Robert Ayers Working Hard, Ready for Denver Broncos Training Camp

This offseason, the main-area concern for critics of the Denver Broncos has been the uncertainty of their front seven.

First-round pick Robert Ayers not only hopes to restore certainty to Denver fans, but he hopes to make a smooth transition to Mike Nolan’s 3-4 defensive scheme.

“Yeah, it’s a pretty hard defense, but you know if you’ve put in the work and the time and have studied, you’ll catch on,” Ayers said. “I think all of the [defensive] guys are setting a good example for me.  I see what they’re doing in the classroom and learning, and stuff like that…It makes all the rookies want to do the same.”

Ayers comes to the Broncos as a first-round pick in April’s draft, and in college he never really put up any big numbers.  Much of that can be attributed to the fact that he was largely a run-stuffing defensive end, but such a high pick will be expected to get to the quarterback double digit times early in his career.

And Ayers understands the pressure.

“There may be [pressure],” Ayers said. “I set my standards high for myself.  For other people to put pressure on me—it doesn’t amount to how much pressure I put on myself.  I’m my hardest critic.”

Even with the scheme and position change, Ayers feels the Broncos were the only team for him.

“I feel like this is the perfect defense for me,” Ayers said. “Out of all 32 teams—I’m not with the other teams but I don’t think there could be a better match for me.  The way I play, the things I do good, it fits perfectly with this defense, and I’m happy to be here.”

With all of his hard work, Ayers does not plan on facing any setbacks with his rookie contract.  Unlike many first-round picks, the former Tennessee defensive end plans on reporting to training camp in late July with a deal in place.

“Mr. (Pat) Bowlen and my agent (Tony Agnone), they’ll work together and I’m pretty sure they’ll have a good deal (in place),” Ayers said. “I feel confident about the fact that I’ll be here on time.”

When talking to the press, Ayers continued to impress with his maturity.  The youngster knows that this league is a business, but he also knows why he will make the money he does.

“I don’t want to lose any time,” he said. “Another thing I don’t want to do, I don’t want the team thinking I’m a money-first guy. I’m here to play football and to win. Money is secondary. It’s going to be there. It’s just the fact of getting it done.”

The rookie also stated that he is excited to get on the field with pads on, and like fellow former defensive linemen Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder, Elvis Dumervil and Darrell Reid, Ayers is going to have to adjust to rushing the passer whilst standing up.

“In college, I played mostly with my hand down,” he said. “The fact that I’m a little more comfortable with my hand down, I’m trying to learn how to rush standing up.”

Ayers went on to say how the Broncos’ coaching staff is allowing some of the “hybrid” linebackers to put their hand in the ground in some situations, but that he is forcing himself to stand up in those situations so he can become more acclimated to the position.

The turnaround of a horrific defense in Denver will depend largely on the production of their front seven, and Ayers figures to be a huge part of that transition.  The rookie out of Tennessee is hoping to give the Broncos something they have lacked this whole decade: a legitimate pass rush.

2009: Year Of The Diva?

Is it just me, or has 2009 been filled with more drama since Michael Vick’s trial in 2007? I don’t know what it going on, but this offseason has been filled with arrests, meltdowns, trades, and general drama.

It all started with Plaxico Burress. I know the “incident” where he accidentally shot himself in his leg with an unlicensed, and illegally concealed, weapon in a night club was in 2008. However, it is still a hot topic today in 2009.

After his arrest, he was suspended for the rest of 2008 season by Roger Gooddell, and released by the New York Giants in the offseason. His trial for weapons charges has been postponed to September, so it is a possibility that an ailing or rebuilding team could pick him up as a free agent.

Then came Jay Cutler. After hearing that he was in the midst of trade talks for Matt Cassel, he flipped on rookie head coach Josh McDaniels. He demanded a trade, and owner Pat Bowlen was forced to oblige.

He was traded to the Chicago Bears for QB Kyle Orton and several draft picks. Cutler was satisfied, and so were Da Bears. But the Broncos had lost their first hope at a franchise QB since John Elway

How could we forget the big T.O. Long, long after instigating a hissy fit about Tony Romo throwing to Jason Whitten, which caused a late season meltdown, Owens was released from the Dallas Cowboys. Troublemakers Pacman Jones and Tank Johnson also got canned.

However, it didn’t take long to find a new home for Owens, as the Buffalo Bills picked him up after less than a week. They are division rivals with the New England Patriots, home to Terrell Owens archrival Randy Moss. Prepare to be entertained.

The next Diva to come around was Brandon Marshall. Sometimes better known for his 13 arrests for domestic violence than is on-the-field prowess, B-Marsh wants out of Denver.

Why? Most likely because he lost his QB, Jay Cutler. Top that with rookie head coach Josh McDaniels causing a ruckus and stirring everyone’s feathers, it’s not a surprise someone like him wants out.

Less publicized is Chad Ocho Cinco’s attempt at maturity. After publicly admitting his disappointment in his performance it seems he is attempting to take the NFL seriously for a change. Stay tuned.

Two notable arrests were made, Marshawn Lynch and Donte Stallworth. Lynch was charged with weapons charges and parole violations, and was suspended for three games by the NFL.

Stallworth, was charged with DUI manslaughter and faced 15 years, but was able to get it down to 30 days? How? Hell if I know, but it worked…Not really, Roger Gooddell laid down some real justice by suspending Stallworth indefinitely, so it is possible Stallworth will never play in the NFL again.

Most recent was everyone’s favorite draft bust, Ryan Leaf. After being wanted for drug and burglary charges, Leaf was caught trying to get across the US border. He faces eight charges and it is speculated he may get up to 10 years in jail.

