ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – After a 31‑10 defeat at Arrowhead Stadium that exposed a glaring missed‑tackle problem, the Denver Broncos are laser‑focused on tightening up their defense before hosting the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday.
Missed tackles a key concern
According to Sportradar, Denver recorded 25 missed tackles in the season‑opening loss, a 27.2% miss rate that ranks fourth‑worst over the past five seasons. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph called the performance “embarrassing” and said the film study is essential to fixing the issue.
Coach and players stress effort and fundamentals
Joseph noted the Chiefs’ running back, Kenneth Walker III, was “really good” and forced the Broncos to miss several tackles of his own. “We missed some tackles, but he made us miss a lot of times, too,” Joseph said after watching the game film ten times.
Cornerback Patrick Surtain II, returning from an ankle injury, attributed the early‑season rust to the opening game. “It wasn’t how we wanted to end,” he said, adding that the experience will make the team stronger.
Positive signs amid the criticism
Despite the loss, the Broncos have shown resilience, allowing just 15.7 points over a three‑game winning streak. Surtain emphasized that “ups and downs” are part of the NFL and praised the team’s ability to bounce back.
Sean Payton, the Broncos head coach, warned that another loss to Kansas City would jeopardize the AFC West lead. “There’s so much season left, but it would be easier to win the division if we won this game,” Payton said.
Preparing for the Chiefs’ weapons
The Broncos have studied the Seahawks’ recent success in limiting Walker to 36 rushing yards, hoping to replicate that game plan. Joseph highlighted the need for physicality and forcing the Chiefs into a one‑dimensional offense.
Patrick Mahomes, returning from a knee injury, has already thrown for 1,474 yards, nine touchdowns and four interceptions. Surtain praised Mahomes’ “never‑quit mindset,” noting that the Broncos must stay disciplined for all four quarters.
Injury updates
Safety Talanoa Hufanga missed Thursday practice with an ankle issue. Receiver Jaylen Waddle, running back RJ Harvey, left tackle Garett Bolles and defensive lineman Zach Allen were all limited by various injuries.
Looking ahead
With the Broncos’ defense working to reduce missed tackles and improve effort, the upcoming Sunday showdown will be a true test of the team’s adjustments. Fans in Denver hope the Broncos can turn the lessons from a tough loss into a decisive victory that keeps them atop the AFC West.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
