The Denver Broncos fell to 3-5 after losing their fourth game in a row against the Philadelphia Eagles. I look into what needs to be fixed.
I am not going to sugar coat this. The Denver Broncos have been playing terrible football. Before the team took the field against the Philadelphia Eagles, offense and a little bit of special teams was the reason behind the latest losses.
While the offense continued to struggle, you can now add a disgustingly poor defensive effort behind the latest loss. It just seems like Vance Joseph or anyone for that matter cannot figure this out.
I will give the Eagles some credit here. The Denver Broncos ran into the hottest team in the NFL and not even a “Super Bowl caliber” defense could put a halt on the Eagles explosive offense. But Broncos Country is still looking for answers.
Just to give you some historical background, the Denver Broncos haven’t been under .500 since 2012. That was when the Peyton Manning led Broncos started the season 2-3 before going on an eleven game winning streak. Despite being in the top five in every defensive category when it comes to yards allowed, this defense has allowed 25 points a game. That is uncharacteristic for this defense.
We need to improve in all three phases.
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 7, 2017
But it starts with figuring out "our brand of football."
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During this four game losing streak, the Broncos have been outscored 124-52. They have only scored 20 points or more once. Not to mention they got shutout for the first time since 1992.
The team does not have a clear cut option at quarterback. Perhaps if Paxton Lynch recovers, it will be interesting to see how he does. But if he performs like Trevor Siemian and Brock Osweiler have been, I would not be surprised if John Elway looks at the draft or free agency for a quarterback.
The offensive line is improving. They are one or two pieces plus a cleanup of fundamental football from being great. (limiting penalties) The team has a solid running attack. But for some reason, they fail to give them enough carries.
In the Broncos three wins, they have averaged almost 36 carries per game for 153.6 yards. In the five losses, they have averaged almost 22 carries a game for 87.6 yards. That is alarming. If the Broncos cannot get the running game together, that is not going to help the quarterback.
Teams have learned to stack the box. But Vance Joseph and the offense need to rely and have faith in their running backs.
Next: Brock Osweiler Starts vs. Patriots
There’s still a chance for the postseason. Luckily, the AFC West is feeling the effects of all four teams having a tough strength of schedule. And with eight more games to go, there is a chance. If Denver has any chance of playing into January, it comes down to fixing every little detail.
And it all begins on Sunday when the New England Patriots come to town.