Broncos-Chargers second quarter update: Los Angeles builds an insurmountable lead

After a loss on first down on a run from C.J. Anderson to open the second quarter, Trevor Siemian threw what should have been another interception on an overthrow to Demaryius Thomas. The ball hit the Los Angeles Chargers defender right in the chest.

On third and 12, Siemian’s first read was covered and took off running but multiple holding penalties would bring the play back. A third and 22 is not a down you want Siemian throwing, but Mike McCoy knows better. Siemian’s pass was a dangerous one to Jamaal Charles in the flat, but Charles snatched it and took it for 9-yards and a Broncos punt.

The Chargers got going on the next drive with a couple of good runs and catches from Austin Ekeler to get them past midfield. Hunter Henry continued to eat Todd Davis’s lunch with a huge catch up the middle for 20+ yards to set the Chargers up in the red zone.

On a third and seven from the Broncos 20, Rivers hit Keenan Allen across the middle of the field for 18-yards and a first and goal. Ekeler would score on the next play on a quick pass outside.

Chargers 14, Broncos 0.

Siemian on third and six held the ball a bit too long and was obliterated by Melvin Ingram. The leading with the helmet resulted in a 15-yard roughing the passer penalty to give Denver the first down.

After a good first down run from Devontae Booker, Siemian threw it high over the middle to Booker on second down and the tipped ball was nearly intercepted. On third and four, Siemian hit Booker on a quick slant for a 16-yards and a first down.

On first down, Siemian held the ball far too long and was strip-sacked from behind for another turnover.

The Broncos defense rediscovered itself on the next drive, pushing the Chargers back on their first two downs. On third and 14, Rivers would hit Ekeler in the flat who was tackled by Bradley Roby for a short loss to force a punt.

With less than three minutes to go, the Broncos promptly went three and out as its the Siemian way. Many fans are ready for a change. Are you?

Rivers and the Chargers hoped to get things going, but on third and 10 he would chuck the ball at the feet of his receiver to force a punt.

With the best field position of the day, the Broncos started their next drive at their own 37-yard line. Siemian would take a sack on first down and throw it for a short gain on second down to Bennie Fowler. On third and 10, Siemian throws it six yards short of the sticks to A.J. Derby and would punt again after yet another three and out.

Siemian finished the half 11/17 for 89 yards, two sacks and a fumble. The Broncos finished with just four first downs in the first half.