
Understanding the Broncos' Offensive Dilemma
As the Denver Broncos grapple with their early-season identity, frustrations are mounting, especially surrounding their offensive play. Head coach Sean Payton, known for his tactical genius, is seemingly caught in a game of strategy where he's playing with the wrong pieces. The team is struggling to adapt to a fast-paced league, which has profound implications for their season.
What’s Wrong with the Offense?
The key issue lies in the Broncos finishing dead last in first- and second-down success rates this season. An inability to sustain drives puts massive pressure on the defense and puts the offense in tough positions. Payton’s scheme appears to be a mismatch for the current roster, with quarterback Bo Nix underperforming, completing just 50% of his short passes. If the Broncos hope to regain their competitive edge, they need to re-evaluate their play-calling to emphasize the strengths of their offensive line and the capabilities of their running backs.
The Solution: A Commitment to the Run Game
Surprisingly, despite possessing a highly-rated offensive line, the Broncos are averaging only 3 yards per carry. This inefficiency can be traced to a lack of commitment from Payton to establish a run-focused game plan, despite recognizing the importance of winning in the trenches. It is time for Payton to pivot from trying to impose his desired style onto the team and tailor the offense to better fit the current players on the roster.
Rallying for the September Stretch
The upcoming games for the Broncos, including a chance to face a struggling Cincinnati Bengals team, present an opportunity. With a manageable schedule ahead, the time is ripe for them to establish an offensive identity that emphasizes running the football, paving the way for play-action opportunities that could rejuvenate their passing game.
The Bottom Line
It’s not too late for the Broncos to turn things around. However, they must make immediate adjustments and buy into a system that emphasizes their strengths. By leaning into the fundamentals of a strong ground game and allowing their offensive line to set the tone, the Broncos can build a foundation for success this season.
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