The Denver Broncos knocked off the Seattle Seahawks by a score of 22-20 in their first preseason game. Coaches had the opportunity to see players in game action. Which players passed the test and who needs more work?
Brock Osweiler started the game and played the first half. He played well. He ended the game completing 15 of 20 passes with one touchdown. He didn’t throw a pick. When he was in the game, the offense had a flow to it, driving down the field. The only problem was the offense had to settle for 4 field goals and only one touchdown when he played. This wasn’t a bad showing by Osweiler.
The running game looked respectable. Ronnie Hillman led the way with 66 yards on 8 carries. That’s an extraordinary 8.3 yards per rush. The Broncos had 113 yards rushing in the whole game, not a bad start.
The kicking game was a bright spot. Connor Barth and Brandon McManus didn’t miss a kick. Barth hit his two field goals. His longest was 28-yards. Brandon McManus, who is challenging Barth for the place kicker job, also made three field goals. He had the longest at 55 yards.
The starting defense was aggressive and blitzed from the opening of the game. They forced Russel Wilson to fumble on the Seahawks’ first possession. They only gave up 29 yards total in the first half. Denver sacked the quarterback seven times. If the Broncos can play like they did in this preseason game, the defense will limit opponents scoring. They will also force turnovers which could equal points for the Broncos’ potent offense. It was an impressive effort.
The Broncos’ special teams were the only downside. They gave up a 103 yard kick return for a touchdown by Tyler Lockett. The average kickoff return was 39.3 yards. That’s horrible. Denver’s kickers couldn’t seem to kick the ball out of the end zone. The Seahawks were able to return the kickoffs to at least their own 30 to 40 yard line. If the special teams continue to do that during the regular season, the opposition wouldn’t need to drive the ball far to get into position to a kick a field goal. Denver might as well kick the ball out-of-bounds on kickoffs and have them start a drive at the 45 yard line. There were plenty of missed tackles that led to long returns. That needs to be cleaned up before the season starts.
For the most part, the Broncos played well. There are still three games left for players on the bubble to show the coaching staff they should be on this team. The next preseason game is Saturday against the Texans. We will see if the team improves.
What do you think of the effort from the Broncos in their first preseason game?
I agree, Jordan. Looked good except for special teams.