RADIO
The quarterback drama in Denver has been well-documented in recent weeks. With Peyton Manning’s ability and health being called into question, Brock Osweiler has had the opportunity to solidify himself as a viable NFL starter. Once Peyton’s healthy, he may or may not have his starting job handed back to him. That said, while Osweiler played well in the Broncos’ Week 12 underdog matchup against the New England Patriots, his top target in Demaryius Thomas certainly didn’t. Seriously, he wasn’t just bad—he was terrible.
Thomas brought in just one catch for 36 yards, despite being targeted on 13 separate occasions. Osweiler didn’t let it phase him, completing 23-of 42 passes for 270 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Sure, the young quarterback struggled in the first half, but he came through in the clutch, connecting with Andrew Caldwell for the go-ahead fourth-quarter touchdown, not to mention the game-winning drive he orchestrated in overtime after Denver’s defense forced the Patriots to punt on their opening possession.
There are a number of reasons for which Thomas’ play might have suffered out on the open field: the return of Emmanuel Sanders from an ankle injury, a new quarterback and even frigid temperatures and snow. With Osweiler going well out of his way to get Thomas the ball, it appears that the majority of the blame falls squarely on Thomas’ shoulders.
Though an on-field abnormality, this isn’t the first time Thomas has struggled to perform. Thomas has failed to put up double-digit fantasy points in standard leagues six different times this season. Fortunately, seeing as how the targets are already in place, the production is bound to follow.
Come Week 13, Thomas should still be widely considered a high-end WR2. Also, for what it’s worth, with Osweiler averaging 266 passing yards per game and keeping his interceptions to a minimum through two-plus starts, he’ll be seen as a relevant QB2 option next week against Philip Rivers and the struggling San Diego Chargers.
