Broncos Fall to Jets: The Good, Bad & Ugly
The Denver Broncos provided another visual of what not to do in an NFL game, bowing down to the New York Jets in a forgettable 31-21 loss on Sunday. On the subject of Sean Payton's hubris, I'm reminded of the Shakespearean proverb of a bomb blowing up in the bomb-maker's face.
Payton talked smack about Nathaniel Hackett's coaching abilities in the summer, only to be outclassed by his predecessor in the fall (Chef's kiss). Looking deep into a broken mirror, Payton and the Broncos ought to know by now that they're not always the fairest in the land.
As we continue to sift through the aftermath of Week 5's debilitating loss, let's break down the good, bad, and ugly.
The Good
Jaleel McLaughlin | RB
Let's give credit where it's due. McLaughlin shined brighter than my high school friend's bald heads at a summer barbecue.
The rookie darted around, mocking the Jets' defense, averaging 6.8 yards per carry. And McLaughlin's touchdown from a screen pass? Poetry in motion.
But then, Coach Payton pulled a Houdini and made McLaughlin vanish in the second half, leaving fans to keep checking their phones for an in-game Amber Alert.
Early Pass Rush
At least the Broncos defense showed some life. Props to Nik Bonitto and Zach Allen for making Jets QB Zach Wilson feel the pressure.
Alas, it was a temporary showing, as the Broncos failed to put any pressure on Wilson in the second half, with the exception of one fourth-quarter Jets possession. Allen notched his first sack as a Bronco, and don't look now, but Bonitto's 5.5 sacks have him tied for third-most in the NFL.
The Bad
Coaching
Sunday was a clinic on coaching deficiency. It's like Payton and his staff had a bet on who could make the most questionable decision.
Denver's defense started strong, but by the end, it was like watching your phone battery die when you're miles away from a charger. Meanwhile, the Broncos offense meandered like a toddler trying to figure out how to walk, fielding four straight three-and-outs to open the second half with play calls that seemed to have been drawn in crayon.
Russell Wilson | QB
Wilson had his moments, but he looked more like a retired track star than the quarterback Broncos fans expect to see at his $250 million price tag. That 'hang on to the ball' technique? Bold move, Russ.
Wilson had a passer rating of 103.7 but let's face it, it was a lackluster showing.
Marvin Mims Jr. | WR
Payton obliged Broncos Country's demands for the dynamic rookie to receive more touches, but it backfired — on everyone. Mims muffed a punt that was recovered by New York and let a reverse toss from running back Samaje Perine go through his hands, to also be scooped up by the opponent.
Rushing Defense
Let's not even talk about Hackett's (yeah, that guy) successful game plan focusing on Breece Hall, who ran circles around Denver's defense. Hall gained 177 yards on 22 carries and scored a touchdown.
The Ugly
Utter Lack of Want-To
The Broncos don't have any mojo this season. It's hard to admit, but the facts are stark.
Looking at Denver's current trajectory, I'd be surprised if the team can pull together more than four total wins on the season. So, Broncos Country, prepare yourselves for more heartbreak, frustration, and possibly an everything-must-go sale as the team shops players for draft picks ahead of the October 31 trade deadline.
Final Word
Broncos Country, wait to toss out your jerseys and foam fingers. As Jean de La Bruyère aptly said, "Out of difficulties grow miracles."
It will be a bumpy ride this season but buckle up. Hopefully, come the 2024 season, Broncos fans will be able to stand tall, look into an unbroken mirror, and say, "We're back."
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