Broncos Struggle with Offensive Rhythm Due to Penalties

The Denver Broncos continue to grapple with offensive issues, largely attributed to their struggle with penalties. Currently tied with the Jacksonville Jaguars, they lead the NFL with 83 penalties this season.

Following a lackluster victory on Thursday night, members of the Broncos” offense acknowledged their shortcomings in a game that ended with only 10 points. Head coach Sean Payton expressed dissatisfaction with the team”s third-down playcalling, while quarterback Bo Nix admitted he needed to improve. Running back J.K. Dobbins remarked that the team simply “aren”t very good at times.”

When asked about the team”s performance after the game, Payton provided a straightforward answer, pointing out, “We had eight penalties. Let”s start there.” This statement underscores the foundation of the Broncos” offensive struggles, which have been evident through the first ten games of the season.

Despite these challenges, the Broncos hold an impressive 8-2 record, placing them at the top of the AFC West as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, their high penalty count remains a critical issue, with 49 penalties drawn on offense, only 37 of which were accepted.

“I think you can correct that,” Payton said on Monday regarding the penalties. “And we plan on it.” He acknowledged that there are occasional calls he disagrees with, but emphasized the pressing need for improvement in this area.

Throughout the season, Payton has consistently highlighted the league”s focus on neutral-zone infractions, particularly among receivers. After experiencing several false starts early in the season, the Broncos have not faced any such penalties in their last two games against Houston and Las Vegas, which is a positive sign.

Nevertheless, the Broncos” offensive line continues to face issues, with false starts, holding calls, and delay-of-game penalties significantly hindering their performance. These penalties have disrupted Nix”s rhythm, leading to stalled drives.

In a recent game against Las Vegas, a holding penalty on tight end Marcedes Lewis pushed the Broncos back on first down, resulting in a three-and-out. Additionally, an offensive pass interference call on rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant negated one of Nix”s best passes of the game. Another OPI penalty on receiver Troy Franklin resulted in a second-and-20 situation, again halting a drive.

The impact of these penalties is significant, as Nix”s performance deteriorates when facing second-and-long situations, a scenario often created by penalties. This season, his passer rating in such situations stands at 62.9, with a notable number of his interceptions occurring during drives plagued by offensive penalties.

“Between penalties and just some sluggish football, we”re just not playing very well,” Nix said. “It starts with me. I have to be better. Then the rest of the guys will follow along.”

The correlation between penalties and scoring is stark; the Broncos average approximately 0.43 points per play without penalties and see that drop to 0.27 when a penalty is called, according to data compiled by The Denver Post.

As the Broncos prepare for their upcoming game, Dobbins noted that their offensive penalties could ultimately hinder their success. “There were a number of things that we”ve got to do better — we, collectively, as coaches,” Payton said. “And we will.”

Broncos leaders in offensive penalties drawn include: