The Denver Broncos are off to a 2-1 start, but just as last year, it does not feel like a successful start to the season. Case Keenum is still definitely an upgrade from Trevor Siemien, but he has not yielded the same results as he did last year in Minnesota. He has already thrown five interceptions and his decision making has been questionable. Is it time for Bronco Country to panic?
Fourth Quarter Production Reason For Encouragement?
Despite an iffy start, it is not yet time for Bronco Country to hit the panic button. One distinct difference from last year is the Broncos ability to rally in the fourth quarter and win games late. Case Keenum has been atrocious in the first three quarters, but his production in the fourth quarter has been up there with the best quarterbacks in the league. In the first three quarters, he has a 56% completion rate, two touchdowns, four interceptions and a 62 QB rating. In the fourth quarter, he has a 73% completion rate, one touchdown, one interception, a 94 QB rating and two game-winning drives. Now say what you want about Keenum, but his production in the most important quarter has been excellent. Of course, Keenum needs to be able to display consistent quarterback play throughout the whole game but he has shown the ability to do so.
Rookies
Another bright spot for the Broncos has been their rookie production. Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman compliment each other very well in the backfield. The Broncos only loss came in a game where Lindsay was tossed from the game on a very questionable ejection. When the Broncos are running the ball effectively with their two-headed monster, it opens up the game for Keenum and the whole offense is able to run smoothly. On the other side of the ball, rookie Bradley Chubb has been a workhorse. He has played the majority of snaps opposite Von Miller and has been able to consistently get pressure on the quarterback. With Miller attracting double teams, look for Chubb to rack up big sack numbers for the rest of the season.
Not Time to Panic Just Yet
Of course, Bronco Country would rather have a high powered offense to start the season instead of an offense that has reminded them a little too much of theirs in the previous two seasons, but there are reasons to be encouraged. On defense, the Broncos need to shore up their secondary play and try to get Von Miller more favourable matchups on the line in order to get raise their defense to their full potential. The Broncos must continue to develop the run game in order to give Keenum more time and space in the passing game. And lastly, the Broncos need to be more creative with their play calling on both sides of the ball. The Broncos have special playmakers like Lindsay, Sanders, Miller and Harris and can create mismatches if used properly. Look for the coaching staff to utilize these players more as the season goes on in creative packages. Overall, there is no reason to panic yet for the Broncos. The season is just getting started.
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