NFL: Denver Broncos Update--The last word on Mile High football.

2008-11-26T10:59:00.000-08:00

They promise all the info you'll need for the upcoming game against the NY Jets, so here you go! Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-10-30T06:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Denver, I know you're sick of politics right now. But get out and vote for president on November 4th!

2008-10-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

On Elvis Dumervil's blog, he writes that the Patriots are still a good team, even without Tom Brady. It's good to see our guys avoid the cockiness, but don't sell yourself short, Elvis. We're 4-2 and can still have a great season!

Stretching

2008-07-07T18:48:00.001-07:00

I'm not claiming I'm a great writer or anything, but I think Woody P. might have been trying a bit too hard to be clever when he wrote this:

"Hercules Louis Dousman and Patrick Dennis Bowlen will be linked forever.

Dousman, a fur trader in the 1800s in Prairie du Chien, Wis., became the state's first millionaire. Bowlen was born in Prairie du Chien and later roamed the Broncos sideline in a fur coat, and his football team will be valued this year by Forbes Magazine at a billion dollars."

Did I miss something, or is there absolutely no reason to bring Dousman into this story? How in the world are they linked? Am I forever linked to Michael Dell because I'm using one of his computers to type this?

No idea why this annoys me so much...

A decade by decade history of the Broncs

2008-02-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

I've seen a lot of articles about the Broncos history, but this page on the official site is really well done. You can select a decade to see the main events of those years, and for more recent years you can see histories of every game.

An easy way to lose a couple hours...

Broncos fans tried and true

2007-07-16T14:03:00.000-07:00

Did you know that according to Epinions, Mile High Stadium has been sold out for every Broncos game since 1970? Not sure if the new Invesco Field will keep to that trend or not. That's a lot of extra Broncos tickets to sell!

Broncos abroad

2007-05-10T15:09:00.000-07:00

Broncos' tight end Teyo Johnson posted his first touchdown in week 4 of NFL Europa, playing for the Frankfurt Galaxy. The Broncs have five players in the league - center Greg Eslinger, guard Kevin McAlmont, tackle Doug Nienhuis, and cornerback Lamont Reid.

2007-01-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

Horrible times for the Denver Broncos. First, they failed to make the playoffs. Then, even worse, Darrent Williams was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting.

GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS

2006-12-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

The bad news: looks like the Denver Broncos fullback, Cecil Sapp will be out the rest of the season. He broke his left leg while returning a kickoff this last weekend in the Broncos game against the San Diego Chargers. The good news: linebacker Al Wilson will most likely be returning to practice this week after spraining his neck. Hopefully both players make full recoveries.

OOWWW! MY NECK HURTS REAL BAD!

2006-12-04T10:22:00.002-08:00

While trying to recover a fumble in the 4th quarter, Denver Broncos linebacker, Al Wilson, dove headfirst into a pile of players, spraining his neck. He was taken off the field, and shuttled off to a hospital as a precaution. A team spokesman said that Wilson was moving all of his extremities, but a further examination was required. I hope Al is alright. After dreaming all night about playing football, I actually woke up this morning with a horrible neckache. Strange...

OOWWW! MY NECK HURTS REAL BAD!

2006-12-04T10:22:00.001-08:00

OOWWW! MY NECK HURTS REAL BAD!

2006-12-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

DENVER BRONCOS LIKE TO CUT BLOCK

2006-11-29T14:45:00.000-08:00

So...did you see Igor Olshansky throw that punch at Tom Nalen at last week's Denver Broncos/San Diego Chargers game? Yeah, Nalen went for a cut block at Olshansky's ankles, obviously angering Olshansky enough to retaliate. Who can blame him? I'm sure they'll be talking about cut blocks some more at the NFL meetings this next year.

Broncos Bumped Up to Prime Time

2006-11-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

That doesn't mean we can't start the tailgate parties in the afternoon though. The change is just part of the tv broadcasters' plan to pick out the games the most people want to see, based on how the season has been going. Yeah, I think lots of football junkies will be tuned in to this one, as the Broncos play not-very-nice hosts to the San Diego Chargers and break the tie between us for top spot in the AFC West.

If you've been lucky enough to score tickets for this one, remember to allow for the time change with an extra six-pack and/or thermos of hot chocolate.

