What If… Josh McDaniels Is a Genius?!?

What if Josh McDaniels is a genius? I’ll admit “genius” may be a little bit of an overstatement.  More realistically, what if it all works out for McDaniels?

What if Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears struggle in 2009 and fail to make the playoffs.  The Denver Broncos benefit with a first round pick in the top 18 of the 2010 NFL Draft?

What if the New York Jets bite on a Brandon Marshall trade and send their first round pick for 2010 to the Broncos?

In the 2010 draft the Broncos select both Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford and Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant.  With his remaining picks McDaniels trades down, in typical New England form, to gather a dearth of picks.

In a few years an offensive nucleus of Bradford, Knowshon Moreno, and Dez Bryant thrives in Denver, Come the start of the 2012 season, the Denver Broncos are favorites to win the AFC West and push deep into the playoffs.

What if a scenario similar to this plays out for the Broncos?  Would Josh McDaniels be regarded as the next great architect in the NFL?

Think about it.

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Denver Broncos: Sizing Up the AFC West

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The NFL has a unique ebb and flow that is not found in other professional sports leagues. With few exceptions, teams that dominate the league rarely stay among the elite for more than five seasons.

Perhaps no division has been hit harder by this reality than the AFC West of the last few years. As the Denver Broncos enter the 2009-2010 season, they will face division opponents surrounded by several uncertainties and weaknesses.

 

San Diego Chargers

The Chargers are the one team in the AFC West that has not changed its personnel much in the offseason.

With LaDainian Tomlinson’s recent injuries and decrease in production, the passing game has become San Diego’s main offensive threat. In 2008, Philip Rivers posted career highs in completion percentage, passing yards, passing touchdowns, and passer rating.

The Charger passing attack is built primarily on hitch routes and screens, simple passes that most defenses are willing to concede. Once the opposition commits to these short passes, San Diego can open them up by throwing downfield.

By switching to a 3-4 defense, the Broncos will have more speed and more coverage options against the pass, and Denver has signed several veteran defenders who match up better with the Chargers than last year’s defense.

San Diego’s defense is quick and athletic, intimidating opponents with frequent blitzing and hard hits. This could easily disrupt the timing of an already inconsistent quarterback like Kyle Orton, and neutralize the open field skills of Knowshon Moreno. Denver will benefit from the spread offense, designed to neutralize aggressive defenses and force them to account for several offensive options.

With Denver’s offense slightly less talented and defense slightly more talented than last season, look for lower scoring games against San Diego. Also keep an eye out for the Chargers and fourth quarter comebacks; they have a knack for turning certain defeat into thrilling victory in the last fifteen minutes.

 

Kansas City Chiefs

Like Josh McDaniels, new Kansas City head coach Todd Haley has worked with talented offenses such as Dallas and Arizona in his recent career. Haley takes over a team that finished 31st in total offense in 2007 and 24th in total offense in 2008. With the addition of Matt Cassel, the Chiefs should have more success in the passing game, opening up the ground attack for Larry Johnson, who frequently victimizes the Broncos.

In 2008, Kansas City’s defense finished 28th or worse in sacks, pass defense, rush defense, and points per game. This is the sort of problem that will take at least two seasons to improve upon. Against the Chiefs, Denver will be able to test all aspects of the spread offense, as Kansas City is one of the worst defensive teams the Broncos face all season.

The Chiefs are one of the youngest teams in the league, with 12 of 22 starters having four years of experience or less. The Broncos have only six starters in that category, and should benefit from veteran leadership against the Chiefs in 2009.

This seems to be one matchup that throughout the years has always produced close, competitive contests. Since the 2000 season, the road team in the Denver and Kansas City rivalry has won only three games. Look for one blowout win and one close game between the Broncos and Chiefs in 2009, with the home team winning each time.

 

Oakland Raiders

Unless Tom Cable makes drastic changes in his first full year as head coach, Oakland will continue to be a below average team. The Raiders have not won more than five games in a season since 2002, and have not improved much in this time period.

There is no question about the talent and speed of the Raider offense featuring JaMarcus Russell, Darren McFadden, Javon Walker, and Darrius Heyward-Bey. The Raiders, however, do not have a solid game plan that maximizes the potential of these skill players. Look for most of the Raider points against Denver in 2009 to be set up by big plays, not sustained drives.

The addition of Richard Seymour will help round out a defense that gave up 192 rushing yards per game in 2008, good for last in the NFL. Against Denver’s spread offense, the Raiders will have matchup issues with the depth of Bronco wide receivers. This will allow Denver to run the ball with ease, something they should be able to do regardless of success in the passing game.

