For most of the game, our offensive game plan worked wonders. Trick plays kept the defense off balance. SWR dissected the D with his speed and elusiveness. Jay Ajayi powered his way past would-be-tacklers. And yes, even Grant made his fair share of passes (albeit most of them dumps to the RB after checking off everyone else).
So what happened to Mike Sanford's brain when the Broncos had the ball inside the 5?
1st and Goal at the 4 yard line:
Running the ball twice up the middle (first by Jay, then by Grant) is difficult at best against a bulky SEC defense who only has to defend 14 yards of space. Throwing an INT on the 3rd play (after heavy pressure) was partially Grant's fault, but also partially Sanford's. After all, Mike is not only the OC, but also the QB coach. Although I don't know exactly what was said on the sidelines, I would have expected a quick, "If it's not there, throw it away" to be inserted prior to the series. Grant's decision-making --- and subsequent inability to come away with any points --- leads me to believe otherwise. Bless his heart, but Grant is not Manziel under severe pressure. He must be counseled to get rid of the ball (even when you're "Oh so close").
1st and Goal at the 1 foot line:
I know they want to depend on Jay this season, but three runs up the middle? Oy vey!
I'm not sure why a QB sneak wasn't at least attempted on 1st down. And how about some play action? Or at least a roll-out that would allow Grant to either pass or run?
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I know it's easy to play Monday morning QB, but the Broncos have got to get some alternative packages inside the 5 when the team they're playing is solid in the middle (BYU looms large on the schedule).
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Things will get better, I'm sure.
Go Broncos!