Give the ball to Javonte
It is clear that the coaching staff in Denver favors the veteran Melvin Gordon, but it’s just as clear that he is not as effective running the ball as the rookie Javonte Williams.
On the season, Gordon has been given 15 more carries than Williams but has just eight, yes eight, more yards. Williams also averages more than a half yard per carry more than Gordon.
But it seems like when the Broncos need a big play or down near the goal line, it’s Gordon that gets the call much more often. That was the case against the Eagles on a key 4th-and-1 play in which Gordon fumbled and the entire game changed.
Going into the remainder of this season, it should be Williams getting the ball more often than Gordon and much more near the goal line. Williams has shown himself to be a force with the ball in his hands, often running through guys and forcing multiple tacklers to bring him down more often than not.
One of the most annoying things about the combination of Fangio and Pat Shurmur is their stubbornness. It’s not just that they won’t sit Teddy Bridgewater down (which they absolutely should) but it’s the same with the running backs.
Gordon has been effective at times, but it’s painfully obvious that the offense needs to see more of Williams.