As they moved down the field against Tennessee in the season opener, the Broncos had a new play-caller, two additions to the offensive line, a second-year quarterback and multiple young skill-position players.
Catches of 16 and 31 yards by tight end Noah Fant, a nine-yard carry by running back Melvin Gordon and an 11-yard catch by running back Phillip Lindsay gave the Broncos first-and-goal from the 2.
Then the red zone became the woe zone. Four plays gained one yard, wasting the early-drive gains, and ending with zero points.
The problems have continued entering Sunday’s game against Kansas City as the Broncos’ offense ranks 30th in red zone touchdown efficiency — 40% (six touchdowns in 15 possessions).