Broncos Remain Perfect as Cowboys Slip to Defeat

Tony Romo failed to throw a touchdown pass for the second consecutive week and the Denver Broncos’ defense held tight as the Dallas Cowboys fell 17-10 at Invesco Field at Mile high on Sunday.

Having led for most of the game, the Cowboys found themselves behind in the fourth quarter as the Broncos rallied from behind to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Despite carrying a 10-7 lead into the final period, Romo had been largely ineffective against a stubborn and defensive Denver outfit, which held the Dallas quarterback to 255 yards on 25-of-42 passing.

Dallas’ rushing game was also kept in check throughout, with Marion Barber racking up 41 yards on 11 carries and Tashard Choice picking up another 33 on 14 attempts.

Romo was sacked five times and picked off once and he also fumbled the ball twice, one of which was recovered by D.J. Williams on the Dallas 17-yard line and led to Denver’s opening score.

The Cowboys took the lead midway through the first quarter on a Nick Folk 49-yard field goal, and they extended their advantage to 10-0 when Barber burst through the middle from the Broncos’ one-yard line to cap an eight-play, 61-yard drive.

Denver—hindered by penalties for most of the half—was given a lifeline two minutes into the second quarter when Romo was sacked on 3rd-and-14 at the Dallas 17-yard line by Broncos safety Renaldo Hill.

Hill went in virtually unopposed to strip the ball from Romo, with Williams on hand to recover the fumble and carry it up to the Dallas eight-yard line.

Kyle Orton hit 22-year-old running back Knowshon Moreno on the very next play, firing a pass off to his right under pressure that really should have been picked off.

Dallas threw away the chance to regain their 10-point lead on the opening drive of the third quarter, but Romo’s 3rd-and-11 pass intended for Austin was picked off on the Denver three-yard line by a diving Champ Bailey after Miles Austin failed to cut back to the outside.

The turnover proved pivotal as Matt Prater chipped home a 28-yard field goal with about six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter to knot the game at 10, and the Broncos would take the lead for good on their next offensive possession.

Romo failed to connect with Austin on 3rd-and-long from their own 40, forcing the Cowboys to punt the ball away with less than three minutes on the clock.

Orton hit Brandon Marshall for eight yards, and Moreno ran through the middle for a gain of 14, moving the chains to midfield.

This set the stage for what would be the game’s decisive play, as Orton found Marshall for a 51-yard touchdown completion—Marshall’s fourth catch of the afternoon.

The Dallas offense had 1:46 left to move the ball downfield, trailing 17-10.

Romo kept hopes of a comeback alive when he completed a fourth-down pass to Sam Hurd for 53 yards, and a trio of consecutive completions to Choice, Hurd, and Patrick Crayton advanced the ball to the two-yard line.

Romo threw toward Hurd again on both third and fourth down, but Champ Bailey was on hand to knock the potential game-tying pass away both times as the Cowboys turned the ball over on downs with just one second remaining.

The defeat moved the Cowboys to 2-2, while the Broncos improved to 4-0.

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Fleet Enema Presents … NFL Week 4, You Crap The Bed!

This week on You Crap, we’re very pleased to announce our first commercial sponsorship. This week, we’re brought to you by Fleet Enemas, for when you want to void over 10 percent of your body weight in less than three hours. It’s fast, it’s easy, it’s Fleet!

The goal of the game is to let you try to out-think people who are actually paid to make NFL decisions.

Remember, all of these scenarios are taken from actual game time decisions, made by actual NFL coaches. Now, let’s all play… You Crap The Bed!

1) You are Denver coach Josh McDaniels. It’s the third quarter, and you are down 10-7 at home to the Cowboys, with a 4th-and-1 from the Cowboy 31.

You’ve just sent rookie running back Knowshon Moreno into the line on third down and a half yard to go, only to see him lose a half yard. Do you:

a) Send out kicker Matt Prater to try a 48-yard field goal in altitude under clear weather conditions, which is to say, a kick that he really should make if he’s going to be employed to kick in Denver.

b) Go for it on fourth, maybe with “Greatest Winner In Franchise History” QB Kyle Orton on the move.

c) Punt and try to pin the Cowboys deep, since they haven’t really been able to move it all game, and your defense has a mess of sacks.

d) Go for it and try any other play than the exact same thing that you did on third down (perhaps with fresh back and short yardage specialist Lamont Jordan).

e) Go for it and try the exact same play that you did on third down, with an obviously gassed Moreno.

If you chose (e)… you crap the bed! And you win a de facto turnover, a loss in field position, and perhaps three critical points in a game where a single play could decide it. Well done…but as we shall see from contestant number three, not good enough.

