3-4 scheme gives Broncos more options

ENGLEWOOD • Coach Mike Shanahan didn't say whether he plans on using the 3-4 defensive alignment more, but he likes some things about the new look.

Denver used three linemen and four linebackers on a few snaps in passing situations Sunday against New Orleans. The Broncos haven't used that scheme regularly under Shanahan.

The defense has recorded two sacks during the past two games against San Diego and New Orleans, which combined to attempt 81 passes. The rush from a 3-4 defense is more unpredictable because any of the linebackers can rush.

"It will pay dividends down the line," Shanahan said. "If you have a three-man rush, you're not really sure who is coming. The disadvantage of a four-man front is they know the front four is usually coming and you know what the coverage is."

The package also allows Denver to use linebacker Jamie Winborn, who has performed well when asked to start because of injuries. He played well in the opener against Oakland but went back to the bench when Boss Bailey recovered from a sprained ankle.

"You've got to feel good about your linebackers to play that," Shanahan said. "Jamie Winborn played exceptionally well against the Raiders and in the preseason games when Boss was out."

Committee doing well

The three-headed approach at tailback is going well, Shanahan said. Selvin Young and Andre Hall rotate every five plays and Michael Pittman gets the short-yardage work.

Shanahan didn't sound like he's ready to change the approach that's earning 4.8 yards per carry.

"They all have a role and we're trying to keep these guys fresh," he said. "I believe in all the running backs we have."

Larsen praised

Shanahan has coached more than 400 games in the NFL as an assistant or head coach, but he said rookie linebacker Spencer Larsen's hit covering the opening kickoff Sunday was something he never had seen.

"I don't think I've ever seen somebody get hit as hard as Spencer Larsen delivered on one of those backs on the kickoff return," Shanahan said. "That's the hardest hit I've seen since I've been in the National Football League. It looked like he decapitated his head."

Bailey fine

Boss Bailey suffered an ankle injury near the end of the game, but was fine Monday and said it wasn't serious.

"Just one of those deals," Bailey said.