Broncos banking on new coach and quarterback to reach playoffs

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 15, 2018: Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) celebrates a sack in the third quarter as the Denver Broncos played the Cleveland Browns at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. The sack made Miller the all-time sack leader for the Broncos. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post via Getty Images) /

New quarterback, new hope. The Denver Broncos hope Joe Flacco and a few rookies can help them revitalize their offense.

Best-case scenario

The Broncos can effectively run the ball and get a lot from Joe Flacco. The defense provides some of that 2015 magic and the Broncos finish atop of the division. The AFC West will be very competitive division with the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers aspiring for the Super Bowl.

Still, the best case for Denver is both teams stumble. Flacco might still have something in the tank. There will be some ugly games, but if they steal a few games, anything is possible.

Worst-case scenario

Like last season, injuries could really impact this team. The most dangerous position obviously being quarterback. If Flacco ends up missing significant time due to injury, it’s Kevin Hogan time. With the lack of depth at key positions, one big time injury at those positions could derail this season.

Confidence level (Low, medium or high)

Medium.

The Broncos can benefit from Vic Fangio’s defensive mind. The confidence would be high if not for the offense. What to expect from an offense that has looked horrible for the better part of five years?

Flacco is an upgrade over the quarterbacks Denver has played since Peyton Manning, but how will he do under Rich Scangarello’s offense? Only time will tell. Relying on Phillip Lindsay and the tight ends will be important. Von Miller and the defense should be fun to watch.

X-Factor

Noah Fant.

If Flacco stays healthy, he will be relying on his tight ends. There has not been a consistent tight end in Denver since Julius Thomas, when he recorded 12 touchdowns in 2013. The Broncos are hopeful Fant can be a weapon for years to come.

Turning point

Week 9 vs. Cleveland.

Denver will end a grueling first half of the season when the Cleveland Browns and Baker Mayfield come to town. Where the Broncos are after this game will tell us what’s possible. If they can beat a team that should be able to contend for the postseason, it will give Denver ample confidence going into its bye and the second-half stretch.

Best moment in team history

John Mobley knocking away a fourth-down pass by Brett Favre in Super Bowl XXXII to seal the first title is the best moment.

It all became a reality the Broncos were finally going to be called Super Bowl champions. With the Mobley knock down, the monkey was off the Denver Broncos’ back.