2) You are Kansas City coach Todd Haley, and it’s 7-0 Giants in the first quarter after a fumbled opening kickoff and touchdown. Upon receiving the ball again, you choose to:

a) Run the ball from a standard power formation with running back Larry Johnson, in an attempt to establish the ground game and try to give confidence to your offensive line.

b) Throw the ball short to get QB Matt Cassell off to a good start, since he might not be feeling too confident himself after last week’s blowout in Philadelphia.

c) Throw the ball long to star WR Dwayne Bowe, who you will need for any chance at an explosive offense today.

d) Try an exciting gadget play, maybe a flea flicker or reverse, to show the Giants that they will have to guard the whole field.

e) Run the wildcat direct snap to Johnson (no, really), who is absolutely no threat to throw the ball, so that the Giants defense knows to not just roll up the coverage, but also to not bother to play anyone more than five yards off the line of scrimmage.

If you chose (e), watched it go for short yardage, then DID IT AGAIN to make sure that your first series sets up your team for a difficult third-down conversion and near immediate three-and-out…you crap the bed!

And you win an early hole, a team that has to know that you have no confidence in their talents, a befuddled and enraged home crowd that will boo you in the first quarter, and the continued conclusion that you should be coaching a high school team. Perhaps JV. Congratulations!

3) You are Cowboys coach Wade Philips. You are down 17-10 with a 4th-and-goal from the Broncos three yard line. You have no timeouts, and there’s five seconds left in the game.

On third down, QB Tony Romo’s attempted pass to WR Sam Hurd was stopped by Broncos star CB Champ Bailey, who made a fantastic deflection to save a touchdown, and is widely regarded as, when healthy, one of the top CBs in the NFL. Do you:

a) Run it with fresh running back Tashard Choice, who has been your best back from scrimmage today and could enjoy a considerable advantage of surprise on a draw.

b) Run it with team leader running back Marion Barber, who has a history of big fourth quarter plays, and has your only touchdown today on a play where he exerted his will over several Bronco defenders at the goal line.

c) Throw it to TE Jason Witten, who is your most reliable short yardage target.

d) Roll out QB Romo, who for all of his ball control faults, does have a knack for making plays on the run.

e) Try the exact same play to Hurd against Bailey, because the first 15 times you’ve thrown against him have gone so well, and he’s clearly too old to stop No. 16.

If you chose (e)…you crap the bed! And you’ve won yourself last place in the hyper-competitve NFC East, the continued national worship of Kyle Orton, the best Bronco QB ever because he’s never lost, and the chance to make sure that your annual December collapse just means that you’ll get an even better first round draft pick for Owner/ SuperGenius Jerry Jones to blow. Stupendous!

Well, that’s all we have time for this week. But remember, with a little fiber, determination, and poise (or the use of a Fleet Enema!) you too can…Crap The Bed! Good night, everybody!

http://fivetooltool.blogspot.com – The Sports Blog That Loves You Back!

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Broncos-Cowboys Preview: Keys to Victory For Denver In Week Four

For the first time in 2009, the new-look “Orange Crush” will be on display when the 3-0 Denver Broncos host the 2-1 Dallas Cowboys wearing their popular alternate orange uniforms.

The Broncos are looking to start 4-0 for the first time since 2003, and the Cowboys are trying to keep pace with the New York Giants who also face an AFC West opponent in the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

Denver’s potential 4-0 start will not come easy, as Dallas boasts one of the league’s top offensive units.  This is significant because, so far in 2009, the Broncos have faced the 24th, 31st, and 32nd ranked offenses in the NFL, and the skeptics maintain that their defensive statistics are “overhyped.”

The Broncos have most certainly been up to the tasks at hand, handling the offensive units of Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Oakland with relative ease.  Denver’s defense has been so dominant in their first three games that they have allowed their opponents into the red zone a total of three times.

Here are the keys to victory for the Broncos as they host the Cowboys on Sunday.

1.  Stop The Run

The Cowboys have the number one rushing offense in the NFL and are getting a boost from their Pro Bowl tailback Marion Barber, who is returning from an injury.  Barber is undoubtedly the biggest name at running back the Broncos have faced so far, and the Cowboy offensive line is the biggest. 

Denver needs to stop Barber, Tashard Choice, and the Dallas running game if they are going to win this game.  The Cowboys are averaging nearly 200 rushing yards per game, and they can control the clock and wear down Denver’s defense if the Broncos are unable to get off the field.

