Gassers and a look ahead following the Broncos’ 27-24 loss to the Chiefs in Week 17 to fall to 4-12.
Broncos pass rush
With Randy Gregory on season-ending IR and Baron Browning inactive, Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto failed to generate a pass rush as Denver recorded zero sacks for a second straight week. Denver fans were left pining for the days of Bradley Chubb.
Russell Wilson
The quarterback had a 16-yard TD run in the first half plus a four-yard TD run in the fourth. But a week after throwing three picks, Wilson tossed another bad one in the fourth quarter. L’Jarius Sneed grabbed the pass, setting up KC inside the red zone and leading to what proved to be the game-winning TD.
Broncos offensive line
Latavius Murray went for 130 yards in Week 15 against Arizona, but he’s still the only rusher to go over 100 yards in a game for Denver this season. Murray had 56 yards as the run game was inconsistent. Meanwhile, Wilson was sacked four times for 32 yards, including a sack on Denver’s final play.
Broncos secondary
Justin Simmons had a key interception of Patrick Mahomes in the first half, picking him off in the end zone. But Mahomes still passed for 328 yards and three touchdowns, nearly matching his 342 yards in Week 14 at Empower Field.
Up Next
vs Chargers on Sunday, Jan. 8 at Empower Field, 2:05 p.m.
Record: 10-6
Week 17 result: Won 31-10 vs Rams
Coach: Brandon Staley (2nd season, 19-14)
About the Chargers: The Chargers clinched a playoff berth with a 20-3 beatdown of the Colts in Week 16, and Justin Herbert is peaking at just the right time. Eaton product Austin Ekeler continues to be a dual-threat force, though Denver held him to just 36 yards rushing in Los Angeles’ overtime win over Denver in Week 6. Herbert had another big game this weekend at SoFi Stadium, passing for 212 yards, two TDs and a 119.9 rating in the win over the Rams. The Broncos have little to play for while Los Angeles needs some more momentum heading into its first postseason appearance under Staley.
