Thursday, November 30, 2017
Monday, November 27, 2017
Broncos Lose Seventh Straight Game, Fall to 3-8 after 21-14 Loss to the Raiders
Another Sunday and another loss for the Broncos. This week Denver traveled to Oakland to take on the 4-6 Raiders, and the Broncos fell behind 21-0, rallied to cut it to 21-14, then ultimately lost the game by that same score. The loss was the seventh straight by the Broncos and it now puts their record at 3-8. The only drama left in this season is how many games the Broncos will lose and what their draft pick will be next year. Here are my "Five Points" on the game....
1) A few minutes into the game an all out brawl happened between the two teams. The fight was centered around Aqib Talib and Michael Crabtree. Crabtree sucked punched Chris Harris while blocking on the play before, and one the next play, Talib and Crabtree went at it. Both threw punches and both were ejected from the game. It was an ugly incident, something the league doesn't need to see now, and it cost the Broncos one of their best players early in the game.
2) Paxton Lynch wasn't good in his first start of the year. But, it is also not all on him. He had a very simple gameplan, and it was all about keeping things simple and easy. They couldn't run the ball so it put them in 3rd and long and Lynch took some bad sacks. He threw a nice ball to Devontae Booker down to the 1 yard line, but he was picked in the endzone two plays later on a deflection. Lynch looks confused and unsure of himself and his accuracy is suspect. We need to see more of him, but it looks like Lynch won't be the Broncos future at the QB position. He left in the third quarter with an ankle injury and he didn't return, and his status is up in the air for next week.
3) After Talib was ejected, rookie Brendan Langley was inserted into the lineup and he got picked on by the Raiders offense time after time. He was the weak link in the secondary, and Oakland exploited it over and over again.
4) After Lynch didn't return,Trevor Siemian came in a led two touchdown drives to cut the lead to 21-14. I don't want to hear about Siemian at this point. He engineered two garbage time TDs. We have seen enough of Siemian and we know he isn't the answer at QB for this team. I really hope he doesn't start next week in Miami if Lynch can't go.
5) At 3-8 there is no hope and the season is done. There nothing for the Broncos to play for until next year. The only thing that matters is their draft position. At this point, it is probably better to just lose the rest of the way and get the highest pick possible. This has been an awful year all around. I think it is the worst in my lifetime as a Broncos fan. At least in 2010, we had to look forward to watching Tim Tebow the last three weeks of the year. I haven't been excited or had any thrill watching this team play since they beat the Raiders in Week 4. Every week they set a new record for futility. This week's loss was the first time the Broncos have lost 7 games since 1967. It has been just an awful, awful season in Broncos Country.
1) A few minutes into the game an all out brawl happened between the two teams. The fight was centered around Aqib Talib and Michael Crabtree. Crabtree sucked punched Chris Harris while blocking on the play before, and one the next play, Talib and Crabtree went at it. Both threw punches and both were ejected from the game. It was an ugly incident, something the league doesn't need to see now, and it cost the Broncos one of their best players early in the game.
2) Paxton Lynch wasn't good in his first start of the year. But, it is also not all on him. He had a very simple gameplan, and it was all about keeping things simple and easy. They couldn't run the ball so it put them in 3rd and long and Lynch took some bad sacks. He threw a nice ball to Devontae Booker down to the 1 yard line, but he was picked in the endzone two plays later on a deflection. Lynch looks confused and unsure of himself and his accuracy is suspect. We need to see more of him, but it looks like Lynch won't be the Broncos future at the QB position. He left in the third quarter with an ankle injury and he didn't return, and his status is up in the air for next week.
3) After Talib was ejected, rookie Brendan Langley was inserted into the lineup and he got picked on by the Raiders offense time after time. He was the weak link in the secondary, and Oakland exploited it over and over again.
4) After Lynch didn't return,Trevor Siemian came in a led two touchdown drives to cut the lead to 21-14. I don't want to hear about Siemian at this point. He engineered two garbage time TDs. We have seen enough of Siemian and we know he isn't the answer at QB for this team. I really hope he doesn't start next week in Miami if Lynch can't go.
5) At 3-8 there is no hope and the season is done. There nothing for the Broncos to play for until next year. The only thing that matters is their draft position. At this point, it is probably better to just lose the rest of the way and get the highest pick possible. This has been an awful year all around. I think it is the worst in my lifetime as a Broncos fan. At least in 2010, we had to look forward to watching Tim Tebow the last three weeks of the year. I haven't been excited or had any thrill watching this team play since they beat the Raiders in Week 4. Every week they set a new record for futility. This week's loss was the first time the Broncos have lost 7 games since 1967. It has been just an awful, awful season in Broncos Country.
Saturday, November 25, 2017
Broncos-Raiders and Week 12 Picks!
The Broncos 2017 season is a disaster. I never would I have guessed that they would be 3-7 and basically playing out the string by Thanksgiving weekend. This past week featured the firing of OC Mike McCoy, Paxton Lynch named starter, the release of CB Lorenzo Doss for being late to practice, a bunch of fights at practice, and the relentless criticism of both John Elway and Vance Joseph. A lot of Bronco fans are taking the "Let's root against our team the rest of the year, so we can get a high draft pick next year" theory. I'm not and I never will root for the Broncos to lose. I don't believe in that in philosophy. My take is that let's see how Paxton Lynch plays the next six games. If he plays well, shows ability, and looks like he can be the guy going forward for this franchise, then that will help us next year and we can focus on drafting and improving this team in other areas. If Lynch is bad, looks lost and shows no promise that he is the guy going forward, then at least we know we have to do anything we can to improve our QB position next year via free agency or the draft. If anything with Lynch starting, it makes these last six games exciting and gives me something to root for.
Prediction: OAKLAND (-5) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-27 Broncos-9
Now, onto the picks for Week 12....
Last Week's Record: 9-5
Overall Record: 80-72-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CINCY (-7) over Cleveland: At 4-6 and with a favorable schedule down the stretch, the Bengals could actually make a run at the #6 seed in the AFC. They will get to 5-6 with a win over the winless Browns this week.
Chicago (+14) over PHILLY: The Eagles are 9-1 and have the best record in the NFL. They have the NFC East all but wrapped up at this point. I don't see a scenario where they lose this game or collapse down the stretch, but I think the Bears can keep this game close enough to cover.
Miami (+16) over NEW ENGLAND: There is no way that the Pats will lose this game, but keep in mind they played at Denver two weeks ago, stayed in Colorado all week to practice, then played in Mexico City against the Raiders last week. That is rough stretch in high altitude. I think they will be gassed a little in this game, play sluggish early, and gut out a win over the crappy Dolphins.
Buffalo (+10) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs will rebound from their terrible loss to the Giants last week, and they will get to 7-4, but I think the Bills will keep it close. Tyrod Taylor goes back to starting for the Bills after Nathan Peterman's awful performance last week. Close game, but KC gets the win late.
