Broncos strongside linebacker Von Miller has the attention of the Bucs’ offensive line

The vibe from players in the locker room today seems to be something out of the movie “Gettysburg,” where the Confederates knew the gravity of what they were about to face on the final day of the three-day battle, yet were confident the task at hand could be accomplished.

Yeah, everyone knows how dangerous Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning is. But the offensive players know how important getting Doug Martin into gear is in order to keep the ball out of Manning’s hands.

Joe had a chance to chat with Bucs right tackle Demar Dotson, among other offensive linemen. Dotson seemed to believe protecting Josh Freeman was just as important as the defense stopping Peyton Manning. With Elvis Dumervil at defensive end and Von Miller at strongside linebacker, the Broncos have two of the best pass rushers in the game. This is not lost on Dotson.

“It is going to be big time to get the run game going because they have some dynamic pass rushers,” Dotson said. “We have to slow those guys down as best we can. So if we can get the run game going, it will help big time.”

In particular, Dotson was concerned about Miller, who he believed to be among the NFL’s elite linebackers.

“He is just a great rusher,” Dotson said. “He may be one of the best pass rushers in the league if not the best. He is a very good speed rush guy. We have to get up on him and get a game plan to stop these guys and get the job done.”

It seems like a game of “pick your poison.” If the Bucs run, there’s Miller to worry about. If the Bucs pass, there is both Miller and Dumervil to worry about.

The Bucs’ offensive line will certainly be earning their salaries Sunday.