Ronald Fields, Kenny Peterson, Ryan McBean, Vonnie Holliday, and Le Kevin Smith have done an outstanding job at stopping the run so far this season, and linebacker Andra Davis has been a great acquisition as well.  This group of players, though not the most decorated is a very solid unit.  They are big, but they are also quick. 

The Cowboys will be without speedster Felix Jones, who was averaging over 10 yards per carry before going down for two weeks with an injury.  His absence could be key.

2.  Exploit Dallas’ Weak Pass Defense

Dallas is currently ranked 27th in pass defense, and they have not exactly played the most dominant passing offenses in the NFL so far.  Denver is getting back a full arsenal of weapons offensively now with Brandon Stokley back in the mix, and they would be wise to utilize a lot of short passes to neutralize Dallas’ blitzing.

The Cowboys have a solid group in the secondary with Terrance Newman, Ken Hamlin, and Mike Jenkins, but the Broncos counter with a very solid group of skill players.

Kyle Orton is going to not only need to keep up his consistent, mistake-free play, but he may need to throw more than one touchdown in this game because Dallas’ weakness is clearly on the back end of their defense.

3.  Pressure Tony Romo

The Broncos have been one of the top teams in the NFL this year statistically in getting to the quarterback, led by Elvis Dumervil who has six sacks.

Denver is going to need to continue that success on Sunday if they want to slow down the Cowboys’ offense.  Tony Romo is probably the most athletic quarterback they have faced thus far, and he does a good job evading pressure and making something out of nothing.

If the Broncos can stop the run, then getting to the quarterback should be no problem. 

The Broncos have done an excellent job so far this season at playing “small ball” and winning games with the stellar play of their defense.  The Cowboys are Denver’s biggest test yet physically and are far and away the best offense the Broncos have faced so far.

Here is a positional comparison for each team.

Quarterback:  Cowboys

Running Back:  Broncos

Wide Receiver:  Broncos

Tight End:  Cowboys

Offensive Line:  Broncos

Defensive Line:  Cowboys

Linebacker:  Push

Defensive Backs:  Broncos

Special Teams:  Broncos

Coaching:  Broncos

Advantage:  Broncos

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Week Four Gameplan: Denver Broncos vs. Dallas Cowboys

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Denver Broncos Week Four Fantasy Options

Along with you, I am a fantasy football fanatic. I started playing last year, won my league, and am off to a 3-0 start this year. I credit much of my success this year to some solid fantasy points from my Denver Broncos.

First, here is a brief list of the viable fantasy options on the Broncos along with the ESPN projected points:

• Kyle Orton (19)
• Knowshon Moreno (12)
• Correll Buckhalter (14)
• Brandon Marshall (7)
• Brandon Stokely (5)
• Eddie Royal (2)
• Jabar Gaffney (13)
• Tony Sheffler (0)
• Daniel Graham (9)
• Matt Prater (4)
• Broncos D/ST (6)

Now, I currently have Kyle Orton, Knowshon Moreno, Matt Prater, and the Broncos D/ST on my team and am starting all of them.

After watching the first three games, I feel like 19 points for Kyle Orton is a little high, but if history tells us anything, we can expect 300 yards and a touchdown from him.

ESPN credits the high projection to Dallas’ defense giving up yardage on the dump-offs the Broncos love to run. One other consideration is that Orton has been reported as playing without his glove so we could possibly see some deep balls and an overall better performance.

Moreno and Buckhalter should face a stronger run defense this week but I see both backs having at least 75 yards and a touchdown each. Both are decent flex plays this week.

The Broncos’ receivers have been nothing like what we all expected. With a new offensive scheme that spreads the ball around and the lack of a need to run the score up, Royal and Marshall have been major disappointments so far. This week I think the passing offense will perform well but it is near impossible to determine which receiver will get the touchdowns.

Tight ends have been most affected by the loss of Jay Cutler. Tony Sheffler and Daniel Graham have had two touchdowns and less than 150 yards combined. Graham is projected to get 9 points this weekend but unless you have a tight end with a bye, he’s not worth the start.

On the weekend following his award for AFC Special Teams Player of the Month, Matt Prater has been projected to score 4 points. This is a guy that has been a major victim of skepticism, but overall has been a productive kicker. If you agree that Denver will be able to move the ball, Prater is a decent option for a starter.

Lastly, I am very pleased with the Denver D/ST. This unit was upgraded in a major way this offseason and is still under the radar. Start ’em if you’ve got ’em.

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Denver Broncos Continue to Get a Raw Deal from National Media

The Denver Broncos are 3-0, and all the coverage about those games has been on why the Bengals, Browns, and Raiders have lost instead of why the Broncos won.

I find myself annoyed, yet not surprised, about the coverage or comments by the so-called “experts” or “analysts.”

