Broncos 2015: Who is responsible for the Week 14 loss?
By Tylor Walden
Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos tight end Vernon Davis (80) drops a critical fourth down pass in the fourth quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Raiders defeated Broncos 15-12. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Wide Receivers/Tight Ends
Oh my, I have never seen so many key drops in a game in a game. And this was way before the Broncos started to fall apart.
This segment of the article is more directed towards Demaryius Thomas and Vernon Davis. Only reason is due to the fact that they had some key drops. And I will look at each one.
For Demaryius Thomas, the 2nd and Goal with about 10 seconds remaining in the game was a crucial drop. The ball was thrown perfectly towards the middle of the numbers of Thomas’ jersey. However, he could not hang on and dropped it as he was on his way to the end zone.
The 3rd Down and Goal pass to Thomas, however, I can give somewhat of a pass because of how hurried the pass was. And with T.J. Carrie all over Thomas, it was going to be difficult. I give props to Carrie on that play. He timed the possible reception perfectly.
Now, for Vernon Davis. Perhaps the biggest drop of the game came on the second to final drive for the Broncos. On a 4th and 5 with 3:50 to go in the game, Davis was able to get passed everyone into the open field. However, he dropped what was a sure first down.
Looking back at the play, he also had enough room to run. Had he caught the ball, we are talking about the Broncos being in field goal range. That was a costly drop that I believe was the deciding factor of the game.
The drops just came at a terrible time. But there is no excuse because that is what these players are paid to do. That is catch the football.
Next: Coaching/Play Calling