Posts Tagged ‘Denver Broncos’
Bama, BCS, & Broncos, Nov 8 Edition
Broncos
Had a bye week. So no humiliating loss this week.
Watched the Chiefs gift wrap the win for Oakland. Pretty bizarre to watch them make all those mistakes they hadn’t made all year in one half. And in more bad news, Chargers look like they are awake now.
Bama
What a painful loss. It’s always hard to win in Death Valley but the 24-21 score hides four huge realities that Alabama fans better swallow.
First, Les Miles coached to win the game, Nick Saban coached to not lose. Les Miles emptied the playbook, took risks, put more on his players to deliver the win. Saban didn’t. Instead of showing up to dominate and beat the snot out of LSU, Alabama showed up and acted like ‘let’s just try to escape here with a win.’ You don’t escape Death Valley. Show up to play hard or don’t show up at all.
Second, Alabama’s offensive line this year is a smaller, less aggressive, less physical version of the line last year. Last year when Alabama would get in a tight game, it was hand the ball to 22 and let’s pound the ball down the field. This year’s version likes to pass way to much. There is no plan B with this team. If the passing game sputters there is no commitment to the running game.
Third, the defensive line play of Alabama this year has been atrocious. The secondary was what everyone thought was going to be the problem this year for the Tide. It hasn’t. They’ve had some mistakes but with no pressure getting to the quarterbacks, they’ve been asked to cover guys for 4 and 5 seconds. That’s unheard of on the pro level, let alone college. The defensive line does not get pressure on the QB and it does not stuff the run without help from the linebackers. And when a defense has to use it’s LB to blitz to stop the run and get pressure, it makes the secondary that much more vulnerable.
Fourth, the Alabama defense is clueless how to stop a 2-minute offense. When an offense picks up the pace on them, forces them to stay at the line of scrimmage – bad things happen for Alabama. And guess who runs this type of offense better than anyone in the country right now?
By losing the game, Alabama lost a lot. There is no shot at defending the national title. They more than likely lost the chance at a BCS bowl as well. There is little to no chance at an SEC title. Those are some huge stakes for a 3 point game.
The bigger question will be their mental state in the next 3 games. Will they quit? When the Tide lost in the SEC championship 2 years ago, they rolled over against Utah in the Sugar Bowl. It was an ugly moment for Tide fans everywhere. We’ll see how they respond to this. While this year’s goals are gone, the Tide aren’t going anyway. There is plenty of talent coming back for 2011 to try again. They just need to finish strong this year.
BCS
Can’t really complain about the rankings to much. Oregon and Auburn still look like the best two teams in the country. TCU had a huge win over Utah – and yes it was impressive. But do that every week or 3 or 4 times a year, and then you can complain about being number 3.
That’s all for now. Been a rough year football wise.
Bama, Broncos, and Fantasy Land
I’m 2-1 in both fantasy leagues. Big losses this weekend thanks to Frank Gore not scoring and Adrian Peterson finally finding the end zone against me. Overall, still feel pretty solid in both leagues. Playoff team but not sure if we’re championship material.
The Broncos showed the nation that after two years of major trades and drastic measures – they still can’t run the ball, score touchdowns, or rush the passer. That is the frustration of it all – they are the same team with the same issues when they fired Shanahan. Sunday was particularly painful when a decent running game puts Denver in the lead and at least gives them a chance to compete.
And are we getting to a point to call Knowshon Moreno a bust? I was excited with the pick two years ago but he has yet to show that flash or power that he had at Georgia. The good news? Orton looks solid which may mean Tebow plays running back later this year.
The number 1 college football team in the nation – your Alabama Crimson Tide! The Tide looked lost the first half against Arkansas. Defensively, this team isn’t near the team that last year’s team was. With 10 new starters on defense, one had to expect some let down. Ryan Mallet exposed their weakness in the first half with relative ease.
But that’s why they play two halves of football and the second half was classic Alabama football. Play pressure defense and when the opposing team makes a mistake – make them pay for it dearly. Oh, and hand the ball to #22 early and often. Any questions as to who the Number 1 back was in Alabama or in the country that matter were answered on Saturday. Mark Ingram is a beast. Any offensive game plan that doesn’t include him getting the ball 30 times a game is a mistake.
I have a lot of friends in Arkansas and the good-natured teasing went back and forth during the game. (Actually it mainly was coming AT me since Alabama was behind the whole game…) But the truth of the matter is that I pull for the Hogs 51 weeks a year except against Alabama. I’ve seen this script before at Arkansas – incredible offense, exciting team for 3 quarters then the wheels fall off in the 4th. And while it makes for great television, I’m convinced that Hog fans have a 7 year shorter life span because of this.
After the game, the analysts were putting most of the loss on Ryan Mallet and his 3 INTs. I’m not sure that is completely fair. Ryan Mallet was the reason the Hogs had a chance to win in the first place. A great QB (which Mallet is) can put your team in a position to win but running the ball and stopping the run is the difference between good teams and championship teams. Arkansas couldn’t put the nail in the coffin and Alabama had enough moxy and horses to pull a win out of disaster on Saturday.
Florida is next up for the Tide in Tuscaloosa.
Broncos Draft Situation
Been quiet about the Broncos moves this off-season so far. Draft is coming up and like all Bronco fans, I’ve got opinions that no one else cares about…but I want them heard.
Marshall Trade – win-win situation. He hated Denver for a lot of reasons, not all of them football (Darrent Williams) and now he goes ‘home’ to Miami. He gets what he wants. Denver gets what they want – the equivalent of a 1st round pick (2 Number 2s) and not paying an outrageous contract to a guy one slip away from NFL banishment. I like the trade.