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Denver and Oakland will likely play low-scoring games in 2009, as neither team has the firepower to put up high scores. Denver matches up more evenly with Oakland than Kansas City or San Diego, so these will likely be the closest contests of any two division rivals in 2009.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Practice Notes 9/8/09: Brandon Marshall Back in Action

Well, Brandon Marshall is back at practice, and he does not appear to be wearing pajama pants.

In all seriousness, this is a huge boost for the Denver Broncos, who also welcomed quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Chris Simms, running back Knowshon Moreno, and wide receiver Jabar Gaffney back to practice on Tuesday.

Head coach Josh McDaniels offered only a single word when asked about the attitude of Marshall—”Great.”

He also offered a one word response when asked if Marshall would be ready to contribute on Sunday, saying “Absolutely.”

It would appear as though Marshall and the Broncos have put their situation behind them for the time being.  McDaniels seems to think so anyway.

“I have talked to him more than once,” McDaniels said, “We are looking forward to moving past this, and he’s out there practicing hard. That’s what we’re looking for.”

This is a huge boost for the Broncos. 

If Marshall is physically ready, he is an imposer of fear on the football field.  He has been called “The Beast” and a “Whirling Dervish” for a reason.  The dude can play some ball, and the Broncos realize that they have a much better chance of winning with him on the field.

“I think he is a good football player. If he is ready to go and we go through this week of practice and we feel like that’s the direction we should play on Sunday, then certainly we all know what he can do as a football player. It is a matter of getting acclimated to enough of the game plan and him understanding what’s going on, but we’ll see as we go through the week.”

Marshall’s presence on the field will surely be a boost for whichever quarterback lines up under center for the Broncos on Sunday.  The team is not guaranteeing Orton will be ready, but all systems appear to be “go” for the quarterback who suffered a very disturbing injury two weeks ago to his pointer finger.

“Obviously, there is a little bit of restriction for a quarterback when you’ve got something on your hand,” McDaniels said, “but for the most part, everything was clean. Hopefully, everybody that was out there today will be ready to go on Sunday.”

Virtually the same response was given by McDaniels when asked if rookie tailback Knowshon Moreno would be available for the Cincinnati game.

“He is getting better every day, doing everything he can do to be ready to go on Sunday. He was in there today and worked in and out of the drills today and some of the team periods, too. He is not totally there yet, but he is getting better every day. Hopefully, we will have him ready to go on Sunday.”

It will be a huge development for Denver if they can begin the season with the roster we all anticipated at the outset of training camp, and Moreno is certainly part of that group.

It was also nice to see wide receiver Jabar Gaffney at practice despite his broken thumb.  If you are unable to believe that someone could return to catching passes after suffering a broken thumb this quickly, here is proof.

The team is also very excited about Vonnie Holliday, a veteran defensive lineman who was brought in for a visit back in March.

“Vonnie has got some familiarity with the system that we run. We had him in earlier in the year. He was coming off of a little bit of a cleanup in terms of a little procedure and wasn’t quite ready to do a workout and all that kind of stuff.”

“We brought him back in, stayed in touch and I think it worked out for the best for everybody. He is excited to be here. We are excited to have him. I think he can help improve our depth on the defensive line. He has obviously played that position. He has got some knowledge about how to play it, and I think that is helpful for some of our younger players, too.”

Check back tomorrow evening for my preview of the Broncos-Bengals game.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Practice Notes, Sept. 8, 2009: Brandon Marshall Back in Action

Well, Brandon Marshall is back at practice, and he does not appear to be wearing pajama pants.

In all seriousness, this is a huge boost for the Denver Broncos, who also welcomed quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Chris Simms, running back Knowshon Moreno, and wide receiver Jabar Gaffney back to practice on Tuesday.

Head coach Josh McDaniels offered only a single word when asked about the attitude of Marshall—”Great.”

He also offered a one-word response when asked if Marshall would be ready to contribute on Sunday, saying, “Absolutely.”

It would appear as though Marshall and the Broncos have put their situation behind them for the time being. McDaniels seems to think so anyway.

“I have talked to him more than once,” McDaniels said. “We are looking forward to moving past this, and he’s out there practicing hard. That’s what we’re looking for.”

This is a huge boost for the Broncos. 

