Game balls, quotable and a look ahead following the Broncos’ 30-13 loss to the Eagles in Week 10 to fall to 5-5 entering their Week 11 bye.
Gassers
Melvin Gordon
The Broncos running back fumbled late in the fourth quarter a couple of weeks ago to nearly squander the Broncos’ win over Washington. This Sunday, his fumble on a fourth-and-1 run on the final play of the third led to Darius Slay’s 82-yard return for a TD. Gordon appeared to have the first down before fumbling, then he collided with an Eagle and fell down trying to make the tackle on Slay downfield.
Vic Fangio
The Broncos’ third-year head coach was coming off the biggest win of his tenure with the Week 9 domination in Dallas. But Fangio, 63, was out-coached by first-year Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, 40, from the opening whistle. The Broncos didn’t have an answer for Jalen Hurts’ legs or arm, and once again, Fangio’s team lacked intensity at home. Who else does that fall on but the head coach?
Broncos special teams
Another week, another gaffe by the Broncos’ special teams. This one directly cost the Broncos points. Philadelphia blocked Brandon McManus’ 22-yard attempt on Denver’s opening possession of the second half. Eagles safety K’Von Wallace came through the right side of the line untouched, running between Dre’Mont Jones and Calvin Anderson in what was clearly a miscommunication.
Quotebook
Vic Fangio on the red-zone offense, which was 1-of-5 converting TDs: “We couldn’t make a play down there.”
QB Teddy Bridgewater on 2-3 home record: “We have to find a way to play better at home and figure out what it takes to get the energy going at home.”
DE Dre’Mont Jones on the letdown loss: “We missed an opportunity completely. We dropped the ball, straight up… To come out and get our (butt) kicked 30-13, it hurts a little bit.”
RB Melvin Gordon on the feeling in the locker room: “We’re not going to say ‘to hell with the season.’ We’re going to get back on that saddle and we’re going to ride.”
Up Next
Sunday, Nov. 28 vs. Chargers, 2:05 p.m. (Week 12)
Record: 5-4
Week 10 result: Lost 27-20 vs Vikings
Coach: Brandon Staley (1st year)
About the Chargers: Los Angeles started 4-1 but has gone 1-3 since, and its offense sputtered while the secondary looked vulnerable in the loss to Minnesota. Justin Herbert is one of the best young QBs in the game but has also thrown seven interceptions. Austin Ekeler (Eaton High School/Western State) is the Chargers’ leading rusher while wideout Keenan Allen will provide a challenge for the Broncos secondary.