ATLANTA (-9) over Tampa Bay: The Falcons are 6-4 and I think they might be getting hot at the right time. I think they jump all over the 4-6 Bucs at home, who are still without Jameis Winston.
Carolina (-5) over NY JETS: The Jets are 4-6 and somehow still in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race. They host the 7-3 Panthers, and I think the Panthers won't mess around in this one. I think Carolina comes into Metlife Stadium and takes care of business.
Tennessee (-3) over INDY: The Titans are 6-4 and had 10 days to lick their wounds after getting blown out by the Steelers last Thursday night. Indy will start Jacoby Brissett after he suffered a concussion a few weeks ago. I like the Titans to get the road win and improve to 7-4.
Seattle (-6) over SAN FRANCISCO: How long do the Niners stick with C.J. Beatherd at QB before they turn to Jimmy Garrapolo? I would hope they would pull the trigger soon considering they are 1-9. Seattle is hurting and at 6-4, they are in danger of not making the playoffs. I think they rebound and get a much needed win this week in SF.
LA RAMS (-2) over New Orleans: Who would have thought that the marquee game in the NFC in Week 12 would be the Rams and Saints? Crazy season indeed. I think the Rams win this one because the Saints are banged up in the secondary, and the Ram offense can be explosive and exploit that. Plus, the Saints have won eight in a row, and I think they are due for a loss.
ARIZONA (+5) over Jacksonville: I know the Jags defense is the best in the NFL at this point. I know they are going against Blaine Gabbert and that Arizona offense, but I'm not ready to trust the Jags-especially on the road. I think this game is close and I think it is a field goal game either way.
PITTSBURGH (-14) over Green Bay: The NFL hasn't had a lot of things go their way this season, and here is another example of that bad luck. Instead of Aaron Rodgers and the Packers heading to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers in a huge Sunday night game on Thanksgiving weekend, we are subjected to the 5-5 Packers limping in there with Brett Hundley. This won't go well for the Packers. I think the Steelers roll at home to get to 9-2.
BALTIMORE (-7) over Houston: At 5-5, the Ravens are in contention for the 6th seed in the AFC. They have a favorable schedule down the stretch and I think they could sneak into the playoffs. They get Tom Savage and the Texans at home on Monday Night Football this week, and I think that their defense will feast and create problems all night for the Houston offense.
Prediction: OAKLAND (-5) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-27 Broncos-9
Now, onto the picks for Week 12....
Last Week's Record: 9-5
Overall Record: 80-72-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CINCY (-7) over Cleveland: At 4-6 and with a favorable schedule down the stretch, the Bengals could actually make a run at the #6 seed in the AFC. They will get to 5-6 with a win over the winless Browns this week.
Chicago (+14) over PHILLY: The Eagles are 9-1 and have the best record in the NFL. They have the NFC East all but wrapped up at this point. I don't see a scenario where they lose this game or collapse down the stretch, but I think the Bears can keep this game close enough to cover.
Miami (+16) over NEW ENGLAND: There is no way that the Pats will lose this game, but keep in mind they played at Denver two weeks ago, stayed in Colorado all week to practice, then played in Mexico City against the Raiders last week. That is rough stretch in high altitude. I think they will be gassed a little in this game, play sluggish early, and gut out a win over the crappy Dolphins.
Buffalo (+10) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs will rebound from their terrible loss to the Giants last week, and they will get to 7-4, but I think the Bills will keep it close. Tyrod Taylor goes back to starting for the Bills after Nathan Peterman's awful performance last week. Close game, but KC gets the win late.
ATLANTA (-9) over Tampa Bay: The Falcons are 6-4 and I think they might be getting hot at the right time. I think they jump all over the 4-6 Bucs at home, who are still without Jameis Winston.
Carolina (-5) over NY JETS: The Jets are 4-6 and somehow still in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race. They host the 7-3 Panthers, and I think the Panthers won't mess around in this one. I think Carolina comes into Metlife Stadium and takes care of business.
Tennessee (-3) over INDY: The Titans are 6-4 and had 10 days to lick their wounds after getting blown out by the Steelers last Thursday night. Indy will start Jacoby Brissett after he suffered a concussion a few weeks ago. I like the Titans to get the road win and improve to 7-4.
Seattle (-6) over SAN FRANCISCO: How long do the Niners stick with C.J. Beatherd at QB before they turn to Jimmy Garrapolo? I would hope they would pull the trigger soon considering they are 1-9. Seattle is hurting and at 6-4, they are in danger of not making the playoffs. I think they rebound and get a much needed win this week in SF.
LA RAMS (-2) over New Orleans: Who would have thought that the marquee game in the NFC in Week 12 would be the Rams and Saints? Crazy season indeed. I think the Rams win this one because the Saints are banged up in the secondary, and the Ram offense can be explosive and exploit that. Plus, the Saints have won eight in a row, and I think they are due for a loss.
ARIZONA (+5) over Jacksonville: I know the Jags defense is the best in the NFL at this point. I know they are going against Blaine Gabbert and that Arizona offense, but I'm not ready to trust the Jags-especially on the road. I think this game is close and I think it is a field goal game either way.
PITTSBURGH (-14) over Green Bay: The NFL hasn't had a lot of things go their way this season, and here is another example of that bad luck. Instead of Aaron Rodgers and the Packers heading to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers in a huge Sunday night game on Thanksgiving weekend, we are subjected to the 5-5 Packers limping in there with Brett Hundley. This won't go well for the Packers. I think the Steelers roll at home to get to 9-2.
BALTIMORE (-7) over Houston: At 5-5, the Ravens are in contention for the 6th seed in the AFC. They have a favorable schedule down the stretch and I think they could sneak into the playoffs. They get Tom Savage and the Texans at home on Monday Night Football this week, and I think that their defense will feast and create problems all night for the Houston offense.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Thanksgiving Day Picks!
DETROIT (+3) over Minnesota
DALLAS (+1) over LA Chargers
WASHINGTON (-7) over NY Giants
Broncos Fall to Bengals 20-17, Suffer Sixth Straight Defeat
The Broncos fell to the Bengals 20-17 on Sunday in Denver. The Broncos lost their sixth straight game, fall to 3-7, and their disastrous 2017 season continues with any playoff hopes dashed. It was a disappointing loss to a team that many people figured Denver would take care of and snap their losing streak, but it didn't work that way. Here are my "Five Points" from the game..
1) The following sequence really sums up the entire season so far: Denver forces an early three and out, and they block a Cincy punt to get good field position in Bengals territory. They drive down inside the five, and on 3rd and goal, Brock Osweiler gets picked off in the end zone by Dre Kirkpatrick, and he returned it to the Denver 3 yard line. They scored three plays later and all of a sudden they are down 6-0. All the momentum was gone and they were behind in the first quarter of a game once again.
2) Another play that just summarizes their season is this play: C.J. Anderson's fumble in the 4th quarter. Down 13-10, near midfield on a second down and Anderson breaks free for a short gain and gets hit by Vontaze Burfict and fumbles the ball and Cincy recovers. A few plays later, Andy Dalton hits A.J. Green for a touchdown and it is now 20-10 Cincy.
