Mile High Report - Week 8: Broncos 17, Washington 10 - Everything we knowBy Fans, For Fans....Your Source For Denver Broncos News and Commenthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50905/mhr-fav.png2021-11-04T10:19:26-06:00http://www.milehighreport.com/rss/stream/225150182021-11-04T10:19:26-06:002021-11-04T10:19:26-06:00Stats just the way it is, some things will never change - Denver Broncos Week 8, 2021
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<img alt="NFL: OCT 31 Washington Football Team at Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hPqhoLhDeZkDk7-m7xhbBFmis0Q=/0x0:5376x3584/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70093919/1236309256.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A look at the numbers as we head into the second half-ish of the season.</p> <p id="iwLhHV">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> are currently the second best scoring defense in the league having only allowed 137 points through eight games (17.1 points per game). Only the Bills at 15.6 have been better. </p>
<p id="xw1SGY">This meets the expectations for the defense from the pre-season when many thought the Broncos defense to be one of the best in the league. Having done this without three starters on defense for the majority of the season (Bradley Chubb, Josey Jewell and Alexander Johnson) is fairly impressive. It’s another example of our defensive coaches getting the most of the limited talent that they have. </p>
<p id="4XHYHy">We saw this last season when Denver’s cornerbacks were going down to injury at an alarming rate. This season it has been linebackers where the Broncos currently have five on the IR (Chubb, Jewell, Johnson, Andre Mintze and Natrez Patrick). </p>
<p id="rflwyU">So far the run defense has been decent - currently tied for 12th, allowing 4.16 yards per carry, but that is bolstered by the first three games. Over the last five games the Broncos run defense has allowed 629 yards on 145 runs (including kneeldowns) - which is 4.34 yards per carry. That’s still not terrible, but the Broncos are about to face the two of the best rushing teams in the league in the Cowboys (4th in ypc) and the Eagles (3rd in ypc) and we have two games against the Chiefs (6th in ypc) and the <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a> (10th in ypc). </p>
<p id="gv4iEF">Getting Mike Purcell back should help here, but Kenny Young, Justin Strnad and Baron Browning will be tested early and often both in the run game (where Strnad has looked lost during the past two games) and the passing game. Our defensive coaches have a tremendous challenge in getting our linebackers to play at an NFL level during the back half of the season. </p>
<p id="EfUlBR">Our defense will be facing some of the better scoring offenses in the latter half with Dallas (3rd in ppg scored), Cincy (7th), Kansas City (9th), Las Vegas (11th) and Philly (12th) all coming in to face our depleted defense, which will probably finish much lower than second in points allowed per game. If this defense is somehow able to finish the season in the top five in points allowed, it should probably count as Donatell and Fangio’s greatest coaching achievement. Frankly, should that happen, it might just save Fangio’s job as the head coach of the Broncos. </p>
<p id="YcMy37">One way in which the Bronco defense have been as good as expected is in tackling. Currently the Broncos have only missed 31 tackles through eight games - 3.9 per game. That is the best value in the league and is less than half of the worst tackling defense, the Ravens, who are missing 8.3 tackles per game. </p>
<div id="51uqf7"><table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Rank</td>
<td>Tm</td>
<td>Mtkl/g</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Denver Broncos</td>
<td>3.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kansas City Chiefs</td>
<td>4.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Green Bay Packers</td>
<td>5.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Seattle Seahawks</td>
<td>5.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>New Orleans Saints</td>
<td>5.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>New England Patriots</td>
<td>5.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Cleveland Browns</td>
<td>5.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Arizona Cardinals</td>
<td>6.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Tennessee Titans</td>
<td>6.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Los Angeles Rams</td>
<td>6.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Las Vegas Raiders</td>
<td>6.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Chicago Bears</td>
<td>6.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Detroit Lions</td>
<td>6.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Atlanta Falcons</td>
<td>6.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Indianapolis Colts</td>
<td>6.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Washington Football Team</td>
<td>6.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>New York Giants</td>
<td>6.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Dallas Cowboys</td>
<td>6.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>San Francisco 49ers</td>
<td>6.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Carolina Panthers</td>
<td>6.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Cincinnati Bengals</td>
<td>7.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>New York Jets</td>
<td>7.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>Minnesota Vikings</td>
<td>7.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>Buffalo Bills</td>
<td>7.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Jacksonville Jaguars</td>
<td>7.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Houston Texans</td>
<td>7.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Miami Dolphins</td>
<td>7.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Philadelphia Eagles</td>
<td>7.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</td>
<td>7.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Pittsburgh Steelers</td>
<td>7.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Los Angeles Chargers</td>
<td>7.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>Baltimore Ravens</td>
<td>8.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
<p id="q3ocR5">One way in which the Fangio/Donatell defenses in Denver have disappointed so far is their lack of turnovers. Over the past 2.5 seasons the Broncos defense has forced a total of 41 turnovers. That is 27th in the league over this time span. Compare that to the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> defense that has forced 71 over the past two and a half seasons. </p>
