Gassers and a look ahead following the Broncos’ 19-16 overtime loss to the Chargers in Week 6 to drop to 2-4.
Gassers
Damarri Mathis
The Broncos’ defense was dominant again, but cornerback Damarri Mathis got picked on all night and was the weak link of the unit. Mathis was pegged for four pass interference penalties, an NFL high this year, including one on the game’s first play from scrimmage. He did have a key pass breakup on fourth-and-two on the opening play of the fourth quarter, but beyond that, it was a rough go for the rookie making his first career start.
Broncos O-line
Oof. The Broncos’ front turned in an ugly performance. Quarterback Russell Wilson was sacked four times for 28 yards, including twice on Los Angeles blitzes where linebacker Drue Tranquill came through the line untouched to blast Wilson. Tackle Calvin Anderson, pummeled by Khalil Mack in the first half, was benched as the Broncos moved Cam Fleming to left tackle and put in Billy Turner at right tackle.
Broncos punt return
In the pivotal play of overtime, the Chargers’ Ja’Sir Taylor blocked P.J. Locke into returner Montrell Washington as Washington was camped under a punt for a fair catch in overtime. Washington fell backward and had the punt bounce off his leg. Los Angeles recovered and soon after Dustin Hopkins kicked the game-winning field goal. Locke shouldn’t have been blocking that close to his return man. Special teams coordinator Dwayne Stukes hung his head in disappointment after the play.
Up Next
Sunday, Oct. 23 vs. Jets at Empower Field, 2:05 p.m. (Week 7)
Record: 4-2
Week 6 result: Won 27-10 at Packers
Coach: Robert Salah (2nd year, 8-15)
About the Jets: When the Broncos’ schedule initially came out, it was widely assumed the Week 7 home game against the Jets would be a lay-up. But a sure win isn’t looking so sure now with how resurgent New York is playing. The Jets have won three straight, including an upset Sunday at Lambeau Field when rookie running back Breece Hall paced them to a win with 116 rushing yards and a TD. New York is surging, and quarterback Zach Wilson hasn’t even started to hit his stride after overcoming a preseason knee injury.