3) Bradley Roby got beat twice for big touchdowns, one in the second quarter and one in the fourth quarter, and it seemed like he didn't even care. Both were backbreaking plays, and Roby has been picked on all year long, and once again the Broncos defense didn't adjust during the game to a matchup problem.
4) If it is not the offense, then it is the special teams, then the defense lays an egg. Each week a different group makes a critical error. This team is just so bad to watch. It makes plays that are so bad that they look JV football team. It is just a mess all around and really hard to watch every week. This game was a perfect example of that.
5) The team is now 3-7 and the list of dubious marks just continues. It was the first time they lost to the Bengals at home since 1975, and it is the first six game losing streak for the Broncos since 1990. They are done as far as the playoffs are concerned and now it is time to turn it over to Paxton Lynch. Mike McCoy took the axe on Monday, and he is just one of the many heads that will roll. Right now, the Broncos have to hope two things going forward: 1) Paxton Lynch looks amazing or 2) They lose so many games that they are picking in the top 3 or 4 of the draft next year. It has been a rough year in Denver, and the sad part is that if they had won on Sunday, they would have only been 1 game out of the Wild Card and only 2 games out of the AFC West. Unfortunately, they lost to the Bengals and that effectively ends their playoff hopes and everyone in this organization (Front Office, Coaches, and Players) needs to be held accountable.
1) The following sequence really sums up the entire season so far: Denver forces an early three and out, and they block a Cincy punt to get good field position in Bengals territory. They drive down inside the five, and on 3rd and goal, Brock Osweiler gets picked off in the end zone by Dre Kirkpatrick, and he returned it to the Denver 3 yard line. They scored three plays later and all of a sudden they are down 6-0. All the momentum was gone and they were behind in the first quarter of a game once again.
2) Another play that just summarizes their season is this play: C.J. Anderson's fumble in the 4th quarter. Down 13-10, near midfield on a second down and Anderson breaks free for a short gain and gets hit by Vontaze Burfict and fumbles the ball and Cincy recovers. A few plays later, Andy Dalton hits A.J. Green for a touchdown and it is now 20-10 Cincy.
3) Bradley Roby got beat twice for big touchdowns, one in the second quarter and one in the fourth quarter, and it seemed like he didn't even care. Both were backbreaking plays, and Roby has been picked on all year long, and once again the Broncos defense didn't adjust during the game to a matchup problem.
4) If it is not the offense, then it is the special teams, then the defense lays an egg. Each week a different group makes a critical error. This team is just so bad to watch. It makes plays that are so bad that they look JV football team. It is just a mess all around and really hard to watch every week. This game was a perfect example of that.
5) The team is now 3-7 and the list of dubious marks just continues. It was the first time they lost to the Bengals at home since 1975, and it is the first six game losing streak for the Broncos since 1990. They are done as far as the playoffs are concerned and now it is time to turn it over to Paxton Lynch. Mike McCoy took the axe on Monday, and he is just one of the many heads that will roll. Right now, the Broncos have to hope two things going forward: 1) Paxton Lynch looks amazing or 2) They lose so many games that they are picking in the top 3 or 4 of the draft next year. It has been a rough year in Denver, and the sad part is that if they had won on Sunday, they would have only been 1 game out of the Wild Card and only 2 games out of the AFC West. Unfortunately, they lost to the Bengals and that effectively ends their playoff hopes and everyone in this organization (Front Office, Coaches, and Players) needs to be held accountable.
Friday, November 17, 2017
Broncos-Bengals and Week 11 Picks
I figured I would give the usual weekly breakdown of the Broncos game a break after this awful five game losing streak and the bleak year that they are going through. Sunday's game against the Bengals takes place on my birthday, November 19th, and I thought it would interesting to see how many times the Broncos actually played on my birthday since I have been a Broncos fan (1985.) It was neat to go back and look at how infrequent this occurrence was. Here are the games that the Broncos have played on my birthday:
1995: Broncos-30 Chargers-27: The Broncos got out to a 21-0 lead but lost the lead only to win the game on Jason Elam field goal late. I remember this game wasn't on in New York, but I watched whatever game was on to get the score every 10 minutes so.
2000: Broncos-38 Chargers-37: This was the Gus Frerotte game as he rallied the Broncos to win a shootout against Ryan Leaf in Mile High. Frerotte finished with 5 TDs in the epic comeback.
2006: Chargers-35 Broncos-27: This was a tough loss for the Broncos on SNF in Denver. Both teams came in at 7-2, and the Broncos had a 24-7 lead over SD, but the Chargers rallied back and won the game going away. This was the changing of the guard game in Mile High this year. The Broncos finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs.
2007: Broncos-34 Titans-20: The Broncos took it to the Titans on Monday Night Football back in 2007 The Broncos won the game by two touchdowns and they got their record to 5-5, but this was one of the last good memories of the season as the Broncos faded down the stretch that year and finished 7-9.
Sunday's game will only mark the fifth time that the Broncos will play on my birthday. Hopefully they win the game and end their five game losing streak. That would the best birthday gift that I could get.
Prediction: Cincy (+3) over DENVER
Final Score: Bengals-22 Broncos-19
Here are some quick picks for Week 11............
Last Week's Record: 7-5-2
Overall Record: 71-67-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CHICAGO (+4) over Detroit:
1995: Broncos-30 Chargers-27: The Broncos got out to a 21-0 lead but lost the lead only to win the game on Jason Elam field goal late. I remember this game wasn't on in New York, but I watched whatever game was on to get the score every 10 minutes so.
2000: Broncos-38 Chargers-37: This was the Gus Frerotte game as he rallied the Broncos to win a shootout against Ryan Leaf in Mile High. Frerotte finished with 5 TDs in the epic comeback.
2006: Chargers-35 Broncos-27: This was a tough loss for the Broncos on SNF in Denver. Both teams came in at 7-2, and the Broncos had a 24-7 lead over SD, but the Chargers rallied back and won the game going away. This was the changing of the guard game in Mile High this year. The Broncos finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs.
2007: Broncos-34 Titans-20: The Broncos took it to the Titans on Monday Night Football back in 2007 The Broncos won the game by two touchdowns and they got their record to 5-5, but this was one of the last good memories of the season as the Broncos faded down the stretch that year and finished 7-9.
Sunday's game will only mark the fifth time that the Broncos will play on my birthday. Hopefully they win the game and end their five game losing streak. That would the best birthday gift that I could get.
Prediction: Cincy (+3) over DENVER
Final Score: Bengals-22 Broncos-19
Here are some quick picks for Week 11............