<div id="aRK4by"><table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Rank</td>
<td>Team</td>
<td>2019</td>
<td>2020</td>
<td>2021</td>
<td>Total</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Pittsburgh Steelers</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>71</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Minnesota Vikings</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Buffalo Bills</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>New England Patriots</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Indianapolis Colts</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Seattle Seahawks</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>New Orleans Saints</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>58</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Green Bay Packers</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Tennessee Titans</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>New York Giants</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>55</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Baltimore Ravens</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Dallas Cowboys</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>New York Jets</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Washington Football Team</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Kansas City Chiefs</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>Los Angeles Rams</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Arizona Cardinals</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>San Francisco 49ers</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Carolina Panthers</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Miami Dolphins</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>Atlanta Falcons</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>Philadelphia Eagles</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>Cleveland Browns</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Chicago Bears</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Cincinnati Bengals</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Denver Broncos</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Houston Texans</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Oakland Raiders</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>39</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Jacksonville Jaguars</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Los Angeles Chargers</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>Detroit Lions</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
<p id="AR0NXb">The Fangio style of defense relies on being able to get pressure without having to blitz and the Broncos defensive line and edge rushers have not been very good at generating pressure under Fangio. Blitzing can help, but blitzing leads to big plays against many of the best QBs in the league. </p>
<p id="mG0v6f">The Broncos defense has already allowed 32 plays of 20 or more yards this season (tied for 22nd) and seven plays of 40 or more yards (tied for 29th). In terms of 40 yard plays allowed only the Lions, <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> (eight) and Chiefs (eleven) have been worse. So far there is only one team to not allow a 40 yard play on defense, the <a href="https://www.thefalcoholic.com/">Atlanta Falcons</a>. The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> have been the worst big play defense so far this year having allowed 46 plays of 20 or more and five of 40 or more. The Bills defense has only allowed fifteen plays that gained 20 or more yards in seven games. </p>
<div id="yI6r9X"><table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>rank</td>
<td>Team</td>
<td>total 20+</td>
<td>total 40+</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Bills</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Cardinals</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Eagles</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Chargers</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Falcons</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Giants</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Raiders</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>49ers</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Vikings</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Colts</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Steelers</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Browns</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Saints</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>Rams</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Football Team</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Bears</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Broncos</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>Titans</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>Bengals</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>Cowboys</td>
<td>34</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Jaguars</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Texans</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Buccaneers</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Chiefs</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Jets</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Ravens</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>39</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>Dolphins</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
<p id="p3Rkjs">On the other side of this, the Broncos offense has not been very good at generating chunk plays. Our offense is currently tied for 24th with 26 plays of twenty or more yards. The Bucs have the most currently at 43 while the Saints have only generated 15 chunk plays so far this season. </p>
<div id="4fVsB7"><table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Rank</td>
<td>Team</td>
<td>total 20+</td>
<td>total 40+</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Buccaneers</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Ravens</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Raiders</td>
