Against the Panthers, the Broncos finally found an identity on offense
Dec 15, 2020, 6:04 AM
A huge problem the Broncos have had in recent years on offense is a lack of identity. They never really knew what it is they did well, if anything. And every week seemed to be a different approach.
Plays did not match personnel and the Broncos were always playing catch up. This past Sunday against the Panthers, the Broncos found a formula and should become their new offensive identity.
What did the Broncos do differently against the Panthers compared to recent weeks? The Broncos were committed to running the football, gave Drew Lock some easy throws with slants and screens, and didn’t ask their quarterback to do too much, as he only threw 27 passes.
Pat Shurmur has typically gone with three wide receiver sets and avoided running the ball. The Broncos wanted to show off the speedy players they drafted and use Lock’s arm to push the ball down the field.
There was only one problem. The Broncos were not very good at those things.
The Broncos new identity on offense needs to be one of balance. Do not go away from the run game after a couple of three-yard gains. Stop asking Drew Lock to throw it more than 35 times. And take advantage of the short passing game.
This offense is not ready to be high-flying like the Chiefs. But they do have talent.
Look at teams with an identity. The Titans will run the ball with Derrick Henry whether they’re up or down three scores. It doesn’t matter; that’s how they play. The Browns wanted Baker Mayfield to air it out 40 times a game. It didn’t work. Now, they’ve established the best rushing attack in the league and Baker is looking pretty good.
Identity is key, and the Broncos have not had one on the offensive side of the ball since Peyton Manning retired. This past week against Carolina gave us a peak at what this team could look like moving forward.
