Broncos vs. Browns: Denver turns up heat despite slow start

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 15: Quarterback Case Keenum #4 of the Denver Broncos dives into the end zone for a first quarter touchdown against the Cleveland Browns at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 15: Quarterback Case Keenum #4 of the Denver Broncos dives into the end zone for a first quarter touchdown against the Cleveland Browns at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos started off the game struggling against the Cleveland Browns. However, the team has picked up the pace and the game is competitive.

I will not lie, it appeared as if the Denver Broncos were going to be in for another long night. The offense was not clicking on their first two possessions and the Browns were able to take advantage of the Broncos secondary.

Looking at the defense of this Broncos team, I still wonder why this team still struggles against tight ends. David Njoku had a solid gain while being uncovered. Remember that Su’a Cravens is inactive in this game. The belief is due to Cravens’ struggles in the last couple games.

This was especially true with George Kittle. He was able to record over 200 yards receiving. His 85-yard touchdown reception, there was not a single guy on him.

Back to the game, Denver was able to wake up after the Browns touchdown and was able to force the Browns to punt the ball. From there, Keenum drove the Broncos down the field and was able to finish the drive on his own by ways of quite the scramble.

Ever since the first 5-7 minutes of the game, the Denver Broncos have played better. The defense especially has helped contain Baker Mayfield. There was a meeting of the first overall and the fifth overall pick as Bradley Chubb was able to get some pressure on Mayfield.

Surprisingly, Phillip Lindsay has been quiet in this game, only recording ten yards on seven rushes. But Keenum has been able to utilize Courtland Sutton and the tight ends Brian Parker and Matt LaCosse.

Denver’s offense has cooled down a bit as the first half came to an end. But Dymonte Thomas made sure the Browns did not take the lead into the half with an interception.

Sutton has had himself a game so far. With no more Demaryius Thomas or Emmanuel Sanders, it is time for him to shine.

If the Denver Broncos can keep the pressure on Mayfield up and stay consistent on offense, they have a real shot at winning this game. An injury to report for the Denver Broncos. Cornerback Brendan Langley has been ruled out of the game with a concussion.

The Cleveland Browns will get the ball to start the second half. Here’s hoping the Broncos can keep their playoff hopes alive in the final 30 minutes.

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