<td>39</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Bengals</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Rams</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Cardinals</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Cowboys</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Vikings</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Browns</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Eagles</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Bills</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Chargers</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Colts</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>Chiefs</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Football Team</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>49ers</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>Broncos</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>Dolphins</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>Titans</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Giants</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Jaguars</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Jets</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Steelers</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Texans</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Bears</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Falcons</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>Saints</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
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<p id="A9FUIH"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/11/4/22763397/stats-denver-broncos-week-8-2021Joe Mahoney2021-11-02T04:00:00-06:002021-11-02T04:00:00-06:00The Broncos have regressed in their offensive play calling
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<figcaption>Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur is stumbling through games and its costing the Denver Broncos dearly. Is there any hope he can turn things around?</p> <div id="UkKtZI"><iframe title="" height="200" width="100%" src="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1248-broncos-country-tonight-47478560/episode/11-1-21-tim-jenkins-with-ryan-and-88731668/?embed=true&cid=oembed&keyid%25255B0%25255D=Broncos%252520Country%252520Tonight&keyid%25255B1%25255D=11-1-21%252520Tim%252520Jenkins%252520with%252520Ryan%252520and%252520Ben%252520-%252520Broncos%252520Country%252520Tonight&sc=podcast_episode_widget&ihrnetwork=true" allow="autoplay" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>
<p id="ulKCBt">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> have a problem with offensive play calling and, also, execution. That isn’t going to change much with Pat Shurmur firmly entrenched as the offensive coordinator, so it will fall on Teddy Bridgewater to keep trying to find successful opportunities from Shurmur’s scheme. </p>
<p id="yIiv2i"><a href="https://koacolorado.iheart.com/featured/broncos-country-tonight/content/2021-11-01-11-1-21-tim-jenkins-with-ryan-and-ben/">Ryan Edwards and Ben Allbright brought in Tim Jenkins on Broncos Country Tonight</a> to talk about the Broncos offensive woes and they all agreed Shurmur’s decision-making in the final offensive series was a serious head scratcher. Jenkins liked what he saw from Bridgewater throughout the game, but the red zone struggles remain. </p>
<p id="nJ1ikE">He’s always a good interview.</p>
<h2 id="u3Tbr9">Horse Tracks</h2>
<p id="6kI9xj"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/video/thank-you-von-miller">Thank you, Von Miller</a><br>Von Miller’s legacy in Denver will be felt forever on the field, with his amazing sacks and fun-loving personality, and in the community, where he helped children get needed vision care.</p>
<p id="e0p0rb"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/news/statements-from-joe-ellis-george-paton-vic-fangio-and-john-elway">Statements from Joe Ellis, George Paton, Vic Fangio and John Elway</a><br>“Von is a special player, a special person and a Bronco for Life,” Joe Ellis said. “Our entire organization has overwhelming gratitude for what he means to the Broncos and his special connection with our fans.”</p>
<p id="b0KQNz"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32526503/sources-los-angeles-rams-finalizing-trade-acquire-von-miller-denver-broncos">Von Miller’s emotions still ‘raw’ as Denver Broncos agree to trade him to Los Angeles Rams</a><br>The Broncos have agreed to trade Von Miller to the Rams. Miller said his emotions were still “raw” but that he was “off to L.A.”</p>
<p id="khRj3y"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/video/highlights-all-110-5-of-von-miller-s-sacks-in-a-broncos-uniform">Highlights: All 110.5 of Von Miller’s sacks in a Broncos uniform</a><br>Go back and watch all of Von Miller’s 110.5 career sacks, from 2011 to 2021.</p>
<p id="XzegjA"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/photos/an-infectious-personality-with-impeccable-style-memories-of-von-miller-off-the-f#5646b028-1506-4338-ab8e-06b2da97985b">An infectious personality with impeccable style: Memories of Von Miller off the field</a><br>Throughout his time as a Bronco, Von Miller was known for his unique personality — goofy, eager to give back and always up for fun ways to express himself. Here are some of our favorite memories from his time outside of football.</p>
<p id="5I40FM"><a href="https://www.espn.com/blog/denver-broncos/post/_/id/39389/from-wide-eyed-rookie-to-super-bowl-mvp-von-miller-an-all-time-member-of-the-denver-broncos">From wide-eyed rookie to Super Bowl MVP, Von Miller an all-time member of the Broncos</a><br>Miller leaves Denver for Los Angeles as the best homegrown player for the Broncos since Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway.</p>
<p id="GpZt7x"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/news/how-no-58-made-time-stand-still-remembering-von-miller-s-masterful-career-with-t">How No. 58 made time stand still: Remembering Von Miller’s masterful career with the Broncos</a><br>When Von Miller one day returns to Empower Field at Mile High for his certain Ring of Fame induction or to receive his Hall of Fame ring, his legacy will be marked by trophies and takedowns.</p>
<p id="SNHx8C"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/video/this-is-a-special-place-von-miller-reflects-on-his-time-in-denver">'This is a special place': Von Miller reflects on his time in Denver</a><br>After being traded to the Rams, Von Miller sits down to share a raw a heartfelt message thanking everyone as he reflects on his career in Denver.</p>
<p id="J5mDNx"><a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/photos/draft-day-to-defensive-dominance-von-miller-s-broncos-career-in-photos#5bfe1f5e-eb9a-4fa4-9cd6-1764e7259528">Draft day to defensive dominance: Von Miller's Broncos career in photos</a><br>Flip through photos of Von Miller's Broncos career, from his arrival after the 2011 NFL Draft to becoming the franchise's all-time sack leader.</p>