Draft – what I don’t like is the speculation that now Dez Bryant is the number 11 pick. If that happens, guns will go off all over the city of Denver. Be listening next Thursday night. Dez Bryant is Marshall reincarnated — huge WR with massive talents, nutcase off the field.
Instead, pick #25, Rolando McClain. But McClain is a 10-year pick. It’s a Patrick Willis, Al Wilson, kind of pick. It’s a “this makes so much sense it’s stupid” pick. The Crohn’s disease? He’s handled it since high school. Proves he’s a warrior and disciplined to play at that high level with that issue. Will he be there at 11? I think so. I hope so. Almost every mock draft has him sitting there. And with Doom in a 3-4 – the meltdown of 2010 could be a thing of the past.
McClain actually covers AND tackles AND calls plays AND audibles AND hits people coming across the middle. Something a LB for Denver hasn’t done since Wilson’s days. He can play all 3 downs, he’s a gym rat, he’s smart, fast, and basically the other teams in front of Denver will be idiots if they don’t pick him.
How sold am I on McClain instead of Dez? If a WR is such a HUGE need (last time I checked, they don’t tackle or block), then I’d rather Denver sign TO for a year and draft McClain then let McClain go and draft Dez. How’s that?
The Rest of the Draft
I think if McClain is drafted at 11, the rest of the draft is gravy. As deep as the WR position is in this draft, grab one of those other WR with the 2nd rounder. Trade up and get a lineman/center in the first round. Grab a safety or DB in the middle rounds.
Tebow is an interesting pick. I know Denver worked him out and like all teams that meet him, they loved him. and if he is sitting there late in the 2nd round — heck yeah, roll the dice. If it works out, you’re a genius. If it doesn’t, well you tried. After watching Gruden’s film on the QB, I think Tebow will be a better pro than what was first thought and I think the team that gets him won’t ever have to worry about his work ethic or staying out of trouble.
He’ll be smarter with the ball than Clausen, bigger than McCoy to take the hits and with Orton — really, what is there to lose by drafting him? Worse case scenario, he’s a backup that does a great job on special teams.
Hardest NFL Team To Be A Fan Of, Conference Championships
Wildcard Weekend
Divisional Weekend
NFC Divisional Weekend:
Redskins vs. Rams
Rams win (lose) this going away. Redskins have so much more going for them than the Rams at this point. New coach, new system, new outlook and talent-wise they are not that far away from competing in the NFC.
Rams are hurting all over the place – from talent to ownership. Will they leave St. Louis? If they did, would anybody notice? Rams are much harder to cheer for at this state.
Lions vs. Seahawks
Very close game…almost too close to call. Is it harder to cheer for an old team with a new coach OR a young team with an old coach? The difference is that the Seahawks are in a division where they don’t have to get that much better to be good, whereas the Lions are staring up at the Bears, Packers, and Vikings.
Lions are the harder team to be a fan of.
Conference Championship:
Rams vs. Lions
Make your vote count….all both of you.
AFC Divisional Weekend:
Bills vs. Broncos
It’s close but after the last few weeks, the Bills win (really lose). Chan Gailey was a great coordinator and coach…in the late 80′s. The staff he is assembling right now looks pretty green. Talent level on the Bills not great and they still don’t know who is going to be the QB. Broncos have their drama and problems but talent level (at least on the offense) isn’t one of them.
Raiders vs. Chiefs
As a refugee living in Chefs country, things (according to fans) are actually looking a bit up. Charlie Weiss and Romeo seem to have lit the fires of hope and we all know that hope is a dangerous thing (Shawshank Redemption).
But there is no comparison to the mess that is the “Grrrreaaatness ofthe Raaaydahs.” Pick your poison – ownership, coach, QB, talent, fans, city? It’s all jacked up. I can’t wait for the draft this year to see who the next bust will be. Raiders win (lose) in a blowout.
Conference Championship
Bills vs. Raiders
The easiest odds to guess in the world….
Hardest NFL Team To Be A Fan Of, Divisional Weekend
So the first post really didn’t have the comments I was hoping for – which is okay because that just means I’ll make the decision. Since I’m always right about things concerning the NFL, this is better anyway.
NFC.
Wildcard Weekend:
Panthers vs. Rams
Rams win this contest going away. Rams just suck and there really isn’t much hope on the horizon because as good as Suh is, he can’t block, run, throw, kick, and cover DB’s.
Seahawks vs. Bucs
This game went to OT. The Seahawks got a late game push to lose (win) this game by the hiring of Pete “What NCAA violations?” Carroll. How close was this game? The home city weather pattern and uniforms were the deciding factor – giving the Seahawks the win…which is really a loss. Confused yet? It’s harder to be a fan of the Seahawks than the Bucs and the Seahawks unis are just atrocious.
That sets us up for the Division weekend and the matchups look like this:
Divisional Weekend:
Redskins vs. Rams – another game in which Rams are heavily favored to win…which is really a loss.
Lions vs. Seahawks – Winner (which really is a loser) of this game might just be the favorite to represent the NFC in the Loser Bowl. Oh wait…I forgot about the Rams. Never mind. Slight edge to Lions but it will be another close one.
AFC
The cream of the crop – which is really the bottom of the barrel – is in the AFC.
Wildcard Weekend:
Chiefs vs. Jaguars
Chiefs win (really lose) this one easily. The Jags put a couple of players in the Pro Bowl, they have hope, and they have talent. The Chefs – (misspelled on purpose) not so much in the talent department. But their coaching got better…which is not really going to help either but that’s another story.