If Marshall is physically ready, he is an imposer of fear on the football field. He has been called “The Beast” and a “Whirling Dervish” for a reason. The dude can play some ball, and the Broncos realize that they have a much better chance of winning with him on the field.

“I think he is a good football player. If he is ready to go and we go through this week of practice and we feel like that’s the direction we should play on Sunday, then certainly we all know what he can do as a football player,” said McDaniels. “It is a matter of getting acclimated to enough of the game plan and him understanding what’s going on, but we’ll see as we go through the week.”

Marshall’s presence on the field will surely be a boost for whichever quarterback lines up under center for the Broncos on Sunday. The team is not guaranteeing Orton will be ready, but all systems appear to be “go” for the quarterback who suffered a very disturbing injury two weeks ago to his pointer finger.

“Obviously, there is a little bit of restriction for a quarterback when you’ve got something on your hand,” McDaniels said, “but for the most part, everything was clean. Hopefully, everybody that was out there today will be ready to go on Sunday.”

Virtually the same response was given by McDaniels when asked if rookie tailback Moreno would be available for the Cincinnati game.

“He is getting better every day, doing everything he can do to be ready to go on Sunday. He was in there today and worked in and out of the drills today and some of the team periods, too. He is not totally there yet, but he is getting better every day. Hopefully, we will have him ready to go on Sunday.”

It will be a huge development for Denver if they can begin the season with the roster we all anticipated at the outset of training camp, and Moreno is certainly part of that group.

It was also nice to see wide receiver Gaffney at practice despite his broken thumb. If you are unable to believe that someone could return to catching passes after suffering a broken thumb this quickly, here is proof.

The team is also very excited about Vonnie Holliday, a veteran defensive lineman who was brought in for a visit back in March.

According to McDaniels, “Vonnie has got some familiarity with the system that we run. We had him in earlier in the year. He was coming off of a little bit of a cleanup in terms of a little procedure and wasn’t quite ready to do a workout and all that kind of stuff.

“We brought him back in, stayed in touch, and I think it worked out for the best for everybody. He is excited to be here. We are excited to have him. I think he can help improve our depth on the defensive line. He has obviously played that position. He has got some knowledge about how to play it, and I think that is helpful for some of our younger players, too.”

Check back tomorrow evening for my preview of the Broncos-Bengals game.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Jets Still Posturing For a Possible Brandon Marshall Trade with Broncos

 

Over the weekend a very interesting trade took place between the Detroit Lions and the New York Jets.

The Lions sent quarterback Kevin O’Connell to the Jets for an undisclosed pick.  The Lion acquired O’Connell off of waivers from the New England Patriots on September 1^st.  The trade occurred Saturday September 5^th.

What’s interesting here is that the Denver Broncos also put in a claim for O’Connell before he became the property of the Detroit Lions for a brief moment.

The New York Jets now have four quarterbacks on their roster and say they plan to “move forward with four quarterbacks on the roster.”

While the Jets legitimately like O’Connell he is also more valuable to them right now as trade bait. 

He is coming into a new system with three quarterbacks that have spent at least six months adapting to the new Jets regime.   Ahead of O’Connell on the depth chart are starter Mark Sanchez, Kellen Clemens a fourth year player out of Oregon, and Erik Ainge in his second year out of Tennessee.

The Jets in all likelihood will offer the Broncos O’Connell and draft picks.  The Broncos have been rumored to have shown some interest in Jets linebacker David Harris as well.  Keep in mind the Jets are depleted in high draft picks due to last year’s acquisition of Brett Favre and this year’s move to get Mark Sanchez.  

If the Broncos do eventually discuss a trade with New York, they should call the Jets bluff and ask for Mark Sanchez, which in all logic isn’t going to happen, but they should pursue that angle.  Sanchez has won the starting quarterback job in New York as a rookie.   

Sanchez was seen on the University of Colorado sidelines during the CU / CSU game all decked out in Buffs gear.  He was there supporting his longtime friend, CU wide-out Scotty McKnight.  Sanchez was standing alongside ironically enough, Broncos third stringer and fellow rookie Tom Brandstatter.

The Denver Broncos took Brandon Marshall off the suspended list on Sunday and officially made room for him on the roster by releasing former New England Patriot wide receiver Chad Jackson.  The Broncos had been carrying seven receivers.

It’s important to note that the Broncos have taken the stance that they are not looking to trade Brandon Marshall.  The thinking is at this point Brandon need the team and they need him.  However, this strained relationship leaves a number of things to think about.

