The Denver Broncos are one of three AFC teams still undefeated. They have the most dominating defense in the NFL and it looks like Peyton Manning and Gary Kubiak have found a happy medium on offense. So, you’d think all is well in Broncos Country. That isn’t necessarily the case.
After Wednesday’s practice, DeMaryius Thomas told the media the offense still needs some time. But Thomas (and his four drops against the Lions) isn’t the target of this week’s “Hot Seat.”
There are three other areas on the offense that need major attention before we start worrying about the three-time Pro Bowler. First and foremost is the offensive line, specifically its younger statesmen.
No. 3 – The Young Offensive Linemen
#Broncos coach Gary Kubiak says left tackle Ty Sambrailo didn't practice today.He's day-to-day with a shoulder injury pic.twitter.com/coCQgXuwYL
— Raul Martinez (@RaulNBCBoston) September 30, 2015
Ty Sambrailo was thrust into a difficult task of replacing an injured All-Pro at left tackle, but that can’t be an excuse for a team with world championship aspirations.
Not only has Sambrailo looked shaky at times, he’s now suffering from an injury that has him day-to-day. The really frightening prospect is that his backup is a third-round draft pick from last year that hasn’t been able to find the playing field, Michael Schofield.
The fact that Ty Sambrailo's backup is Michael Schofield is just stunning to me. It's ridiculous. #Broncos
— James Merilatt (@jamesmerilatt) October 1, 2015
Matt Paradis hasn’t exactly been stellar himself, and with both Louis Vasquez and Evan Mathis missing some or all of practice on Wednesday, Gary Kubiak desperately needs his young o-linemen to rise to the occasion, especially against a formidable Vikings pass rush.
And with the signing of Tyler Polumbus on Thursday, it’s clear none of these young guys’ jobs is safe.
Next on the “Hot Seat”? A name you’ve been hearing about all week…