Broncos vs. Browns
As it normally is when these two teams meet, it was a back and forth affair. Holmgren and Cribbs made the difference. Or better said, McDaniels the Hun couldn’t work it out with his incredibly gifted and stud DC Mike Nolan who lifted that D from 31 to top 15 in one season with the same players!!! What the HECKKKKKK is going on — sorry, my journalistic integrity was interrupted for a second. Denver won (lost). Looking to compete with Raiders at this point.
Divisional Weekend:
Bills vs. Broncos
Another close game. Mike Geer will have plenty to say about this matchup. Will look to him for advice and insight as he is a Bills fan, I’m a Broncos fan. Hard sharp metal objects from us this week.
Raiders vs. Chiefs
Is there really any doubt who is going to win (which is really lose) this game?
Okay, both of you – let me hear your thoughts.
Which NFL Team is the hardest to be a fan of?
Not sure why this hit me this morning…but here’s my list. Over the next few posts we’ll play this out just like the NFL Playoffs. What makes a team hard to be a fan for? Win-loss record is part of it. Overall direction and stability of the team, sizzle factor. Example – Carolina Panthers have great stability and that might be the problem plus there is no sizzle on that team. Nothing that makes you want to watch them for 3 hours.
I’ll start with the NFC.
Division Winners:
NFC East: Redskins – no contest in this division.
NFC West: Rams – close call with the Seahawks but Rams beat them out.
NFC North: Lions – obvious call but Bear fans MIGHT have legit shot at this next year.
NFC South: Bucs – tightest race with Panthers in the running.
Wildcard Teams: Panthers, Seahawks
Wildcard Weekend:
Panthers vs. Rams
Seahawks vs. Bucs
Commentary
You can make your vote in the comments but some things to consider in the Rams/Panthers matchup. Rams have new coach, new lifeblood and opportunity to get better faster. Do the fans of the Rams buy it? Are the fans of Panthers fed up with the Fox way? I’m leaning towards that it is harder to be a Panther fan than a Ram fan. So I’d vote for Carolina.
Seahawks/Bucs – new coach vs. new QB? Seahawk fans are generally more depressed than Tampa fans due to weather. If Seahawks tank a season, not a lot to look forward to as opposed to Tampa.
AFC
Division Winners:
AFC East: Bills – and the latest hire really didn’t help.
AFC West: Raiders – I mean really…was there any doubt?
AFC North: Browns – they command this division, which is hard to do seeing that Cincy is in here as well.
AFC South: Jaguars – I thought about putting the whole city of Houston here. Which team do you root for – Texans or former Oilers/Titans? Texans for not getting in playoffs but so close? Titans and the drama at QB? Jags and their complete lack of a QB and creative game plan? Ultimately, Jags won the division by the slimmest of margins.
Wildcard Teams: Chiefs, Broncos
It’s no contest that right now if you are an AFC West fan, it pretty much sucks. Chargers pull their post-season chokefest. (And when you can explain why Norv got an extension for going 13-3 and losing in playoffs and Marty got fired for going 14-2 and losing – let me know.) The Chiefs…well, they’re the Chiefs. And the Broncos have put in McDaniels the Hun at coach.
Wildcard Weekend
Chiefs vs. Jaguars
Broncos vs. Browns
Commentary
I’m seeing an AFC West sweep this weekend. Jags are historically pretty solid and if they do draft Tebow this year, the fan base will go nuts. The Browns have some winning, have Holmgren, and have Cribbs. Basically…they have hope. The Chiefs are looking better with new Coordinators hires. Broncos are tanking. 2-8 to finish season, Cutler, Marshall, fired Mike Nolan, Scheffler, lost Dennison and Turner to Redskins…I could go on. Time to find sharp metal object.
Put your comments and votes to good use here. We’ll play through the weekend and then move to the Divisional Round.
Crow Never Tasted So Good
So the Broncos are 6-0 after smashing the Chargers in the mouth. Can I say for the record that Shawn Merriman is an overrated airbag? For the life of me, I don’t understand the hype. He’s got ZERO sacks this year and didn’t make a tackle for loss all game. In fact, since his injury and banned substance suspension – he’s been pretty average. Yet…his mouth still runs.
The defense is real. Doom is a beast but last night should give Bronco fans reason to pause. If Brian Dawkins goes down, this team could be in trouble. He does so much for this team, a presence the Broncos haven’t had since Atwater in the heydays. The second quarter BDawk was out with an injury. This is also the same time when San Diego scored most of the their points and went up and down the field on the Broncos like practice. BDawk comes back in the second half, no 3rd down conversions and only 3 points. That’s not a coincidence.
Marshall still makes me nervous. His unsportsmanlike penalty cost the Broncos a 1st and goal opportunity. He’s got to get his head right ALL the time. Royal shows us one more way he is the ultimate professional and hopefully why he will be a Bronco for a long time. The returns were awesome but after the game never have I seen a WR so happy that didn’t have a single catch. That’s right…he didn’t catch a ball and he was elated that the team won and he could help. Refreshing.
Bye week…means one more week as an undefeated team.
Ridonkilous!!
The Broncs are 5-0 and have already exceeded what I thought they would do. Now all of a sudden the schedule doesn’t look as horrendous as it once did. Washington has turned into a horrible team, Dallas – not good. San Diego – absolutely beatable. Philadelphia and New York are still Super Bowl contenders and will definitely test the mettle of this team.
New England may be down this year, may not be the team we all thought they were, but it’s still New England. I thought our special teams were going to give the game right back to the Patsies. This is still a glaring weakness of the Broncos. A fair catch inside the ten, allowing Pats to down punts inside the 5. A running into the kicker penalty and two offsides penalties…not good.