The Jets are carrying four quarterbacks and as everyone now knows, the Broncos have three quarterbacks that are all young in Coach McDaniels’ system.  Kyle Orton’s and Chris Simms’ injuries have put the position in doubt.  While Tom Brandstatter had a good debut as a starter, he has noticeable things he should work on before becoming the starter. 

Both Coach McDaniels and the Jets are high on Kevin O’Connell’s potential in the NFL. 

The question is what will really come of Brandon Marshall this season and any possible trade?

 

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Jets Still Posturing for a Possible Brandon Marshall Trade with Broncos

Over the weekend a very interesting trade took place between the Detroit Lions and the New York Jets.

The Lions sent quarterback Kevin O’Connell to the Jets for an undisclosed pick. The Lions acquired O’Connell off waivers from the New England Patriots on Sept. 1. The trade occurred Saturday, Sept. 5.

What’s interesting here is that the Denver Broncos also put in a claim for O’Connell before he became the property of the Detroit Lions for a brief moment.

The New York Jets now have four quarterbacks on their roster and say they plan to “move forward with four quarterbacks on the roster.”

While the Jets legitimately like O’Connell, he is also more valuable to them right now as trade bait. 

He is coming into a new system with three quarterbacks that have spent at least six months adapting to the new Jets regime. Ahead of O’Connell on the depth chart are starter Mark Sanchez, Kellen Clemens, a fourth-year player out of Oregon, and Erik Ainge, in his second year out of Tennessee.

The Jets in all likelihood will offer the Broncos O’Connell and draft picks. The Broncos are rumored to have shown some interest in Jets linebacker David Harris as well. Keep in mind the Jets are depleted in high draft picks due to last year’s acquisition of Brett Favre and this year’s move to get Sanchez.  

If the Broncos do eventually discuss a trade with New York, they should call the Jets’ bluff and ask for Mark Sanchez; in all logic that isn’t going to happen, but they should still pursue that angle. Sanchez has won the starting quarterback job in New York as a rookie.   

Sanchez was seen on the University of Colorado sidelines during the CU-CSU game all decked out in Buffs gear. He was there supporting his longtime friend, CU wideout Scotty McKnight. Sanchez was standing alongside, ironically enough, Broncos third stringer and fellow rookie Tom Brandstater.

The Denver Broncos took Brandon Marshall off the suspended list on Sunday and officially made room for him on the roster by releasing former New England Patriot wide receiver Chad Jackson. The Broncos had been carrying seven receivers.

It’s important to note that the Broncos have taken the stance that they are not looking to trade Marshall. The thinking is at this point Brandon needs the team and they need him. However, this strained relationship leaves a number of things to think about.

The Jets are carrying four quarterbacks, and as everyone now knows, the Broncos have three quarterbacks that are all young in coach Josh McDaniels’ system. Kyle Orton’s and Chris Simms’ injuries have put the position in doubt. While Brandstater had a good debut as a starter, he has noticeable things he should work on before becoming the starter. 

Both Coach McDaniels and the Jets are high on Kevin O’Connell’s potential in the NFL. 

The question is, what will really come of Brandon Marshall this season and any possible trade?

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

ESPN.com Denver Broncos Preview a Disgrace to Sports Journalism

It would appear as though most of ESPN’s NFL analysts have forgotten that football is an 11-on-11 sport.

In what would be the biggest waste of seven minutes of my life, I endured the ESPN.com official Denver Broncos 2009 season preview.

This preview was not only irrational, it was downright pathetic, and not just because I disagree.

Scout’s Inc.’s Jeremy Green had one of the more intriguing comments on the Broncos’ 2009 prospects:  “This is not a very good team, but in the AFC West that is enough for second place. The Broncos have concerns at quarterback, along the D-line and in the secondary.”

Concerns in the secondary?  Does this guy have the first clue what he is talking about?

Broncos fans do not even need me to go into detail here to explain this comment, but for those who are not in the know, the Broncos have one of the more formidable secondaries in the entire NFL.

In fact, the preview goes on to say that the Broncos’ biggest offseason addition was the signing of Andre’ Goodman to pair with Champ Bailey.

Another comment I found particularly disturbing was one by Paul Kuharsky: “Offseason debacle leaves team in position to struggle. The Broncos undid a high-flying offense while not doing near enough to fix a bad defense.”

Yes. Because the Broncos do not have Jay Cutler, they have “undid” a high-flying offense.

