The Denver Broncos’ defensive disaster against Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football has fans seeing red. Fingers are pointing squarely at defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, and social media isn’t holding back. After yet another game of blown coverages and missed tackles, the call to “Fire Vance Joseph” is echoing louder than ever.
Broncos Country is furious, blaming the defensive play-calling for gifting Herbert a Thursday night clinic. With the defense unraveling week after week, frustration is boiling over.
Broncos Fans Erupt: DC Vance Joseph Blamed for TNF Defensive Meltdown
The Broncos’ defense took a beating on Thursday Night Football, and fans pulled no punches. Their target: Joseph. After the team’s lackluster performance against Herbert and the Chargers, “Fire Vance Joseph” has become the rallying cry across social media.
Fire Vance Joseph
— Michael 🇲🇽 (@RespectMyCos) December 20, 2024
It started with a familiar problem: blown coverages and questionable play-calling.
One summed up the frustration, slamming Joseph for sticking with “zone every single play when we can’t get pressure.” Herbert carved up the Broncos’ secondary with ease, leaving the defense scrambling.
Others took aim at Joseph’s inability to adapt mid-game. “In-game adjustments are non-existent,” wrote one fan, echoing the sentiment that the Chargers’ offense exposed a lack of creativity in Joseph’s playbook.
Vance Joseph in game adjustments are non existent
— Cainen (@cainenisanchez) December 20, 2024
It wasn’t just this game fueling the outrage.
One user noted, “Vance Joseph’s defense sucks against teams with competent offenses. He’s gonna get cooked by Cincinnati,” pointing to broader issues in the Broncos’ defensive scheme.
This performance left fans fuming, with many calling the defensive game plan outright terrible. Another highlighted how the “s****y zone coverage” was an open invitation for Herbert to dominate.
The heat is on for Joseph, as Broncos Country questions whether he’s the right fit to lead this defense. With more high-powered offenses on the horizon, the pressure is mounting. If changes aren’t made, the calls for Joseph’s job might grow impossible to ignore.
Herbert Shines Against Broncos, Proving Fantasy Worth Ahead of Week 17
Herbert delivered a strong performance in the Chargers’ Week 16 win over the Broncos. After a shaky start to the season and three consecutive QB17-or-worse finishes, Herbert showed why he’s still a valuable fantasy football option.
He completed 23 of 31 passes for 284 yards, tossing two touchdowns and one interception. He also showcased his mobility, adding 28 rushing yards on eight carries despite playing on a wrapped-up ankle. Herbert spread the ball effectively, completing passes to 10 different receivers, with touchdowns to Hassan Haskins and Derius Davis.
The Broncos’ defense, often labeled as elite, couldn’t contain Herbert in the second half. The Chargers rallied behind their star QB, capitalizing on his ability to adapt under pressure. His steady improvement this season, including five straight QB12-or-better finishes earlier, hints at his potential rebound.
With the New England Patriots up next, Herbert and the Chargers get extra rest, setting the stage for another crucial game in Week 17.