Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro of the Afternoon Drive caught up with Demaryius Thomas after the game. The unexpected retirement of Gary Kubiak cast a large shadow on the game. Thomas, like everyone else in the organization, was more concerned for his coach’s health than the state of the franchise.
There was a moment near the end of the game that was noted by many at the game. Thomas put his arm around Lynch and seemed to be giving him a pep talk. When asked about it, Thomas told Eric and Les that he had expected both Paxton Lynch and Trevor Siemian to play. He also told Lynch not to worry, as he has, “a lot of football to play.”
Demaryius Thomas on the sideline with his arm around Paxton Lynch's shoulder, talking to the QB. Lynch is nodding.
— Lindsay Jones (@bylindsayhjones) January 2, 2017
The offensive captain took it upon himself to remind the rookie that he was just starting out, and not to get discouraged. It was unfortunate that Lynch was held out of the game. Game flow dictated that Siemian continue to play, as there really was nothing for Lynch to gain in playing. The second half was spent working the clock and salting the game away. There was no real opportunity for Lynch to run a full offense.
Not to worry. Demaryius Thomas and the rest of his offense will get to see a lot of Lynch in future.
Bonus Listen:
Now that Kubiak is out the obvious question is who will take over as head coach? The Afternoon Drive wonders if it might be Kyle Shanahan.