The truth is, from the beginning the Broncos have been considered a small market team by the members of the media, aside from the fact that Forbes lists it at No. 10 on their list of teams with the most value, ahead of such heavyweights like the Steelers, Dolphins, Raiders, Chargers, Colts, and the “most storied team in the league,” the Packers.

Now that’s only measuring the organization’s overall income, fanbase, history, worth, and demographic appeal, but those exact reasons cry out the opposite of what the media has labeled us.

This is no longer a team from a small state (population-wise) that’s just a footnote in comparison to the big boys. The Broncos have played in six Super Bowls, behind only the teams that the media idolize like the 49ers, Steelers, and Cowboys. Denver has become a metropolis with a population that’s growing at an impressive rate, along with the fanbase of this city’s favorite franchise, the Broncos.

Now some members of the media have gone as far as to call the Broncos lucky to be 3-0, and all but guaranteed to be 3-1 by next week. The fact remains that our beloved Broncos are 3-0 with a more than real chance to be 4-0 by next week, and I can’t wait to hear what these pundits have to say if it happens.

Let me take you back to the beginning of the ’08 season, when all this experts speculated that the Denver defensive personnel might be better suited for the 3-4 rather than the 4-3.  They pointed out that Elvis Dumervil’s attributes, along with youngsters like Jarvis Moss and Marcus Thomas and veterans like D.J. Williams and Kenny Peterson, would be better served in the 3-4 scheme.

Well, it turns out that they were right. The new coach realized this and went out and hired himself one of the most respected names not only within the scheme, but also on defense, in coach Mike Nolan. He also enlisted the help of some veterans with experience in the scheme to help smooth the transition.

He paid close attention to Nolan’s advice and got himself a diamond in the rough by the name of Chris Baker, instead of overpaying for guys like Albert Haynesworth or losing too many picks in trading for a guy like Vince Wilfork or Carlos Rogers, who were on the chopping block according to Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network, Rogers more so than Wilfork.

Yet these same so-called “experts” damned the Broncos’ new-look defense for making the switch without doing “enough” through the draft to justify it. Guys like Mel Kiper Jr.—who by the way has never played or coached football at any level, let alone worked as a scout—said that the Bronco draft was bad, if not horrible.

I ask all of you, what was wrong with the draft? 

The fact is with our first pick we not only addressed an area of need but also kept an exceptional talent away from a rival that was clearly targeting him. I’m speaking, of course, about Knowshon Moreno and the Chargers, who had the RB in their crosshairs as a replacement for the clearly aging and declining LT.

Perhaps it was the fact that we selected the second highest rated defensive player according to real and former scouts, GMs, and players in Robert Ayers. Maybe it was the fact that we didn’t follow their heavenly advice and move up to take B.J. Raji, a player that they had overhyped and is clearly not a fit for the scheme we were imposing.

Now I’m not saying that this young defense is the new Ravens D, not at all, but I am pointing out the fact that they themselves, along with some fans, alluded to the fact that the players in our defense were being asked to play a position that did not suit them, which instead held them back.

Now they either act surprised or chalk it up to luck or blame the other teams for making us look good instead of swallowing their pride and admitting they were wrong.

I caution all fans, not just Bronco fans, to tread lightly when watching ESPN or NFL Network. These “experts” are nothing but guys like you and me who got lucky and landed a gig on TV to air their opinions on subjects that they know very little to nothing about (I’m looking at you, Kiper and Todd McShay).

The upcoming contest against the Cowboys is being heralded as a true test for this team; never mind the fact that the Cowboys lack a pass rush and pass defense and their run defense has been shaky.

Honestly, this is a double-edged sword for the simple fact that if the Broncos lose, “I told you so” will fly, and if they win, excuses like, “Well, Marion Barber and Felix Jones are hurt” and “They miss T.O.” will come rushing in.

The truth is that after three weeks the Broncos are a much improved team on both sides of the ball.

I will admit that Kyle Orton’s brand of play, while lacking in excitement, is impressive nonetheless, and I was wrong about him. He is more than just a game manager and has the ability to win games, maybe not in a flashy or made for TV way, but in an efficient and smart way.

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Denver Broncos Offense Earns a “B” vs. Oakland Raiders

First and foremost it’s important to understand the Broncos offense played very well against the Oakland Raiders over the weekend.  Additionally they managed the game very well and had two rushers near the 100 yard mark.  That is impressive.

The Denver Broncos defense was impressive early in setting up opportunities for the offense.  That went a long way.  The Broncos went for it on fourth and goal from the one.  Teams usually settle for points in tight, rivalry types of games, you only go for it if you believe in your offense and your defense.

