Riley Moss under scrutiny as Broncos’ defensive woes persist
The Denver Broncos faced a bitter defeat against the Los Angeles Chargers last week, squandering a promising 20-13 lead late in the fourth quarter. Following the loss, social media erupted with fans directing their criticism squarely at rookie cornerback Riley Moss.
The Blame Game
Many within Broncos Country believe that Moss is struggling in his role, citing the number of completed passes against him. However, a closer examination reveals a more nuanced picture. Moss frequently finds himself in solid coverage positions, yet opposing quarterbacks and wide receivers are simply making exceptional plays.
As teams increasingly target Moss, largely avoiding the coverage of standout cornerback Pat Surtain II, the challenges he faces are amplified. This trend is expected to continue, especially with the Cincinnati Bengals set to visit in Week 4, bringing back memories of a challenging matchup from last season.
A Tough History Against the Bengals
When the Bengals and Broncos squared off in late December in Cincinnati, Moss was tasked with shadowing Tee Higgins. In that game, Higgins torched the Broncos’ defense, racking up 11 receptions for 131 yards and three pivotal touchdowns, with quarterback Joe Burrow consistently turning to him as a reliable option in critical moments.
Moss’s Coverage Metrics
Despite the criticisms, it’s important to highlight that Moss has been targeted 27 times this season, the second-most in the NFL. He has allowed only 12 receptions, which is fewer than any other player with over 20 targets. Furthermore, Moss boasts an impressive average of just 2.6 yards of separation in coverage, marking the second-tightest coverage in the league among players with a minimum of 50 snaps.
As the Broncos prepare for their next challenge, it remains to be seen how Moss will respond to the mounting pressure. The narrative surrounding him may shift as he continues to develop in a demanding role, navigating the complexities of an NFL defense.
