OFFENSE
D Who would have thought Tatum Bell would be the bright spot for the Broncos’ offense? Jay Cutler’s two interceptions were costly. One ended a scoring chance in the red zone, and the other led to a Chargers’ touchdown.
DEFENSE
F The Broncos were equally hapless against Philip Rivers’ passing attack and LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles on the ground. Expect major changes to the defense by next season.
SPECIAL TEAMS
D We may have seen the last of Matt Prater in a Denver uniform. His missed extra point capped a disappointing second half of the season. Meanwhile in Atlanta, Jason Elam is in the playoffs.
COACHING
D Mike Shanahan couldn’t outscheme Norv Turner, and though he did an admirable job through much of the season in helping the team overcome injuries, Shanahan and his staff now face plenty of criticism for the team’s epic collapse.
OVERALL
F A disappointing end to what was a promising season not so long ago. Sunday’s loss revealed major flaws on defense and special teams and showed that Cutler can’t carry the offense solo.
Marching into the offseason
While it’s probably true that, say, back in July, the Broncos would have eagerly accepted the opportunity to play for the AFC West title on the final day of the season, it’s still dissatisfying to end with a three-game losing streak that cost Denver a place in the playoffs. Denver Post staff writer Anthony Cotton looks at those defeats and where the contests might have turned:
Dec. 14
Carolina 30, Denver 10 – Selvin Young fumble with 17 seconds remaining in first half leads to field goal and 20-10 deficit; Panthers open second half with 56-yard touchdown run.
Dec. 21
Buffalo 30, Denver 23 – Broncos score 13 points on opening three possessions but lose lead as Bills score the next four times they get the ball.
Sunday
San Diego 52, Denver 21 – Given new life with Denver losses and fourth-quarter rallies of their own, the Chargers’ surging confidence proves to be too much for Broncos to overcome.
