10 quick thoughts on the Broncos week four loss to Ravens
7. 7 punts
The Baltimore Ravens were held scoreless in the first quarter of this game. Not only that, but they opened the game with three straight drives ending in a punt.
Unfortunately, so did the Denver Broncos.
How many teams are holding Lamar Jackson to three punts to open the game? You have to do better than responding with three straight punts of your own. Even though the Broncos’ offense drew first blood, the opportunities given by the defense early were completely wasted.
8. The young interior linemen got all they could handle.
This quote after the game from Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell speaks volumes.
Question for Calais Campbell: "Broncos were without their two starting guards, was that noticeable?"
— Ryan Greene 📷 (@RyanGreeneDNVR) October 3, 2021
Campbell: "Oh yeah"
9. Broncos offense needs to focus more on YAC
It seems like Pat Shurmur has done a decent job at scheming plays this season, but against the Baltimore Ravens, it was ugly from all parties.
When the going gets tough, Shurmur seems to dial up too many plays with a high degree of difficulty as in taking shots deep downfield on obvious passing downs and putting the QBs in position to have to make tough throws under pressure in tight coverage.
There is simply not enough happening in the Denver offense to cater to the strengths of many of these players, which is creating yards after the catch.
10. An opportunity to respond
This wasn’t exactly a “throwaway” game. We’ve seen some real clunkers from the Broncos in recent years, but this game wasn’t one you’re just going to ditch the tape.
As we’ve seen in the team’s three victories to open the season, there is plenty for this group to work on and get better at. Nobody was under the illusion that this 2021 Denver Broncos team was a clear Super Bowl contender. They have to earn respect.
5 Broncos players that disappointed in the loss to the Ravens
The Denver Broncos suffered a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens at home. Which players were the most disappointing in the loss?
This loss at home to the Ravens and Lamar Jackson has given the Broncos an opportunity to respond in a big way against some really strong teams and fellow AFC playoff contenders in the coming weeks, starting with the Steelers in week five.