The Denver Broncos are 5-0, with a world-class defense and an offense that is middling at best. It's been a long time since "middling" was used to describe a Peyton Manning offense, but that's been the case this season. Still, Denver has the talent to make a run at the Super Bowl. Here are five things that will determine the rest of the Broncos' season.
Health
The Broncos will be without DeMarcus Ware for at least this weekend, and the team needs him back. Denver, like most teams, has limited depth and can't afford its star players to go down with an injury. For Denver to make a Super Bowl run, the team will need to stay healthy.
Running Game
The Broncos running game has been non-existent all year. The offense has a meager 358 yards on the ground this season, and 20 percent of those came on one long run from Ronnie Hillman. The new offense was centered around C.J. Anderson, who has split carries with Hillman and has an atrocious 2.6 yards per carry. The offensive line shares some of the blame (see below), but the running game needs to improve quickly.
Offensive Line
The offensive line has not played up to par this season. Perhaps the line wouldn't be an issue with Ryan Clady were healthy, but the offensive line has serious issues. It's not giving Peyton Manning enough time, nor is it opening holes for the running game. The tackles have struggled, and they need to improve their play or the offense is going to continue to struggle.
Peyton Manning's Arm
Most of Manning's issues this season haven't been because of his arm strength. The real issue is that his timing has been off. He doesn't quite look as comfortable in the pocket, possibly because of limited time to make throws. He's been over-throwing WRs more frequently too, although that could be from overcompensating for his dwindling arm strength. Manning is on pace for one of the worst years of his career, and there's a good chance he won't turn things around. As the weather gets colder, don't be surprised if Manning's play and arm strength decline. We might not ever see Manning play as well as he once routinely did.
Defense's Incredible Play
With a woeful offense, the Broncos have been carried by their defense. It's among the NFL's best, and there is a strong argument it is the best. The front seven and secondary have been nothing short of spectacular this season. The offense may have its struggles, but if the defense continues to dominate, the Broncos can make a deep postseason run.
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