<p id="XdpqJ5"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/11/2/22758875/broncos-have-regressed-in-their-offensive-play-callingTim Lynch2021-10-31T19:13:28-06:002021-10-31T19:13:28-06:006 things I think I think after the Broncos’ ugly 17-10 win over the Washington Football Team
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<figcaption>Simmons finished two drives in picks today. | Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Denver ain’t dead yet. </p> <p id="0vX6Kc">With Peyton Manning present for his Ring of Fame induction, the Broncos found a way to claw their way back to .500 against the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a>. It was a gritty performance by the defense to hold Taylor Heinicke and company to 10 points minus their entire starting linebacker corps. It was also yet another disappointing showing by Pat Shurmur’s offense.</p>
<p id="LNaXIq">Here’s what I think in the immediate aftermath of the 17-10 victory. </p>
<h2 id="t9pGy1"><strong>Baron Browning looked like an upgrade on Justin Strnad</strong></h2>
<p id="Gys4Cr">Injuries to Alexander Johnson, Josey Jewell, and Micah Kiser left the Broncos in desperate straits at linebacker this week, so George Paton traded a future day three pick to Los Angeles for Kenny Young. As soon as the news broke, it was clear the former Ram would get a start against Washington. He basically had to after the backers completely failed in the Thursday Night loss to Cleveland in week seven.</p>
<p id="u96YBX">The addition of Young made enough noise during the week that Baron Browning’s status slipped under the radar. The 2021 third rounder missed most of OTAs, training camp, and a bunch of practice this season, but was cleared to play against the Football Team. With Young on board and Browning healthy, Justin Strnad’s role was minimized. The decision looked like the right one by Fangio. </p>
<p id="E66MqH">Browning’s range, play strength, and trigger made him a noticeable upgrade over <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454915638292623360?s=20">Strnad, who continued to make assignment errors when he did see the field.</a> The second year backer’s really struggled in recent weeks and that continued today. The rookie was not perfect, of course. The Football Team frequently found ways to take advantage of the inexperience and mental miscues on the second level, but hopefully those get ironed out as both Young and Browning play more.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I suspect Adam Humphries got open on a mesh concept because Bryce Callahan was picked and Baron Browning didn't switch. <a href="https://t.co/BbB1YmzRLF">pic.twitter.com/BbB1YmzRLF</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454937934826811396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<h2 id="KQCl9a"><strong>The Broncos pass rush beat up on a battered offensive line</strong></h2>
<p id="McGiI3">Von Miller’s ankle injury meant Jonathon Cooper, Stephen Weatherly, and Malik Reed had to hold down the fort along the edge today and they rose to the occasion. Dre’Mont Jones and Shelby Harris also played a huge role in Taylor Heinicke’s five sacks as they found their way into the backfield time and again. Credit where credit is due, I thought Fangio did a good job mixing in stunts and blitzes to dial up one on one opportunities against an offensive line down three starters by the final bell. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to the Broncos Stephen Weatherly! <a href="https://t.co/545M1MAw2i">pic.twitter.com/545M1MAw2i</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454926562957086722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<h2 id="pXRQuo"><strong>The run defense was still iffy</strong></h2>
<p id="cPXIN7">Washington’s running backs averaged a little over four yards a carry, which isn’t great. What’s more concerning is how Jaret Patterson and Antonio Gibson both broke free for 10+ yard gains. The Football Team leaned on their ground game to convert six first downs today despite the three backups playing on the offensive line up. With all of Denver’s injuries at linebacker and Mike Purcell’s status a huge question mark, it’s probably unrealistic to expect the Broncos to stonewall opponents on the ground. Still, today’s performance which bodes poorly for Denver’s next game against Ezekiel Elliot, Tony Pollard, and the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a>. </p>
<h2 id="GSRIf8"><strong>Dre’Mont Jones field goal block was cool</strong></h2>
<p id="CTeFIE">Not a whole lot to say about this other than I’m happy for Jones, he’s been quietly showing out most of the year. It doesn’t hurt to play against Chris Blewitt, who had a kick blocked last week and seems to have a ton of trouble getting any air on his kicks. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Broncos get a blocked field goal for real this time with Dre'Mont Jones getting a hand on the ball. <a href="https://t.co/O8ge2aynoJ">pic.twitter.com/O8ge2aynoJ</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454943666259337218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<h2 id="aR6U1E"><strong>There’s problem across the Broncos offense</strong></h2>
<p id="JtVRdZ">With every one of their opening day starters, the Shurmur offense scored 17 points against a defense that’s allowed every single opponent they’ve faced this year to score 20+. Teddy Bridgewater threw for 213 passing yards and took four sacks against a pass defense that entered today as one of the four worst in the league by DVOA. The Broncos converted seven of the 13 third downs they faced, but also failed to move the sticks on a third and two because of one of the worst play calls I’ve seen this year.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Landon Collins read this the whole way. <a href="https://t.co/8IhZ0GXdm9">pic.twitter.com/8IhZ0GXdm9</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454935165596229633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="RSE6gd">If you’re reading this Pat: your boss traded up in the second round of the 2021 draft so you can run the ball in these situations. For all the talent on the Washington defensive line, they came into the game today with the worst defense in the league in power situations as measured by Football Outsiders. 92% of the plays ran against them in these situations were converted against them.</p>