Grant us a touchdown, for we have sinned

2006-11-05T21:52:00.000-08:00

Okay, this made me laugh.

"Dozens of former Denver Bronco players joined the Sisters at Exempla Saint Joseph Hospital Sunday for a tailgate party. The nuns are huge Broncos fans and host a Broncos tailgate party every year. ...

The nuns were decked out in their team regalia as they cheered on the Denver Broncos playing against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Some 40 former players planned to attend the tailgate party including Larron Jackson, Steve Sewell, Mike Harden and Mark Jackson."

Where exactly does Broncos team regalia fit into a nun's closet of habits? My only regret is that the story didn't include any photos.

C'mon, pay attention to the good ones!

2006-10-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

I knew Dumervil would be worth watching... too bad the Denver Broncos didn't seem to agree for the first three weeks.

From an article I just read: "Over the last two weeks, he has recorded five sacks -- a sixth was wiped out by a teammate's penalty -- and added another dynamic dimension to the Broncos' stifling defense that has held five straight opponents below double digits."

So it's not just me!

2006-10-22T21:10:00.000-07:00

"When a Denver Post Internet survey asked what has been the biggest surprise in the Broncos season, the team's poor offensive play received a whopping 72 percent of the vote as of Tuesday night."

I mean, defense is kicking serious butt, but the Denver Broncos are leaving a bit to be desired on the offense side. Any chance we can get some of both, guys?

NFL's Denver Broncos do some good

2006-10-19T22:32:00.000-07:00

Awesome- some of my favorite stories are these:

"Denver Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith became the newest mentor for Manual High School students during the Mile High United Way/Denver Broncos Hometown Huddle on Oct. 11 at Invesco Field.

Smith, who overcame poverty and adversity during his youth in Arkansas to become a leader on and off the field for the Denver Broncos, insisted that the students finish high school and believe in themselves. He also urged them to take advantage of resources in the community and listen to the mentors who have volunteered to help them."

Sure, maybe it's a publicity stunt. Personally I don't think it is. But the real question is that if it accomplishes something good, does it really matter?

Denver Broncos add insult to injury

2006-10-16T22:58:00.000-07:00

Aww... the Oakland Raiders are now the only winless team left after their latest loss to the Denver Broncos. So sad...

"...0-for-11 over two seasons never sits easy. 'We're judged on wins and losses,' Raiders quarterback Andrew Walter said. 'There's no room for moral victories. That's all fine and dandy, but it doesn't mean anything.'"

and...

"'It's not over,' Sapp said. 'We are just going to keep plugging away until we somehow find a way to win.'"

You know, I almost feel sorry for them.

Almost. :)

Elvis has entered the building

2006-10-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

About time Elvis Dumervil got off the bench! I've been waiting for him to show why the Denver Broncos picked him, but I'm still not sure we've seen it yet. Granted, he only played about 10 plays against the Baltimore Ravens, so I'm not sure how much he was supposed to have time to show.

But what's weird -- even though I never followed Louisville and didn't know much about Dumervil before this year -- is that I still find myself rooting for him. Maybe I've just seen the movie "Rudy" one too many times.

Denver Chills the Baltimore Ravens

2006-10-11T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Broncos defense did their thing and despite the chilly rain, we were all warm and happy inside! The Ravens had to lose sometime, so why not here at Mile High?

Baltimore's defense was pretty tough also, but in the end Jake Plummer and Rod Smith squeezed a TD out of them--the first one that the Ravens have allowed in the second half all year. They got some turnovers out of us, but we had 3 choice interceptions of pass attempts by Steve McNair. The coolest one came just at the end of the first half, when Champ Bailey launched himself in the air of the endzone and snagged a big one meant to go to Clarence Moore. Bailey is a champ, for sure!

Denver Broncos Rest, But Not On Their Laurels

2006-10-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

I've had to do more resting than I planned on this summer, so it's good to be back at the keyboard. Evidently, my Broncos have been figuring out what to do without my sage advice anyway.

Especially by way of defense! I confess I wouldn't have picked up on a stat like this, but I think it's impressive: we're the first NFL team to start a season with 11 quarters without a touchdown! Against us, that is! Loved tackle Gerald Warren's comment: "I want this defense to get in people's heads. I want them to think: 'We don't stand a chance to score against the Broncos.' "

Enjoy your R&R, Denver! Got our tickets to Invesco Field October 9th, and it's the 4 and 0 Baltimore Ravens we need you to convince that they can't score against the Broncos!