Moreno looks great when he runs but he is fumbling to much. If he continues, his career will be short. Had Buckhalter been healthy, it’s doubtful we’d seen much of Knowshon in the second half. Eddie Royal had his breakout game. Love this guy. Great player, great competitor. Marshall proved once again why he is one of the NFL’s elite receivers when his head is on straight.
But once again, the defense takes the center stage. They are the leaders of this team so far. Doom is beast.
Hats off to McDaniels. First, you can tell the guys are better prepared than they have been in a long time. No knock on Shanny – he’s a great coach and all-time favorite. However, it’s apparent now that his voice had lost the touch, the relevance with the team. Second, his honesty is refreshing. “I lied” was how he responded to a reporter who asked him if this was just another game. It was and he said it and somehow he was able to win and still show his respect to Bill Belicheck and a team he loves.
The Unis
I have no words. Hideous. I actually liked the helmets…being an Alabama guy and all. But the baby poo colored look plus the vertical stripes on the socks… Hands down this is the ugliest throwback unis of all time. Not even close. The Pats on the other hand – great throwback look. I love the patriot hiking the football, the white look, it’s all just slick looking and quite honestly, they never should have changed their look.
AFC West Update
Jokeland – hide all sharp metal objects from the Kitchens family and other Raider fans. JaMarcus is regressing. They are in roll over and die mode.
KC – You can see what Haley is trying to do. He just doesn’t have the players to pull it off. This is just like the Herm Edwards version of the Chiefs. Can’t close a game. If Haley really is an upgrade over Herm Edwards, he’s got to start winning these close games. Pioli can help him by getting players in KC that are better than the ones he has…even if it’s a temporary fix. That alone would send a message to the clubhouse. Real test will be next year.
SD – Norv Turner has got to be feeling the heat. They are 2-2 and all of a sudden 3 games behind Denver. Yes, they are injured but this is the third year SD has come out of the gate slow, cold, and despondent. I don’t think Turner keeps his job after this season if Chargers don’t make playoffs.
Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Today is Amy’s birthday.
The Broncos are 4-0.
The Rockies start the playoffs today at 1.30 against the Phillies.
The Avs are 2-0 and playing out of sight. (Don’t tell anybody I keep track of the Avs.)
Alabama is undefeated and looks like the best team in the nation.
AND my fantasy football team is first in my division, 3-1.
AND Amy didn’t totally hate her gift of a couple of cook books, an iron, and a 9×13 pan.
Just kidding on the last one. She did hate it.
Broncos Real Test Coming
I’m about to go eat at Chick-fil-a but thought I’d post this quick thought about the Broncos and the evil Cowgirls.
I think Denver wins this game…which puts them 4-0…which means I’ve drank the kool-aid on the Broncos being a good team this year, right? Wrong. Dallas has looked ridiculously bad so far in the season. The Carolina game was closer than the score thanks to Jake Delhomme doing what he does best lately – cough up the ball. And they are hurt. Which is not good for them but good for the Broncos. Plus, it’ll be good for Wade Phillips to go back to Denver and do what he does best…lose games that he should win. We would know about that. We had our own Wade Phillips era.
The schedule ahead is brutal but if the Broncos can continue to beat the bad teams – Oakland again, KC twice, Washington – that’s 8 wins (assuming they beat the ‘Boys.) That won’t get them in the playoffs but it’s respectable. Then again…the season is early.
RaiderNation – I’m sorry. JaMarcus Russel looks atrocious, McFadden all of a sudden can’t hold on to the football, and your defense can’t tackle. There’s talent on that team but only Al Davis could make that much talent look that bad.
Off to chick-fil-a. Don’t tell Amy.
Football Musings, Week 2 NFL
The Broncos handled the Browns nicely yesterday. It was nice to actually see them win a game. Actually, I didn’t get to see them win…but that’s a whole other issue.
Would you believe that the Broncos would be 2-0 and on top of the AFC West?
Yes. I did. Because I figured the Chargers would beat the Raiders and lose to Baltimore. Turner and the Chargers have a habit of blowing games they should win at the beginning of the year. The Ravens however look to be a beast of a team this year with Flacco having no sophomore slump so far. I had a hunch KC would lose to the Ravens but beat Oakland. That left Denver as 2-0 and on top of the division. It lasts one more week as Denver plays the Greatness (sarcasm). After this week — the descent begins.
Watching the Chefs implode, squander scoring opportunities, and mismanage the clock was painful on Sunday. The truth of the matter is that KC is talent poor right now. I think Todd H. and Scott Pioli will change that eventually but this is going to be just as long if not longer season for Chief fans as it is Bronco fans.
Alabama/Arkansas square off this Saturday and there will probably be ample enough trash talk for Hog fans that read this blog. Up until last year, the games were very close. I think the Hogs will make it interesting in the first half, then Bama pulls away in the second. Although I’m very proud of one of my former students – Clay – who is on the Razorback team. Roll Tide…then after this weekend Go Hogs.
The 2009 Predictions
My beloved Broncos went through an offseason like no other. Thankfully that drama is over and we can get on with football. Here’s how I see the season panning out…
@ Cincinnati, W: Let’s face it, nobody really knows why Marvin Lewis is still coaching. Underachievers galore and as funny and good Ocho is – their defense is shaky, running game non-existent. Even on the road, I think Denver can win this one. They need this win because after week 3…wins are going to be scarce.
Cleveland, W: A game Denver could completely lose. But it’s the home opener…and it’s Cleveland.
@ Oakland, W: I originally had this as a loss but changed my mind. I hate the Raiders. Pathetic franchise but no one, not even Al Davis himself really knows what kind of team they have this year.