Why is all this happening? The most likely culprit is the money getting to their heads. Plain immaturity coupled with millions of dollars can’t be a good combo, and it has shown.

Hopefully, the superstars of tomorrow will realize that they can’t let the money, the fame, and the “lifestyle” get to their head, and they should focus on their profession.

Is Josh McDaniels in Danger of Being Fired Before Coaching a Game?

Following the 1999 season, Bill Belichick was set to be introduced as the new coach of the New York Jets at a press conference. Instead, he resigned from the position. However, he did it for another head coaching position.

In the case of new Broncos coach Josh McDaniels, that really doesn’t apply. This is his first head coaching gig, and the way things are going, he may not even be able to get a job as a waterboy. 

The new coach has already caused a stir by flirting with the idea of trading Jay Cutler for Matt Cassel. Cassel instead went to Kansas City, while Cutler found out, pouted, and demanded a trade. And who did they get to replace him…Kyle Orton, the guy who had trouble beating out Rex Grossman in Chicago.

As bad as that was, it might be getting even worse now with the news that receiver Brandon Marshall also wants out of Mile High. This might be the worst situation a first-year head coach has ever faced. Remember, the Broncos did finish with an 8-8 record last season, so there isn’t too much room for error. 

The Broncos had been a model of consistency under former coach Mike Shanahan. Even when they missed the playoffs, they were at least close, for the most part.

Rebuilding in Denver is as foreign an occurrence as going to the beach on Christmas Day. So, the only way McDaniels can really redeem himself would be to improve the team, and that would mean at least a winning season.

You have to wonder, what else can go wrong here? Or rather, can anything go right for this team, and more specifically their new coach, who is already under scrutiny without having coached a single game? 

Fans and media have been pointing the finger at him for the team’s faults. Of course, if the team improves, and Cutler continues to be a bust, it’ll all be a different story. But right now, Josh McDaniels seems like a coach already on the hot seat.

Perhaps the Broncos will pull a Lakers move and re-hire Mike Shanahan. As of right now, that not only seems like a strong possibility, but maybe the only way to regain the prestige of this franchise.

Looking Ahead: The Potential NFL Free-Agent Class of 2010, Part One

I have recently been evaluating the top free agent talent to be had in latter stages of the signing period.

With training camp looming, there are sure to be a flurry of signings to fill rosters and replace sustained injuries. 

With roster turnover affecting 33 percent of the average NFL roster, wading into free agency cautiously is vital. A few mishaps, and a team can turn its salary cap into a three-headed monster that makes life unpleasant. 

Just ask the Jacksonville Jaguars.

In 2007, they won a gritty playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two six-year, $30 million dollar deals with wide receiver Jerry Porter and cornerback Drayton Florence later, a 5-11 2008 record ensued. Both players, who were expected to be major contributors, flopped and were cut this offseason. 

Other teams strike gold.

The Atlanta Falcons landed a franchise running back in Michael Turner. The Seahawks landed their best wide receiver in 20 years in TJ Houshmandzadeh. The Saints landed top quarterback Drew Brees on the open market a few years ago.

With things simmering down, it is never too early to begin speculating about next year. The day after the draft, ESPN already had a 2010 Mock Draft up, so why not begin to examine the top potential free agents that can hit the market in 2010?

First, let’s dive into the top quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers that can be had. My subject material will definitely become more appealing. 

Signability does play a factor, which is the reason why a guy like Philip Rivers will be kindly left out of speculation.

 

Quarterback

 

Chad Pennington

He will be 34 when his contract is up. With young quarterbacks Pat White and Chad Henne waiting in the wings, the Dolphins may choose not to retain the veteran signal-caller beyond this season.

Since Pennington’s game is all about accuracy, he will be in high demand for teams who do not need a quarterback to heave the deep ball on every drive.

If the Vikings/Favre saga falls through, look for Minnesota to make a play for him in the 2010 offseason.

 

Kyle Orton

Next season is a tryout for Orton to see if he can be a franchise quarterback with all of the weapons that surround him in Denver. He was a great game manager for Chicago, but he never had a Brandon Marshall or an Eddie Royal to throw to.

Orton has a career 21-12 record, which is actually better then that Jay Cutler guy (17-20).

If Orton fails to perform, the Broncos will probably select a quarterback in the earlier rounds of next year’s draft. If he can throw for 3,500 yards and 25 TD’s, then Jay Cutler becomes a headache worth getting rid of. 

If he hits the market, teams that could be looking for a quarterback next season are San Francisco, St Louis, Washington, Jacksonville, Tennessee, and Seattle.

 

Jason Campbell

Perhaps the best quarterback that could be had next offseason.

Campbell has taken some heat from the Redskins’ front office, in addition to the team attempting to trade for Jay Cutler and then trying to move up to get Mark Sanchez in the draft.

Campbell is obviously not Washington’s first choice at quarterback, and I would not be surprised to see them cut him loose.

Despite all the negativity, he has put up decent numbers in his short career, tossing for 7,242 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions with an 80.4 quarterback rating. If we were to expand his stats out for three full 16-game seasons, he would have 9,532 yards, 50 TD’s and 32 INT’s.

Not bad for the first three seasons, either way you look at it.

With a quarterback-loaded 2010 class, look for Campbell to hit the market and garner some serious interest.

A team like the Seahawks could take a serious look at him as the heir to Hasselbeck, depending on what they do in the draft with guys like Colt McCoy and Tim Tebow on the board. With Seattle stacked at the wide receiver position, Campbell would finally be able to break away from mediocrity.

