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'D' can't save day this time for Broncos' struggling offense (The Associated Press)

Related Topics: Tom Brady, Jordan Norwood

DENVER (AP) -- The Broncos defense kept Tom Brady in check. Now, they're trying to do the same with their frustration.

What little hope Denver has at salvaging its playoff chances after a 16-3 loss to New England on Sunday is clearly dependent on a defense that, stellar as it may be, simply can't win games on its own.

This year is not a repeat of last season, when the Broncos (8-6) rode the defense all the way to a Super Bowl win.

This version of the Denver defense keeps getting betrayed by everything on this team - a fumbled punt by returner Jordan Norwood, a costly interception in the red zone by Trevor Siemian, an offensive line that struggles to run block and receivers who have trouble holding onto the ball.