Dallas, L: This is where we start hiding the women and children. The next 7 games are brutal. I haven’t seen a stretch of games that tough in a while. Great year to draw both the NFC East and AFC North. Dallas should win because they are more talented BUT it is Dallas and they haven’t been normal in a while. Still…a game that Denver could win if they played well…which they haven’t yet.
New England, L: Do we really have to watch this one? Last one was over by 2nd quarter.
@ San Diego, L: Only way Denver wins is if SD is hurt, abducted by aliens, and Ed Hochuli is calling the game.
@ Baltimore, L: Ugly, low scoring game but a loss. Ravens are looking at Super Bowl. Defense is nasty. On the road after a bye week…not going to happen for the Broncs.
Pittsburgh, L: Monday night game. For some reason, Pittsburgh never plays Denver well. I don’t know why but after Pittsburgh beat Denver in the AFC Championship game back in ’04 (I think), Denver has somehow got the best of them. But…this is a stacked, young, healthy Pittsburgh team that should be hitting its groove. Denver could steal this game but I’m going with averages here.
@ Washington, W: I don’t really think Denver will win this game but it’s the best shot of they have in this brutal 10 game stretch. I’d feel better about it if it was at Mile High.
San Diego, L: Another game Denver COULD win if they play perfect and the stars align up. But just too much talent and SD is ready/focused finally.
NY Giants, L: Thanksgiving night, at Mile High. Will be a great atmosphere. (I’ll take any tickets if any one is offering them!!) It’s just that the Giants know how to run the football and I’m not drinking the kool-aid on the Denver defense. They are still not very good.
@ Kansas City, L: I don’t like this game this late in the season at Arrowhead. The Chiefs have their own issues to work through with a new coach, new QB, new OC and the like. I’m hoping this game stops the losing streak but if I had to pick…
@ Indianapolis, L: It won’t end here. Denver has never looked good playing Indy, especially at Indy. It’s a little too early to hope they’ll be resting their starters for the playoffs.
Oakland, W: I was at the Raider game last year with David and Danny. It was painful to watch. This is what I want for Christmas.
@ Philadelphia, L: An away game in December in Philadelphia…just can’t get any better. Philly will more than likely either be playing for home field advantage OR suffered an implosion with Michael Vick at QB. Either way – Denver becomes the punching bag.
Kansas City, W: At this point in the season, it will be interesting to see how the team responds. Does it roll over or push on? If it pushes, they’ll get the W here. KC doesn’t play all that great in Denver.
6-10.
That’s with two “I hope they win” picks thrown in – Cincy & Washington. This is the first time since the Wade Phillips era that I really believe that Denver has no chance at the playoffs. Wow.
Go Broncos.
The Season From The Hot Place Begins
I’m not sure what was worse last night – watching Cutler finally get his legs underneath him as he sliced open the Denver defense or listening to Cris Collingsworth.
In Case There Was Any Doubt…
It’s official…the Broncos had the worst off-season ever. Any hope of getting over that off-season with real football was completely shattered last night. Let’s cover the bright spots first.
Dawkins – a beast. A terror. Played with a broken hand. Lit up anyone who was near him. He actually reminds me of Dennis Smith.
Doom – Elvis is IN the building. It’s a shame he’s the only pass rusher we have that’s worth anything. He’s going to get double-teamed all season long because teams know that they can block the rest of the D-line with popsicle sticks and harsh language. But…he will be a beast in the linebacker position.
Stupid moment of the night – how in the world did Denver get in a scheme where Doom was covering a WR???? He did it…but what the heck was going on there? Another stupid comment from Collingsworth – “Doom is the best player on the Broncos (pause) along with Champ Bailey.” Doom is good and he has the potential to be great. But Champ is by far and away the best player on the Broncos.
Peyton Hillis, Eddie Royal – I’m in favor of running the option during the year with these two and Knowshon Moreno. Any takers?
Overall – Pathetic
The list is long and repetitive as this point. Quarterback play, penalties, play calling, no power in the redzone, defense giving up big 3rd down plays. Sound familiar? Yeah…just like last year. Glad all those changes were made to correct that stuff.
I thought I was finally okay with the Cutler trade. He is a crybaby. He is a prima donna. He’s immature, cocky, loudmouthed, and has a jerk of an agent. But there is no comparison in terms of talent between him and Orton. Cutler doesn’t miss the easy throws. Cutler can throw the ball down the field. Cutler can take a hit. Cutler can put the ball on a postage stamp while on the run in traffic. Cutler revels in the pressure and adversity. He just didn’t want to play for a team, organization, or coach who wouldn’t commit to not trade him.
I realize that it’s not fair to Orton but he can thank McDaniels for that. It’s not even close and last night was the smoking gun proof of it. There was never any threat of the deep ball from Orton. Part of that is play-calling, part of it is the continued ability of Orton to miss wide open targets. At this rate, loosing Brandon Marshall is not going to be a big deal because the Broncs can’t/won’t throw the ball further than 10 yards.
I’m still a Bronco fan, have been since I was 7. Will continue to be a Bronco fan through this debacle as well. Heck, we survived the Wade Phillips experiment. But there is no way this team goes .500. No way.
Welcome to Oakland East.
The Real Tragedy of Favre-Gate
The greatest retirement of any player in any sports has to be John Elway. It’s not just because I’m a huge Bronco fan or that John was/is the greatest quarterback ever – of which there is no further discussion, amen.
