AFC Showdown Alert: Broncos vs Texans in Clash of Top-5 Defenses

The upcoming AFC showdown between the Denver Broncos and the Houston Texans promises to be a clash of two top-tier defenses. However, the Broncos face a significant challenge as they will be without their star cornerback, Pat Surtain II, who is sidelined due to a pectoral injury.

Impact of Pat Surtain II’s Absence

For the first time in over a year, the Broncos will need to adapt without Surtain, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Denver’s defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, noted that the game plan shifts considerably when Surtain is not on the field. “We can be aggressive and employ coverages that we can’t play with other guys,” Joseph stated.

The Broncos had a week to prepare for this adjustment. They significantly limited the Dallas Cowboys to just seven points in the second half during the last game, which demonstrates their capability to adjust defensively. However, Joseph emphasized that having a full preparation week would make a significant difference.

Key Matchups Against the Texans

As the Broncos gear up to face rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, they must also contend with standout wide receiver Nico Collins, who is expected to return after a concussion. Collins leads the Texans in receptions and previously dominated in a matchup against Denver this season, recording nine catches for 191 yards.

Other noteworthy Texans targets include rookie Jaylin Noel, who has accumulated 140 receiving yards over the last two weeks, and Xavier Hutchinson, who caught five passes for a season-high 69 yards last game.

Broncos’ Defensive Adjustments

• Kris Abrams-Draine stepped up in Week 8 to fill Surtain’s role.
• Jahdae Barron provides positional versatility, though his role for Week 9 remains unspecified.
• Riley Moss has performed well, allowing a league-low completion rate of 40.0%.

Denver’s overall completion rate allowed in 2025 stands at 56.8%, the lowest for any NFL team since 2021.

Pass Rush Metrics Against the Texans

The Broncos’ pass rush will need to bolster the defense, particularly in Stroud’s direction. John Franklin-Myers acknowledged the need for the unit to step up in Surtain’s absence. Denver leads the league this season with a remarkable 36 sacks and a quarterback pressure rate of 45.9%, marking their highest since 2018.

Stroud has shown both resilience and vulnerability under pressure. In a recent game, he achieved a 158.3 passer rating while being pressured, showcasing his ability to handle tough situations. However, throughout the season, he has faced numerous sacks, totaling 67 since the start of 2024.

Conclusion: Keys to Victory

If the Broncos can generate pressure on Stroud and force timely negative plays, they may significantly increase their chances of winning. Without Surtain, the challenge is formidable, but with strategic adjustments and a strong pass rush, Denver aims to maintain their position among the best defenses in the league.