A team like Jacksonville also would be a perfect fit with their run-first mentality, depending on what they do with the high-priced David Garrard.

 

Tarvaris Jackson

If Sage Rosenfels beats him out for the starting job, the Vikings may cut ties with the bi-polar Jackson. He seems to either play like a Pro Bowler or play terribly.

He has been a disappointment to the majority of Vikings fans, and he had a dreadful playoff showing against the Eagles this season.

A team like the 49ers could make a play for the unproven quarterback, depending on how Shaun Hill does as starter. 

If for some reason the Giants and Chargers cannot resign Eli Manning and Philip Rivers (the apocalypse would have to strike), they would easily garner the largest contracts in NFL history if they were to hit the free-agent market. 

 

Running Back

 

Ronnie Brown

He has not proved he is a true franchise-type running back, but he has posted a solid 4.4 yards per carry average in his first four seasons.

At 27, Brown should be entering his prime and is poised for some career years running the ball. He has had to split the load even since his college days, and if given the bulk of the carries, he could become the next Michael Turner. 

I predict San Diego could make a run at him, because the Chargers learned from their mistake of letting Turner go by putting the franchise tag on Darren Sproles.

With LaDainian Tomlinson getting up there in age, if Brown were to hit the market, they may view him as more of a feature back than the dynamic Sproles. A move like this would lead to the phasing out of Tomlinson

 

Leon Washington

With both Jets running backs demanding $5-6 million annual salaries, it is unlikely they will keep both running backs beyond 2010.

And with Thomas Jones leading the AFC in rushing, Washington will have to turn it up a notch to warrant his desired salary. 

If he were to hit the open market, he would be a highly sought-after player. He would likely get his desired salary even if he did not have a breakout season, and he would be able to land the bulk of the carries for another team. 

Look for a team like Cleveland to go after him if current running back Jamal Lewis fails to up that 3.4 yards per carry average from last season. 

 

Darren Sproles

I love this guy. He is one of my favorite running backs because he can do everything for a team.

Even though he is small, he has some power and will bull right through you. 

My only knock on him is that his size is not capable of lasting through 16 games of constant pounding as a team’s feature back. But he would be an excellent change-of-pace back for a team using a power runner. 

He would mesh perfectly with a team like St Louis, the New York Giants, or Cincinnati. Putting Steven Jackson and Darren Sproles in the same backfield would be a matchup nightmare for any defense.

 

Chester Taylor

Poor Chester.

He had no idea when he signed with the Vikings that Adrian Peterson would soon become one of the NFL’s best players.

Even as a change-of-pace back the last two seasons with Minnesota, Taylor has averaged 4.8 yards per carry and six touchdowns per season. 

His path could lead one of two ways.

He could stay as a role player in one of the best rushing attacks in the league.

Or, he could test the market in search of one last big payday, and perhaps his last chance to be someones feature back.

He averages only 133 carries per season in his career, so even at the age of 29, he has plenty of production left in his legs.

If Laurence Maroney fails to stay healthy for New England, the Patriots could be in the market for a running back.

Taylor could give them the steady presence they have lacked in the backfield (Brady to Moss makes up for that) for the last several seasons. 

 

Lendale White 

This guy is a touchdown machine, and he could be the next Brandon Jacobs if given a feature role.

Much like Ronnie Brown, White has had to split the carries and the glory since he and Reggie Bush were embarrassing opponents in college.

I think he is more suited for a complement role, but if someone is willing to take a shot on him, he would seek an expanded role. 

A team like Cleveland makes sense, depending on whether or not Mangini wants a power running back. New Orleans also seems logical, with Reggie Bush and his dynamic speed a perfect complement. 

 

Wide Receiver

 

Brandon Marshall

Because of recent contract disputes and a 2010 exit ability, Marshall would be the top wide receiver in a market that could be stocked with several No. 1 options.

He is due for a huge pay raise and will command top dollar on the open market.

He has not even hit his prime yet, and at 26, he has his best years in front of him. This is the kind of guy a team would cut someone it likes to be able to grab. 

This would be the chance for the Eagles to finally give McNabb his No. 1 option they have lacked since Terrell Owens was with the team. If even half the guys eligible hit the open market, the Eagles would have absolutely no excuse to not be able to obtain one. 

If the Eagles landed Marshall, they would become the NFC favorites, and McNabb would be one happy quarterback.

 

Braylon Edwards

Another game-changer could hit the market in a star-studded wide receiver class of 2010.

If Edwards could wipe the butter off of those hands, the Browns would not even risk losing him. He had one breakout season when he hauled in 80 catches for 1,289 yards and 16 TD’s in 2007.

Edwards has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason, mainly involving the Giants, so I would not be surprised to see him hit the open market.

Would any other teams besides the New York Giants be able to grab Edwards? If they were willing to maybe deal high draft picks to obtain him, why would the Giants hesitate if he hit the open market?

 

Greg Jennings

Jennings has emerged as a top wide receiver, averaging 1,106 yards and 11 TD’s over the last two years.

I honestly do not see him hitting the open market, but with Green Bay’s conservative stance on free agency, they may let him walk if the situation got too pricey.

A team like Miami would be a perfect destination for Jennings to thrive as the hands-down No. 1 option

 

Vincent Jackson and Chris Chambers

It is unlikely the Chargers will keep both of their top wide receivers, both of their top running backs, and Rivers.

Something’s gotta give.

If they are able to retain 60 percent of those players, that should be considered a success. That likely means a wide receiver and running back will be packing their bags. 