It’s because Hollywood couldn’t have scripted out a better exit. Quarterback goes to three Super Bowls early in career and gets blown out in all of them. Puts up Hall of Fame numbers the rest of his career, wins a NFL MVP award but never gets back to the big game. After 16 years in the NFL, he gets to the Super Bowl as the largest underdog in the world and WINS. Comes back the next season, wins the Super Bowl again AND the Super Bowl MVP trophy.
Then retires in the offseason, his last game a Super Bowl win with a Super Bowl MVP trophy. Can you really top that? Of course you can’t.
The only thing that would have been better was Michael Jordan staying retired after he 3-peated the second time. But he didn’t. Or Magic staying retired…but he didn’t either.
But Favre’s situation? It’s different. MJ and Magic – still beloved, they were seen as guys who just loved to play. Favre has gone beyond that…he wants to play as long as it is on his terms and teams he wants to play for. And it’s getting old. There are enough selfish brats in sports, didn’t need another one and sure as heck didn’t need to see that side of Brett Favre.
That’s he’s going into the Hall of Fame one day is not in question. What is in question is what uniform will he wear? Will he have any fans left when he gets there? Will he have a home field, a home team that will honor him as a conquering hero when this is all said and done?
Not Even Close
To being good.
You couldn’t have scripted a worse debut than what Denver did in San Francisco. I mean… 3 INTs? The Orton/McDaniels Experiment is officially started and it doesn’t look bad…it looks horrific. I thought one of the benefits of getting rid of Cutler was the red zone turnovers? I’m glad we got that cured…
The 49ers aren’t even good.
It’s going to be a long season.
The First of Many
Posts on my beloved but confused Broncos.
They had a live practice at Invesco Field last night. At first I thought it would have been awesome to be there. After reading the reports…I’m not so sure.
My good friend David has blogged about his experience at training camp this year. I went last year with him. I love David very much. He is a godly man, godly father, and great leader. But I have to take issue with his perspective on things.
Kyle Orton
I realize he looks good in practice…with no hitting…no helmets…no fans…no screaming…and against a defense that has yet to put pressure on any quarterback. This is not going to be a good year at the QB position for the Broncos. It just isn’t. All Bronco fans just need to accept this fact and move on.
Eddie Royal, et al
Our receivers do look awesome…in practice with a quarterback who gets the ball near them with no helmets, no contact, no fans, and no pressure. Seeing a pattern here?
Bronco running game
I understand there is hope among the Blue and Orange that this is the year they return to their normal run dominance. Wake up. As long as Knowshon is a no-show…look at last year, rinse and repeat. With no passing game to threaten the deep part of the field, get used to seeing 8 men in the box.
The best, most rested secondary in the NFL
Panic may set in with the news that Dawkins broke his hand last night. Relax. First, he’ll be ready for the opener. But with Champ and crew in the secondary, no need to panic at all. Teams can’t pass on this secondary.
Of course, they aren’t going to need to pass because when you rip off 7 to 8 yards a carry…
The Phantom 7
No one can tackle on the front 7 of the Broncos. No one. I’m so glad we drafted a RB, a corner, and a tight end. I do think McDaniels needs to run the offensive line and backs through tackling drills this summer as they will have a chance to have as many tackles as the defensive front 7 with the INTs that are coming.
The Schedule
Makes you really wonder why McD traded the 1st round pick for a 2nd this year now. Had to be financial considerations because we’ll have a top 10 pick next year. It’s just brutal and honestly, I’m glad. Just a huge wake up call as to the talent level difference between the Broncs and the rest of the league at this point.
Coaching
I’ll reserve my comments on this until I actually see a game. For all we know, he’s going to be a genius. Let’s hope for that and MAYBE it will make up for the interpersonal relationship problems and draft decisions he’s made so far.
Back to normal life…at least we’re not the Raiders.
Training Camp Around The Corner
With training camp looming near, all I’m getting on the radio around here is Chief’s news. KC just signed Matt Cassell to a long term deal, which is good but I still wonder how in the world are the Chefs (misspelled on purpose) going to protect him? Who’s going to catch the ball? Who’s going to run it?
Of course, Denver’s problems aren’t that much better, just on the other side of the ball. Who’s going to tackle? Who’s going to lead the defense? Who’s going to put pressure on the QB? I’m not sure which problems are better to have…this is why we play the games.
Cutler Saga Continued…
This week, KC Joyner got slammed because of his comments about Cutler as a Bear. For Bronco fans – nothing really new in the article. We were getting tired of the sulking on the sidelines after a bad play, 4th quarter red-zone picks and turnovers. We chalked up the first 2 years as inexperienced, this year they got harder to swallow especially down the stretch with a 3 game lead.
I think the coaches and fan were hoping that he’d grow up and out of that stuff, that Cutler’s maturity would eventually rise up to the level of his talent. It didn’t in Denver. Chicago is hoping it does there. It could happen. Plenty of stories have played out that way.
What I think is bizarre is that particular class of QB’s is turning out to be the Head Case Class of all time. Leinart, Young, and Cutler have not been the most stable bunch of QB’s. All have had their off-field issues and attitude issues. None have exactly lived up to their hype.
Other Random Training Camp Thoughts
The Broncs – Orton doesn’t thrill me but if he can protect a lead, not turn it over in the 4th quarter – I’ll take it. Knowshon Moreno is going to be fun to watch. The defense of Denver is going to be painful to watch. Addition of Dawkins is huge but not sure if it’s huge enough. He’s not a defensive lineman.
Jokeland is pathetic. They already cut their 6th round pick from this year’s draft. I have a few Raider fan friends. I pity them. It’s getting to the point when I see them, I don’t even rag on Oakland even more because it’s just too easy and painful. I just shake my head and move on. I think JaMarcus Russell will back up Garcia this year and gain 75 pounds. I hope McFadden can stay healthy so when he becomes a free agent, he can go to a team with a prayer of a chance to win.