That is what should stand out loud and clear about this Denver Broncos team.  They do believe in the defense and they know they can score points.  That is the type of team this needs to continue moulding into if it has hopes for future success. 

The offense executed very well.  The reason they don’t get an “A” is because they left a lot of points out on the field on Sunday and they would admit as much.

The upside is the Broncos ran phenomenally well and controlled the ball and the tempo on both sides of the ball.  It’s this type of a game that makes the perfect template for the team to look at and recognize this should be their pattern to success.

Offensive Film Study

The first possession saw Kyle Orton line-up under center early and often throughout the game.  On second and eight Brandon Marshall hooked up for his first catch on the day for a 15 yard gain on a cross route.

The next play was set up because Orton was operating under center; it was a play pass that successfully hooked up with Tony Scheffler for 14 yards and another first down.  Knowshon Moreno then had a couple of carries to get the Broncos a first down. 

Again Kyle Orton hits Brandon Marshall on an underneath route for another first down and the Broncos run game is getting warm pushing them down to the one yard line.  Then at this point, things bogged down.

Peyton Hillis was called for a false start which was ridiculous for that to happen in that situation.  So the Broncos start first and goal at the six and not the one.  Then the Raiders defense starts to show signs of life, allowing the Broncos to only reach the one yard line after four downs.

So what happened here?  Obviously the penalty was a momentum killer, but so was the play calling at this juncture.  While running it in makes all the sense in the world, the Raiders were clearly keying on stopping it and bringing more pressure.  The Broncos may have had better success running if they spread the field or if they decided to run a play pass to suck in the defense that was keying on the run.

Because it’s a game of field position the Broncos did the right thing in going for it against a team that has struggled offensively.

The second possession Denver starts at the Raiders 23 after an interception.

On third and one Knowshon Moreno picks up nine yards for a first down at the five.  The Broncos call a play action pass on second down, but there is nobody open, so Orton throws the ball away. 

This allows the next play to become the touchdown play they were seeking.  Again Brandon Marshall worked his way across the middle of the field, fighting off a defender and catching a heater from Orton for six.

Besides the points, the offense recognized the Raiders were going to give them the middle cross again and the connection was established for an early lead.

The Broncos go back on the attack after Andre Goodman’s interception of JaMarcus Russell. 

The Broncos go nowhere, and try another bubble screen this week to Eddie Royal with little success.  This does however set up a long field goal attempt due to the field position.

The Broncos tried to hit Brandon Marshall on another cross, but the Raiders rush and coverage forced a bad throw by Kyle Orton.

This is where the team on the whole needs a deeper playbook, to find a way to get the yardage they need.  There is a great deal of predictable repetition going on within the play calling. 

The team could benefit from some other ways to solve the same problem.  Things like other screen packages, hitches for first down yardage, and deeper drag routes would place more of a burden on the defense and open up the game plan.

The next Broncos drive they decide to get back to basics and hand the ball to Correll Buckhalter who scampers for a 34-yard chunk.

The play was an inside trap with Ben Hamilton and Casey Wiegmann executing a perfect double team to form a wall while right tackle Ryan Harris showed off his speed and strength as he pulled and sealed off the running alley.  All that was left was to see Buckhalter run with power and agility down to the Raider 45 yard line.

Then the Broncos hit a snag with a five yard false start penalty.  The Broncos were able to hit Jabar Gaffney on a cross, then Buckhalter and Moreno helped the team get the first down behind the offensive line.

The Broncos then continued to pick apart the middle of the Raiders defense and establish a theme that eventually came back to bite them.  Jabar Gaffney ran an awesome option or choice route where he posted up briefly, sucking in the coverage then he hit the gas to make a good grab on the cross from left to right. 

Then Brandon Marshall became a decoy running a middle cross right to left with Gaffney delaying then running behind him on a flat and more shallow route.  The Raiders choose to double Marshall and don’t account for Gaffney.  Orton connects and Gaffney picks up another crucial first down inside the ten.

The Broncos stall out at this point and nearly have a third down middle cross intended for Eddie Royal picked off by Michael Huff.  The end result is the Broncos have to settle for three points instead of a touchdown.

The point here is this drive started with a great drive and then had a definite theme of middle crosses causing headaches for the Raiders.  Running the same routes in the end zone is a dangerous proposition after the drive clearly had established these routes.  Yet again this is where the Broncos need to be more dynamic in their play calling before it does cost them in a much bigger way.

In the second half the Broncos lead by a slim 13-3 margin.  The opening drive of the second half is key in setting the tone for the rest of the game.  The Broncos wind up marching 80 yards and scoring their second touchdown on the day. 

