Breaking Down the Denver Broncos Problems under McDaniel’s
Breaking down the Denver Broncos problems is not a difficult task. There appear to be many problems, but really it boils down to a basic problem with player replacement and selection.
Two years ago the Broncos under Mike Shanahan had a top offense that scored a middling number of points. That offense consistently cranked out thousand yard rushers using a zone blocking scheme. The passing portion of the offense was also excellent. Shanahan’s offenses were known for quickly scoring, thus making it easier for the defense.
Today, McDaniel’s also has a top offense that scores a middling number of points. The difference is the new power blocking scheme has resulted in a historically bad running offense. The Broncos are not simply last in the league; they are last by a long ways. Take away one good rushing game and the remainder does meet the definition of being historically terrible. As a result the passing game has had to make up the slack. Unfortunately, McDaniel’s’ offense is not scoring at all the first time it gets the ball. Or the second time. Or at any time in the first quarter. The result is a team that gets behind, starts passing more, gives up on the run, and puts tremendous pressure and stress on the defense.
It has been much publicized that McDaniel’s got rid of pro-bowlers Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall. But other offensive players have left who have then shined on other teams, such as Peyton Hollis and Ryan Train.
In two drafts McDaniel’s has spent 3 first round picks on a running back, a wide receiver, and a quarterback. Essentially, 3 first rounds pick to replace skill position players he has let go or forced off the team. Another way of thinking about this: 3 new players to replace trusted veterans.
As a result of ‘wasting’ first round picks on positions that should have already been solid, talent for the remainder of the team positions has gone neglected.
Imagine instead the existing talent, plus 3 first round picks used on offensive and defensive lineman. That would be a much stronger team. Instead, rather than getting better through the draft the Broncos have not even kept even because rookies typically cannot immediately replace proven veterans.