<p id="O6NVIl">It wasn’t all completely on Shurmur, though. Perhaps no moment in the game perfectly captured the Broncos issues on offense quite like the mind numbing game ending drive. Following Justin Simmons’ second Hail Mary interception, the offense got the ball up 17-10 with 37 ticks left on the clock. Washington had two timeouts remaining. </p>
<ul>
<li id="QvdDwa">On 1st and 10 Javonte Williams almost fumbles the ball away, but Dalton Risner falls on it. </li>
<li id="f9DGIB">Washington calls their first timeout. 32 seconds left.</li>
<li id="PZPDjx">On 2nd and 10 Shurmur dials up a play action pass, and the 7th year veteran QB throws a low percentage look. Incomplete. Clock stopped.</li>
<li id="T8fJPM">On 3rd and 10 Melvin Gordon fumbles the ball away. </li>
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<p id="CnL54R">After the game Fangio said the drive was terrible and we writer types can use whatever language we want to describe it. I’ll spare your children the profanity, but just let me say that it was the worst attempt to ice a game that I’ve ever seen. </p>
<p id="Tx5RnO">Luckily for Gordon, Bridgewater, and the rest of the offense Malik Reed was there to clean up their mistakes on the final possession of the game.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Malik Reed with another clutch sack <a href="https://t.co/cDvnpyBOwr">pic.twitter.com/cDvnpyBOwr</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454951803112591367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<h2 id="EcZYzb"><strong>Final Thoughts (for now)</strong></h2>
<p id="421mJ1">Following their fourth straight loss, the Broncos barely took care of business against a Washington team that’s lost three in a row. The victory means Denver is not mathematically eliminated from the postseason, though odds are heavily stacked against them. At 4-4, it seems unlikely George Paton makes any sort of groundbreaking move before the trade deadline on Tuesday. While I’ve already argued that the Broncos first year general manager should try and sell off any piece that isn’t a part of his long term plan, I expect Paton to continue chasing the dance. </p>
<aside id="tiQS3j"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"It’s time for George Paton to take the reins.","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/21/22739854/1-thing-i-know-after-broncos-17-14-loss-to-browns"}]}'></div></aside><p id="wiNOMT">A quick look at the remaining schedule:</p>
<ul>
<li id="MGHOZ2">At Cowboys</li>
<li id="1djF7X">Vs. Eagles</li>
<li id="li8xQT">Vs. <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a>
</li>
<li id="ChAINa">At Chiefs</li>
<li id="2wbbZy">Vs. Lions</li>
<li id="7W1fFS">Vs. Bengals</li>
<li id="iN7UiV">At Raiders</li>
<li id="NV6AuC">At Chargers</li>
<li id="VOgCxm">Vs. Chiefs</li>
</ul>
<p id="fyJswU">Some will look ahead and take a nihilistic view of the 2021 season. If you believe Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes can find a way to save Kansas City, the Broncos still have six games against teams that look like they’ll make the postseason. Outside the Chiefs, every one of those contenders have a better defense than Washington did.</p>
<p id="tHlDsg">Look a little closer, and there could be some reason for cautious hope. As I write this it looks like Dak Prescott’s status for the Broncos game is an open question. The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> have a one dimensional quarterback and a defense that’s struggling to get stops outside of Michigan. The Chiefs made Philly’s one dimensional quarterback look like Peyton Manning. </p>
<p id="ejk18C">Regardless of where you land on Denver’s odds at meaningful football in January, they found a way to win in front of the Sheriff today. Good teams beat bad teams badly and the Broncos did not do that by any stretch of the imagination, but a win is a win in the NFL. At 4-4, it still looks like the Broncos still control their destiny after the win today. </p>
<p id="zrTyhY">Let’s hope for a fun ride. </p>
<div id="ETHB03">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Now that the Broncos are 4-4, should George Paton sell before the NFL Trade deadline on Tuesday, November 2nd?</p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454949817164177409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756485/6-things-i-think-i-think-after-the-broncos-ugly-17-10-win-over-the-washington-football-teamJust_JoRo2021-10-31T18:11:15-06:002021-10-31T18:11:15-06:008 winners, 2 losers, 1 both from the Broncos 17-10 win over WFT
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<img alt="Washington Football Team v Denver Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EpMSEJTPenrGKf5A1ZTCJjYxef4=/0x0:2573x1715/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70072400/1350509615.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Justin Tafoya/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Broncos hold on for the win to snap their four-game losing streak despite one of the most WTF endings in recent memory.</p> <p id="F07R81">At least the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> won? </p>
<p id="pt2CY2">In a pillow fight between two putrid football teams, the Broncos had a little more cushion in their pillow to get the 17-10 win over the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a>. </p>
<p id="YiVRZy">Per the usual, I’m bound to forget someone, leave them off or put them in the wrong category, so please mention them in the comments.</p>
<h2 id="fJLSJL">Winners </h2>
<h3 id="qqpH6S">Peyton Manning </h3>
<p id="RBKAd3">At least the Broncos did PFM better than Mike Shanahan. Regardless of the outcome, Manning is the newest member of the Ring of Fame. Mile High Salute to Manning for his incredible four years in Denver. </p>
<h3 id="8YKcWa">Shelby Harris </h3>
<p id="QKMLDi">The Broncos defensive lineman had himself a day. He finished with five tackles, two solo, two quarterback hits and half a sack. He also blocked a field goal.</p>
<h3 id="oRfaTn">Dre’Mont Jones </h3>
<p id="WsbofS">Not to be outdone, Jones had himself a day as well. He finished with three tackles, one solo, two quarterback hits, one tackle for loss and 1.5 sacks. Jones also had the other blocked field goal. </p>
<h3 id="TU52cI">Justin Simmons </h3>
<p id="kZi6nQ">It’s been a while since Simmons was on the winners list, but two interceptions, seven tackles and two passes defended get you on the list. </p>
<h3 id="uWR0qN">Baron Browning </h3>
<p id="jyvHlg">Given all of the injuries, the rookie linebacker was the signal caller for Denver’s defense. And he delivered. Browning led the Broncos in tackles with eight, five solo, and one tackle for loss. </p>
<h3 id="SypUXR">Malik Reed </h3>
