Broncos Focused on Hidden Yardage Gains
Denver coaches are prioritizing specialized special teams metrics to secure narrow victories.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Football
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The Denver Broncos have adopted a strategy emphasizing the importance of hidden yardage, which includes critical adjustments in field position and special teams play. This approach aims to capitalize on small gains that often decide the outcome of competitive, one-score games.
Why it matters
Coaching staff identified that accumulated yardage from penalties, returns, and punts serves as a pivotal factor in winning close games. By dissecting these plays, the team seeks to optimize field position and improve overall scoring efficiency.
During the win against the Rams, Kolbe Katsis logged a 28-yard punt return while Jeremy Crawshaw successfully pinned the opponent inside the 10-yard line. The team also secured roughly 30 yards following a re-punt in the same matchup.
The players
Denver Broncos
This professional American football team competes in the AFC West division of the NFL.
Kolbe Katsis
He is a special teams player for the Denver Broncos who handles return duties.
Jeremy Crawshaw
He serves as a punter for the Denver Broncos, responsible for flipping field position.
Wil Lutz
He is the placekicker for the Denver Broncos known for his experience in high-pressure kicking situations.
The details
The strategy evaluates specific scenarios, including re-punts and return outcomes, to determine how small shifts in field position influence game flow. Despite a missed field goal by Wil Lutz and a muffed punt by Kolbe Katsis against the Rams, the coaching staff continues to emphasize these technical details as vital components for success.
Timeline
Coaches hold team debriefings regarding hidden yardage every Monday.
The Denver Broncos are scheduled to play the San Francisco 49ers in Week 4.
Season Trajectory
This focus on marginal gains is designed to keep the Broncos competitive as they navigate a challenging schedule. Improving these niche metrics could be the difference in shifting the team's standing as they prepare for high-stakes matchups like the upcoming game against the 49ers.
The emphasis on hidden yardage suggests that coaching will continue to prioritize field-position specialists, potentially impacting roster stability for players in these roles. Fantasy managers should note that while Lutz remains the primary kicker, missed field goal attempts are being scrutinized as part of this broader efficiency review.
The takeaway
Understanding hidden yardage helps fans appreciate the granular work that goes into securing victories beyond standard scoring plays. Implementing these metrics is a sign that the coaching staff is searching for every possible advantage in a highly competitive league.
What happens next
The Denver Broncos will face the San Francisco 49ers during Week 4 of the regular season.
Further reading
For more insight into team strategies and matchups, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mile High Sports.
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