The Broncos can’t slow down the Chiefs, so it’s time for a new approach
Dec 16, 2019, 6:55 AM | Updated: 9:30 am
Patrick Mahomes isn’t going anywhere. And that’s a problem.
The Chiefs quarterback moved to 5-0 against the Broncos on a snowy Sunday at Arrowhead, throwing for 340 yards in the win. At just 24 years old, Mahomes could conceivably face Denver 30 more times in his career. That’s frightening.
So what hasn’t worked for the Broncos against their division rival in their first five matchups? Well, John Elway’s teams have featured defensive-minded head coaches and defensive-heavy payrolls, neither of which has slowed down last year’s MVP.
Despite Von Miller, the Broncos rarely sack Mahomes. Despite Chris Harris Jr., the Broncos can’t contain Tyreek Hill. And despite Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson, the Broncos can’t slow down Travis Kelce.
Instead of investing more money to matchup with Mahomes and his toys, perhaps it’s time for Elway to consider reversing the defensive focus he began back in 2014.
Instead of spending big money to re-sign Simmons, would the funds be better spent on a weapon for Drew Lock like Amari Cooper? Should Elway let Harris walk and use the cap space on emerging tight end Austin Hooper to compliment Noah Fant? And if a trade for Miller made sense, could that provide the financial flexibility to remake the offensive line with free-agent targets like Brandon Scherff and Anthony Castonzo?
We’re talking about a larger philosophical change. Creating a high-scoring offense that can keep pace with Mahomes, likely at the expense of the defense.
The defensive formula won Super Bowl 50, so it’s understandable why Elway might be timid to stray from it. But as Mahomes continues to rack up win after win over the Broncos, it might be time to fight fire with fire.
