Let's dive into the world of preseason football and analyze the Denver Broncos' performance against the Atlanta Falcons. This game offered a glimpse into the team's progress and potential for the upcoming season, and I'm excited to share my insights with you.
A Promising Start
The Broncos kicked off their preseason campaign with a solid win, showcasing a well-rounded performance. The offense, led by Davis Webb, displayed a balanced attack, moving away from the frequent screen plays we've seen in the past. The run game was a standout, with multiple running backs contributing, and the passing game looked sharp and varied.
Personally, I think this is a great sign for the Broncos' offensive strategy. By diversifying their play-calling, they can keep defenses guessing and create more opportunities for their talented roster.
Quarterback Battle
One of the most intriguing aspects of this game was the battle for the backup quarterback role. Jarrett Stidham put on an impressive display, showcasing his grasp of the offense and executing plays with precision. His ability to make quick, accurate throws, like the slant to Sutton, was a highlight.
On the other hand, Sam Ehlinger, fighting for the same spot, had a respectable showing but lacked the pinpoint accuracy of Stidham. From my perspective, Stidham's performance solidifies his position as the backup, and it will be interesting to see how Ehlinger responds in the remaining preseason games.
Offensive Line and Running Backs
The offensive line, despite some minor issues with centers, held up well. The absence of Wattenberg and Forsyth didn't hinder the unit's performance, and the run game thrived, with multiple ball carriers averaging over 3.5 yards per carry. This bodes well for the Broncos' offensive strategy.
As for the running backs, Jonah Coleman impressed with his vision and ability to create yards after contact. R.J. Harvey had a quieter game, but his strength lies in the passing game, which is an area the team focused on developing.
What many people don't realize is that preseason games offer a unique opportunity to assess a team's depth, and the Broncos' running back corps seems deep and versatile.
Receivers and Defense
The receiving corps had some standout performances, with Courtland Sutton showcasing his one-handed catch prowess and Pat Bryant making precise routes. Cameron Ross, an undrafted free agent, showed speed and potential, which could be a valuable asset for the team.
The defense, under Vance Joseph, continued its dominant form from last season. The front seven, led by Red Murdoch, was a force to be reckoned with, limiting the Falcons' rushing attack. The secondary, including Jahdae Barron and Riley Moss, made plays and created turnovers, a positive sign for the Broncos' defensive unit.
Special Teams and Final Thoughts
Special teams had its moments, with Jeremy Crawshaw showcasing a powerful punt, but there were also mishaps, like the mishandled snap. Wil Lutz, however, had a solid performance, converting all extra points and most field goals.
In my opinion, the Broncos' preseason opener was a successful outing, allowing them to evaluate their depth and give starters some live action. The upcoming game against the Packers will be a stiffer test, and I'm eager to see how they build on this performance.
Let's hope for a healthy and competitive preseason, setting the stage for an exciting regular season!
