Pat Surtain II Sends Bold Message to Chargers: 'We’re Done Playing Hero Ball – Get Ready for a More Consistent Defense
As the Denver Broncos prepare for their crucial Week 3 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, cornerback Pat Surtain II is sending a powerful message to his team and to the opposition: it's time to stop trying to be superheroes and start playing consistent, disciplined football. After a close and frustrating loss to the Indianapolis Colts, Surtain spoke candidly about the team's performance and how they plan to improve moving forward.
"We know we have the talent, but it’s about consistency," Surtain said, reflecting on the team's defensive struggles. "We can’t afford to be superheroes out there trying to make big plays. It’s all about doing the little things right, and that’s what we’re focused on. We’ll clean up our mistakes, and we’ll come out stronger. Chargers, be ready."
The Broncos' defense has shown flashes of brilliance but has also been inconsistent at times, allowing big plays and making mistakes that have cost the team valuable yards and points. Surtain's message underscores the need for a more measured approach, one that focuses on fundamentals rather than relying on individual efforts to make game-changing plays. While the desire to make an impact is natural, Surtain recognizes that the true path to success is through teamwork, discipline, and attention to detail.
Surtain’s words come at a critical time for the Broncos. With a 1-1 record after two games, the team has yet to find its rhythm, and the defense has faced its share of challenges. The loss to the Colts, in particular, was a tough pill to swallow, as the Broncos allowed a game-winning field goal in the final seconds. Despite the defensive struggles, Surtain remains confident that the team can turn things around.
“We’re not perfect, but we’re working hard to get better every week,” Surtain continued. “There’s no panic here. We know what we’re capable of. It’s just a matter of executing and playing smarter. We’ve got the talent, and we’ve got the right mindset. We’ll keep grinding, and we’ll be ready for the Chargers.”
The Broncos’ defense will need to step up against a potent Chargers offense led by quarterback Justin Herbert. With playmakers like wide receiver Keenan Allen and running back Austin Ekeler, the Chargers pose a significant challenge for the Denver defense. However, Surtain’s commitment to consistency and his focus on the fundamentals will be key as the Broncos look to make a statement in their third game of the season.
As the Broncos head into their Week 3 showdown with the Chargers, Surtain's leadership will be crucial. His confidence in his teammates and his dedication to improving the defense’s execution sets the tone for the rest of the season. The Broncos are ready to prove that they can be a force to be reckoned with — not through flashy heroics, but through consistent, high-level play.
Jayden Daniels Out: Marcus Mariota to Start for Commanders in Week 3
The Washington Commanders won’t have superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels in Week 3 and will start veteran backup Marcus Mariota in his place against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3.
MRI tests revealed Daniels suffered a PCL sprain in a 27-18 Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Mariota is in his second season as Daniels’ backup and signed a 1-year, $8 million contract on March 12 after playing on a 1-year, $6 million contract in 2024.
“Now official: Commanders HC Dan Quinn said Marcus Mariota will start Sunday versus the Raiders,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter wrote on his official X account on September 19.
Mariota filled in for Daniels in 2024 after he injured his ribs in the first quarter of a 40-7 Week 7 win over the Carolina Panthers. Mariota looked sharp that day, going 18-of-23 passing for 205 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions to go with 11 carries for 34 yards.
He also saw extended action in the regular season finale, going 15-of-19 passing for 161 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions to go with 5 carries for 56 yards and 1 touchdown in a 23-19 win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Mariota, Daniels Have Plenty In Common
Mariota and Daniels have a lot in common aside from just how they play — starting with both being similar size. Mariota is 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds while Daniels is 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds.
Both players were No. 2 overall picks in the NFL draft. Mariota was picked No. 2 by the Tennessee Titans in 2015 and Daniels was picked No. 2 in the 2024 NFL draft by th Commanders.
Both were rookie starting quarterbacks. Mariota went 3-9 in 2015 and Daniels went 12-5 in 2024, leading his team to the NFC Championship Game.
Both played in the Pac-12 Conference. Mariota starred at the University of Oregon. Daaniels started his career at Arizona State before he transferred to LSU for his final 2 seasons.
Both Mariota and Daniels are also part of college football’s most exclusive club — Mariota became Oregon’s first Heisman Trophy winner in 2014 and Daniels won the Heisman Trophy at LSU in 2023.
