Around the AFC West: Chiefs clinch the division and more
By Ellen Mathis
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos make me question everything all the time. Obviously they are not making the postseason, so I just assumed they would continue to tank against good teams and barely squeak out wins against bad teams. I was wrong. The Broncos got into a shootout with the Teddy Bridgewater-led Carolina Panthers on Sunday, beating them 32 to 27.
Drew Lock was impressive and threw for 280 yards and 4 touchdowns. Even with all the injuries that have occurred over the course of the season, the Broncos receivers continue to play well. KJ Hamler, Nick Vannett, and Tim Patrick were all productive, even after Noah Fant left with a stomach illness.
The Broncos also had an impressive punt return from Diontae Spencer.
This was the Broncos team that I kind of expected to see this season. If Lock can continue to keep his desire to chuck the ball downfield in check, thus causing less turnovers, maybe they can still hold out hope that Lock is the franchise quarterback.
I do think we are going to see a reality check for the Broncos, though, as they host the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. The Bills are still pushing towards the top of the AFC while the Steelers tumble and are playing great football right now. I anticipate the Broncos will likely be embarrassed and harassed on Saturday and am looking forward to the Donkey slaughter.
Game time is Saturday at 3:30 p.m.