Pritchard: Broncos offensive rollercoaster ride in need of maintenance
Nov 10, 2017, 10:48 AM | Updated: 10:51 am
Through eight games of the 2017 NFL season, I’m officially declaring the Denver Broncos offense is in the shop.
It’s been a rollercoaster-type year so far. The Broncos started off with a nice accent to the top of the AFC with an impressive 3-1 record but since have come crashing down with four consecutive losses.
And just like any other thrill ride, the screaming on the way down has been audible. While the Broncos defense has played well, the offense has struggled to average 13 points per game during the skid.
Thrill rides from time to time require routine maintenance should, and in order to do so, you must first park the attraction.
Trevor Siemian has been benched, and Brock Osweiler is now the starting quarterback for the struggling Broncos offense. But, for how long? Osweiler provided no help and did not spark any confidence in the losing effort against the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday.
Starting right tackle Menelik Watson is now on injured reserve and out for the remainder of the season. Through eight games Denver’s offensive line has been, well, offensive. Now, depth becomes an issue as the Broncos relied on the free agent to help anchor the rebuilt position.
Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders has been slowed with an injured ankle and Demaryius Thomas has clearly lost a step.
The tight end position has been inconsistent. There was a glimmer of good news for Denver, with rookie Jake Butt set to come off the physically unable to perform list. He was supposed to settle in as a weapon at the tight end position, but the Broncos fifth-round draft pick has now been put on injured reserve as well.
The strength of the offense should have been the running back position. C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker, and Jamaal Charles have all been a part of a three-man rotation. While effective at times, these players have not been consistent enough to make a difference.
Can all the issues on offense for the Broncos be fixed?
Sure they can. The solution is actually simple. Each player at every position on offense needs to play better. Each player on offense needs to play for each other and build confidence together.
Broncos Country is excited about the attraction to reopen. The 2017 Denver Broncos still have a chance to win games and excite fans.
However, a poor performance against the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots will shut down this attraction and force the Denver to construct a new one.
