Broncos’ Sorrowful Showdown: Player Grades from a Disheartening 41-10 Loss to Ravens

The Denver Broncos faced a devastating defeat against the Baltimore Ravens, surrendering a staggering score of 41-10 that left fans and analysts alike in disbelief. Anticipation lingered among the faithful, yet the reality was a crushing letdown as the Ravens outplayed Denver in almost every facet of the game. While certain players shone amidst the bleakness, the team as a whole could not muster the cohesive performance needed to compete.

The aftermath of a tough game for the Broncos.

As a long-time fan and observer of the team, it’s hard not to feel a sense of disappointment creeping into the heart. The hopes for a successful season appear dimmer, and the glaring holes in the roster exposed by this game can’t be overlooked. Let’s delve into the individual performances to discern who stood out and who faltered in this latest match.

Quarterback

Bo Nix | Grade: 64.3
Though perhaps not a defining game, Bo Nix impressed with some flashes of potential. The interception thrown was debatable—many could argue it stemmed from receiver errors rather than Nix’s execution. He completed over 60% of his throws but fell short targeting the left side, resulting in a lack of efficiency. Yet, his legs were productive, notably snagging the team’s only touchdown of the afternoon.

Running Backs

Javonte Williams | Grade: 46.2
Jaleel McLaughlin | Grade: 35.3
The running game was underwhelming, to say the least. McLaughlin’s performance this season has been dismal, and with Williams continuing to struggle with consistency, the Broncos face a dire need for reinforcements in the backfield. A healthy return for Tyler Badie would be a much-needed boost. If there ever was a moment to evaluate running back options, it is now.

Wide Receivers

Courtland Sutton | Grade: 72.6
Devaughn Vele | Grade: 54.3
Troy Franklin | Grade: 48.6
Lil’Jordan Humphrey | Grade: 43.7
Marvin Mims Jr. | Grade: 43.1
Sutton emerged as a bright spot, showcasing his catching ability with a touchdown and clutch receptions. However, the other receivers contributed to the offensive struggle, with critical drops and missed opportunities that further burdened Nix. The inconsistency among these players casts a shadow over the potential for improvement in the future.

Tight Ends

Adam Trautman | Grade: 31.6
Lucas Krull | Grade: 29.5
Nate Adkins | Grade: 27.4
Frankly, this unit leaves much to be desired. With Trautman leading in terms of play yet still finishing with a low grade, it magnifies just how lacking this group is in both blocking and receiving. It feels like the Broncos might as well play with an empty spot at tight end given the underperformance here.

Offensive Tackles

Garett Bolles | Grade: 78.9
Mike McGlinchey | Grade: 35.8
Bolles stood out as a shining star amidst the chaos, especially in pass protection—even if he had his share of struggles in run blocking. Conversely, McGlinchey’s issues on both sides are alarming; his past performance was far superior, and one can only hope for a swift turnaround.

Interior O-Line

Alex Forsyth | Grade: 76.2
Quinn Meinerz | Grade: 69.5
Ben Powers | Grade: 51.8
Forsyth’s growth as a starter has been commendable. Meinerz remains effective, particularly in run blocking, but Powers’ struggles in recent games suggest a need for improvement. The Denver offensive line must step up to support the sagging offense.

Defensive Line

John Franklin-Myers | Grade: 65.5
Zach Allen | Grade: 60.8
Malcolm Roach | Grade: 52.6
D.J. Jones | Grade: 44.8
Jordan Jackson | Grade: 42.4
The defensive line was dominated by the Ravens. Franklin-Myers and Allen occasionally showed prowess, but the overall impact was nearly nonexistent. A particular note is for Eyioma Uwazurike, who, despite limited snaps, appeared to be a silver lining that deserves more on-field time.

Outside Linebackers

Nik Bonitto | Grade: 64.7
Jonathon Cooper | Grade: 48.6
Jonah Elliss | Grade: 46.7
Baron Browning | Grade: 43.6
Bonitto showed growth in his performance, especially against the run, but defensive integrity was forsaken by Cooper and Browning. Those lapses against a quarterback like Lamar Jackson can decide a game, and they did just that.

Inside Linebackers

Kwon Alexander | Grade: 63.2
Cody Barton | Grade: 44.7
Alexander was a bright spot, wielding a solid performance amid a struggling defense. In stark contrast, Barton struggled with visibility and athleticism, failing to make impactful plays.

Cornerbacks

Patrick Surtain II | Grade: 62.4
Riley Moss | Grade: 47.9
Ja’Quan McMillian | Grade: 39.2
Surtain continues to prove solid, though the absence of a pass rush rendered the secondary vulnerable. Unfortunately for McMillian, his play was grotesquely off-mark. Moss had an inconsistent game, contributing to the overall struggles of the secondary.

Safeties

Brandon Jones | Grade: 58.2
Devon Key | Grade: 43.1
Key’s defensive shortcomings were glaring, frequently out of position. Jones, on the other hand, held up well under pressure against a tough Ravens offense, displaying some resolve amidst an unraveling defense.

This game was a brutal reminder of the challenges the Broncos face this season as they attempt to salvage what’s left of their campaign. The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but the possibility of improvement exists if the right adjustments are made.

Follow Mile High Huddle on X and Facebook and subscribe on YouTube for daily Broncos live-stream podcasts!

Published 5 Hours Ago