ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — As the Denver Broncos reach the midpoint of the season, a prominent observation is their ongoing struggle with turnovers. Currently, the Broncos hold a record of 5-4 and find themselves at a disadvantage, sitting at minus-1 in turnover differential with 12 takeaways and 13 giveaways.
To turn their season around, it is vital for the Broncos to improve their turnover ratio, regain their momentum in the rushing game, and strengthen their run defense. These elements are essential for achieving a successful season that could potentially lead to a winning record for the first time since 2016, and perhaps a playoff appearance for the first time since 2015.
Prior to their recent heavy defeat against Baltimore, the Broncos had shown promise in both running the football and containing their opponents’ rushing attacks. Coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of returning to this level of performance, stating, “Getting back to that is going to be vital to this team winning.” He added a note of concern about their current turnover situation, suggesting that if the team continues on this path by season’s end, it would not bode well. Payton expressed that the team is not in a position to afford a negative turnover differential.
In addition to improving turnovers, a key focus will be on enhancing their run defense. The Broncos faltered against running back Derrick Henry, who rushed for 106 yards and scored two touchdowns. Payton remarked on the challenges the team could face if they do not rectify their run defense, as it is crucial for playing the game on their own terms to meet their objectives.
The Broncos’ rushing attack struggled significantly against the Ravens, with running back Javonte Williams only managing 42 yards on 12 carries. Jaleel McLaughlin further contributed to the lack of production with just 10 yards on five carries, while rookie Audric Estime added 35 yards on five carries in garbage time. When asked if Estime would see more playing time going forward, Payton responded positively, acknowledging it as a pertinent question.
On a more positive note, the team has successfully implemented trick plays. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton executed a pass for a touchdown to quarterback Bo Nix, showcasing creative play-calling during a crucial moment. This play occurred on fourth-and-goal, narrowing the score to 10-7 midway through the second quarter.
However, issues remain regarding both the effectiveness of the rushing game and their capacity to stop the run.
When analyzing individual performances, quarterback Bo Nix stands out, having already secured more victories as a rookie than anyone in franchise history, surpassing accomplishments by both John Elway and Drew Lock. His swift play has surprised many, as he has accumulated nearly 300 rushing yards alongside 1,753 passing yards.
On the downside, tight end Greg Dulcich, who was anticipated to play a significant role this season, has not seen action in five consecutive games due to subpar early-season performance. Payton has noted Dulcich’s good attitude and hard work to reclaim his position but acknowledged other tight ends are currently outperforming him.
Injury updates indicate that safety P.J. Locke is recovering from a thumb injury and has missed the last two games, whereas safety Delarrin Turner-Yell may return soon from a knee injury.
Key statistics include Nik Bonitto’s impressive streak of six consecutive games with a sack, marking the best run for a Broncos defender since Von Miller in 2018. Additionally, Nix’s five wins set a record for a rookie quarterback in Denver, and with Sutton’s touchdown pass on Sunday, he joins the group of Broncos receivers who have thrown touchdown passes.
Looking ahead, the Broncos are set to face the Kansas City Chiefs this weekend before hosting the Atlanta Falcons for a critical stretch of games.