In their second preseason game of the year, the Denver Broncos fell to Buffalo Bills 42-15. Luckily, the Broncos can flush this loss and regroup at practice, leading into their final preseason game vs. the Minnesota Vikings.
Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett
"That's why this is a great time," "It doesn't count, but in the end, you get to evaluate all your guys."
WHO STOOD OUT IN THE BRONCOS EMBARRASSING BLOWOUT LOSS
After a poor performance in week one, quarterback Brett Rypien bounced back in week two and outplayed Josh Johnson, completing 22/26 for 191 yards and one touchdown. In a game where the Bills started their top players, the Rypien displayed the ability to battle adversity and put points on the board.
On the other hand, Johnson had problems getting the ball down the field in the first half, setting Brandon McManus up for one successful field goal after failing to convert in the Red Zone and only completing 8/16 for 70 yards.
Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett on the QB competition
"Both those guys are battling out," he said, noting that Rypien also had a good day on the field, "They support each other, are there for each other, they make each other better. So we want to keep that competition rolling."
While the pair continues to battle for the backup quarterback position, the competition appears 50/50. It may come down to who can handle the offense the best.
BRONCOS DEFENSIVE SLUMP VS THE BILLS
While the Buffalo Bills may have played most of their top players, Saturday's defensive performance was no excuse for giving up six touchdowns in the first six possessions. The Broncos gave up 208 rushing yards on just 27 attempts. Talk about a game changer.
Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett on the defense vs. the BILLS
"You get six touchdowns on six drives. Nobody did well. So we have to evaluate the group as a whole, and we've got to tackle it better. We've got to hold the point better, everything,"
It sounds like there's no need to panic. However, the impact of evaluating many different players during the preseason comes with the territory.
WHO SHOULD MAKE THE 53-MAN ROSTER
With Tim Patrick going down with a season-ending injury, the Broncos have seen multiple players step up at the wide receiver position. Two receivers who have stood out so far during this preseason stint are rookie standouts Montrell Washington and Jalen Virgil.
Washington has made a name for himself in the return game and displayed his versatility as a wideout. Saturday vs. the Bills 2 REC for 25 yards and a 35-yard kick return,
"He has done a great job," Hackett said.
Virgil continues to show dominance in coming down with 50/50 balls.
Week 1 vs. the Cowboys 3 REC for 83 yards
Saturday vs. the Bills 2 REC for 39 yards
The undrafted rookie has become one of Denver's best receivers in the preseason, averaging 22.4 yards per reception. With one preseason game remaining, Who deserves to make the 53-man roster? Watch the film, Make adjustments. Saturday, the Minnesota Vikings come to town.