Though New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has taken to rotating linemen in and out of games this season, it is not a common practice, but Kubiak has said in the past he could see the benefits to it. And following Friday’s practice he said the injury situation has forced the team’s hand a bit. Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio, the Broncos’ defensive coordinator from 2012-14, may know a few of Manning’s tendencies and vulnerabilities, but Denver is running a much different offense under Gary Kubiak.
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With Aldon Smith picking up his first sack as a Raider last week and providing a complement to Khalil Mack, the Broncos could again find it hard to move the ball consistently – especially if LT Ty Sambrailo sits again.
“I think that we need to rotate a few guys, I think we do”.
Polumbus, who joined the team October 1 after his release from Atlanta but didn’t play last weekend, said he’s eager to get into the game even if it’s just for spot duty. I think you’re going to see us play deep up front with a few of things we’ve got going on. This will be the second week in a row for moving parts along the offensive line. Kubiak said he’s “hopeful” Sambrailo will be able to practice fully on Wednesday.
Denico Autry, Taiwan Jones and Justin “Jelly” Ellis all will also be out of the game according to the Raiders injury report on Friday.
“He’s been battling this hamstring just a little bit”, Kubiak said.
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The offensive line was the primary talk of Friday’s practice at Broncos Headquarters. “We’re counting on him being ready to go”. “Denver’s defense is on a mission this season, and that mission does not involve Derek Carr doing anything against a secondary that has allowed the fewest passing yards per game (185.3) and the fewest passing touchdowns (two) in the NFL”.