Last Week's Record: 7-5-2
Overall Record: 71-67-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CHICAGO (+4) over Detroit:
Kansas City (-10) over NY GIANTS:
MIAMI (-1) over Tampa Bay:
Baltimore (-2) over GREEN BAY:
MINNESOTA (-2) over LA Rams:
HOUSTON (+1) over Arizona:
Jacksonville (-7) over CLEVELAND:
Washington (+8) over NEW ORLEANS:
LA CHARGERS (-3) over Buffalo:
New England (-6) over Oakland (In Mexico City):
DALLAS (+4) over Philadelphia:
SEATTLE (-3) over Atlanta:
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Monday, November 13, 2017
Broncos Falter, Get Embarrassed by Patriots, Fall to 3-6
The Patriots came to Denver on Sunday night and did what they had to do in shellacking the Broncos 41-16. The loss was Denver's fifth straight loss and the Broncos fall to 3-6. It was more of the same for the Broncos. The same issues that have buried the Broncos week after week came up again last night. Turnovers, penalties, awful mistakes, and no coaching adjustments were all on display in this game, and when that happens against the Patriots, you have no chance at all of winning the game. The Broncos have now fallen flat and their season is really spiraling out of control. I'll get into all of that in my "Five Points" regarding the Broncos listless defeat at the hands of the Pats....
1) The Broncos once again started off by committing turnovers and put themselves in a hole. After a NE three and out, the Broncos forced a punt, and Isaiah McKenzie muffed the punt and the Pats recovered. A few plays later, Tom Brady hit Rex Burkhead for a TD and the Broncos are already down 7-0. After a Broncos field goal, the Broncos kicked it to Dion Lewis and he went 103 yards to make it 14-3. Later in the half, the Broncos had a punt blocked, which led to a field goal to make it 20-6. They had a hat trick of special teams mistakes in the first half, and it absolutely killed the Broncos.
2) The Broncos added Vance Joseph as the new head coach, promoted Joe Woods to defensive coordinator, and made Brock Olivo the new special teams coach. All three looked liked they were completely outmatched in this game. Olivo's special teams units are so bad and made critical mistakes. Woods made no adjustments on defense, and VJ looks like he might be in over his head as a head coach in the NFL. There was a time when they only had 10 players on the field when the Pats scored a TD in the third quarter, and they had 12 men on the field when the Pats punted in the 4th quarter, and it kept the NE drive alive and the Pats scored another touchdown. THAT CAN'T HAPPEN! It looks really bad with the moves that the Broncos made regarding their coaches.
3) The Broncos defense can't cover any quality TE or any good back out of the backfield. It has been a problem for two years in a row, and this year it has killed them. All the Pats did was go to work in that area. Tom Brady didn't even challenge Chris Harris and Aqib Talib, and he just carved up the Broncos underneath with the TEs and RBs matched up on their LBs and Safeties. There was nothing the Broncos could do. They also couldn't get any pressure on Brady, and even when the Broncos somehow stabilized the game, the defense would give it right back to the Pats offense-including right before the half.
4) Brock Osweiler wasn't awful in this game. This loss was not on him. Also, Emmanuel Sanders played great and looked like he was one of the few guys to give a shit about this game. They just can't score TDs in the redzone. The Broncos know it, their fans know it, and the other team knows it. They drove the ball effectively on their first three drives but settled for field goals all three times. This offense isn't good enough to score touchdowns and in this game they needed touchdowns instead of field goals to keep this game close and that didn't happen.
5) The Broncos are heading into some uncharted territory as a franchise during this 2017 season. They have lost five in a row for the first time since 2010 (Josh McDaniels era). This was the largest margin of defeat at home since 2011. They have lost all five of these games by scores of 23-10, 21-0, 29-19, 51-23, and 41-16. They have given up 92 points in back-to-back weeks and that is the most points given up in two straight games since 1988. They are also second to last turnover ratio in the NFL. They are poorly coached, they have a terrible QB situation, their defense is not the same as the last two years, and they are basically non-competitive. It is hard to lose five straight games in the NFL and not be competitive in any of these games. They have only lead once the last five weeks and that was when they lead the Eagles 3-0 after the first drive two weeks ago. This is the worst Broncos team since that 4-12 2010 team, and it is one of the worst stretches of Broncos football in my lifetime. This was all on display in this debacle on SNF. Bill Belichick and Tom Brady absolutely toyed with the Broncos and embarrassed them. The sad part is that the Broncos fans now expect this to happen each week and the home crowd didn't seem to care. This season has just spiraled out of control and I think it is fare to question the Vance Joseph hire and it is time to look forward to 2018.
1) The Broncos once again started off by committing turnovers and put themselves in a hole. After a NE three and out, the Broncos forced a punt, and Isaiah McKenzie muffed the punt and the Pats recovered. A few plays later, Tom Brady hit Rex Burkhead for a TD and the Broncos are already down 7-0. After a Broncos field goal, the Broncos kicked it to Dion Lewis and he went 103 yards to make it 14-3. Later in the half, the Broncos had a punt blocked, which led to a field goal to make it 20-6. They had a hat trick of special teams mistakes in the first half, and it absolutely killed the Broncos.
2) The Broncos added Vance Joseph as the new head coach, promoted Joe Woods to defensive coordinator, and made Brock Olivo the new special teams coach. All three looked liked they were completely outmatched in this game. Olivo's special teams units are so bad and made critical mistakes. Woods made no adjustments on defense, and VJ looks like he might be in over his head as a head coach in the NFL. There was a time when they only had 10 players on the field when the Pats scored a TD in the third quarter, and they had 12 men on the field when the Pats punted in the 4th quarter, and it kept the NE drive alive and the Pats scored another touchdown. THAT CAN'T HAPPEN! It looks really bad with the moves that the Broncos made regarding their coaches.
3) The Broncos defense can't cover any quality TE or any good back out of the backfield. It has been a problem for two years in a row, and this year it has killed them. All the Pats did was go to work in that area. Tom Brady didn't even challenge Chris Harris and Aqib Talib, and he just carved up the Broncos underneath with the TEs and RBs matched up on their LBs and Safeties. There was nothing the Broncos could do. They also couldn't get any pressure on Brady, and even when the Broncos somehow stabilized the game, the defense would give it right back to the Pats offense-including right before the half.
4) Brock Osweiler wasn't awful in this game. This loss was not on him. Also, Emmanuel Sanders played great and looked like he was one of the few guys to give a shit about this game. They just can't score TDs in the redzone. The Broncos know it, their fans know it, and the other team knows it. They drove the ball effectively on their first three drives but settled for field goals all three times. This offense isn't good enough to score touchdowns and in this game they needed touchdowns instead of field goals to keep this game close and that didn't happen.
5) The Broncos are heading into some uncharted territory as a franchise during this 2017 season. They have lost five in a row for the first time since 2010 (Josh McDaniels era). This was the largest margin of defeat at home since 2011. They have lost all five of these games by scores of 23-10, 21-0, 29-19, 51-23, and 41-16. They have given up 92 points in back-to-back weeks and that is the most points given up in two straight games since 1988. They are also second to last turnover ratio in the NFL. They are poorly coached, they have a terrible QB situation, their defense is not the same as the last two years, and they are basically non-competitive. It is hard to lose five straight games in the NFL and not be competitive in any of these games. They have only lead once the last five weeks and that was when they lead the Eagles 3-0 after the first drive two weeks ago. This is the worst Broncos team since that 4-12 2010 team, and it is one of the worst stretches of Broncos football in my lifetime. This was all on display in this debacle on SNF. Bill Belichick and Tom Brady absolutely toyed with the Broncos and embarrassed them. The sad part is that the Broncos fans now expect this to happen each week and the home crowd didn't seem to care. This season has just spiraled out of control and I think it is fare to question the Vance Joseph hire and it is time to look forward to 2018.
