Did Fangio err in accepting holding penalty on 4th down?

Answer: We got several reader emails criticizing Fangio for this sequence, but explaining is required.

On the first play of the second quarter, the Raiders had fourthand1 from their 31. Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Walker drew a holding penalty as Josh Jacobs gained one yard.

Fangio accepted the 10- yard penalty, creating a cry from fans who believed the Broncos had stopped Jacobs short and Fangio should have declined the penalty. Problem is, Jacobs did make the first down.

“I was ready to challenge ( the spot) because, obviously, if they didn’t make it, it’d be our ball there and they wouldn’t have the opportunity to punt,” Fangio said.

“The ( Broncos staff members) in the box that were checking the replay said it was very indeterminate and gray ( area) whether we would win that challenge. We chose not to challenge.”

A: If it wasn’t, it’s definitely in contention.

Last year had a couple of stinkers, chiefly blowing a late home lead to Jacksonville.

This year, the clock mismanagement fiasco at the end of the Tennessee loss. And last week’s loss at Atlanta also merits consideration.

But let’s put the loss to Las Vegas atop the list because of what it showed and what it means.

What it showed: Quarterback Drew Lock may not be ready for present/ future status.

What it means: The Broncos are 3- 6 for the fourth consecutive year, an example of NFL also- ran status and it basically ends their already- slim playoff hopes.

A: This took two trips through the media guide during the course of Sunday’s garbage time — one to find the statistic and, following a shake of the head, another journey to double- check the data.

To end the ’ 68 season, the Sons of Lou Saban allowed 38, 32, 47, 33 and 30 points, going 1- 5 to end the season 5- 9.

In modern times, the 2008 team allowed 30, 30 and 52 points to finish the season with three consecutive losses, leading to coach Mike Shanahan’s firing.

What’s gone wrong with this Broncos defense? Their Week 1 starting line isn’t available. That leads into the Raiders’ run- game dominance ( 203 yards on 41 carries).

And the pass rush the last two games has been a rumor for the Broncos.

Jeff Bottari, The Associated Press Q: Has it really been since 1968 that the Broncos have allowed at least 30 points in four consecutive games? Broncos head coach Vic Fangio said he accepted a holding penalty on a fourth- and- short play in the second quarter of Sunday’s game because it was unclear whether or not the Denver defense had actually stopped Las Vegas.