The run game is featured and the offensive line starts to take control by establishing contact and maintaining their blocks so the backs can reach the second and third level of the defense.  The Broncos get big gainers with Moreno and Buckhalter. 

Most importantly the Broncos are able to add to their lead and take four minutes off the clock.

The very next drive the Broncos run an inside trap with Buckhalter but the ball is knocked out of his hands and the Raiders recover the fumble at the Broncos 16 yard line.

Following Brian Dawkins fumble recovery the Broncos began to chew up clock and yardage.  Offensively there was an intent focus on the run game and one creative tight end screen that was shutdown earlier in the game.

This time Dan Graham came close to getting a touchdown as he rambled from the 38 down to the Raider 12.  This set up the final score of the game, a short field goal by Matt Prater. 

Almost more importantly the drive consumed eight minutes and polished off the Raiders.

contact Chaz @ sportsmanagement@gmail.com

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Matt Prater to be Honored as AFC Special Teams Player of the Month

On Wednesday, the Denver Broncos announced that kicker Matt Prater will be named the AFC special teams player of the month after his fantastic start to the 2009 season.

Broncos fans remember the Prater from early last season who seemed well on his way to Hawaii for the Pro Bowl only to self-destruct as the season wore on.

Prater has arguably the strongest leg I have ever seen, one that has earned him this special honor after he made seven of his nine field goal attempts, including three from 40 yards or beyond.  He also leads the AFC in touchbacks, with seven, touchback percentage (46.7 percent) and 13 kickoffs that have reached the end zone. 

He has also helped the Broncos lead the AFC in opponents’ starting field position, with an average spot on the 20.6 yard line.

In their 3-0 start, the Broncos’ special teams play has been an area that often gets overlooked, mainly because their defense is overshadowing everything else right now, but the defense might not be what it is today if not for the play of Prater and the Broncos’ special teams unit, coached by Mike Priefer.

Prater was a player many Bronco fans thought to be on the bubble after his finish to last season, but this award is an excellent confidence booster for Prater and Denver’s fan base.

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Is the National Sports Media Angry at the Denver Broncos for Winning?

Is it just me or do our wonderful football experts hold Denver to a different standard than they do the rest of the NFL?

I know, I know, that sounds like something an Oakland Raider fan would say just before whining about how the conspiracy to destroy Al Davis and the Oakland Raiders started with Pete Roselle.

But then again, all you have to do is read any article about the Broncos, scan the majority of those wonderful sops to the fans’ ego, and the writers’ arrogance, that we call power rankings or simply watch any show with NFL in the title to see that there might be something to the idea that the national sports media is miffed that Denver started 3-0.

What is it about the Broncos that makes them so angry?

Is it because we are winning without the Mastermind and the Glamour boy? Is it because the media spent so much time explaining how The Hooded baby coach from New England broke Shanny’s shiny toy, especially after we traded the once and future Jeff George to the bears, that they fully expected Josh McDaniel’s to take it to heart?

Are they angry at him for daring defy the expert analysis?

BLASPHEMY! Though shall not DEFY the experts!

Are they angry because the majority of Doom and gloom Bronco fans who carried signs demanding the Unacoach be fired turned out to be a loud minority? Are they miffed because most of us dared not take the dire predictions of the national sports media to heart and turn on the Broncos?

Are they annoyed that someone may be foolish enough to think the Broncos will do anything but tank the next 13 games and fulfill the prophecy of 3-13 and become the new Detroit Lions.  

BLASPHEMY! Though shall not DEFY the prophecy!

Meh.

I am not sure why they are so angry, but they ARE angry. You can see it in their responses when the Broncos are mentioned.  It’s almost funny, but with very few exceptions the most common reaction when the Broncos 3-0 record is mentioned seems to be annoyance mixed with amusement and a dash of arrogance mixed in.

The arrogance stems from the “fact” that the experts know something we don’t.

By the way, can you hear the sarcasm when I type “experts?”

The most common theme where the Broncos are concerned is that they “have not played anybody.”  Each time the Broncos are mentioned it is in the same breath with “Oakland, Cleveland and Cincinnati.”

Of course, not that the Bengals are looking like contenders it becomes more difficult for the talking heads to use that line so its slowly starting to center on the “luck” of that game. And yeah, it was luck, but I’ll get to that later.  What I am more interested in at the moment is simple.

If the Broncos, at 3-0, are being laughed because of ease of schedule, how come the Chargers, The Ravens and the Giants are getting a a pass?

BLASPHEMY!! Though shall NOT question the power of the media darlings!

