Denver Broncos need a collective ego check ASAP

Russ, be yourself

Russ, you had an excellent decade in Seattle. Your resume speaks for itself and if you never played another down in the NFL, your name would still be considered for inclusion in Canton one day.  Your freewheeling, clutch throwing style of play resulted in a record number of wins (through 10 years) and two Super Bowls to your name. So why is it that when you crossed the Rockies, the mindset changed?

Much has been made about Pete Carroll’s trust (or lack, thereof) in Wilson during certain situations. The former loved to run the ball and have a QB “execute” the offense.  Wilson, ever the relentless competitor, felt like he could always do more.  The clashing philosophies usually led to Wilson having to make chicken salad out of chicken you know what during a game.

Through his decade in the Emerald City, I think Wilson developed a mindset that he had to be the “hero” in order for the Seahawks to win.  While he created his fair share of clutch comebacks, the idea of playing the hero has become a crutch to his game in Denver.

The perfect example of this is the dreaded 4th and 1 play to end the game last week. I’m going to save us the decency and not share the play here again.  It’s just a classic example of Russ trying to do too much when he doesn’t have to.

Russ, you can still be a hero. Instead of being Superman, just be an Avenger.  The team around you is arguably the most talented you’ve had to work with since 2014.  Use what your teammates do best and maximize that in your own skill set.

There’s no shame in taking the check down or allowing your RB to grind out the tough yards for a first down.  After all, that’s how many QB’s have had their success. Go back and look at the early years of Brady, Roethlisberger, or any multi-time Super Bowl-winning QB. Many of them didn’t “cook” until after they won their initial titles.

I know you already have one ring, Russ. For you, the circumstances have changed. In a new environment with new teammates, you might have to revert back to your old ways and lean on your teammates more often.

You can still be an elite QB and rely on your teammates in clutch situations. Nobody wins this game alone. We know you can make plays in the clutch. Just don’t treat every play like it’s a do-or-die situation.

George Paton assembled a team that can win in the playoffs right now.  You chose Denver, for that very reason. Please, trust the talent around you, stay in sync with your Head Coach, and let the playbook expand with each passing win.