The Denver Broncos had a disappointing opening game of the season, losing to the Oakland Raiders 24-16. Twitter comments reflected the disappointing by all three phases of the game.
As a premonition, Broncos coach Vic Fangio almost got run over by a Raiders player as Fangio walked on the Oakland Coliseum’s playing field.
During the first drive of the game, Raiders quarterback Derek Carr marched downfield for a touchdown, opening a lead that the Raiders would never relinquish.
The Broncos could not respond with a score. But the Raiders scored another touchdown.
Meanwhile, a worrisome injury occurred to right tackle Ja’Wuan James, who hurt his left knee.
Cornerback Issac Yaidom was burned several times during the first half.
During preseason, coach Fangio said that he would end the Broncos’ losses due to “death by inches.” He did not mean that the Broncos would lose by yards.
Receiver DaeSean Hamilton cost the Broncos a touchdown.
There was some questionable play-calling by Broncos offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello.
The Broncos defense also had its problems by never significantly pressuring Carr.
The Broncos’ special team coverage was terrible, allowing Raiders receiver Dwayne Harris to run a 72-yard kickoff return late in the game.
Denver’s defense kept the Raiders out of the red zone, however. Kicker Daniel Carlson hit a 29-yard field goal, capping the Raiders scoring.
When it was too late, the Broncos finally found success in the red zone.
The Broncos’ next game will be against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
