The Broncos travel to take on the 2-0 Bucs on Sunday with an offense that has yet to do much of anything.
The Denver Broncos face an uphill battle. After starting the season 0-2, they now face a 2-0 Tampa Bay Buccaneers team fresh off a win against the Detroit Lions. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is playing well, and although the Buccaneers’ defense is giving up yards, they’re holding teams off the scoreboard.
In contrast, Denver’s offense has struggled, managing only one touchdown in two games. Scoring points is essential (as the great John Madden would say), and right now, the Broncos just aren’t doing enough.
Offensive Rankings:
- Denver: 29th in total offense (263.0 YPG), 27th in rushing (81.5 YPG), 21st in passing (181.5 YPG), 30th in scoring (13.0 PPG).
- Tampa Bay: 19th in total offense (304.0 YPG), 24th in rushing (91.0 YPG), 13th in passing (213.0 YPG), 4th in scoring (28.5 PPG).
Defensive Rankings:
- Denver: 9th in total defense (277.5 YPG), 23rd in rushing defense (143.5 YPG), 4th in passing defense (158.0 YPG), 10th in scoring defense (19.5 PPG).
- Tampa Bay: 28th in total defense (386.0 YPG), 19th in rushing defense (134.0 YPG), 29th in passing defense (242.5 YPG), 6th in scoring defense (18.0 PPG).
Here are the Mile High Report staff’s keys to Sunday’s game:
- Run the Ball
Denver must establish the run to relieve pressure on Bo Nix and the passing game. The offensive line and running backs need to step up. Despite struggles in the first two games, the Broncos can’t abandon the run. — Ian St. Clair - Fix the Running Game
Offensive woes stem from Denver’s inability to run effectively. Whether it’s poor blocking, missed reads, or predictable play-calling, the run game needs to improve. — Ross Allen - Stretch the Field
To stop defenses from stacking the box, Denver must take shots downfield. Bo Nix has struggled with intermediate and deep throws, but the offense won’t succeed unless they take risks and break through. — Tim Lynch - Defense Must Step Up
Denver’s defense will need to deliver a standout performance, especially in the secondary. Pat Surtain II and the defense will have to force turnovers and make plays to give the Broncos a fighting chance. — Ivan - Patience, Broncos Fans
Some fans are already losing patience with Sean Payton, but it’s time to calm down. Denver’s offense needs to get more aggressive, particularly by involving Marvin Mims, a playmaker they traded up for. — Adam Malnati - Cut Down the Penalties
The Broncos have accumulated 17 penalties over two weeks, many of which have stalled their own drives or extended opponents’ drives. This lack of discipline is one of their biggest issues. — Christopher Hart