<p id="a3Jmam">Catching a theme with this list? Reed finished with two huge sacks, plus three tackles, two quarterback hits, one tackle for loss and a pass defended. </p>
<h3 id="7c1t6Z">Tim Patrick </h3>
<p id="mdjw94">The Broncos receiver led the team in receiving yardage with 64 on three catches. On a day the offense didn’t do much, Patrick helped move the chains. </p>
<h3 id="Tm2T9p">Jerry Jeudy </h3>
<p id="uUm1G6">In his first game back from injured reserved, about the only thing Jeudy didn’t do was get in the end zone. The Denver receiver finished with four catches for 39 yards. It’s nice to see Jeudy back on the field for this offense. </p>
<h2 id="DNMQPy">Both </h2>
<h3 id="O23BLQ">Melvin Gordon</h3>
<p id="dcN713">Without his two touchdowns, Denver does not win this game. However, hold onto the dang ball; especially at the end of the game on third down. </p>
<h2 id="G9ZGsP">Losers</h2>
<h3 id="Icxqaf">Pat Shurmur</h3>
<p id="a3Vwb3">At this point, what else is left to say? Yikes. </p>
<h3 id="moBU2c">Noah Fant </h3>
<p id="epfN12">At least Denver can count on penalties to stall drives from the athletic and talented tight end. Fant has now committed seven penalties on the season. </p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756472/football-team-broncos-winners-losers-week-8Ian St. Clair2021-10-31T17:22:30-06:002021-10-31T17:22:30-06:00It wasn’t pretty, but the Broncos are back in the win column after 17-10 win over Washington
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<figcaption>Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Denver Broncos defense comes up big in the final minute of the game to secure the team’s first win in over a month as they beat the Washington Football Team, 17-10. </p> <p id="L3CRQS">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> and <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a> looked a lot alike in this game, which is probably why their records were so similar coming into this game. Denver had ample opportunities to put points on the board, but their play calling continued to have question marks at critical junctures in the game as they bumbled their way to a 17-10 victory.</p>
<p id="L64DXX">However, the final minute of the game on offense has me thinking Pat Shurmur should be fired tonight. Let me know what you think in the poll below. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fire someone tonight. I don't even care if they still win. Fire someone.</p>— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/MileHighReport/status/1454950430857781249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<h2 id="S515NA">First Quarter</h2>
<p id="97t9YJ">Both teams floundered on their opening drives despite both reaching the other side of the field. The Broncos did so on this nice deep pass from Teddy Bridgewater to Courtland Sutton. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Facing 3rd and 3 Teddy Bridgwater chucks a long check down to Courtland Sutton. <br><br>Broncos first down! <a href="https://t.co/owUmtpwDEj">pic.twitter.com/owUmtpwDEj</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454911250266271744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="gxjyno">That drive would end in multiple miscues and penalties that pushed them out of field goal range. </p>
<p id="i4Z1p7">Broncos 0, WFT 0. <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756202/broncos-washington-first-quarter-recap">Full first quarter recap</a>. </p>
<h2 id="4ugSzl">Second Quarter</h2>
<p id="4Zb235">Washington would match that level of ineptitude on their second drive that ended in the second quarter with a Shelby Harris blocked field goal to keep the game scoreless. </p>
<div id="At4VAN">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best hands in the league. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShelbyHarris93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShelbyHarris93</a> | : FOX <a href="https://t.co/otVRIVCFvo">pic.twitter.com/otVRIVCFvo</a></p>— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1454916891449823239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="WUIsnQ">The Broncos continued to get some momentum early in drives with big plays to their wide receivers, but it seems any time the play calling gets down near the 20-yard line the whole offense breaks down. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bridgewater with a 30-yard pass to Tim Patrick <a href="https://t.co/4HtS7RYwE6">pic.twitter.com/4HtS7RYwE6</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454918073127931912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="EfGpzD">That big pass to Tim Patrick would result in a Brandon McManus 45-yard field goal just four plays later. That did give Denver an early 3-0 lead over Washington midway through the second quarter. Washington would later tie the game up with a 52-yard field goal of their own.</p>
<p id="bzMsPE">Denver would put together a fine 7-play, 75-yard touchdown drive late in the second quarter. Bridgewater connected on a couple of 19-yard passes to Albert Ok and Tim Patrick before hitting Melvin Gordon on this pass for the touchdown and the first half lead.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bridgewater hooks up with Melvin Gordon for a Broncos touchdown! <a href="https://t.co/Wov5M4TZmh">pic.twitter.com/Wov5M4TZmh</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454924281121476612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="Ahzd4O">Broncos 10, Washington 3. <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756236/broncos-washington-second-quarter-recap">Full second quarter recap</a>. </p>
<h2 id="qPpK2v">Third Quarter</h2>
<p id="zG0OvQ">The third quarter was filled with questionable play calling from Pat Shurmur. He continues to think running the ball on second down after the first down run was stuffed leads to something other than three and outs and he prefers to throw a swing pass four yards behind the line of scrimmage on third and one instead of just running it up the gut. That he just keeps doing it is what is enraging.</p>
<p id="zrCyUb">Meanwhile, Washington was able to tie the game up late in the third quarter on a drive that was kept alive by the ugliest no-call pick play I’ve seen all year that left Washington’s wide receiver wide open while Bryce Callahan was laid out on his back by the opposing tight end.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Broncos give Washington their longest play of the game on 3rd and 2. <a href="https://t.co/n7WsWYj3IT">pic.twitter.com/n7WsWYj3IT</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454936466199617536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="BwYo8F">The touchdown pass would come a few plays later to tie the game up at 10.</p>
