I don't care that the score was 11-10. I don't care that the offense had 8 3 and outs. I don't care that many viewers called this game the most boring one they have ever seen. The Broncos got a massive win on primetime vs a quality opponent. Here are my takeaways:
Defense Is For Real:
The Broncos' defense logged 4 Sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 clutch interception, and 1 safety. Pat Surtain pitched a shutout not allowing a single catch as his receiver was targeted six times. Randy Gregory continues to impress in the run game and also posted a sack. Bradley Chubb also had a sack and could have even had a pick 6 if Jimmy G didn't step on the back of the end zone before throwing it. Even players such as Jonas Griffith made plays as he had the big interception late in the game and PJ Locke forced a fumble that won the game for Denver with under 2 minutes remaining. The playmakers on defense came up absolutely clutch. One difference I want to point out is the defense came up with turnovers in big situations. During the entire Fangio era, it felt like the defense would come up small in the clutch and allow the opposition to kick a game-winning FG. The Broncos winning ugly games like these early will serve them well later in the season when seeding starts becoming a big deal and definitely in the playoffs.
Clutch Russ:
Russ Wilson was not his vintage self again only throwing for 184 yards on 20/33 completion. However, he was money on the go-ahead drive in the 4th quarter making big plays on 3rd including a 27-yard strike to Kendall Hinton moving to his left for 27 yards on 3rd and long. Broncos fans finally saw a glimpse of the Russell Wilson in Seattle and hopefully, those glimpses can turn into trends as the season progresses. It will be a bit of an adjustment period before we see the offense starting to click. Just remember Peyton's first few games as a Broncos in 2012. The Broncos started 1-2 and one of those losses resulted from Peyton throwing for 3 picks in Atlanta week 2. So all things considered, the Broncos being 2-1 and tied for first place atop the AFC west isn't the worst place to be in. It would honestly be more worrisome if Denver was 2-1 with Russ cooking and the defense struggling.
Hackett Issues Solved?
I give big props to coach Hackett for putting his pride aside and hiring a coach to help him with the game management aspect of coaching. This move illustrates he will do whatever it takes to help improve this football team even if it makes him look cowardly to the public. The decision to hire the game management coach worked as there were no coaching blunders in the game and the Broncos looked much more decisive in their decision-making. The game may have been ugly but the Broncos took so many little steps forward and fans should appreciate that because it going to be a process.
First place in the AFC west and onto the Raiders! LET'S GO!
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