San Diego – getting older, still have ridiculous talent to win. Still not convinced that Norv Turner is the guy to take them there but he manages to scrape by. Last year again – scrapes into the playoffs and makes some noise in the first round. The problem for the Chargers is they don’t come to play every single game. I don’t know why. It baffles my mind with LT, Rivers, and Gates how that can happen but it has the last two years.
The NFL season can’t get here fast enough.
NFL Offseason Thoughts
The Bronco Soap Opera
Has to be the biggest story of the offseason – Shanahan fired, McDaniels in, Cutler gone, Marshall in trouble with law…again, the questionable draft of the Broncos. Marshall not showing up for a mandatory camp was a stupid move by an immature player. Yes, he’s underpaid but there is no way any team is going to give him a larger contract right now with his track record with the law and his injuries. So his only real course of action right now is to shut up, show up, and grow up.
McDaniels as coach — I still don’t get it, honestly. I’m hopeful, just like the next fan but he’s got a lot to prove and he shortened his window to prove it in when the Cutler debacle went down. His draft wasn’t awesome either, neither was the offseason signings. Heck, one of the RB’s he signed didn’t even pass his physical. Trading a next year’s first for a this year’s second on an undersized CB…the list goes on but I also know that if Moreno turns out to be the next TD, everyone will forget the rest.
I’ll dance in the streets if the Broncos break .500 this year.
The Favre Chronicles
It could be argued that this is the number 1 story. I wouldn’t argue a whole lot. It’s just…it’s tiring. Just retire, 4. Look at how 7 did it and just quit. The Jet Experiment left a bad taste in everyone’s mouth, going to the Vikings is just going to get worse. It would have been like Elway going to the Raiders. Unthinkable. Plus, the more he sticks around, the more he looks like a prima donna, the exact opposite of his legacy at Green Bay.
Brady Returns
I don’t fully understand the love affair with Tom Brady. He’s a great quarterback, don’t get me wrong. I’d love to see him in Blue and Orange given the options we’ve got. But Cassell took the team to 11-5. Not shabby. To be fair, Brady takes advantage of every mismatch ever on the field…due to coaching or talent or smarts – on one hand it doesn’t matter. He gets it done. On the other hand, I don’t think he’s the greatest ever, I don’t think the Patsies would be done if he got hurt or wasn’t there. Just saying…
Todd Haley at KC
Living in Topeka, I’m flooded with the Chefs info. It’s mildly irritating as they have little to no talent on this team. Their past drafts make Denver and Oakland look like geniuses…and that’s saying something. The biggest problem KC had was addressed this year – their GM and they got a great one. So over the next few years, I expect the Chefs to reach the level of annoyance that they traditionally have – having the ability to show up in your house and just hand it to you for 60 minutes. Making both the fans and the players that they’ve been in a car wreck when the game is over.
(As an aside – one of the most wicked hits I’ve ever seen was Dale Carter lighting up Elway on a roll out pass. It was a late hit, it got a yellow flag…but the entire stadium went silent waiting to see if 7 was getting up.)
But they’re not there yet. Most of the stories around here focus on Todd Haley – the fired up coach from Arizona. It’s been interesting to see the progression of him being a jerk, to just a tough guy, to a good guy who demands a lot from his players over the last few weeks on sports radio. Who knows what he’s really like, he’s in the same boat as McDaniels is in on one hand…but less pressure at this point, I think. Fans here are giving him the benefit of the doubt so far.
What’s been your favorite/least favorite moment of the offseason so far?
Understanding the Bronco’s Draft, Day 1
First, hire the youngest, most arrogant offensive minded coach you can find. Never mind you already had an offensive guru and that defense was your biggest problem. Minor details.
Second, allow him to trade the franchise the QB for 2 first round picks.
Third, we don’t really need the number 2 rated DT in college football. I realize he fell, should have been drafted higher. But draft a RB after you already signed 2 in free agency and have 2 2nd year backs that looked great. It doesn’t matter. You’re missing the point.
Remember those 2 first round picks? Now trade one of them away for a 2nd round pick so you can get a short CB. Why? Because we really missed the Dre’ “Toast” Bly era.
It’s not even worth walking through the logic of the draft this year…
This is how Raider fans feel every year.
I Got A Letter From Pat Bowlen…
Okay, it’s a form letter that he sent to season ticket holders and those of us on the waiting list.
Here’s what it said…
Dear Broncos Fan,
I am writing this letter today because I feel compelled to give our community and our fans an explanation regarding the Jay Cutler situation.
One of my directives to Josh McDaniels upon his hiring was that he consider everything possible to return the Broncos to the level which you and I both expect, and this certainly includes making a fair evaluation of every opportunity presented to us which might improve the team. He and General Manager Brian Xanders have had my complete support throughout, and they have it now. It is important that you know that at all times we represented ourselves to Jay with honesty and integrity.
I assure you both Josh and I made repeated attempts to reach out to Jay, and I can not speak for him as to why he chose to limit his response. Ultimately, given his unwillingness to speak with either of us directly in the last 12 days- at the same time his agent clearly stating to us Jay’s intentions- it became very apparent to me personally that he no longer wanted to play for the Denver Broncos. As such, we elected to trade him.
Understand this: it remains about team. Our franchise has gone to the Super Bowl six times, with three different coaches and with many different players. It has never been about one player, and it never will be. Coach McDaniels shares this vision, and everyone in the organization—players, coaches and staff—must understand and accept this unconditionally. If anyone does not, that person will not be a part of this franchise.
