The Broncos constantly gave up big plays to the Bills. (Rick Stewart, Getty Images)

Thoughts on the loss to the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium (In no particular order):

• I just don’t understand why the Denver Broncos consistently put forth a listless and downright embarrassing effort once Christmas season rolls around. Since the last playoff run in 2005, the Broncos have made a habit out of fading down the stretch. They lost the season finale with a playoff berth on the line in 2006, 2008, and 2009. The “win-and-you’re-in” scenario seems to paralyze the team in recent years even though the roster and coaching staff has turned over a few times. And it’s not just that they lose games late in the season; it’s that they get steamrolled and don’t even compete. A defensive unit that has been tough all season can’t get consistent pressure on the quarterback and seemingly gives up a 1st down on every snap. An offense that looks explosive and unstoppable for a drive or 2 will suddenly produce several conservative 3-and-outs. Although I can’t explain why the Broncos are a different team now than the one we saw for 2 months in the middle of the season, I do know that by the end of the day Saturday things could have been a lot worse. Due to the other results around the AFC West, the Chargers and Chiefs have been eliminated from postseason contention despite the Denver loss. And even though the Raiders won, they still must win their season finale against the Chargers to have a chance to win the division title. If the Raiders lose that game, the Broncos will be AFC West Champions regardless of what happens at Mile High Stadium this Sunday.
• Although the Broncos can conceivably win the division despite possibly losing their final 3 games of the season (once again), I think it is very important that Denver goes out and actually WINS it. They need to play well, avoid mistakes, and actually look like a playoff football team if they are going to get into the postseason dance. Not only that, but I think a win late in the year to clinch a division championship would officially close the book on the darkest chapter in the history of the franchise and change the culture of the modern-day Denver Broncos. Lastly, a win this weekend will give Broncos Country something to be proud of, and it will allow the fans to enjoy some good times for a change, which we absolutely deserve.

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