Extra innings not a bargain

2006-08-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Been away for awhile, but this time of year there’s more MLB action than NFL. And one thing with baseball – sometimes your ticket buys you extra innings. The other night Colorado Rockies fans got two games’ worth of play for the price of one. Unfortunately, the final outcome was two games' worth of disappointment: Arizona Diamondbacks 2, Rockies 1.

Rare as this is, there were, in fact, two games that went 18 innings Tuesday night/Wednesday morning. In the other one, the Chicago Cubs finally beat the Houston Astros 8-6.

Super Bowl Predictions

2006-06-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

Hey, I should have been putting my money where my mouth has been; I got it right on the NBA Playoffs awhile back, when the Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns advanced. Now tonight it's down to what could be the final game of the final pairing, and my crystal ball is a little cloudy--the Mavs are back to home court advantage, but the Miami Heat have got the Mo from that heartstopping 101-100 win June 18th.
So I'd rather talk about a prediction I heard for February 4th, 2007: Super Bowl XLI is supposed to be "the Battle of the Jakes." Denver's Plummer vs. Carolina's Delhomme. Sounds plausible to me--with the Broncos coming out on top!

NBA Playoff Banter and Predictions

2006-05-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

I have been watching the NBA Playoffs for the past few weeks and I must say I have seen a lot of good basketball. I think that the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns are going to win their series against the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Clippers respectively. I am not sure if the New Jersey Nets are going to advance but I would like to see Cleveland do well because I like LeBron James.

You just can’t predict…

2006-04-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

The NFL Draft is coming and we have some holes to fill. It appears that there have been prospect interviews with Jesse Mahelona, DeAngelo Williams and D. J. Shockey. I am getting so excited I am reading a lot of blogs about the draft and what the Denver Broncos need. In your opinion, what positions should we be focusing on?

Man, I got it all wrong.

2006-03-27T20:22:00.000-08:00

Well March Madness is winding down and the final four have been decided. LSU, George Mason, ULA and the Florida Gators will compete for the championship. Now that all my picks are out of the contest I am going to have to chose the Florida Gators to go all the way. Who do you pick?

Draft possibilities blooming in Colorado.

2006-03-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

University of Colorado wide receiver Jeremy Bloom is not just a part of the Scouting Combine. He participated in the Olympic Games as a skier. Bloom says he is done with skiing and is now totally focused on the NFL. The Denver Broncos may look at him in the draft. I believe we would be crazy not to want an athlete with the commitment and talent to compete at the Olympic level.

A Little Disappointing For Some

2006-02-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

The Super Bowl was a mess in my opinion. Both teams played poorly and there were some obvious bad calls on the part of the referees. You would think that everyone involved would have been driven to perform at a higher level in recognition of the importance of the event. The Denver Broncos would have brought their best to the Super Bowl.

Steelers and Seahawks on to the Super Bowl

2006-01-23T14:53:00.000-08:00

There is really nothing I can say about the Denver Broncos loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. We got beat by a better team and so did the Carolina Panthers. I hope the Steelers win the Super Bowl because them it will seem ok that we lost to them in the AFC Championship.

Denver Broncos with Home Field Advantage

2006-01-21T21:41:00.000-08:00

I am on edge thinking about the Denver Broncos game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. After seeing them slaughter the Colts, who were a favorite to win the Super Bowl, I am a little worried. I will be even more nervous on Sunday because I’ve got Broncos playoff tickets.

Broncos Will Battle Patriots to Stay Alive

2006-01-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

Pittsburgh’s victory over the Cincinnati Bengals has knocked them out of the playoffs and has sent the Denver Broncos into a battle with the New England Patriots on Saturday in Denver. We have beaten the New England Patriots twice in our last three meetings and hope to advance right past the defending champs using our stellar defense and great offensive weapons. I am anticipating this game will be a battle of the titans after seeing the Patriots practically shut out the Jacksonville Jaguars. I am a little nervous about going up against Bill Belichick and his voracious squad. The Denver Broncos must stay confident and strong to beat this formidable opponent.

