Broncos’ Playoff Hopes Hanging by a Thread Following Slow Start
The Denver Broncos entered the 2023 NFL season with high hopes after clinching a playoff spot last year for the first time since 2015. With significant offseason acquisitions, expectations soared, and many analysts projected the Broncos as potential Super Bowl contenders. However, just two weeks into the season, the team finds itself in a precarious position, with doubts creeping in and fans beginning to lose faith.
Rocky Start to the Season
The season kicked off with a lackluster victory over the Tennessee Titans, a game that many expected the Broncos to dominate. Week 2, however, brought a harsher reality. In a dramatic one-point loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the Broncos’ defense faltered, giving up nearly 500 yards of offense. This performance raised alarms, leaving some fans and analysts questioning the team’s readiness to compete at a high level.
Shifting Playoff Odds
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report recently examined the playoff probabilities for each NFL team using current odds from DraftKings. The Broncos remain -140 favorites to secure a playoff berth, but Gagnon expressed skepticism about their chances. He noted the challenging road ahead, stating, “That loss to the Colts hurt, especially considering they have the Chargers and Eagles on the road in the next three weeks. I like this team but fear they may dig too large a hole in the first half of the year, and -140 is far from tempting under those circumstances.”
A Tough Road Ahead
Gagnon’s analysis underscores the daunting schedule the Broncos face in the coming weeks. With matchups against the Chargers and the Eagles looming, the path to recovery is anything but straightforward. The first glimpse of an easier win may not come until Week 6 when the team travels to London to face the New York Jets. Even that game carries its own set of uncertainties, making it clear that the Broncos will need to navigate a challenging terrain if they wish to rebound.
The Silver Lining
While the early season struggles have undoubtedly affected their playoff odds, it’s worth noting that Las Vegas still considers the Broncos contenders. A decisive victory against the Chargers this Sunday could be the catalyst the team needs to reignite hope and restore confidence.
As the Broncos prepare for their upcoming battles, the pressure mounts to turn the tide and prove that last season’s playoff appearance was not a fluke, but rather the beginning of a new era in Denver.