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Broncos-Patriots Preview and Week 10 Picks!
The Broncos return to Denver with a 3-5 record, a four game losing streak, and a lot of issues as they embark on the second half of the season. Who is waiting for them on Sunday Night Football? The 6-2 Patriots. Normally, I would figure that the Broncos would be able to snap out of this funk, get a win at home, and get some confidence back, but with Tom Brady looming on Sunday night, I just can't see that happening. The Broncos are off to their worst start after eight games since 2011, and Tim Tebow saved that season, but I don't see Brock Osweiler or Paxton Lynch doing the same this year. The Broncos have lost four straight games by 10 or more points, which is the worst stretch since 1964! They have lost by a combined score of 31-13. It has been bad. The Patriots aren't sleeping on the Broncos at all, and I think they will be dialed in. Maybe Denver keeps it close for a little while, maybe they can frustrate Brady a little, and the defense should be better than it played last week in Philly. In the end, the Patriots will be too much for the Broncos to handle, and Denver will be handed their fifth straight defeat.
Prediction: New England (-7) over DENVER
Final Score: Patriots-26 Broncos-16
Now, onto the picks for Week 10 in the NFL.................
Last Week's Record: 4-7-2
Overall Record: 64-62-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
WASHINGTON (+2) over Minnesota: I'm in on the Vikings being a Super Bowl contender, but the obvious concern is QB Case Keenum. How about the possibility of Teddy Bridgewater returning to play for the Vikings this year? Wouldn't that be a nice addition for that team with Sam Bradford on IR? Anyway, it is Keenum again this week, and I think he will struggle for the 6-2 Vikings in Washington. The Redskins are 4-4 after a huge comeback win in Seattle. I think they will be too much for the Vikings in this game, and they will get to 5-4.
CHICAGO (-4) over Green Bay: The Packers are 4-4 and have lost three straight since Aaron Rodgers went down with a broken collarbone. They are pretty much finished with Brett Hundley at QB. I think their slide continues as they head to Soldier Field to take on the Bears. The Bears haven't had a lot of success against the Packers the past few years, but they will enjoy this one.
Pittsburgh (-9) over INDY: At 3-6, the Colts are struggling without Andrew Luck, and I think they will continue to struggle mightily against good teams like the Steelers. The Steelers have been known to lose these types of games against crappy teams, but I think they will break that trend this week in Indy.
JACKSONVILLE (-3) over LA Chargers: The Jags are 5-3 and in the thick of the playoff hunt in the AFC. Their defense is really good, and they are using that recipe to win games this year. I think this is a good matchup for them. The Chargers have to come all the way across the country and play an early game. The Jags crowd will be fired up at home, and I think the Jags defense rules the day once again.
TAMPA BAY (+3) over NY Jets: The Bucs are a major disappointment this year. At 2-6, they are basically out of the playoff race in the NFC, and now Jameis Winston is out at least two weeks with a shoulder injury. I know that Ryan Fitzpatrick is in at QB, but I have a feeling the Bucs will break out this week just enough to get the win. The Jets are playing well at 4-5, but I have a feeling they fall flat in TB on Sunday.
Cincy (+5) over TENNESSEE: I think that the Titans will win this game, but I don't love the line. I think the Bengals could be feisty in Tennessee on Sunday. I think the Titans are good, but I think that they are vulnerable at home in this spot. This feels like a 23-20 kind of game.
BUFFALO (+3) over New Orleans: How many people predicted that the top early game in Week 10 would be the Saints and Bills from Buffalo? The 6-2 Saints have won six in a row, and the Bills are 5-3, and they are on their way to a possible playoff berth in the AFC. The Bills are home and they are licking their wounds after a bad loss at the Jets last Thursday night. I think they turn back the Saints and end their six game winning streak, and the Bills get to 6-3.
DETROIT (-11) over Cleveland: Who cares about this game? The Lions will get to 5-4 and the Browns will suffer another defeat.
LA RAMS (-10) over Houston: Too many injuries (Deshaun Watson/J.J. Watt) for the Texans to overcome. Now, they have to head all the way to LA to take on the 6-2 red-hot Rams. I think the Rams continue their winning ways and they will move to 7-2 with a rather easy win at home.
ATLANTA (-3) over Dallas: The Falcons are 4-4 and need a win to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. The Cowboys are playing well at 5-3, but now Zeke Elliot is finally serving his six game suspension, so they will have a very tough time on the road without him. I think too much of this game will fall on Dak Prescott, and I think the home crowd will make a difference.
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over NY Giants: This is about as bad as it gets this year. The 1-7 Giants take on the 0-9 49ers. This game is a far cry from those classic 49er-Giants games in the 1980s.
Miami (+9) over CAROLINA: The Dolphins are 4-4, but with their offense you get the feeling that they are going nowhere this season. They head to Carolina to take on the 6-3 Panthers on Monday Night Football. I think the Panthers win, but I don't see them blowing out the Fish in this game.
Prediction: New England (-7) over DENVER
Final Score: Patriots-26 Broncos-16
Now, onto the picks for Week 10 in the NFL.................
Last Week's Record: 4-7-2
Overall Record: 64-62-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
WASHINGTON (+2) over Minnesota: I'm in on the Vikings being a Super Bowl contender, but the obvious concern is QB Case Keenum. How about the possibility of Teddy Bridgewater returning to play for the Vikings this year? Wouldn't that be a nice addition for that team with Sam Bradford on IR? Anyway, it is Keenum again this week, and I think he will struggle for the 6-2 Vikings in Washington. The Redskins are 4-4 after a huge comeback win in Seattle. I think they will be too much for the Vikings in this game, and they will get to 5-4.
CHICAGO (-4) over Green Bay: The Packers are 4-4 and have lost three straight since Aaron Rodgers went down with a broken collarbone. They are pretty much finished with Brett Hundley at QB. I think their slide continues as they head to Soldier Field to take on the Bears. The Bears haven't had a lot of success against the Packers the past few years, but they will enjoy this one.
Pittsburgh (-9) over INDY: At 3-6, the Colts are struggling without Andrew Luck, and I think they will continue to struggle mightily against good teams like the Steelers. The Steelers have been known to lose these types of games against crappy teams, but I think they will break that trend this week in Indy.
JACKSONVILLE (-3) over LA Chargers: The Jags are 5-3 and in the thick of the playoff hunt in the AFC. Their defense is really good, and they are using that recipe to win games this year. I think this is a good matchup for them. The Chargers have to come all the way across the country and play an early game. The Jags crowd will be fired up at home, and I think the Jags defense rules the day once again.
