I’ve seen a lot of discussion lately about how the 2016 Broncos compare to the 2015 Broncos. I thought I’d write a piece that takes a systematic view at each position group, and provides a best and worst case scenario. I feel this is the best approach this time of year, and factors in the views of the homers and the pessimists. At the end I provide a summary of the upside and risk of each position group.
Since 2016 injuries will be unpredictable, I’m comparing to a healthy 2015 team with the exception of Clady and Heuerman, who did not even make it to training camp last year. I did factor in declining play among older veterans, and to a lesser extent, players whose play seemed affected by nagging injuries. Additionally, I did not list injuries in every “worst case” scenario, although injuries could obviously create worse scenarios than I laid out here.
I tried to look at each group individually, even though their success is greatly intertwined. For instance, if the O-line struggles, the running backs and QBs will not look good. On the contrary, if the running game is strong, troubles by the passing game could be masked.
QB
Best case: Sanchez has a career year, fixing his turnover problem. He does everything the Broncos ask him to do, is able to step up and be a leader, throw more when needed, and control the offense. He uses the play action beautifully, and pulls out a couple heroic comeback wins. Lynch looks good in preseason and when he comes in for mop up duty.
Worst case: Sanchez struggles and continues to throw picks. He does not command the offense, and Lynch is thrust into the spotlight early. Lynch is in over his head and struggles as much as Sanchez was. Meanwhile, Brent tears it up Houston. This is a dark scenario.
Continue reading Comparing 2015 to 2016, a best and worst case perspective