Jackson is a terrific slot wide receiver who finally had a breakout year in 2008, compiling 58 catches for 1,098 yards and emerging as the No. 1 wideout for the Chargers.

His age (26) likely means if it were to come down to choosing one or the other, Chambers (30) would get the ax. 

Chambers is still a great No. 2 option, and he would generate serious attention on the open market. He could be a No. 1 wide receiver on a starved team like the St. Louis Rams.

 

Roddy White

Absolutely no way the Falcons get rid of Matt Ryan’s best option.

 

Antonio Bryant

With $50-60 in cap space, I see absolutely no way he does not sign a long-term deal to be the Buccaneers No. 1 wide receiver for years to come.

 

In my next article, I will be looking ahead to the top available tight ends and offensive linemen who can hit the open market in 2010. 

If you have not already, check out the top free agents who are still on the market this offseason. 

Who Benefits the Most from the Denver Broncos Troubling Offseason?

There have been so many intriguing story lines this offseason:  The Brett Favre saga, Plaxico Burress and Dante Stallworth’s legal problems, and of course the Denver Broncos.

 

The Broncos have had one of the more tumultuous offseasons in recent memory and it all started at the end of the 2008 season.

 

All the Broncos had to do was win one of their final three games in 2008 to win the AFC West and go back to the postseason.  The Broncos entered Week 15 with an 8-5 record.  However, they would end up losing that game against the Carolina Panthers 30-14.

 

The Broncos would collapse again in Week 16 and 17, losing to the Buffalo Bills 30-23 and in the final game against the San Diego Chargers 52-21.  They ended up finishing in a tie for first, but by virtue of a tie breaker missed the postseason.

 

The downward spiral continued when owner Pat Bowlen fired future hall of fame coach Mike Shanahan on December 30, 2008.  Shanahan was replaced by 33 year old Josh McDaniels who was the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots.

 

McDaniels soon expressed his interest in acquiring QB Matt Cassel, which did not sit well starter Jay Cutler.  Cassel ended up with the Chiefs and Cutler then asked to be traded.

 

After months of speculation and bickering, the Broncos finally dealt their Pro Bowl QB to the Chicago Bears for Kyle Orton and several draft picks.

 

Now we hear that star WR Brandon Marshall is also requesting a trade out of Denver.  If that were to come to fruition the Broncos would lose their top two offensive weapons from last season.

 

Bowlen had maintained that Marshall will remain with the team.  Remember that Bowlen said the same thing about Jay Cutler, eventually unloading Cutler to Chicago.   

 

So who benefits the most from this turmoil?  The Chicago Bears?  They nabbed a Pro Bowl QB.  Brandon Marshall?  He may get his wish and leave to another team.  The media?  They have something to cover for all of the offseason besides Favre.

 

I argue that it is the Seattle Seahawks.

 

Seahawks GM Tim Ruskell may have orchestrated one the greatest draft day steals when he sent the Seahawks 2009 second round pick to Denver for the Broncos first round pick in 2010.

 

With all of the uncertainty surrounding the Broncos offense, the Seahawks have a chance to creep into the top ten in next year’s draft if the Broncos struggle this season.  This selection could lead to USC’s Taylor Mays or Tennessee’s Eric Berry.

 

However, many think that the Seahawks are in prime position to grab the QB of the future.  Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford, Texas’ Colt McCoy and Florida’s Tim Tebow are all expected to be in the 2010 draft. 

 

There are still several questions that will remain unanswered till the end of the ’09 campaign.  One thing is for sure, as long as the Broncos stay in the headlines, Seattle Seahawks fans will continue to grin.

Broncos’ Josh McDaniels Is Scaring Denver

I want to know what Josh McDaniels said in his interview with Pat Bowlen. I’ve seen his press conferences and he strikes me as competent, but not charismatic the way other great coaches are.

He seems as arrogant, but in a way that indicated the kind of person who, when things started going straight to hell, would start looking for scapegoats to take the beating. I understand the exemplary resume and all of the Patriots offenses that he turned into buzz saws. But the rhetoric that he must have imparted in this interview must have been stupefying to the point of being historical. He must have been Shakespearean to convince Pat Bowlen, an aware owner, to give him total control and to pick his own flunky GM.

And now, as things appear to be teetering on Bengals and Raiders bad, I find myself missing Shanny. I could even go for Dan Reeves. But the new guy isn’t doing it for me.

I think everyone in the NFL should be more dubious of the Bill Belichick school of coaching. The minute he won the Super Bowl in ’01, he won the right of dominion over his organization. But it’s inane to give the same benefit to his assistants before they coach a single game.

McDaniels should have been dancing in glee at the prospect of Jay Cutler running his offense. Instead, he tried to bring Matt Cassel, who cannot touch Cutler in terms of skills. Brandon Marshall following was, it seems now, inevitable.

I bet McDaniels would say that Jabar Gaffney could fill in. Ah-ha! That’s why he was signed! Well, score one for the whiz kid, because I’m positive this was being planned all along.

What’s the best way to impose your will on the team? Winning. It’s not looking promising on that front. The defense was historically bad. The best way to fix it is to bring in competition to drive all the scrubs out. The Broncos drafted six offensive players as opposed to four on the defensive side. Knowshon Moreno needs to hurdle a lot of defenders, or the failure to sign a nose tackle—essential to a 3-4—will become glaring.

Successful coaches that were once Belichick’s assistants include Nick Saban, Kirk Ferentz, Al Groh, and Charlie Weis. Now, all of these coaches were successful at the college level, where it is much more pragmatic to use the total control method, and Weis is still a bit of a stretch. Saban was an awful NFL coach, although he didn’t have anything to dismantle like McDaniels did in Denver; he was simply screwed from the beginning. Groh was coach one year for the Jets, and now leads a mediocre Virginia program.

