NFL Playoffs: X-Factors, red flags for each team
The Denver Broncos X Factor: Julius Thomas
The Denver Broncos, let by Peyton Manning, have had one of the most high powered offenses in recent memory. In 2013 they set numerous team records, and Manning set several single season passing records. In many ways, the offense seems unstoppable.
Except that flaws have been exposed. The first major problem was the Super Bowl, when Seattle completely shut down the Broncos. The problems have continued into this season, with Manning’s passing production dropping off precipitously over the second half of this season as he defers to the ground attack.
The Broncos defense almost made it to X Factor consideration. But another important aspect of the team will manifest itself on Sunday: Tight end Julius Thomas.
Thomas has 12 touchdowns on the season, and is a vital component of the Broncos red zone offense. If Indy can hold Denver to field goals, that’s a win for the Colts. Julius Thomas will be indispensable to a winning game plan for Denver. They can’t do it solely on the ground.
The Denver Broncos Red Flag: Peyton Manning
As mentioned, Peyton Manning’s productivity has fallen off the table in the second half of this season. The Broncos have only topped 30 points once in the past seven games. Concerns have resurfaced that Manning’s neck issues have compromised his arm strength.
Here is Manning’s production, comparing the first half of the season to the second half:
| BY SEASON GAMES | PCT | YDS | YDS/A | YDS/G | TD | TD% | INT | INT% | RATE | |||||
| Season Games (1-8) | 67.1 | 2508 | 8.3 | 313.5 | 24 | 7.7 | 5 | 1.6 | 111.7 | |||||
| Season Games (9-16) | 64.3 | 2153 | 7.4 | 269.1 | 16 | 5.4 | 10 | 3.4 | 90.6 |
Something’s wrong with Peyton, and if it doesn’t get fixed by Sunday, the Broncos will have a difficult time advancing to the AFC Championship Game.