The Ravens have played the Chiefs, Chargers, and the same Browns who prove we are not that good.  They are 3-0. They have beaten one “ranked” team, the Chargers, who have not been all that good through three games.  

No one is taking into account that the Ravens offense may be benefiting from that schedule. Instead, they are ranked amongst the best in the league.

And how about the Chargers?  They beat the same Raiders…And that barely…team that proves the Broncos are a bust and they beat the Dolphins. Their one loss is to the Ravens, who we are told is the best team in the league behind maybe the Giants.

So strangely, the Chargers, who have played two scrubs and lost in their first real “test” are not benefiting from a weak schedule.  And the Giants. They have played Washington, Dallas, and Tampa Bay.  No schedule benefit there.

BLASPHEMY!! Though shall NOT question the POWER of coastal teams!

The other team that proves we are fake, the Bengals, are on a two game rip beating the Packers and the vaunted Steelers. The media has to be careful with this one. They risk being caught in up in their own hypocrisy when they say in one breath that Cinci is one of the heartless teams that proves Denver is useless while in the next praising them for maybe being for real.

They balance this risk by claiming that the Deflection was the only reason we won. This accomplishes two things, first it allows them to keep using Cincinnati as proof we are evil wolves in 3-0 clothing, praying on the sensitivity of the average fan. Second, it refuses to acknowledge what the defense did to a pretty good offense. Win/Win for the media monkey.

BLASPHEMY!! Though shall NOT dare hint that the Broncos my be anything but lousy!

Looking at it, we can see that each of those teams has won one game against a media darling. One has to wonder, is beating a Media Darling the key to the Media’s heart? If Denver beats Dallas in week four will the national media give them some love, some respect?  

Eh…Probably not. Denver will have to go through the next eight games without a loss before the media starts taking them seriously. One loss, even a competitive loss, will relegate them to the “I told you so” bin.

I can live with that though as I have to admit that watching the talking heads over at the league owned station and on the four stations that broadcast the games have to find new excuses for the Broncos success each week has been and will continue to be fun.

In the end the media may be right. The Denver Broncos might be the worst 3-0 team in the history of humankind. They may tank the rest of the season. That dominant defense may be an illusion and Josh McHoody may be an evil troll sent to destroy the house that Mike built.

If so, so be it. The season will play out and expose them for what they are and we Bronco fans that remained loyal in the face of the storm will be crushed and contrite like the national media says we should be.

But then again, the idea that the Broncos are 3-0 and crushing the teams they should crush may be a hint of things to come.

It may be simple truth is that if Denver had played this same schedule last season, with the Masterminds defense under his future scapegoat DC and with the interception machine under Center, we would still be 3-0, but we would have given up 90 points, and maybe Brady Quinn would still be a starter for another week or so based solely on how good our d (lower case) made him look.

The fact that we have allowed one touchdown…and that to a team proving to have a very dynamic offense…may actually mean something in the end.

BLASPHEMY!! Though shall NOT…oh forget it.

I don’t know what the Broncos future is. Maybe we are what we think we are and we get the added bonus of seeing the national media get angrier and angrier because the Broncos refuse to read the script provided by the experts. Maybe we are what the experts so desperately hope we are and we will lose 11 or more games.

Then again maybe Bronco fan hope is not misplaced. Maybe after a few more wins the experts will allow us the courtesy of not being such blatant hypocrites, allow the games to be played, and stop taking Broncos success so personally.

And maybe I’ll be the next James Bond.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

A Classic Tale: Josh McDaniels Defeats Bill Belichick

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, Mike Ditka did it to Tom Landry, Steve Young did it to Joe Montana and Dana Holgerson did it to Mike Leach.

This is the story of a young pupil, Josh McDaniels, dismantling a seasoned master, Bill Belichick.  A storyline straight from Star Wars, taking place on our planet, in the stadium closest to the stars above—Invesco Field at Mile High.   

Josh McDaniels will face Bill Belichick on Oct. 11, 2009, and the game will be a turning point in both coaches’ careers – Belichick will begin his course towards the chop-shop; McDaniels for a nonstop swap to the top.

Denver coming off a solid win at home against Dallas, will finally get the recognition they deserve after beating a legitimate team without the help of God himself.  New England, looking solid on both sides of the ball, defeats grossly overhyped Baltimore at razor stadium, and will rise to the top of most power-ranking lists.  Good news for the Broncos is several Patriot players will be battered up after a tough win against a very physical Ravens team.  (These hypotheticals need not be argued because the real story lies in the week five game.)

