Packers game big test for Niko and Nate

Niko or Nate. Nate or Niko.

It's only at middle linebacker, among the 11 starting defensive positions, that the Broncos have yet to decide.

Niko Koutouvides was the middle linebacker last week in the serious test that was the Dallas Cowboys. The Broncos' first-string defense played well, allowing only seven points and 128 total yards in the first half.

Nate Webster is the middle linebacker this week for the all-important third preseason game against the Green Bay Packers.

Will it be Nate? Or is it Niko?

"I guess it's going down to the end," Webster said. "They've given us both a fair shot. But I'm sure we've got to make a decision somewhere in the next couple weeks."

Maybe after the Packers game. Even though Broncos starters generally play 2 1/2 quarters in the third preseason game, coach Mike Shanahan said he and his defensive staff haven't settled on how to divvy up playing time at middle linebacker.

"It's going to be a big game for both of them," Shanahan said.

(denverpost.com)