TAMPA BAY (+3) over NY Jets: The Bucs are a major disappointment this year. At 2-6, they are basically out of the playoff race in the NFC, and now Jameis Winston is out at least two weeks with a shoulder injury. I know that Ryan Fitzpatrick is in at QB, but I have a feeling the Bucs will break out this week just enough to get the win. The Jets are playing well at 4-5, but I have a feeling they fall flat in TB on Sunday.
Cincy (+5) over TENNESSEE: I think that the Titans will win this game, but I don't love the line. I think the Bengals could be feisty in Tennessee on Sunday. I think the Titans are good, but I think that they are vulnerable at home in this spot. This feels like a 23-20 kind of game.
BUFFALO (+3) over New Orleans: How many people predicted that the top early game in Week 10 would be the Saints and Bills from Buffalo? The 6-2 Saints have won six in a row, and the Bills are 5-3, and they are on their way to a possible playoff berth in the AFC. The Bills are home and they are licking their wounds after a bad loss at the Jets last Thursday night. I think they turn back the Saints and end their six game winning streak, and the Bills get to 6-3.
DETROIT (-11) over Cleveland: Who cares about this game? The Lions will get to 5-4 and the Browns will suffer another defeat.
LA RAMS (-10) over Houston: Too many injuries (Deshaun Watson/J.J. Watt) for the Texans to overcome. Now, they have to head all the way to LA to take on the 6-2 red-hot Rams. I think the Rams continue their winning ways and they will move to 7-2 with a rather easy win at home.
ATLANTA (-3) over Dallas: The Falcons are 4-4 and need a win to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. The Cowboys are playing well at 5-3, but now Zeke Elliot is finally serving his six game suspension, so they will have a very tough time on the road without him. I think too much of this game will fall on Dak Prescott, and I think the home crowd will make a difference.
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over NY Giants: This is about as bad as it gets this year. The 1-7 Giants take on the 0-9 49ers. This game is a far cry from those classic 49er-Giants games in the 1980s.
Miami (+9) over CAROLINA: The Dolphins are 4-4, but with their offense you get the feeling that they are going nowhere this season. They head to Carolina to take on the 6-3 Panthers on Monday Night Football. I think the Panthers win, but I don't see them blowing out the Fish in this game.
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Monday, November 6, 2017
Broncos Hit Rock Bottom in 51-23 Humilating Loss to the Eagles, Fall to 3-5
There isn't a lot of positive things to write about after Denver's 51-23 loss to the Eagles in Philly on Sunday. I thought the Broncos might be able keep this game close and give the Eagles and Carson Wentz some trouble but I was dead wrong. There isn't too much to say about the game, but here are my "Five Points" about the latest debacle by the Broncos....
1) The Broncos got blitzkrieged early by the Eagles and they had no answers on defense. Once they got down 17-3, you knew the game was over. I guess it was a matter of time before the defense finally collapsed in a game, and Sunday was that game. They got out-executed and out-coached, and the Eagles offense completely took control of the game and ran away with it.
2) Brock Osweiler wasn't good, but he performed the same way Trevor Siemian would have played anyway. He finished 19-38 for 209 yards 1TD (Garbage time), and 2 INT. I wasn't expecting a big-time performance but I thought he might be able to play smart enough to avoid turnovers and keep the Broncos in the game. His interception when they were down in their own end down 10-3 in the first quarter was a really bad. He looked like his pass was intended for the Eagles defender instead of Demaryius Thomas. It led to a Philly touchdown to make it 17-3 and the game was pretty much over from that standpoint.
3) The Broncos commit so many penalties every week. They hold on offense, they hold or block in the back on special teams returns, they go offside on defense all the time, and it is week after week they make these mistakes. It's pretty bad. That is bad coaching and bad football all around, and it was really embarrassing this week.
4) I don't think the Broncos quit in this game. I think that narrative was being thrown around after the game on Sunday, and I don't think the Broncos quit-even on defense. I think they got out-executed and got flat out beat, but I don't think they quit.
5) This was the first time the Broncos gave up 50 or more points in a game since 2010 when the Raiders dropped 59 on the Broncos in Denver. They game led to the firing of head coach Josh McDaniels. The Broncos have now lost four straight games and this game was the worst of the bunch. The Broncos were simply no match for the Eagles, and they look like they have a lot more problems than just the lack of a QB at this point. At 3-5, it doesn't get any easier for the Broncos as the Patriots are coming into Denver next Sunday night. It is a tough time for the Broncos and the fanbase right now. We haven't been here since the Josh McDaniels-Kyle Orton days. We still have eight games left to turn things around, but it is hard right now to see how the Broncos can get out of this mess and make something of this season.
1) The Broncos got blitzkrieged early by the Eagles and they had no answers on defense. Once they got down 17-3, you knew the game was over. I guess it was a matter of time before the defense finally collapsed in a game, and Sunday was that game. They got out-executed and out-coached, and the Eagles offense completely took control of the game and ran away with it.
2) Brock Osweiler wasn't good, but he performed the same way Trevor Siemian would have played anyway. He finished 19-38 for 209 yards 1TD (Garbage time), and 2 INT. I wasn't expecting a big-time performance but I thought he might be able to play smart enough to avoid turnovers and keep the Broncos in the game. His interception when they were down in their own end down 10-3 in the first quarter was a really bad. He looked like his pass was intended for the Eagles defender instead of Demaryius Thomas. It led to a Philly touchdown to make it 17-3 and the game was pretty much over from that standpoint.
3) The Broncos commit so many penalties every week. They hold on offense, they hold or block in the back on special teams returns, they go offside on defense all the time, and it is week after week they make these mistakes. It's pretty bad. That is bad coaching and bad football all around, and it was really embarrassing this week.
4) I don't think the Broncos quit in this game. I think that narrative was being thrown around after the game on Sunday, and I don't think the Broncos quit-even on defense. I think they got out-executed and got flat out beat, but I don't think they quit.
5) This was the first time the Broncos gave up 50 or more points in a game since 2010 when the Raiders dropped 59 on the Broncos in Denver. They game led to the firing of head coach Josh McDaniels. The Broncos have now lost four straight games and this game was the worst of the bunch. The Broncos were simply no match for the Eagles, and they look like they have a lot more problems than just the lack of a QB at this point. At 3-5, it doesn't get any easier for the Broncos as the Patriots are coming into Denver next Sunday night. It is a tough time for the Broncos and the fanbase right now. We haven't been here since the Josh McDaniels-Kyle Orton days. We still have eight games left to turn things around, but it is hard right now to see how the Broncos can get out of this mess and make something of this season.
