Here's one reason the Bronco's play better than they look on paper

[Mingo]

The Broncos had 3 punts downed on the 1 yard line over 17 years - and now have had 3 downed on the 1 in the first 4 weeks of the season. The Broncos are 2nd best in the NFL in presenting opponents with a long field to score.

Courtesy of the Athletic:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5819386/2024/10/05/broncos-special-teams-turnaround/

Before this season, the Broncos had downed only three punts at the 1-yard line during the last 17 seasons combined. That may be an isolated statistic — pinning teams at the 2-yard line isn’t a bad outcome, for example — but it’s also a microcosm of the wholesale turnaround the Broncos have produced on special teams since Sean Payton arrived in 2023. The carousel of quarterbacks and coaches had defined Denver’s post-Super Bowl 50 malaise, but dreadful performances on special teams were a consistent, nagging subplot.

Now, heading into Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, the third phase has become a source of strength. The Broncos have punted 24 times and have had only one touchback. Wil Lutz has made 10 of 11 field goals. Opponents are starting possessions following kickoffs at their own 27.2-yard line on average. Only the New Orleans Saints are giving teams a longer field to start drives. Perhaps most importantly, the Broncos have avoided the kind of mistakes on special teams that were commonplace before last season.

 

[MileHigh64]

The Broncos had 3 punts downed on the 1 yard line over 17 years - and now have had 3 downed on the 1 in the first 4 weeks of the season. The Broncos are 2nd best in the NFL in presenting opponents with a long field to score.

Courtesy of the Athletic:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5819386/2024/10/05/broncos-special-teams-turnaround/

Before this season, the Broncos had downed only three punts at the 1-yard line during the last 17 seasons combined. That may be an isolated statistic — pinning teams at the 2-yard line isn’t a bad outcome, for example — but it’s also a microcosm of the wholesale turnaround the Broncos have produced on special teams since Sean Payton arrived in 2023. The carousel of quarterbacks and coaches had defined Denver’s post-Super Bowl 50 malaise, but dreadful performances on special teams were a consistent, nagging subplot.

Now, heading into Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, the third phase has become a source of strength. The Broncos have punted 24 times and have had only one touchback. Wil Lutz has made 10 of 11 field goals. Opponents are starting possessions following kickoffs at their own 27.2-yard line on average. Only the New Orleans Saints are giving teams a longer field to start drives. Perhaps most importantly, the Broncos have avoided the kind of mistakes on special teams that were commonplace before last season.

This is such an important aspect of the game that doesn't get enough attention. The Broncos have been historically bad on special teams for so long, that many of us fans have given up on this phase. It's so great to finally see our special teams be a strength vs. a burden. Field position is a great friend to our defense and our young QB. Thanks for posting this, @Mingo !!