Unsuccessful coaches that were once Belichick’s assistants include Eric Mangini (could change) and Romeo Crennel. Granted, there are only two real black marks, but again, there’s not one success story in the NFL.

So, this all begs the question: How will history treat McDaniels? I sincerely hope it treats him well, because obviously any success he experiences will be shared by the Broncos and, subsequently, enjoyed by the fans. It’s possible that all that has happened is factoring into some strategy that will transcend anything that preceded it, that it will be the coaching job of the new decade.

But a good coach should be pragmatic. And nothing about the coach’s moves, from the sloppy coup for Matt Cassel to the disheartening interview that followed it, have been very pragmatic. 

Ready For War: The Broncos Schedule Uncovered (Game Four)

(This is a continuation of last week’s article on game two at the following link:http://bleacherreport.com/articles/195300-ready-for-war-the-broncos-schedule-uncovered-game-two)

Game Four at Denver, Sunday 10/04

The game at Oakland was more of a preseason match up for the Broncos. The Broncos revamped defense handled the Raiders all four quarters, allowing only six points. The Denver offense controlled the majority of the game, with their commanding rush attack.  Any time you beat a rival in their own house, the momentum for your team tends to cross over to the next Sunday.

The Broncos welcome the Dallas Cowboys to Investco Field for game four. At 4-0, the Broncos are on a roll.  The Cowboys come in with new faces on a stout defense. They will also be showing flashes of the wildcat offense.

The Cowboys had some key player losses, which may affect their overall performance.  The following list was gathered from Yahoo sports at the following link:

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=Amc7fjhYfQvtWPvYeah.dTSD2bYF?slug=teamreports-2009-nfl-dal&prov=sportsxchange&type=team_report

• OG Joe Berger(notes): UFA Dolphins; 3 yrs, terms unknown.

• LB Kevin Burnett(notes): UFA Chargers; $5.5M/2 yrs, $2M SB.

• DE Chris Canty(notes): UFA Giants; $42M/6 yrs, $8.5M SB/$17.25M guaranteed.

• LB Greg Ellis(notes) (released).

• DT Tank Johnson(notes): UFA Bengals; $620,000/1 yr.

• WR Terrell Owens(notes) (released).

• LB Zach Thomas(notes): UFA Chiefs; $2M/1 yr. 

• S Roy Williams (released).

Gregg Ellis and Zach Thomas were big producers in the defense.  Even though they were not the “super stars”  of the defense, their production will be missed.  Keith Brooking was signed to replace Thomas, but Ellis provided a pass rush presence that the Cowboys will need from someone else in the linebacker corps.

The loss of Roy Williams, may be a good thing for the Cowboys.  He didn’t seem to be a good fit for a 3-4 defense.

Chris Canty was a huge loss, but the Cowboys replaced him with Igor Olshanksy, who should be a more than a comparable stand-in.

I’m not a believer in wide receiver Roy Williams and think that he is a hug downgrade from Terrell Owens. 

With a lot of new faces on both sides of the ball, it’s hard to say what the Cowboys will be like this year. 

Here are my predictions of how the game will go:

 

First Quarter Highlights

On the first possession, starting from their own 35, the Broncos complete a huge 11-play,  13-minute drive, capped off with a five-yard touchdown run by Knowshon Moreno. Six of the first 11 plays are running plays, in which Moreno averages five yards a carry.

With the positive run production, Orton is able to slice and dice the Cowboys defense.  Eddie Royal has 2 catches for 20 yards and Brandon Stokley and Tony Scheffler, both out-run their defenders to add two catches as well.

With two minutes left, the Cowboys control the ball through the rest of the quarter.

 

Second Quarter Highlights

The Cowboys rushing attack is powerful. Marion Barber averages eight yards on his first three carries. The Wild Cat offense appears to be confusing the Denver defense and they are out of position for most of the drive. The Broncos’ defense holds up on their own 20-yard line and forces the Cowboys to kick a field goal. Broncos 7 Cowboys 3.

The Broncos again are able to move the ball on the Cowboys’ defense. In an effort to stop the run, the Cowboys attack with a series of blitz packages, which the Broncos counter with an array of screen plays. Moreno, Peyton Hillis, and Correll Buckhalter each gain 10 receiving yards out of the backfield. 

Eddie Royal catches a 50-yard-deep ball from Orton for a touchdown with one minute left in the half.  Broncos 14 Cowboys 3.

 

Third Quarter Highlights

The Broncos’ defense comes out flat, letting the Cowboys offense run-and-gun 80 yards down the field, in an eight minute drive capped off by 15-yard touchdown reception through the middle by Patrick Crayton. Broncos 14 Cowboys 10.

Broncos catch a break with a 50-yard kick return from Eddie Royal. The offense sputters and is forced to kick a 40-yard field goal by Matt Prater. Broncos 17 Cowboys 10.

The Cowboys again are able to run over the Broncos defense. This time, Tashard Choice is the main contributor, with four runs for 40 yards. Romo hits Jason Witten with a cross-the-field post pattern knotting up the game at 17 points a piece.

 

Fourth Quarter Highlights

With the game tied up, the Broncos go back to a conservative ball-control offensive approach. The Broncos are able to set up a 12-play drive, which gets them to the Cowboys 20-yard line and takes 13 minutes off the clock. The Cowboys defense is able to stop the offense, forcing three incomplete passes in the end zone. The Broncos are forced to kick a field goal with two minutes left in the fourth quarter. Broncos 20, Cowboys 17.