Friday, November 3, 2017
Broncos-Eagles Preview and Week 9 Picks
The Broncos head to Philly on Sunday to take on Carson Wentz and the 7-1 Eagles in a must win game for the 3-4 Broncos. Trevor Siemian is benched and in comes Brock Osweiler for the start on Sunday. If you would have told me in mid-August that Osweiler would be starting at QB for the Broncos this year, I wouldn't have believed it, but here we are. I'm actually a little excited to see him start, and I'm just happy that Trevor Siemian is done. I couldn't take much more of Siemian. I'm not expecting a lot out of Osweiler this week, but you never know what can happen. The whole offense has to play better. They can't drop passes, fumble the ball, commit turnovers, and make all the mistakes that a typical JV football team makes. In any event, I think the game will be close for a little while, but ultimately Brock won't be able to revive this offense, and the Broncos will lose for the fourth straight game.
Prediction: PHILLY(-7) over Denver
Final Score: Eagles-24 Broncos-14
Now, onto the picks for Week 9 in the National...............Football..................League:
Last Week's Record: 7-6
Overall Record: 60-55-4
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (+4) over LA Rams: Home underdogs have performed well this year, and eventhough the Giants are a dumpster fire, I can see them playing well enough to pull the upset over the Rams or even keep it close. I'll take the Giants at home to get their second win.
Tampa Bay (+7) over NEW ORLEANS: I think the Saints will win the game, but I think Tampa Bay has to play well at some point and put one good game together. At 2-5, they are in desperate need of a win, and I think they will make this a very close game.
Cincinnati (+6) over JACKSONVILLE: I know Jacksonville's defense is very good, but you can't trust them week to week because of their QB situation. I think Cincy is done at 3-4, but I could see them pulling the upset on the road. I just can't get a handle on the Jags just yet.
CAROLINA (+1) over Atlanta: The Falcons got a win over the Jets last week to get to 4-3, and the Panthers come in at 5-3, so this is a pretty big game in the NFC South. I like Carolina as a home underdog here. Atlanta was lucky to even beat the Jets, so I'll stick with the Panthers to get to 6-3.
Indy (+7) over HOUSTON: Andrew Luck was officially placed on IR, so he is done for the season. It will be Jacoby Brissett the rest of the way for the Colts. I think that the Colts can actually be somewhat competitive here because the Texans suffered a terrible blow when Deshaun Watson went down in practice on Thursday with a torn ACL. They now have to turn to Tom Savage once again, and I think the effects of that injury to Watson will kill their season. I'll take Indy and the points.
TENNESSEE (-3) over Baltimore: The Ravens got back to 4-4 with a win over the Dolphins last Thursday night. The Titans are 4-3 and are trying to take control of the AFC South. This is a big game in the AFC. Normally, I would take the Ravens in this type of spot, but I like the Titans here. I think they make a statement that the South is there for them to grab. I'll take Tennessee at home.
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over Arizona: Drew Stanton on the road for the Cardinals. That statement right there is enough for me to take the 49ers as home underdogs. I think SF will finally get their first win of the year and continue the good vibes the organization is feeling after trading for Jimmy Garropolo this week.
SEATTLE (-7) over Washington: The Redskins are 3-4, banged up, and fading in the NFC East. I think the Seahawks are going to be there in the end in the NFC, so I think they continue their winning ways and bounce the Redskins.
Kansas City (PICK) over DALLAS: Zeke Elliot will be playing in this game as his suspension gets delayed once again. This should be a fun matchup in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The 4-3 Cowboys hosting the 6-2 Chiefs. I have liked KC all week long, and I still like them. This should be a fun game, but look for a late KC drive to win it and get them to 7-2.
Oakland (-3) over MIAMI: Talk about a Sunday Night Football stinker. The Raiders are struggling at 3-5, and the Dolphins are a bad 4-3 team. Both teams have offenses that are really struggling to move the ball and score points. This could be a snoozefest on SNF. I think the Raiders are not dead yet, and I could see them playing better in the second half of the season as opposed to the Fish. I'll take Oakland here to get to 4-5.
Detroit (-2) over GREEN BAY: Pretty weak Monday night game with Aaron Rodgers out with a broken collarbone. Brett Hundley just doesn't move the needle. I think the Lions will win the game because I just don't know what to expect out of the Packers without Rodgers, so until they prove me wrong, then I have to go against them each week.
Prediction: PHILLY(-7) over Denver
Final Score: Eagles-24 Broncos-14
Now, onto the picks for Week 9 in the National...............Football..................League:
Last Week's Record: 7-6
Overall Record: 60-55-4
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (+4) over LA Rams: Home underdogs have performed well this year, and eventhough the Giants are a dumpster fire, I can see them playing well enough to pull the upset over the Rams or even keep it close. I'll take the Giants at home to get their second win.
Tampa Bay (+7) over NEW ORLEANS: I think the Saints will win the game, but I think Tampa Bay has to play well at some point and put one good game together. At 2-5, they are in desperate need of a win, and I think they will make this a very close game.
Cincinnati (+6) over JACKSONVILLE: I know Jacksonville's defense is very good, but you can't trust them week to week because of their QB situation. I think Cincy is done at 3-4, but I could see them pulling the upset on the road. I just can't get a handle on the Jags just yet.
CAROLINA (+1) over Atlanta: The Falcons got a win over the Jets last week to get to 4-3, and the Panthers come in at 5-3, so this is a pretty big game in the NFC South. I like Carolina as a home underdog here. Atlanta was lucky to even beat the Jets, so I'll stick with the Panthers to get to 6-3.
Indy (+7) over HOUSTON: Andrew Luck was officially placed on IR, so he is done for the season. It will be Jacoby Brissett the rest of the way for the Colts. I think that the Colts can actually be somewhat competitive here because the Texans suffered a terrible blow when Deshaun Watson went down in practice on Thursday with a torn ACL. They now have to turn to Tom Savage once again, and I think the effects of that injury to Watson will kill their season. I'll take Indy and the points.
TENNESSEE (-3) over Baltimore: The Ravens got back to 4-4 with a win over the Dolphins last Thursday night. The Titans are 4-3 and are trying to take control of the AFC South. This is a big game in the AFC. Normally, I would take the Ravens in this type of spot, but I like the Titans here. I think they make a statement that the South is there for them to grab. I'll take Tennessee at home.
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over Arizona: Drew Stanton on the road for the Cardinals. That statement right there is enough for me to take the 49ers as home underdogs. I think SF will finally get their first win of the year and continue the good vibes the organization is feeling after trading for Jimmy Garropolo this week.
SEATTLE (-7) over Washington: The Redskins are 3-4, banged up, and fading in the NFC East. I think the Seahawks are going to be there in the end in the NFC, so I think they continue their winning ways and bounce the Redskins.
Kansas City (PICK) over DALLAS: Zeke Elliot will be playing in this game as his suspension gets delayed once again. This should be a fun matchup in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The 4-3 Cowboys hosting the 6-2 Chiefs. I have liked KC all week long, and I still like them. This should be a fun game, but look for a late KC drive to win it and get them to 7-2.
