Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper knows the challenge ahead this Sunday won’t just be about tackling Giants’ quarterback Jaxson Dart on the field.
It’s about stopping the young signal-caller from gaining momentum, confidence, and ultimately, control of the game.
Over the past three weeks, Dart has energized the Giants’ offense, sparking life into a unit that struggled earlier in the season. His ability to make dynamic plays both through the air and on the run has helped New York secure two wins recently.
Along with his performance, Dart’s lively celebrations and infectious energy have been turning heads, adding a new dimension to the Giants’ offensive attack and energizing his teammates.
Stopping Dart’s momentum
When asked if the limited game film on Dart might pose a challenge for Denver’s defense, Cooper was quick to dismiss the concern. “No, I would say no,” Cooper told 104.3 The Fan.
He explained that experience in the NFL gives players the ability to quickly read and adjust to quarterbacks, even ones who haven’t been on the field very long.
“Once you’ve played enough in this league, you’ve seen enough good quarterbacks,” he said. “We play one of the best quarterbacks twice a year every single year. So once you go against that, you kind of get a feel of the game and you know what you need to do.”
Cooper went on to stress the importance of disrupting Dart’s rhythm and breaking his confidence early. “You have to make him feel uncomfortable in the pocket, can’t let him get that confidence and that ego going. We just have to take care of that.”
In essence, the Broncos’ defense plans to pressure Dart consistently, limit his space and time to make decisions, and force him out of his comfort zone.
Dart has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in the Giants’ recent home wins over the Chargers and Eagles, where his poise and playmaking ability were on full display. His energy and on-field celebrations have become a trademark, bringing a spark to the Giants’ offense and giving their fans renewed hope.
However, Dart’s road performance in New Orleans exposed some vulnerabilities, particularly in ball security, where turnovers contributed to a loss.
This Sunday’s game in Denver will test whether Dart can continue his hot streak without the support of a home crowd. The Broncos’ defense aims to capitalize on that disadvantage by limiting his opportunities and forcing mistakes.
It’s a critical game for the Giants as they seek a third win in four outings, and equally important for the Broncos to contain the young quarterback’s momentum.
For Cooper and his teammates, this matchup is about more than just preventing completions or sacks, it’s about breaking Dart’s confidence and disrupting his flow.
The Broncos will be looking to impose their will early, dictate the tempo, and keep Dart from getting comfortable in the pocket. The outcome could hinge on who controls the psychological edge as much as the physical one.
With so much at stake, Sunday’s showdown promises to be a defining moment for both the young quarterback and Denver’s defensive unit.
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