The Denver Broncos started off their AFC West slate with a flop against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, losing 32-23 on the road. Broncos Wire examines the studs and duds from the defeat.
Stud: Russell Wilson
Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson began the first half on a tear, throwing for over 100 yards and two touchdowns, only throwing one incomplete pass. In the second half, Wilson struggled a bit more, but came up big on a fourth-quarter drive, scoring a three-yard rushing touchdown to get the Broncos within two.
Unfortunately, a couple of late drops doomed Denver. Wilson looks more comfortable in the offense, throwing darts to receivers down the field.
Dud: Melvin Gordon
Through four games, Melvin Gordon has fumbled four times. Gordon’s inconsistent ability to hold on to the ball in crucial situations is costing the Broncos points, dating back to his lost fumble against the Kansas City Chiefs during the final game of the 2021 season. The fumble today proved to be the difference in the game, as it was returned for a touchdown.
Gordon only had two carries after his fumble, gaining eight yards. With Javonte Williams’ status uncertain, Gordon needs to step up, or get out of the way.
Stud: Montrell Washington
Returner Montrell Washington exploded today for a return of 30 yards and he put the Broncos in prime field position several times throughout the game. Washington is becoming the field-flipper that he was drafted to be out of Samford. Run, Montrell, run!
Dud: Broncos' run defense
Denver’s run defense seemingly took a bye week against the Raiders. Las Vegas ball-carriers ran wild for over 200 yards, after being ranked 28th in the NFL coming into the game. Watching Raiders running back Josh Jacobs rush for a career-high 144 yards was brutal.
Denver faces a tough Colts rushing attack on a short week, but this needs to be addressed — quickly.
Dud: Injuries
The most concerning injuries for Broncos fans this week were from running back Javonte Williams and pass-rusher Randy Gregory. Both were carted off from the Denver sideline. Williams was quickly ruled out after going down early in the second half with a knee injury. Safety P.J. Locke also exited the game due to the NFL’s concussion protocol.
The most dangerous part about the quick turnaround this week is a Thursday night showdown against the Indianapolis Colts. Injuries tend to show up more during these four-day weeks (a la Tua Tagovailoa), so the Broncos need to be careful with player health.