Also, not doing “near enough” to fix their bad defense?  Might I offer a little wisdom here:

• Three new starters on the defensive line
• Three new starters at linebacker
• Three new starters in the defensive backfield
• First-round pick used on DE/OLB Robert Ayers
• Three picks in first two rounds used on defense
• Brought in Mike Nolan, a defensive guru
• Switched defensive schemes

Just because the Broncos did not break the bank for every available defensive free agent or draft pick does not mean they did not do enough to fix their defense.

The comment that prompted this article was one that was written by James Walker.

“Any hope of the Broncos having a successful season was shipped to the Windy City.”

It really is sad that this man was compensated to give this kind of an opinion.

It was also sad that second year tackle Ryan Clady was given a grade of 79 out of 99 by Scout’s Inc.  I am not sure who justified this ranking, though it means nothing, but you have to give the guy credit where credit is due.

Clady allowed half a sack on 620 pass attempts and only had three penalties all of last season. He was the most dominant offensive lineman in the NFL, by far.  There is really no disputing it.

I will give this preview some credit, though. They did state that Denver’s “strengths” were along the offensive line, with their offensive weaponry, and in their defensive backfield.

But is this preview really justifiable?  Let us take a look at Denver’s 2009 roster compared to the 2008 team that went 8-8, and you tell me if this year’s squad is better.

 

Offense

 

Quarterback

Kyle Orton vs. Jay Cutler

Advantage:  Cutler

Even the most anti-Cutler Broncos fan will tell you that Cutler is the better player than Orton. 

Despite the fact that many believe Orton is fully capable of being an excellent field general for the team, Jay Cutler is an elite talent.  He has not proven it in terms of wins and losses, but his skill set is one of the best in the NFL.

Consensus:  The Broncos clearly downgraded at the quarterback position, but not to the point where they will have to hand the ball off every play. Kyle Orton is a very capable, smart NFL quarterback.

ESPN 1, Sayre 0

 

Running Back

Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, Peyton Hillis, LaMont Jordan vs. Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Andre Hall, etc.

Advantage:  Moreno, Buckhalter, Hillis, Jordan

The Broncos’ 2008 group of running backs was makeshift.  Not a single back that was on Denver’s active roster at the start of last year (save for Hillis) is currently on an active 53-man roster.

Denver’s new group of backs is versatile, tough, and just downright better than they have had since Clinton Portis roamed around the Mile High City.

Consensus:  The Broncos undoubtedly upgraded at the running back position. Plain and simple.

ESPN 1, Sayre 1

 

Wide Receiver

Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Kenny McKinley, Brandon Lloyd vs.  Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Darrell Jackson, Clifford Russell

Advantage:  Marshall, Royal, Stokley, Gaffney, McKinley, Lloyd

Last year’s group was not much different than the 2009 group, but the additions of McKinley, Lloyd, and Gaffney give the Broncos excellent depth at this position.  The Broncos signed a few journeymen last year because of injuries to Stokley and Royal, and their lack of depth showed.

Consensus:  Upgrade.  No real debate there.

ESPN 1, Sayre 2

 

Tight End

Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Richard Quinn vs. Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson

Advantage:  Graham, Scheffler, Quinn

The only difference here is the third tight end. Quinn is in some trouble right now, but on the field he is a superior prospect than Jackson, who was a converted wide receiver.

Consensus:  Though only slightly, the Broncos upgraded at the tight end position this offseason.

ESPN 1, Sayre 3

 

Offensive Line

Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Tyler Polumbus, Seth Olsen, Russ Hochstein, Brandon Gorin vs. Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Kory Lichtensteiger, Tyler Polumbus

Advantage:  2009 Group

The Broncos’ starting offensive line is exactly the same as last year, but the depth has been significantly upgraded. Russ Hochstein, Seth Olsen, and Brandon Gorin were brought in to back up Denver’s offensive line, and are far more capable than what the Broncos had in 2008.

Consensus: Along with experience from 2008 and upgrades in 2009, this unit has been upgraded overall.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Defense

 

Defensive Line

Kenny Peterson, Ryan McBean, Ronald Fields, Vonnie Holliday, Marcus Thomas, Chris Baker vs. Elvis Dumervil, Marcus Thomas, Ebenezer Ekuban, John Engleberger, Kenny Peterson, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder, DeWayne Robertson

Advantage:  Peterson, McBean, Fields, Holliday, Thomas, Baker

While this is a tough position to compare to last year, the change of scheme and increase in overall girth gives the 2009 unit the advantage.

Last season, Denver defensive linemen averaged roughly 6’3″, 275-lbs. This year, they average 6’4″, 300-lbs. That alone will help the linebackers greatly.

