Yesterday we discussed where we see the Broncos in relation to the rest of the NFL. Today we’ll take a look at where various media outlets, talking heads, and another SB Nation NFL blog think the Broncos stack up.
This week’s selection is a little sparse. Some of the more notable outlets that do power rankings haven’t published their first regular season rankings yet, such as ESPN, NFL.com, CBS, etc.
Let’s start with a recap of the Broncos’ entry in yesterday’s MHR Power Rankings:
Mile High Report:
13. Denver Broncos
It’s been awhile since we’ve had to read this long to get to the Broncos. But it’s an accurate reflection of where this team is right now: a team that could find itself missing the playoffs as easily as it could find itself making a run. The good news is, barring significant injuries on defense, it’d be a surprise to see the Broncos fall much lower despite a tough schedule.
On the other hand, there are some hopeful signs indicating that several problem areas have been addressed this offseason. If the offensive line continues to look improved and if the holes in the run defense have been plugged, this team can be an intimidating opponent for any team in the NFL. Quarterback is still a question, and could make or break the team’s chances of making noise in the playoffs.
SB Nation:
15. Denver Broncos
Bleacher Report:
14. Denver Broncos
Last Week's Ranking: 14
The Denver Broncos offense definitely seems to be headed in the right direction. It's unquestionably better with Trevor Siemian under center, and the offensive line has looked like an improved unit all preseason long.
I love the fact Mike McCoy is back as offensive coordinator. He's a massive upgrade over Rick Dennison.
The Denver defense can be special, but I am interested to see what kind of stamp Vance Joseph puts on the unit. The Broncos have one of the top secondaries in football and one of the top pass-rush units. Can they be better against the run? Let's hope so, because Denver was ranked just 28th in that category last season.
The Broncos run defense will be immediately tested by the Chargers. Anthony Lynn has a knack for finding creativity in the run game, and he's sure to challenge Denver with it in Week 1.
ESPN:
(Note: Preseason ranking from August 15th. ESPN hasn’t updated their power rankings yet.)
9. Denver Broncos
2016 record: 9-7
Post-draft ranking: No. 10
Trevor Siemian is looking to hold off Paxton Lynch at starting quarterback again this preseason. Siemian started strong last season, going 7-2 in his first nine starts, but limped to the finish line, going 1-4 in his last five starts.
Yahoo Sports:
12. Denver Broncos (LW: 12)For all the jokes about Brock Osweiler’s return, remember that Osweiler did experience some success with Denver in 2015 (the Broncos don’t win Super Bowl 50 without Osweiler’s contributions in the regular season) and general manager John Elway tried paying Osweiler about $16 million a year just 18 months ago. Why not bring him back for virtual peanuts?
USA Today:
15. Denver Broncos
Pay no attention to the sideshow of QB Brock Osweiler returning 18 months after a frosty departure. The real story lies in starter Trevor Siemian's continued development.
Bleeding Green Nation:
17 - Denver Broncos - I’m skeptical of the Broncos. Trevor Siemian just doesn’t do much for me. I also think Denver’s defense might start to fall off, even if just a little bit. It’s not easy to sustain the kind of success they’ve had. The loss of Wade Phillips will only make it more difficult.
NumberFire:
#8 Denver Broncos
Poll
Are the Broncos getting enough credit in the power rankings?
This poll is closed
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45%
Yeah, it’s pretty close.
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49%
No, they’re getting disrespected.
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4%
No, they’re getting too much credit.