Forgive Vance Joseph for oversimplifying.

When asked whether or not the Broncos’ coach is coaching for his job Thursday night in Arizona, just his 23rd overall game on the job, and he said: “Absolutely, and that’s every coach in this league every week.”

Does that mean Bill Belichick might get the can Sunday if the Patriots don’t beat the Bears? (Of course not). But Joseph’s assessment certainly applies to the mindset of Denver players and coaches alike this week — and same goes for their opponent. Cardinals coach Steve Wilks, just six games into his first season at the helm, told Arizona media after the team’s 1-5 start: “I would say all our jobs are in jeopardy, including mine, if we don’t win.”

Arizona’s anemic offense, under former Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy’s leadership, ranks last or second-to-last in the NFL for average yards passing (156.5), yards rushing (64), points per game (13.7) and third-down conversion rate (21.9). And, the Cardinals trail only the Broncos league-wide for porous rush defense (151.2).

A battle of beleaguered franchises.

Only one will come away with hope for a saved season after Thursday night.

— Kyle Fredrickson, The Denver Post

A special offer for Broncos Insider readers! Subscribe to The Denver Post’s sports coverage for just 99¢ for the first month and only $6.99/month thereafter. Cancel anytime.

What’s on tap?

Week 7: At Arizona Cardinals, 6:20 p.m. Thursday, NFLN, KDVR-31; 850 AM, 94.1 FM

TV/RADIO: Here’s what sports are airing today

Must-Read

Asked if he felt like he was coaching for his job, Vance Joseph replied, “Absolutely and that’s every coach in this league every week.” Read more…

And is it time for Denver to try and convince Gary Kubiak to take over head coaching duties? Read more…

Emmanuel Sanders was upset that the home crowd booed quarterback Case Keenum in defeat. “I don’t respect what they do in the stadium in terms of booing and stuff like that,” Sanders said. “Especially in the Case situation.” Does Sanders have a point? Read more…

Quick Hits

+ Broncos’ Bradley Chubb nominated for NFL rookie of the week honor.

+ Colorado native OL Sam Jones to suit up on Broncos active roster at Cardinals.

+ Broncos Film Review: Little to show for long completions in loss to Rams.

+ Ron Leary injury puts Broncos’ offensive line depth in spotlight.

+ Broncos rookie Bradley Chubb finally had a breakout performance with 3 sacks. “He’s just getting started.”

+ WATCH: 5 key plays from the Broncos’ loss against the Rams.

+ Want to chat about the Broncos? Ask to join our closed discussion group on Facebook.

By The Numbers

-34

The Broncos’ points difference this season through Week 6. The Baltimore Ravens leads the AFC with a plus-76.

Parting Shot

Put Broncos coach Vance Joseph in charge of hugs. But give him the responsibility of leading a professional football team to victory? No thanks. We were duped. Joseph is not a leader of men. Read more…

Get in Touch

If you see something that’s cause for question or have a comment, thought or suggestion, email me at dboniface@denverpost.com or tweet me @danielboniface.