Broncos 2015: Emmanuel Sanders has become top target
By Tylor Walden
Sep 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) catches a pass and scores a touchdown as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jamell Fleming (30) tries to defend during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Broncos won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
When the Denver Broncos decided to let Julius Thomas and Wes Welker walk in free agency, it would be difficult to replace their production in the offense. Emmanuel Sanders was set to replace Eric Decker’s production. During the 2014 season and through two games in the 2015 season, he is doing just that.
Emmanuel Sanders has done a tremendous job in Denver. He has become a fan favorite and had career numbers in his first year. His final numbers were 101 receptions for over 1,400 yards and nine touchdowns.
In his second year, he has not yet recorded a 100 yard game, but he has developed into something even more valuable. That is becoming the go-to receiver in clutch situations for Peyton Manning.
Nearly every third down the Broncos have been a part of this season, Peyton Manning has looked for Emmanuel Sanders. As a matter of fact, according to NFL Spin Zone, Emmanuel Sanders’ 117 of 152 yards this season have come on third down. If that is not a definition of security blanket, I do not know what is.
His production in clutch situations have some fans questioning Demaryius Thomas as far as his worth to the team. But I will attempt to stop the fans. Both players have their own different skill sets and can help the offense in their own unique way.
Emmanuel Sanders has been the go-to guy because of his speed and his ability to make those hard slants and get to the first down marker. Demaryius Thomas is more of a possession receiver who can catch the ball from anywhere and accumulate yards after the catch.
It has been clearly shown that Emmanuel Sanders is looking to do whatever he can to help out the Broncos offense while they try to find their identity. In an offense that is quite questionable at best, Broncos fans should be glad to have Emmanuel Sanders in their corner.