The Cowboys get off to a quick start from their own 20-yard line, with two quick passes to Roy Williams and a screen pass to Marion Barber. With one minute left, the Broncos defense is able to sack Romo at the Cowboys 43-yard line, forcing them to use their second time out. 

On second and third down, the Cowboys are able to move the ball across the 50-yard line with back-to-back runs by Marion Barber, but the Cowboys are forced to use their final timeout.

On first down, the Broncos first round draft choice, defensive end Robert Ayers, is able to charge of the corner and sack Tony Romo on his blind side. With time expiring, the Cowboys run their special teams unit on to the field to complete a 45-yard field goal attempt. The kick is up…..and it is wide right.

The Broncos win this close game 20-17.

 

 

 

B-MarshGate?: Discerning the Truth Through the Speculation

The Denver Broncos page here at Bleacher Report has been inundated as of late with a myriad of articles about Brandon Marshall.  As news gets slow in the off-season this story has made many writers experience a rubbernecking effect. 

 

It seems that no one can help themselves. Writers here at B/R just can’t look away and as a result editorials have run amok.

 

Many of these articles were written by hateful rivals who couldn’t pass up the chance to relish in the misfortune of the team they disdain. For them this was a welcome distraction from the issues of their own teams and a chance for some retribution for past attacks.

 

For others it was an exercise of arrogance.  It helped their self-esteem to write an article that would receive a lot of traffic. 

 

Unfortunately, all the reads in the world couldn’t change the fact that they spoke from a place of ignorance about the team, player and situation in question. These “writers” have speculated wildly and have muddied an already complicated situation. 

 

So let me simplify it for everyone by simply stating the facts:  

 

Brandon Marshall was drafted in the fourth round (119^th overall) of the 2006 NFL draft. Brandon has had a productive NFL Career.

 

Receiving Stats (Regular Season)
Year	Team	G	GS	Rec	Yds	Avg	Lng	TD	1st	Fum	Fum Lost	YAC	Trgt
2006	Denver Broncos	15	1	20	309	15.5	71	2	14	1	0	110	37
2007	Denver Broncos	16	16	102	1,325	13.0	68	7	70	3	1	505	170
2008	Denver Broncos	15	15	104	1,265	12.2	47	6	65	4	3	419	181
Totals		46	32	226	2,899	12.8	71	15	149	8	4	1,034	388

 

(Due to this production many consider Marshall to be one of the top ten wide receivers in the NFL.)

 

Brandon Marshall has only ever had Jay Cutler throwing him the ball in the NFL. Jay Cutler made more pass attempts to Brandon Marshall than any other receiver on his team during his time in Denver.

 

Brandon Marshall is in the final year of a four-year rookie contract where he is scheduled to make $2.198 million this season. Many NFL players renegotiate and seek contract extensions in the final year of their contracts.

 

Based on an NFL salary database compiled by USA Today last season; 58 receivers made more than $2.2 million last season. Brandon Marshall walked into Dove Valley headquarters the afternoon of Friday June 13^th  for a private meeting with team owner Pat Bowlen.

 

Marshall walked out a little more than an hour later carrying packed boxes to his car before driving away from the players’ parking lot. Marshall has complained about the Broncos’ medical staff, accusing them of not discovering the full extent of his hip problem last year.

 

Brandon Marshall has not yet participated in any off-season activities with the Denver Broncos in 2009. Marshall  has been arrested three times in the span of 12 months, twice for domestic disputes.

Marshall was suspended for three games at the start of the 2008 season.  The suspension was knocked down to one game after a Marshall appeal.

A Broncos player has not held out from training camp since receiver Ashley Lelie in 2006. Lelie eventually was traded to San Francisco, a move that helped clear playing time for a rookie named Brandon Marshall

 

Jay Cutler demanded to be traded this off-season, and was later traded to the Chicago Bears.

 

Brandon Marshall released the following statement on his personal website:

 

“To whom it may concern. Life is filled with change, and where I am in my life now change is probably best. It’s hard leaving an organization ran by one of the best owners in all of sports, and someone who’s been there for me through my ups and downs. The hardest thing was hearing Mr. B wish me luck in the future, but we both came to the conclusion that this is probably the best thing for me to grow on and off the field.”

 

When questioned about Marshall’s situation in light of the above statement Josh McDaniels responded “We look forward to having Brandon at training camp.”

 

These are the Facts of the Situation, and as such they are undisputed.

 

In the end this whole situation is about Money and Trust.

 

Should Marshall get paid?  Yes.

 

Despite Marshall’s legal issues, immaturity, injury and possible suspension he is still one of the best receivers in the game (In my personal opinion) and he warrants a contract that reflects his ability. 

 

Do the Denver Broncos have a right to protect their own interests? Yes.

 

Along with elite talent, Marshall brings with him a hailstorm of concerns that could be a major liability to the franchise.  For all the benefits the Broncos would garner from Marshall’s services they also get a player with a lot of question marks. 

 

He could be suspended for half a season, he might not be able to return to form after injury, or he may struggle to adapt to McDaniels’ new offensive system.

 

Marshall has also taken issue with the Broncos medical staff, who were either incompetent or were not completely honest with him about his injury.  Can this trust be mended with Marshall?  I don’t know.

 

Marshall has requested to be traded.  This could be merely a tactic in contract negotiations or it could be a legitimate desire to no longer play in Denver.

