When the Denver Broncos lost cornerback Patrick Surtain II on the first defensive play against the Los Angeles Chargersthere were concerns about how the secondary would hold up. Fortunately, the Broncos’ secondary hit its stride and largely held its own through two games without its star corner.

In the Broncos’ loss to the Chargers, the defense gave up the most yards of the season and the second-highest point total. The Broncos offense couldn’t do anything for three quarters of the game, giving the Chargers the ball for over 37 minutes. When a defense is on the field that much, there are going to be breaks and issues.

Even without Surtain, the Broncos still had their highest pressure of the season, but unfortunately the secondary had some adjustment issues without its top player. Riley Moss took over as the top boundary corner, allowing 71 yards on four catches on eight targets. As Moss answered the bell, Ja’Quan McMillian also stepped up and played on the boundary before slotting in as Levi Wallace entered the field.

McMillian struggled and was called for his third pass interference penalty of the season and a defensive hold. The penalty gave the Chargers a first down on a third down play where the pass fell incomplete.

That drive ended with a field goal for the Chargers. McMillian’s defensive holding penalty nullified a fumble by the Broncos defense late in the game, which would have been great as they worked to orchestrate a successful comeback.

What happens next on the Broncos beat? Don’t miss news and analysis! Take a moment, sign up for our free newsletter and get the latest Broncos news delivered to your inbox every day!

Against the Saints, the Broncos faced a significantly easier game due to the injuries they dealt with, including starting quarterback Derek Carr, all three first-team offensive linemen and three of their best weapons. The Broncos can only play whoever is in front of them, and the defense still had to step up and pay attention to the Saints even though it was filled mostly with backups.

The Broncos held the Saints to three points to a touchdown in garbage time after several defensive starters were pulled from the game. Without Surtain, the Broncos did exactly what they needed to do, making things easier for Bo Nix and the offense. Not only did the Broncos shut down the Saints offense, but they forced turnovers and even scored a touchdown.

Without Surtain, the Broncos walked away with a 1-1 record, allowing 33 points between games. The defense did a great job.

That said, the Broncos need Surtain ASAP. He is the straw that stirs the drink in the defense, and when the Broncos face more formidable offenses that go unchecked, they will have a significantly tougher time without their No. 1 corner.

Hopefully Surtain returns for the week 8 tilt versus the Carolina Panthersand he will stay healthy for the rest of the season. But if he had to miss one more game, it would be this one.

Follow Denver Broncos on SI/Mile High Huddle X And Facebook and subscribe on YouTube for daily Broncos livestream podcasts!