I am extremely proud of our franchise, its accomplishments, and the region and fans that we represent. We have an illustrious history, one which we are all anxious to add to, and if someone does not wish to be with us as we head in this direction, then we will move on, and move forward.
Over 96% of our season ticket holders have chosen to renew their tickets for the 2009 season. This is once again a compelling statement of support and trust by the greatest fans in the NFL, and I assure you my only goal is and always will be to compete at the highest championship level.
The Denver Broncos will move forward in 2009 as one team, united with the most loyal and passionate fan base in football, towards the only goal we will ever pursue.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your understanding and continued support.
Sincerely,
Pat Bowlen
Good letter. Is it damage control? I don’t think so. I think it’s a return to sanity and class after a 30 day hiatus. I admire Pat Bowlen saying – hey, Jay doesn’t want to be here and lead? Fine. We’ll find people who do. Then he and his team went out and got the best deal they could get.
Nice letter, Mr. Bowlen. Good to have you back.
The Morning After
I’ve had a night to sleep on the Cutler trade and here’s what I think I think about it.
Chicago gave up a lot to get Cutler. A team with major needs at WR and on the defensive side of the ball needs draft picks. Chicago gave those picks up. It’s a risk but the flipside of the argument is that they sucked at picking players in the first round anyway and Cutler is a known commodity. If Jay Cutler grows up, it could turn out to be a win-win trade for everybody.
Denver got picks but blew their offense up to do it. Marshall will be coming off of hip surgery and more police escorts. The O-line is still great. We’ve got some above average to good running backs in the mix. Can’t replace Cutler’s talent but maybe the offense can do without the interceptions as well. Orton/Simms isn’t going to scare anybody but if one of the 4 first round picks in the next two years produces a franchise quarterback…most would be forgiven.
Draft Picks are the best commodity to have. The picks will only be as good as the person drafting. So far, McDaniels and company have not shown well in the discernment department. If the picks hit, there is a possibility of looking at this like the Cowboys look at the Herschel Walker trade. If it doesn’t…there is always 2011 when we’ll have a new coach.
Seats at Mile High should be easier to get. It’s official, the Broncos are rebuilding and it will get worse before it gets better. Champ Bailey must be shaking his head wondering what happened in a short 4 years – from the AFC Championship Game to this. From a top 5 defense to this. From a top-rated offense to this.
Most fans don’t mind rebuilding when there is a clear direction and progress can be seen. But watching a team self-implode is ridiculous. Watching grown men behave worse than high school students is detestable. Like or not, we’re here and it’s not going away. We’ll watch more 45 to 50 point games this season with the knowledge that we can’t keep up with them anymore.
But if the picks hit and Mike Nolan coaches the D like he has in the past…there’s some hope. So far every light at the end of the tunnel has proven to be a train in the McDaniels era.
Kyle Orton…
[shakes head....nearest cliff to Topeka is where??]
I’m so glad I moved to Kansas City Chief country this year. Couldn’t have picked a better time to be a Bronco fan.
So let’s review the McDaniels Era thus far…
A failed three way trade for Matt Cassell in which a division rival gets said QB.
Lies to starting QB.
Fumbles the make-up so bad, owner has to step in.
Says he wouldn’t trade Cutler.
Signs spleenless Chris Simms.
Trades Cutler for Kyle Orton and 2 first round picks, 3rd round pick for a 5th rounder.
Simms and Orton can now compete for starting job.
The Bears just became a playoff team. The Broncos have just become a lottery team. The good news? We’ve now got enough picks to get a defense.
Glad this drama is over.
Million Dollar Victim
“I didn’t want to leave Denver.”
Really, Jay? That’s why you quit answering your phone, not showing up to meetings, put your house and your parent’s house up for sale in Denver, and had your agent demand a trade?
It pains me to say this but maybe we’re getting to see why McDaniels didn’t want Cutler in the first place. Leaders lead, they aren’t victims. They don’t deliver excuses, they deliver solutions and their presence. Cutler’s done none of this.
I’m still not a huge McDaniels fan either. He’s got plenty of fault in all of this as well but he seems to have learned one thing well from Belicheat – it’s better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you’re an idiot than to open your mouth and prove them right.
The Dark Years…
The Broncos officially begin the dark years with the impending trade of Cutler.
McDaniels – you are off to the worst start a rookie head coach has ever had and you haven’t coached a game yet. So far, I’m missing the Wade Phillips era. You have zero people skills. I’m praying to God you’re better with a headset on.
Bowlen – you’ve gone from the best owner in the league to needing an intervention and therapy. Broncs will be lucky to win 8 games next year. You’ve made Al Davis look stable the past two months. One hand, I appreciate bold moves and empowering your coach to lead the team. So far, your decisions seem to lack some major discernment.
Cutler – you are a brat. You alone could have healed it all and been a leader but you didn’t. Perhaps you couldn’t. Perhaps you really are as immature as you appear and I hope one day your maturity catches up with your talent. Seriously, not returning calls to the man who signs your check? What grade are we in? 7th?
Everybody loses in this deal but mostly Cutler. I’m not terribly worried about the team. We’ve survived Bubby Brister, Brian Griese, and Jake Plummer. We’ll survive this. I’m not worried Bowlen. I believe once the McKid and Cutler drama broke he did all he could do to fix it. When it couldn’t get fixed, he had to side with the coach regardless of the bone head in the position at the time.
But Cutler will get what he wanted – out of Denver – and he will be less of a man and leader because of it. Send him to Detroit and see how long the pouting after a loss is tolerated. Or Cleveland. And for his sake, let’s hope he grows up. The quarterback class of 2006 doesn’t look all that stable now, does it?