Oakland (-3) over MIAMI: Talk about a Sunday Night Football stinker. The Raiders are struggling at 3-5, and the Dolphins are a bad 4-3 team. Both teams have offenses that are really struggling to move the ball and score points. This could be a snoozefest on SNF. I think the Raiders are not dead yet, and I could see them playing better in the second half of the season as opposed to the Fish. I'll take Oakland here to get to 4-5.
Detroit (-2) over GREEN BAY: Pretty weak Monday night game with Aaron Rodgers out with a broken collarbone. Brett Hundley just doesn't move the needle. I think the Lions will win the game because I just don't know what to expect out of the Packers without Rodgers, so until they prove me wrong, then I have to go against them each week.
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Broncos Fall to Chiefs 29-19, Third Straight Loss Puts Them at 3-4
The Broncos lost 29-19 in Arrowhead Stadium to the Chiefs on Monday night. The Broncos have now lost three straight games and sit at 3-4. What once looked like a promising season at 3-1 has now turned into a possibly disastrous year as they are looking down the barrel at 3-6 after the next two weeks against Philly and New England. The Broncos fell behind 14-0 early, rallied to make it a one score game at 20-13 late in the third quarter, but ultimately couldn't complete the comeback as the Chiefs pulled away and won 29-19. The Broncos made mistakes like they always seem to do the last three weeks. Three Trevor Siemian interceptions, a Jamaal Charles fumble,a fumble on a punt return, and numerous dropped passes just killed the Broncos in this game, and once again put them in position to lose. Here are my "Five Points" from the game....
1) Trevor Siemian was awful once again. He has poorly since the second half of Week 3 against the Bills. He missed an open A.J. Derby on the first third down of the game, and that set the tone. His interceptions were awful throws. The one to Marcus Peters in the first quarter down 14-0 looked like he was throwing to Peters instead of Demaryius Thomas. He took sacks when he couldn't, he looked skittish, and he looked like he was lost out there. Siemian deserved to be benched in the game. He hasn't played well enough for this team, and when he got hot later in the game, it was too little too late.
2) The Broncos defense played well once again. They had trouble stopping Travis Kelce, but otherwise they shut down Kareem Hunt, and they did a nice job on Alex Smith and Tyreek Hill. They play hard every week and they kept this game somewhat close, but they were put in bad situations all night long; however, at 20-13 in the early fourth quarter, they have to stop the Chiefs and get off the field on that drive. Instead, they allowed KC to go down the field and get a field goal to make it a two score game.
3) The Broncos turn the ball over and make mistakes like a JV football team. It's unreal. Three interceptions by Siemian were awful, but Jamaal Charles fumbled on the second series of the game when they were driving and Marcus Peters returned it for a touchdown to make it 7-0. Isaiah McKenzie has been shaky as a punt returner and he fumbled a punt once again. Bennie Fowler and Virgil Green each had key drops in the second half-Fowler dropped a sure touchdown. It is almost comical at this point. There turnover margin is second worst to the Browns in the NFL. It is just hard to watch and Monday night was a prime example of that.
4) I'm not going to kill Vance Joseph yet, but I felt like he didn't have the pulse of his team by not benching Trevor Siemian in the second half. You can't play any worse than Siemian did in the first half, and the fact that VJ kept him in there made me wonder for the first time if he can handle the moment as a head coach and decisions like this are something that needs to be looked at in the future.
5) This game was 14-0 and Siemian threw a pick to Peters, and the Chiefs were about to go up 21-0 or 17-0 when they had a first and goal inside the Broncos 10. KC called a halfback option pass to Tyreek Hill and he got intercepted it the endzone by Darian Stewart. That was the only reason why this game wasn't a huge blowout for the Chiefs. A poor playcall by Andy Reid prevented it from happening. The Broncos now find themselves at 3-4 and they head to Philly to take on the 7-1 Eagles. They have to bench Siemian and turn it over to Brock Osweiler while Paxton Lynch recovers from his shoulder injury. As soon as Lynch is healthy, then he should get a turn. I'm not expecting a miracle from Osweiler, but it is better than watching Siemian out there. Lastly, all is not totally lost for the Broncos. They are 3-4, but if they can somehow manage a split the next two games, which will not be easy, they can be 4-5 with Cincy coming to Denver on November 19th. It would help if they could cut down the turnovers. If they do that, then they will have a chance.
1) Trevor Siemian was awful once again. He has poorly since the second half of Week 3 against the Bills. He missed an open A.J. Derby on the first third down of the game, and that set the tone. His interceptions were awful throws. The one to Marcus Peters in the first quarter down 14-0 looked like he was throwing to Peters instead of Demaryius Thomas. He took sacks when he couldn't, he looked skittish, and he looked like he was lost out there. Siemian deserved to be benched in the game. He hasn't played well enough for this team, and when he got hot later in the game, it was too little too late.
2) The Broncos defense played well once again. They had trouble stopping Travis Kelce, but otherwise they shut down Kareem Hunt, and they did a nice job on Alex Smith and Tyreek Hill. They play hard every week and they kept this game somewhat close, but they were put in bad situations all night long; however, at 20-13 in the early fourth quarter, they have to stop the Chiefs and get off the field on that drive. Instead, they allowed KC to go down the field and get a field goal to make it a two score game.
3) The Broncos turn the ball over and make mistakes like a JV football team. It's unreal. Three interceptions by Siemian were awful, but Jamaal Charles fumbled on the second series of the game when they were driving and Marcus Peters returned it for a touchdown to make it 7-0. Isaiah McKenzie has been shaky as a punt returner and he fumbled a punt once again. Bennie Fowler and Virgil Green each had key drops in the second half-Fowler dropped a sure touchdown. It is almost comical at this point. There turnover margin is second worst to the Browns in the NFL. It is just hard to watch and Monday night was a prime example of that.
4) I'm not going to kill Vance Joseph yet, but I felt like he didn't have the pulse of his team by not benching Trevor Siemian in the second half. You can't play any worse than Siemian did in the first half, and the fact that VJ kept him in there made me wonder for the first time if he can handle the moment as a head coach and decisions like this are something that needs to be looked at in the future.
5) This game was 14-0 and Siemian threw a pick to Peters, and the Chiefs were about to go up 21-0 or 17-0 when they had a first and goal inside the Broncos 10. KC called a halfback option pass to Tyreek Hill and he got intercepted it the endzone by Darian Stewart. That was the only reason why this game wasn't a huge blowout for the Chiefs. A poor playcall by Andy Reid prevented it from happening. The Broncos now find themselves at 3-4 and they head to Philly to take on the 7-1 Eagles. They have to bench Siemian and turn it over to Brock Osweiler while Paxton Lynch recovers from his shoulder injury. As soon as Lynch is healthy, then he should get a turn. I'm not expecting a miracle from Osweiler, but it is better than watching Siemian out there. Lastly, all is not totally lost for the Broncos. They are 3-4, but if they can somehow manage a split the next two games, which will not be easy, they can be 4-5 with Cincy coming to Denver on November 19th. It would help if they could cut down the turnovers. If they do that, then they will have a chance.
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