The Denver Broncos lost their 16-straight game to the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday Night Football in Week 6, falling 19-8 on the road. We recap the various studs and duds from the loss.
Stud: Defense
Despite the loss, the Broncos’ defense took a step in the right direction, giving up only 13 points in the first half. The Chiefs offense is so explosive, and the Denver defense were able to limit the Chiefs inside the red zone. 19 points is the Broncos’ second-fewest points allowed in 2023, which is a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, it was the offense that failed to pick things up.
Dud: Russell Wilson
Quarterback Russell Wilson laid a complete egg against Kansas City. Wilson threw two interceptions, and led Denver on several three-and-out drives. Holding onto the ball too long contributed to multiple sacks by Chiefs defenders. Wilson did throw a touchdown in the fourth quarter to Courtland Sutton, but it proved to be too little too late.
Stud: Marvin Mims
Wide receiver Marvin Mims continues to be an explosive player on special teams. Mims had two punt returns for 30 yards. One of those returns helped set up the first Denver touchdown in the fourth quarter. Mims definitely should be integrated more into the offensive game plan.
Dud: Turnovers
The Broncos committed three turnovers against the Chiefs. Kansas City only gave up the ball once, which was an interception corralled by safety Justin Simmons. Three extra possessions from Russell Wilson’s two interceptions and the game-ender from Samaje Perine’s fumble were a massive difference in the game.
What's going on?
ESPN’s Jeff Legwold put it best: “The Chiefs don’t need to take their best shot to beat the Broncos.” The Broncos failed to put up points. When the defense thrives, the offense sputters. The inconsistency of this Denver team has been frustrating at times. This team has failed to find an identity on either side of the ball. They have 11 days to prepare for a matchup with the Green Bay Packers at Empower Field at Mile High, so there will be no excuses if the team doesn’t look better in Week 7.