 

If this relationship can be mended with money, I believe that the Broncos should pay the man.  I understand that it is a gamble, you are taking the risk that in paying him he may under perform or get himself into further trouble that prevents him from playing, but in my estimation it is worth it to role the dice with Marshall. 

 

The Broncos can help protect themselves from Brandon’s troubles by structuring the contract with clauses that penalize Marshall for his misdeeds off the field while satiating his desire for a larger paycheck.  

 

If Marshall really wants out of Denver though, the Broncos need to get as much as they can for him.   If a player doesn’t want to be with your team you have three options:  you can keep him and make him play, make him sit, or let him go. 

 

If you keep him he can be a distraction and a cancer a la T.O.  If he plays he is playing for himself and not the team a la T.O.

 

If he sits, the organization is wasting their money on a player that adds no value to the team. If you let him go you may not get equal value for the player in return, but you allow your team to move on. 

 

Cincinnatiis not all the better for keeping Ochocinco instead of cutting him loose.  He has underperformed and his value has degraded over the past few years. 

 

The Eagles were better with T.O. than without him, yet everyone in Philly will tell you that letting him go was the right thing to do.

 

There is a way to manage this situation where all parties come to the table and leave satisfied.  As long as the communication lines stay open, Denver can keep Marshall while still protecting themselves and ensuring the balance of power stays with the franchise. 

 

Personally, I don’t buy the desire to be traded.  It is just a dance, a posturing for position in the game of contract negotiation.  Marshall is trying to gain the upper hand by saying he wants out, when he really just wants to get paid. 

 

The Broncos are not succumbing to the fear of loss Marshall is trying to create.  Denver knows they hold all the cards and they are going to play it cool. 

 

The story is not over yet and I’m sure the speculation will not end here.

B-MarshGate?: Discerning the Truth Through the Speculation

The Denver Broncos page here at Bleacher Report has been inundated as of late with a myriad of articles about Brandon Marshall.  As news gets slow in the off-season this story has made many writers experience a rubbernecking effect. 

 

It seems that no one can help themselves. Writers here at B/R just can’t look away and as a result editorials have run amok.

 

Many of these articles were written by hateful rivals who couldn’t pass up the chance to relish in the misfortune of the team they disdain. For them this was a welcome distraction from the issues of their own teams and a chance for some retribution for past attacks.

 

For others it was an exercise of arrogance.  It helped their self-esteem to write an article that would receive a lot of traffic. 

 

Unfortunately, all the reads in the world couldn’t change the fact that they spoke from a place of ignorance about the team, player and situation in question. These “writers” have speculated wildly and have muddied an already complicated situation. 

 

So let me simplify it for everyone by simply stating the facts:  

 

Brandon Marshall was drafted in the fourth round (119^th overall) of the 2006 NFL draft. Brandon has had a productive NFL Career.

 

Receiving Stats (Regular Season)
Year	Team	G	GS	Rec	Yds	Avg	Lng	TD	1st	Fum	Fum Lost	YAC	Trgt
2006	Denver Broncos	15	1	20	309	15.5	71	2	14	1	0	110	37
2007	Denver Broncos	16	16	102	1,325	13.0	68	7	70	3	1	505	170
2008	Denver Broncos	15	15	104	1,265	12.2	47	6	65	4	3	419	181
Totals		46	32	226	2,899	12.8	71	15	149	8	4	1,034	388

 

(Due to this production many consider Marshall to be one of the top ten wide receivers in the NFL.)

 

Brandon Marshall has only ever had Jay Cutler throwing him the ball in the NFL. Jay Cutler made more pass attempts to Brandon Marshall than any other receiver on his team during his time in Denver.

 

Brandon Marshall is in the final year of a four-year rookie contract where he is scheduled to make $2.198 million this season. Many NFL players renegotiate and seek contract extensions in the final year of their contracts.

 

Based on an NFL salary database compiled by USA Today last season; 58 receivers made more than $2.2 million last season. Brandon Marshall walked into Dove Valley headquarters the afternoon of Friday June 13^th  for a private meeting with team owner Pat Bowlen.

 

Marshall walked out a little more than an hour later carrying packed boxes to his car before driving away from the players’ parking lot. Marshall has complained about the Broncos’ medical staff, accusing them of not discovering the full extent of his hip problem last year.

 

Brandon Marshall has not yet participated in any off-season activities with the Denver Broncos in 2009. Marshall  has been arrested three times in the span of 12 months, twice for domestic disputes.

Marshall was suspended for three games at the start of the 2008 season.  The suspension was knocked down to one game after a Marshall appeal.

A Broncos player has not held out from training camp since receiver Ashley Lelie in 2006. Lelie eventually was traded to San Francisco, a move that helped clear playing time for a rookie named Brandon Marshall

 

Jay Cutler demanded to be traded this off-season, and was later traded to the Chicago Bears.

 

Brandon Marshall released the following statement on his personal website:

 

“To whom it may concern. Life is filled with change, and where I am in my life now change is probably best. It’s hard leaving an organization ran by one of the best owners in all of sports, and someone who’s been there for me through my ups and downs. The hardest thing was hearing Mr. B wish me luck in the future, but we both came to the conclusion that this is probably the best thing for me to grow on and off the field.”

 

When questioned about Marshall’s situation in light of the above statement Josh McDaniels responded “We look forward to having Brandon at training camp.”

 

These are the Facts of the Situation, and as such they are undisputed.

 

In the end this whole situation is about Money and Trust.

 

Should Marshall get paid?  Yes.

 

Despite Marshall’s legal issues, immaturity, injury and possible suspension he is still one of the best receivers in the game (In my personal opinion) and he warrants a contract that reflects his ability. 