This game will be won by the Broncos to the tune of 28-10.  You have every right to read this in disbelief and have doubts.  But before you write the Broncos off, at least give them a chance to be great.  The media is labeling the Broncos as the worst 2-0 team ever and the worst 3-0 team ever…At this rate, perhaps they will be the worst 5-0 team ever.

The Broncos’ defense has been the surprise of the season thus far in the NFL – I would wager not a single fantasy owner picked the Broncos for their defense this year.

Mike Nolan has implemented the 3-4 defensive scheme seamlessly, and Broncos have bought into it completely, allowing only 215 total yards per game (first in NFL).  They have also only given up a mere 16 points in their first three games (tied for second all-time).

An explosive Elvis Dumervil with a six pack of sacks on the year will need to get to Tom Brady early to disrupt his poise.  Early is the key word here as all six of Dumervils’ sacks have come in the second half of games.  A first quarter sack is a must.  Brady has shown considerable weakness under pressure this year, and the Broncos will need to take advantage of this.  

Future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey will need to shadow Randy Moss all game letting the other defensive backs roam free.  Last year, Bailey held Moss to one catch for the entire first half before leaving the game with a groin injury.  Like he said before the last Patriot’s game, “I’m like the FAA, all flights closed to my side.”

Athletic linebackers D.J. Williams and Mario Haggan need to make Wes Welker and Ben Watson non-factors over the middle.  They will also have to keep their eyes peeled for the screen and delayed draw play, both of which could go for big yards if the they aren’t discipline about assignments.

Brian Dawkins must fly to the ball and hit the receivers at the point of the catch—The Patriots have shown a case of the dropsies lately, which is bad news for them considering Brian Dawkins is the second all-time leader in forced fumbles.

Possibly the most underrated member of this defense will be McDaniels.  No one knows the offensive schemes and concepts of the Patriots better than him, save Tom Brady himself.  This could cause problems for Belichick as so many of his short passes rely on an element of surprise.

The Bronco’s offense doesn’t look as explosive compared to last year’s with the loss of Jay Cutler and Mike Shanahan, but with the way the defense is playing, they don’t need to be as explosive.  That being said, red-zone scoring is crucial against the Patriots.  Kyle Orton cannot drive the ball 60 yards only to settle for a Matt Prater field goal.  

Running the ball effectively with rookie Knowshon Moreno (avg. four yards per carry) and Correll Buckhalter (avg. over seven yards per carry) is key. Denver is among the best in the league at rushing the ball (fourth in NFL) and they will need to pound it against a good Patriot’s defensive line.  The running backs will have the help of a superb offensive line anchored by left tackle Ryan Clady who has yet to give up a sack in his young career.

Avoid turnovers (only one on the season) and let Kyle Orton (0 INT) take what the defense gives him.  Make good use of the tight ends Daniel Graham and Tony Scheffler biding time until Eddie Royal and Brandon Marshall get open deep.  

Only a matter of time remains before Orton gets on the same page as his skillful receiving corps, and when this happens look for the Bronco’s offense to get exponentially better.  

One must also remember that Orton has been playing with a glove on his throwing hand since the Bears preseason game due to a finger injury.  His accuracy will only get better when the glove is no longer needed.

If the Bronco’s can score on the ground, not settle for field goals in the red zone, and keep third downs manageable, Tom Bradys’ time on the field will be minimal.  The defense will also remain fresh which is a scary thought for New England.

The Patriots have not won an October game in Denver since Oct. 4, 1964 and don’t expect that to change this year. With a league-leading defense, consistent offensive play, home field advantage, and an extensive knowledge of the Patriots, à la Josh McDaniels, look for Bill Belichick to fall to his pupil.  

The week following the gut-wrenching loss to the Broncos, the Patriots will lose to the Titans and this will mark the beginning of the end for Bill Belichick and his dynasty.  

History is full of parallels which do not always accurately predict the future, but they are great indicators.  Teams, especially the good ones, go through cycles of extreme success and extreme let-down.  

Past decades have for the most part been ruled by one team per decade; Green Bay in the ’60s, Pittsburgh in the ’70s, San Francisco in the ’80s, Dallas in the ’90s, and yes, New England in our current decade.   

Unfortunately for New England, this decade is coming to a close and it is time for them to pack up.  A new decade is upon us, and though it may be a slow decline to mediocrity, it is a sure one for the Patriots.

A new man is in Denver, Josh McDaniels, and he will lead the team to the promised land sooner, then later too. He has proved himself thus far, and it is only a matter of time before the playoffs become a reality once again for Broncos fans.

Denver 28

Patriots 10

All is good in Bronco Country for the time being, so watch your football, drink your cold coors light and live happily ever after.

THE END

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

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