<p id="omsMeR">Broncos 10, Washington 10. <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756247/broncos-washington-third-quarter-recap">Full third quarter recap</a>. </p>
<h2 id="syDVF5">Fourth Quarter</h2>
<p id="o130Hb">With the fourth quarter starting, the Broncos were able to put together a nice drive. The drive was sprung by a roughing the passer penalty on Teddy Bridgewater. The drive stalled when Lloyd Cushenberry stepped on Bridgewater’s foot to cause a sack. McManus would miss his first field goal of the season too, which ruined the scoring opportunity. </p>
<p id="fUUyKZ">Another blocked field goal attempt by the Broncos kept the score tied late as Dre’Mont Jones joined Shelby Harris with the field goal blocking fun.</p>
<p id="k9dwIa">Denver immediately turned it around and marched right down the field and scored a touchdown. It was an excellent drive and some quality route running by Jerry Jeudy and good running by Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon to take the lead with less than five minutes to go in the game. </p>
<p id="zbZFIV">Broncos 17, Washington 10. </p>
<p id="npHfN3">With Denver’s defense down Callahan, it didn’t take long for Taylor Heinicke to drive his team down the field. At the two minute warning, Washington was faced with a second and seven from the Broncos’ eight yard line. The defense stood tall form there with Justin Simmons flying in to make a tackle for no gain, then Malik Reed came in with the strip sack to force a 4th and 19. Simmons would seal the deal with an interception to secure the first win for Denver in over a month. </p>
<p id="PjQWp4">Of course, that feel good session lasted all of a minute as Denver then went through a sequence of events that left everyone confused. Needing to run the clock out, Pat Shurmur dials up a pass that goes incomplete and then Melvin Gordon fumbled to give Washington the ball back with 21 seconds. Thankfully, the Broncos defense got the job done again and Denver did finally win the game.</p>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756196/broncos-washington-final-score-2021Tim Lynch2021-10-31T16:27:51-06:002021-10-31T16:27:51-06:002021: Broncos vs. Washington - Live updates
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<img alt="NFL: Washington Football Team at Denver Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/vDMHpEaPsYfoRwGw5yN3H3nuk4U=/74x0:8483x5606/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70071685/usa_today_17068276.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Denver Broncos are reeling from a four-game skid and are looking to turn things around against another struggling team in the Washington Football Team.</p> <p id="XhPHRq">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> (3-4) are in a tail spin losing four straight, but are hosting another team on the ropes in the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a> (2-5) in Week 8. A win here would at least stop the Broncos’ ship from sinking at least temporarily. </p>
<h3 id="XgrFaY">In-game updates</h3>
<aside id="q7cKlk"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Washington at Broncos: 11 things to watch for","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22750846/washington-broncos-11-things-to-watch-for"},{"title":"Denver Broncos and Washington Football Team inactives: Von Miller will be inactive","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756066/denver-broncos-and-washington-football-team-inactives-von-miller-will-be-inactive"},{"title":"Broncos vs. Washington first quarter recap","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756202/broncos-washington-first-quarter-recap"},{"title":"Broncos vs. Washington second quarter recap","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756236/broncos-washington-second-quarter-recap"},{"title":"Broncos vs. Washington third quarter recap","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756247/broncos-washington-third-quarter-recap"},{"title":"It wasn’t pretty, but the Broncos are back in the win column after 17-10 win over Washington","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756196/broncos-washington-final-score-2021"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="TmVGjX">Game preview</h3>
<p id="qz8fU6">There are no more winnable games for the Denver Broncos in 2021. Every single game is now a fight for their lives. That starts this week with the Washington Football Team. </p>
<p id="TgphJ2">Denver has made several significant moves in the week leading up to this game with two trades to help an injury-riddled defense plug some holes and they brought two important offensive weapons back on offense in Jerry Jeudy and Albert Okwuegbunam. The must-win mentality has to start now.</p>
<p id="gUoxTf">Join us in the comments section below to talk Broncos-Washington in Week 8. </p>
<h3 id="aSwBsk"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/lists/94061706">Broncos-WFT live updates</a></h3>
<ul>
<li id="khmYiJ"><a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22755293/broncos-washington-live-stream-how-to-watch-online">Game info</a></li>
<li id="EpO3QK"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2Flp%2Ffootball%2F%3Fbgvideo%3Dnfl.mp4%26title%3DLive%2520Football.%2520Stream%2520and%2520DVR.%26priceline%3D*Regional%2520and%2520mobile%2520restrictions%2520apply%26cta%3DGet%25207-Day%2520Free%2520Trial%2520Now%26irad%3D356362%26irmp%3D482924%26sharedid%3DMileHighReport&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2021%2F10%2F31%2F22756063%2Fbroncos-washington-live-updates" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Live stream</a></li>
<li id="kCuntE"><a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/28/22750977/broncos-wft-preview-recap-week-8">Everything we know</a></li>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756063/broncos-washington-live-updatesTim Lynch2021-10-31T16:27:10-06:002021-10-31T16:27:10-06:00Broncos vs. Washington third quarter recap
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<p>The Denver Broncos offense is being stymied by their own offensive play calling. Washington was able to tie things up at 10 heading into the fourth quarter. </p> <p id="0iDTgl">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> received the ball to open up the second half and faced an early third and two on their opening series. A hand-off to Javonte Williams had the young rookie powering through would-be tacklers for the first down out to the Denver 40 yard line. </p>