Consensus: The Broncos’ defensive front appeared much more tough, formidable, and capable of stopping the run in the preseason, but I will be fair and wait to pass judgement until they get it done in the regular season. Wash.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Linebackers

D.J. Williams, Andra Davis, Elvis Dumervil, Mario Haggan, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Robert Ayers, Jarvis Moss, Darrell Reid vs. D.J. Williams, Boss Bailey, Jamie Winborn, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Mario Haggan

Advantage: Williams, Davis, Dumervil, Haggan, Woodyard, Larsen, Ayers, Moss, Reid

Again, the Broncos simply did what was needed to upgrade these positions. The hybrid linebackers could struggle in coverage at first, but that is a problem that can be fixed through experience. 

Consensus: Improvement

ESPN 1, Sayre 5

 

Cornerbacks

Champ Bailey, Andre Goodman, Alphonso Smith, Jack Williams vs. Champ Bailey, Dre’ Bly, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams, Josh Bell

Advantage: Bailey, Goodman, Smith, Williams

The Broncos upgraded this position greatly this offseason by adding Goodman and Smith.  The only thing they lack is pure depth. On the top end, they are among the best in the league.

Consensus: Upgrade

ESPN 1, Sayre 6

 

Safeties

Brian Dawkins, Renaldo Hill, Josh Barrett, Darcel McBath, David Bruton vs. Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel, Calvin Lowery, Vernon Fox, Josh Barrett

Advantage:  Dawkins, Hill, Barrett, McBath, Bruton

The Broncos’ 2008 unit was an absolute joke. 

Consensus: Upgrade, by far

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

Specialists

Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Lonie Paxton vs. Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Mike Leach

Advantage:  Neither

This one is a wash.  Both Paxton and Leach are great long-snappers. 

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

So, ESPN, it would appear to me that the Broncos have upgraded significantly from their team in 2008 despite losing Jay Cutler.  The schemes and culture of this team have changed drastically, but this is the NFL and these players are going to have to be able to pick things up quickly.

For a team that featured over a dozen rookie performers in 2008 starting at one point, this seasoned, more veteran team would appear to have a much better chance at eight wins than last year’s squad did.

 

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Are You Kidding Me? ESPN.com Denver Broncos Preview Out of Touch with Reality

It would appear as though most of ESPN’s NFL analysts have forgotten that football is an 11-on-11 sport.

In what would be the biggest waste of seven minutes of my life, I endured the ESPN.com official Denver Broncos 2009 season preview.

This preview was not only irrational, it was downright pathetic, and not just because I disagree.

Scouts Inc.’s Jeremy Green had one of the more intriguing comments on the Broncos’ 2009 prospects: “This is not a very good team, but in the AFC West that is enough for second place. The Broncos have concerns at quarterback, along the D-line, and in the secondary.”

Concerns in the secondary? Does this guy have the first clue what he is talking about?

Broncos fans do not even need me to go into detail here to explain this comment, but for those who are not in the know, the Broncos have one of the more formidable secondaries in the entire NFL.

In fact, the preview goes on to say that the Broncos’ biggest offseason addition was the signing of Andre’ Goodman to pair with Champ Bailey.

Another comment I found particularly disturbing was one by Paul Kuharsky: “Offseason debacle leaves team in position to struggle. The Broncos undid a high-flying offense while not doing near enough to fix a bad defense.”

Yes. Because the Broncos do not have Jay Cutler, they have “undid” a high-flying offense.

Also, not doing “near enough” to fix their bad defense? Might I offer a little wisdom here:

• Three new starters on the defensive line
• Three new starters at linebacker
• Three new starters in the defensive backfield
• First-round pick used on DE/OLB Robert Ayers
• Three picks in first two rounds used on defense
• Brought in Mike Nolan, a defensive guru
• Switched defensive schemes

Just because the Broncos did not break the bank for every available defensive free agent or draft pick does not mean they did not do enough to fix their defense.

The comment that prompted this article was one that was written by James Walker.

“Any hope of the Broncos having a successful season was shipped to the Windy City.”

It really is sad that this man was compensated to give this kind of an opinion.

It was also sad that second-year tackle Ryan Clady was given a grade of 79 out of 99 by Scouts Inc. I am not sure who justified this ranking, though it means nothing, but you have to give the guy credit where credit is due.

Clady allowed half a sack on 620 pass attempts and only had three penalties all of last season. He was the most dominant offensive lineman in the NFL, by far. There is really no disputing it.

