Broncos reporter Mike Klis analyzes a key play from Denver’s 41-7 loss to the New England Patriots:
The play: With the Broncos down 20-0 halfway through the third quarter, the Patriots had third-and-9 at Denver’s 27. Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel, in the shotgun formation, faked a handoff to running back Kevin Faulk, who ran toward right tackle. Cassel then threw left, where Randy Moss stepped back for a receiver screen. As Moss caught the ball, slot receiver Wes Welker warded off outside linebacker Louis Green. Meanwhile, Pats left tackle Matt Light took off to take out cornerback Dre Bly and left guard Logan Mankins raced downfield to blow up safety Calvin Lowry. Moss had to slip out of a diving tackle attempt at the ankles by strong safety Marquand Manuel, but otherwise skipped in for a well-executed 27-yard touchdown catch-block-and-run.
Point/counterpoint: It was Moss’ second TD catch of the game, both coming after Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey left late in the second quarter with a strained groin. Had Bailey been on the field, he probably would have attacked across the line of scrimmage and blown up the play soon after Moss caught it. But without Bailey, the Broncos’ defenders were caught playing on their heels and were easy prey.
Future prospects: The Broncos have a similar play with receiver Brandon Marshall cutting off Brandon Stokley in the slot. Left tackle Ryan Clady and left guard Ben Hamilton are quick enough to make the downfield blocks. If only the Broncos’ offense got to play against the Broncos’ defense . . .
