The Broncos’ lack of consistency in the passing game is causing dysfunction
Even with Wilson’s eternal optimism, he couldn’t be bothered by how poorly he played under the lights.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – OCTOBER 12: Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) warms up before the game on October 12, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Denver Broncos 19-8 at GEHA Field in Arrowhead in Week 6 of the NFL regular season.
DENVER, CO – APRIL 19: Denver Post sports reporter Ryan McFadden before the first quarter between the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 in Denver.
The Broncos’ 19-8 loss to the Chiefs on Thursday night was another stain on quarterback Russell Wilson’s legacy in Denver. He threw for 95 yards, the third most of his career, and had a touchdown and two interceptions as the Broncos struggled in the passing game despite the defense holding up.
“You have to be better at throwing the ball to win in our league,” coach Sean Payton said after Denver’s 16th straight loss against a division opponent.
On Monday, Payton clarified that his comments weren’t directed at one player, but at the entire offense, and he’s right. The Broncos’ last two losses to the New York Jets and Kansas City exposed problems in the offensive attack, from play calling and coverage to a lack of production at wide receiver and Wilson. “You want to trust the pocket and we’ve got to find ways to get guys open,” Payton said. “In general, it has to be effective on early downs. It can’t just be third down.”
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Even with Wilson’s eternal optimism, he couldn’t be dismayed by how poorly he played under the lights. He averaged 4.3 yards per pass attempt and had a passer rating of 46.6. In the first quarter, Wilson tried a throw to wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, but was intercepted by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton. With 5:45 left in the third quarter, Wilson’s pass to tight end Greg Dulcich was thrown by linebacker Willie Gay Jr. before Justin Reid secured an interception.
Wilson has 16 touchdown passes over the past four seasons (62 games) with the Seattle Seahawks. He has 25 pass attempts at quarterback in 21 games with the Broncos.
“I have to play better,” he said in a dark tone after the game.
Denver’s play calling was questionable at times on Thursday. With 2:17 left in the second quarter, Denver attempted a pass under center from the Broncos, which led to Wilson being sacked because Jeudy and wide receiver Courtland Sutton were not open field.
The Broncos’ pass defense didn’t help either. He allowed four sacks for the second straight game. Mike McGlinchey had no chance against Chiefs linebacker Chris Jones, who blew past Denver’s right tackle with less than 22 seconds left in the second quarter.
Denver allowed 19 sacks — sixth in the league — and 57 pressures.
“The bottom line is we all have to get better,” left tackle Garett Bolles said. “The players have to improve. The coaches have to be better.”
Payton isn’t overly concerned about Jeudy’s affair with former NFL player Steve Smith Sr., but the former Saints coach said he understands how frustrated the Alabama product is with his lack of production. Jeudy has nine catches for 64 yards in the last two games, and Payton mentioned that the team is still looking for ways to get him into game position.
Payton added that balancing Jeudy, Sutton and rookie Marvin Mims Jr. was a challenge. Sutton has eight catches for 86 yards in his last three games. Mims has scored three goals in that span, though Payton said the team can use him in a number of ways on the field.
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