I will give this preview some credit, though. They did state that Denver’s “strengths” were along the offensive line, with their offensive weaponry, and in their defensive backfield.

But is this preview really justifiable? Let us take a look at Denver’s 2009 roster compared to the 2008 team that went 8-8, and you tell me if this year’s squad is better.

 

Offense

Quarterback

Kyle Orton vs. Jay Cutler

Advantage: Cutler

Even the most anti-Cutler Broncos fan will tell you that Cutler is the better player than Orton. 

Despite the fact that many believe Orton is fully capable of being an excellent field general for the team, Jay Cutler is an elite talent. He has not proven it in terms of wins and losses, but his skill set is one of the best in the NFL.

Consensus: The Broncos clearly downgraded at the quarterback position, but not to the point where they will have to hand the ball off every play. Kyle Orton is a very capable, smart NFL quarterback.

ESPN 1, Sayre 0

 

Running Back

Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, Peyton Hillis, LaMont Jordan vs. Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Andre Hall, etc.

Advantage: Moreno, Buckhalter, Hillis, Jordan

The Broncos’ 2008 group of running backs was makeshift. Not a single back that was on Denver’s active roster at the start of last year (save for Hillis) is currently on an active 53-man roster.

Denver’s new group of backs is versatile, tough, and just downright better than they have had since Clinton Portis roamed around the Mile High City.

Consensus: The Broncos undoubtedly upgraded at the running back position. Plain and simple.

ESPN 1, Sayre 1

 

Wide Receiver

Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Kenny McKinley, Brandon Lloyd vs.  Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Darrell Jackson, Clifford Russell

Advantage: Marshall, Royal, Stokley, Gaffney, McKinley, Lloyd

Last year’s group was not much different than the 2009 group, but the additions of McKinley, Lloyd, and Gaffney give the Broncos excellent depth at this position. The Broncos signed a few journeymen last year because of injuries to Stokley and Royal, and their lack of depth showed.

Consensus: Upgrade. No real debate there.

ESPN 1, Sayre 2

 

Tight End

Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Richard Quinn vs. Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson

Advantage: Graham, Scheffler, Quinn

The only difference here is the third tight end. Quinn is in some trouble right now, but on the field he is a superior prospect than Jackson, who was a converted wide receiver.

Consensus: Though only slightly, the Broncos upgraded at the tight end position this offseason.

ESPN 1, Sayre 3

 

Offensive Line

Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Tyler Polumbus, Seth Olsen, Russ Hochstein, Brandon Gorin vs. Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Kory Lichtensteiger, Tyler Polumbus

Advantage: 2009 Group

The Broncos’ starting offensive line is exactly the same as last year, but the depth has been significantly upgraded. Russ Hochstein, Seth Olsen, and Brandon Gorin were brought in to back up Denver’s offensive line and are far more capable than what the Broncos had in 2008.

Consensus: Along with experience from 2008 and upgrades in 2009, this unit has been upgraded overall.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Defense

Defensive Line

Kenny Peterson, Ryan McBean, Ronald Fields, Vonnie Holliday, Marcus Thomas, Chris Baker vs. Elvis Dumervil, Marcus Thomas, Ebenezer Ekuban, John Engleberger, Kenny Peterson, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder, DeWayne Robertson

Advantage: Peterson, McBean, Fields, Holliday, Thomas, Baker

While this is a tough position to compare to last year, the change of scheme and increase in overall girth gives the 2009 unit the advantage.

Last season, Denver defensive linemen averaged roughly 6’3″, 275 lbs. This year, they average 6’4″, 300 lbs. That alone will help the linebackers greatly.

Consensus: The Broncos’ defensive front appears much more tough, formidable, and capable of stopping the run in the preseason, but I will be fair and wait to pass judgment until they get it done in the regular season. Wash.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Linebackers

D.J. Williams, Andra Davis, Elvis Dumervil, Mario Haggan, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Robert Ayers, Jarvis Moss, Darrell Reid vs. D.J. Williams, Boss Bailey, Jamie Winborn, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Mario Haggan

Advantage: Williams, Davis, Dumervil, Haggan, Woodyard, Larsen, Ayers, Moss, Reid

Again, the Broncos simply did what was needed to upgrade these positions. The hybrid linebackers could struggle in coverage at first, but that is a problem that can be fixed through experience. 

Consensus: Improvement.