 

Do the Denver Broncos have a right to protect their own interests? Yes.

 

Along with elite talent, Marshall brings with him a hailstorm of concerns that could be a major liability to the franchise.  For all the benefits the Broncos would garner from Marshall’s services they also get a player with a lot of question marks. 

 

He could be suspended for half a season, he might not be able to return to form after injury, or he may struggle to adapt to McDaniels’ new offensive system.

 

Marshall has also taken issue with the Broncos medical staff, who were either incompetent or were not completely honest with him about his injury.  Can this trust be mended with Marshall?  I don’t know.

 

Marshall has requested to be traded.  This could be merely a tactic in contract negotiations or it could be a legitimate desire to no longer play in Denver.

 

If this relationship can be mended with money, I believe that the Broncos should pay the man.  I understand that it is a gamble, you are taking the risk that in paying him he may under perform or get himself into further trouble that prevents him from playing, but in my estimation it is worth it to role the dice with Marshall. 

 

The Broncos can help protect themselves from Brandon’s troubles by structuring the contract with clauses that penalize Marshall for his misdeeds off the field while satiating his desire for a larger paycheck.  

 

If Marshall really wants out of Denver though, the Broncos need to get as much as they can for him.   If a player doesn’t want to be with your team you have three options:  you can keep him and make him play, make him sit, or let him go. 

 

If you keep him he can be a distraction and a cancer a la T.O.  If he plays he is playing for himself and not the team a la T.O.

 

If he sits, the organization is wasting their money on a player that adds no value to the team. If you let him go you may not get equal value for the player in return, but you allow your team to move on. 

 

Cincinnatiis not all the better for keeping Ochocinco instead of cutting him loose.  He has underperformed and his value has degraded over the past few years. 

 

The Eagles were better with T.O. than without him, yet everyone in Philly will tell you that letting him go was the right thing to do.

 

There is a way to manage this situation where all parties come to the table and leave satisfied.  As long as the communication lines stay open, Denver can keep Marshall while still protecting themselves and ensuring the balance of power stays with the franchise. 

 

Personally, I don’t buy the desire to be traded.  It is just a dance, a posturing for position in the game of contract negotiation.  Marshall is trying to gain the upper hand by saying he wants out, when he really just wants to get paid. 

 

The Broncos are not succumbing to the fear of loss Marshall is trying to create.  Denver knows they hold all the cards and they are going to play it cool. 

 

The story is not over yet and I’m sure the speculation will not end here.

Brandon Lloyd Signs With Denver; Brandon Marshall Demands Trade

No, the two player moves are not related, at least I don’t think they are. But it’s fun putting the two headlines together.

In a move that strikes fear in no one in the AFC West, the Denver Broncos signed wide receiver Brandon Lloyd to a contract.

Lloyd still evokes shame and doubt in me. I referred to him as a “gifted receiver” when the Washington Redskins signed him and Adam Archuleta as the last pieces needed for that supposed 2006 Super Bowl run.

The experience taught Washington’s blogging community that healthy skepticism is a good thing. That’s why we can question the logic of what we’re hearing from Redskin Park without any disloyalty to the team.

Lloyd caught 43 and 48 passes the two seasons with San Francisco before he signed with Washington. The 49ers were a weak team with a question mark at quarterback. Surely, we thought, Lloyd would blossom with Joe Gibbs’ Skins, who made the playoffs in 2005.

It was only after he bombed here (23 receptions, 365 yards, 0 TDs), and after reading a passing reference by Skin Patrol on HogsHaven.com, that I took a deep look at Lloyd’s 49er performance.

Brandon Lloyd was not the equal of Rod Gardner, the man he was brought in to replace.

Gardner, called “fifty-fifty” by Bruce Smith and others because those were the odds he would catch any ball that hit his hands, managed 46 receptions and four touchdowns as a rookie. Over the next three seasons, Gardner never caught less than 51 passes nor fewer than five touchdowns in any one year.

Lloyd never caught more than 48 passes in any season in his career. He contributed 23 receptions in Washington’s disastrous 2006 nightmare.

Pro Football Prospectus 2008 says Lloyd caught 44 percent of the passes thrown his way in 2005. And that was his best year.

Odds are that Lloyd is merely the practice dummy for new Denver QB Kyle Orton.

As if to say “there’s not enough room in Denver for two Brandon’s,” wide receiver Brandon Marshall is demanding a trade. Shockingly, Denver is considering it.

If Denver can set up a draft auction for QB Jay Cutler, why not do the same for Cutler’s No. 1 receiver Marshall? I don’t think that’s going to happen, but I didn’t think the Broncos would cut Cutler loose for any amount of draft picks.

Marshall’s good-bye statement is up on his web site.

“It’s hard leaving an organization ran by one of the best owners in all of sports, and someone who’s been there for me through my ups and downs.  The hardest thing was hearing Mr. B wish me luck in the future, but we both came to the conclusion that  this is probably the best thing for me to grow on and off the field.”

It’s a small world and a round one. Brandon Marshall’s trade demands are the same as Brandon Lloyd’s in 2005-06 before he joined the Redskins.

This scares me shirtless.

Redskins owner Daniel Snyder was willing to trade first round picks for Chad Ochocinco (nee Johnson), Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez. He will at least think about Marshall, who’s a much better receiver than Lloyd, or Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly.

We lambaste Daniel Snyder with regularity in Washington. It could be worse.

Pat Bowlen could be the Redskins’ owner. I have no idea what he’s doing to the Broncos. Chances are that he doesn’t, either. 

This story originally published on redskinshogheaven.com.

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