<p id="b0Pbm6">Back-to-back runs from there went exactly nowhere as Pat Shurmur dialed up the run-run-pass-punt offense he so often loves to see in games. </p>
<p id="PgfLID">Washington found themselves pinned deep in the shadow of their own end zone. Facing a third and 9, Dre’Mont Jones broke through the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a> line for the critical sack at the Washington four yard line. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dre'Mont Jones with a nice second effort to get the sack. Broncos D holds on 3rd down. <a href="https://t.co/uXMRyj88d3">pic.twitter.com/uXMRyj88d3</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454933164149903369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="RKDZN1">The Broncos squandered the excellent field position by going a quick three and out. On third and one, Pat Shumur elected to throw the ball outside to Melvin Gordon 4 yards behind the line for an easy blow up for Washington. An inside run there might have been ideal. </p>
<p id="1B0SC2">With bad field position again, Washington wasn’t going to be denied. Their biggest play came on third down when Bryce Callahan was tackled by the tight end while in coverage on another wide receiver, leaving them wide open for the big play. It was nice to see it on replay and no flag. Typical NFL refereeing there.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Broncos give Washington their longest play of the game on 3rd and 2. <a href="https://t.co/n7WsWYj3IT">pic.twitter.com/n7WsWYj3IT</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454936466199617536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="tnv97q">The third quarter would come to an end with Washington scoring a touchdown to tie the game up.</p>
<p id="uFf4BP"><strong>Broncos 10, Washington 10. </strong></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756247/broncos-washington-third-quarter-recapTim Lynch2021-10-31T15:42:19-06:002021-10-31T15:42:19-06:00Broncos vs. Washington second quarter recap
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<img alt="NFL: Washington Football Team at Denver Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HSPNg6i19vzdYAAilS5LzHEi6I0=/0x0:7550x5033/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70071973/usa_today_17069275.0.jpg" />
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<p>The Denver Broncos took a 10-3 halftime lead over the Washington Football Team. </p> <p id="0iDTgl">From the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> 20 yard line, the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Football Team</a> began the second quarter with a second and four. </p>
<p id="QPrexb">Denver blew up a screen pass to make it a third and six and a false start pushed them back to a third and 11. Taylor Heinicke’s pass was defended by Patrick Surtain II. Then, good old Shelby Harris put his arms up to block the field goal attempt to keep the game scoreless. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best hands in the league. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShelbyHarris93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShelbyHarris93</a> | : FOX <a href="https://t.co/otVRIVCFvo">pic.twitter.com/otVRIVCFvo</a></p>— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1454916891449823239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="upYxtc">Jerry Jeudy would get his first reception on the Broncos next drive. Teddy Bridgewater would then find Tim Patrick coming out wide open over the middle of the field for a 30 yard gain to the Washington 23-yard line. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bridgewater with a 30-yard pass to Tim Patrick <a href="https://t.co/4HtS7RYwE6">pic.twitter.com/4HtS7RYwE6</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454918073127931912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="TWSgcg">The drive would derail from there after a short run by Javonte Williams and an unblocked Landon Collins to sack Bridgewater for a big loss. On third and 14, a blown screen pass brought out the boo-birds for the Pat Shurmur first half offense. </p>
<p id="lVAlUH">Brandon McManus would hand the Broncos the lead with a 45-yard field goal.</p>
<p id="F3pWKx"><strong>Broncos 3, Washington 0.</strong></p>
<p id="2Bh2VQ">Washington converted a fourth down and were driving down inside the 30 yard line when Shelby Harris came up big again with a huge sack at the Broncos’ 35 yard line. Chris Blewitt was able to bang through a 52-yard field goal to tie the game.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fangio dials up a stunt with Shelby Harris and Dre'Mont Jones and the Broncos get home for a sack on 3rd down! <a href="https://t.co/Xo80m9MoMr">pic.twitter.com/Xo80m9MoMr</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454921112547123200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="6RnLwm"><strong>Broncos 3, Washington 3.</strong> </p>
<p id="45gdkv">The Denver offense continued to move the ball really well outside of the red zone. Albert O got going with two catches on the drive, one a 19-yarder that set the Broncos up inside the Washington 35-yard line at the two minute warning. </p>
<p id="EgRQox">Outside of the two minute warning, Bridgewater found Tim Patrick for a 19 yard gain to the Washington 15. He then followed it up with a pass to Melvin Gordon who powered it in for the late touchdown to cap a 7-play, 75 yard drive. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bridgewater hooks up with Melvin Gordon for a Broncos touchdown! <a href="https://t.co/Wov5M4TZmh">pic.twitter.com/Wov5M4TZmh</a></p>— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoRo_NFL/status/1454924281121476612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a>
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<p id="2DsRNf"><strong>Broncos 10, Washington 3. </strong></p>
<p id="exYZv0">With just over a minute to go in the half, Washington tried to get a drive going late. Taylor Heinicke needed two plays to get them out to their own 43-yard line. He then found his tight end Ricky Seals-Jones to the sideline for a nice gain to the Broncos 43-yard line. </p>
<p id="o76BnZ">Another pass, this time underneath got Washington into field goal range with 29 seconds left. A few plays later on third and 3, Stephen Weatherly came up with the sack to knock Washington out of field goal range. Weatherly was just traded to Denver last week. </p>
<p id="ZNuHGG">That was a great defensive stand for the Broncos to end the first half.</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2021/10/31/22756236/broncos-washington-second-quarter-recapTim Lynch