ESPN 1, Sayre 5

 

Cornerbacks

Champ Bailey, Andre’ Goodman, Alphonso Smith, Jack Williams vs. Champ Bailey, Dre’ Bly, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams, Josh Bell

Advantage: Bailey, Goodman, Smith, Williams

The Broncos upgraded this position greatly this offseason by adding Goodman and Smith. The only thing they lack is pure depth. On the top end, they are among the best in the league.

Consensus: Upgrade.

ESPN 1, Sayre 6

 

Safeties

Brian Dawkins, Renaldo Hill, Josh Barrett, Darcel McBath, David Bruton vs. Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel, Calvin Lowery, Vernon Fox, Josh Barrett

Advantage: Dawkins, Hill, Barrett, McBath, Bruton

The Broncos’ 2008 unit was an absolute joke. 

Consensus: Upgrade, by far.

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

Specialists

Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Lonie Paxton vs. Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Mike Leach

Advantage: Neither

This one is a wash. Both Paxton and Leach are great long snappers. 

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

So, ESPN, it would appear to me that the Broncos have upgraded significantly from their team in 2008 despite losing Jay Cutler. The schemes and culture of this team have changed drastically, but this is the NFL, and these players are going to have to be able to pick things up quickly.

For a team that featured over a dozen rookie performers in 2008 starting at one point, this seasoned, more veteran team would appear to have a much better chance at eight wins than last year’s squad did.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver’s Backup Plan, If Marshall Decides Not To Play For Denver…Again

EDITORS!!!  DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EDIT THIS ARTICLE.  I DON’T WANT TO HAVE TO DELETE AND REPOST AGAIN. 

Brandon Marshall is back, but is he ready to perform?  Is Marshall a coach’s comment away from throwing a fit again?

If so, I think the Broncos have a monster backup plan now, that could rear its ugly head in a couple of weeks.

The New England Patriots just let go one of their prized possessions; 5-technique master, perennial pro-bowler, Super bowl Champion, Richard Seymour.

New England pulled a classy move, and sent one of their greatest all time players to the worst organization in the NFL. Seymour is not happy. Below is a quote from Pats veteran and friend, Rodney Harrison:

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/09/07/harrison-seymours-not-thrilled-with-deal-to-raiders/

If Seymour decides not to show up at Faiders practice, “Big Al” (Davis) may have yet another problem on his hands.

My solution: Trade Marshall straight up for Seymour.

Seymour would go to a 3-4 defense, where he will be better utilized. He will also go to a much better organization and should be familiar with the “Patriot Way” that has been installed this summer at Dove Valley.

Marshall Gets some new scenery, a new contract, and he will get to try to stick it to the Broncos twice a year…just like Javon Walker does.

The Al Davis/Mike Shanahan factor is gone. There are two disgruntled superstars on the block.  Both teams get to air out their drama, before the season starts.

In my opinion, this would work in both teams favors.

Of course, this is only a backup plan. If Marshall decides he needs to play to earn a new contract, then we should keep him and go forward.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver’s Backup Plan, If Marshall Decides Not To Play For Denver…Again

EDITORS!!!  DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EDIT THIS ARTICLE.  I DON’T WANT TO HAVE TO DELETE AND REPOST AGAIN. 

Brandon Marshall is back, but is he ready to perform?  Is Marshall a coach’s comment away from throwing a fit again?

If so, I think the Broncos have a monster backup plan now, that could rear its ugly head in a couple of weeks.

The New England Patriots just let go one of their prized possessions; 5-technique master, perennial pro-bowler, Super bowl Champion, Richard Seymour.

New England pulled a classy move, and sent one of their greatest all time players to the worst organization in the NFL. Seymour is not happy. Below is a quote from Pats veteran and friend, Rodney Harrison:

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/09/07/harrison-seymours-not-thrilled-with-deal-to-raiders/

If Seymour decides not to show up at Faiders practice, “Big Al” (Davis) may have yet another problem on his hands.

My solution: Trade Marshall straight up for Seymour.

Seymour would go to a 3-4 defense, where he will be better utilized. He will also go to a much better organization and should be familiar with the “Patriot Way” that has been installed this summer at Dove Valley.

Marshall Gets some new scenery, a new contract, and he will get to try to stick it to the Broncos twice a year…just like Javon Walker does.

The Al Davis/Mike Shanahan factor is gone. There are two disgruntled superstars on the block.  Both teams get to air out their drama, before the season starts.

In my opinion, this would work in both teams favors.

Of course, this is only a backup plan. If Marshall decides he needs to play to earn a new contract, then we should keep him and go forward.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

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