s Broncos page. Troy welcomes most of your emails at Troy.Renck@kmgh.com.