Were we all transported through a portal to a parallel universe? The Denver Broncos are undefeated due to their dominating defense with Peyton Manning as one of the worst fantasy quarterbacks?
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The narrative in the offseason was a compelling one. General manager John Elway replaced Coach John Fox with Gary Kubiak, who just happened to be the offensive coordinator when Elway won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1997 and 1998. Because of the injury that hampered the play of Manning in 2014, the emphasis to produce an effective running game took on a greater importance.
In 1997, the Broncos finished with the most total yards (5,872), were sixth in rushing attempts (520), and fourth in rushing yards (2,378). The 1998 team finished third in total yards (6,092), were second in rushing attempts (525), and second in rushing yards (2,468).
The 2014 Broncos finished fourth in total yards (6,446), but were 12th in rushing attempts (443), and 15th in rushing yards (1,785). Elway brought in Kubiak and his zone-blocking scheme in order to take some pressure off of Manning and hopefully replicate the successes of 1997 and 1998.
Coming into the year, C.J. Anderson was slated as the lead back to power the new scheme, due to his performance in 2014. After becoming the starter in early November, Anderson finished with 849 yards on 179 attempts (4.7 average) with 34 receptions for 324 yards. He scored a combined 10 touchdowns. As a result, he was selected in the first and second rounds of most fantasy drafts.
To say that he’s been underwhelming is putting it mildly. He’s been one of the biggest busts in fantasy this year. Anderson is currently the 56th ranked running back: 180 yards on 67 carries (2.7 average) with 13 receptions for 100 yards. Zero touchdowns.
SO WHAT’S BEEN THE PROBLEM?
The toe injury has sapped Anderson’s effectiveness. He is not cutting as decisively and running with the power he displayed last year. As a result, Ronnie Hillman has been receiving more carries and garnering the trust of the coaching staff. He’s coming off a 20-carry, 111-rushing yard performance against the Minnesota Vikings.
Schematically, Kubiak and Manning are trying to find a balance. Kubiak wants the quarterback under center to run bootlegs and stretch run plays. Manning prefers orchestrating from the shotgun formation. Because of the lack of identity, consistent reps have been difficult to muster.
This brings us to the offensive line, the core of any running game and scheme. It’s a young line that is nicked up right now. The practice reps and experience just haven’t been there. As a result, they have not been able to open up many holes for Anderson or Hillman. Until they find a foundation and practice it, cohesion and chemistry will continue to be fractured.
WHAT’S IT MEAN FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON?
The Broncos are on a bye this week, which will give Kubiak and Manning more time to collaborate. The first six games have entailed lots of trial and error. Thankfully, it didn’t take long for Kubiak to figure out that Manning cannot roll out and throw on the run. We saw the incorporation of the pistol formation to bridge the gap. I think they are close to finding that comfort level.
As the season wears on, the running game will become more effective. The offensive line will begin to gel and the running backs will get a better feel. The Broncos defense is amazing, which will provide the opportunity to stay committed to the run game.
Hillman has been the most effective running back and there are indications that he will be the starter going forward. Broncos beat writer Troy Renck mentioned that Hillman is the No. 1 back on the team. Cecil Lammey of FootballGuys and ESPNDenver voiced his opinion that he also believes that Hillman will be the guy going forward. I also think that Hillman runs away with the job.
The eyeballs and numbers don’t lie. If you were worried about Hillman’s small frame, just remember that Kubiak coached Steve Slaton (5-foot-9, 199 lbs.) in 2008 to a 1,282 yard rushing season with nine touchdowns.
I wouldn’t drop C.J. Anderson, though. The bye week can allow him to heal and he is still the better pass protector. If the line does gel and starts opening holes, then Kubiak may want that bruiser between the tackles. Plus, Hillman has never carried the load full time and could get injured himself.
With that said, Manning needs all the explosive playmakers on the field to compensate for his deterioration in skills. Hillman is the more dynamic running back without question. Can Anderson regain his form? Sure, but I am leery due to his toe ailment.
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Stan Son is a correspondent at FantasyPros. To read more from Stan, check out his archive and follow him @Stan_Son.