Tatum Bell Close but no Cigar

2006-01-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Tatum Bell didn’t get his one thousand yards rushing but he was a key factor in the Broncos thirteenth win of the season. He had three touchdowns which was a career-high for him and almost allowed the Broncos to become the only NFL team with two thousand yard rushers. The San Diego Chargers are known as the best rush defense in the league so it was lucky that we got the three touchdowns and can count our blessings that they failed to dominate us. Without Mike Anderson in the game I am sure Tatum Bell felt he would be able to get the 131 yards he needed to break the record but it just wasn’t in the cards.

Too Early for Predictions

2005-12-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

Jake Plummer wasted no time after the Denver Broncos win over the Oakland Raiders on Saturday. He put his AFC West Championship hat on backwards and wiped the sweat off his brow as he left the field after the last whistle. This is the team’s first title in seven years and Jake Plummer spoke conservatively of their playoff chances saying they need to get deep into the playoffs before they start celebrating or talking Super Bowl possibilities. Like many players in the NFL, he understands that at this point it is anyone’s game and there are way too many qualified ball clubs for making predictions right now

Keep Your Fingers Crossed - Please

2005-12-20T16:46:00.000-08:00

The Denver Broncos are one win away from the division title. The San Diego Chargers ended the Indianapolis Colts undefeated run in a shocking victory 26-17 on Sunday. We are already guaranteed a playoff spot and the division title is now within our grasp. If we win our next two games we will have a bye for the first week of the playoffs and that will allow us more of a chance to end up on top. If we only win one game, Cincinnati will need to lose at least one more game for us to secure the bye. Keep those fingers crossed Bronco fans.

Ravens Put up a Good Fight

2005-12-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

The Denver Broncos offense had a below average game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, yet they were effective enough to secure the win. The Ravens defense proved they could dominate a team as good as the Broncos and almost pulled it off. But in a series of wild plays the Broncos sealed the Ravens fate. This is the first time in nine years that the Broncos have beat the Ravens in their home town Invesco Field and they didn’t give it up without a fight. But the Broncos defense shined at all the right moments and won 12-10. I was surprised by how physical the game became and at the Ravens ability to stop our running game.

Simple Mistakes Lead to Broncos Loss

2005-12-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

There isn’t one thing we can blame for the Denver Broncos loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. We were matching each other score for score and playing a good offensive and defensive game. But a series of unfortunate events kept us four points from victory. In the first quarter Jake Plummer threw for an interception in the end zone and we didn’t score. In the fourth quarter we went for it on fourth and 1 and Mike Anderson came up short of the first down with two minutes left in the game. We didn’t score. These events were key mistakes that led to our downfall on Sunday.

The Denver Broncos Machine

2005-11-30T15:19:00.000-08:00

The Denver Broncos played an outstanding game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving. They were effective against the run and defensively dominated the game. The Cowboys put up a good fight and pushed the game into overtime. But Jason Elam was there to kick the winning field goal for the Broncos and we were victorious. The real stars of this game were Ron Dayne and Jake Plummer. It is funny that these two heroes can be skilled and talented on the field every Sunday, yet all the press goes to someone like Terrell Owens. I am proud of our players for building a great bond with each other and working like a well oiled machine this season.

New York Jets Who?

2005-11-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

The Denver Broncos blew out the New York Jets 27-0 on Sunday to extend their home winning streak to eight games. The injury heavy Jets lost two quarterbacks in one game against the Broncos. Turnovers and Denver’s running game plagued the Jets for four quarters. The Broncos managed to keep the Jets from getting into the end zone and succeeded in preventing them from crossing past the 29-yard line for the entire game. Kyle Johnson gave a beautiful performance and Mike Anderson went for three touchdowns. Jason Elam got to be the star of the game with two field goals and a host of extra points.

Overall this was a stellar performance against a team with a 2-7 record. Can the Denver Broncos dominate the Cowboys on Thursday with their record? It may be a tough game but if we focus on defense and the running game we may be able to break through and beat the Dallas Cowboys.

Turnovers Curse Raiders

2005-11-15T12:03:00.000-08:00

Darrent Williams made the game winning TD with an interception and run of 80 yards. Champ Bailey has tried to drill into these Bronco players that forcing turnovers is of great importance and sits right up there with completing passes and blocking for the run. Well these players were all about their training to the tune of three interceptions and four sacks. Turning the tide against the Oakland Raiders took the Denver Broncos to 7-2 which is the best they have done in so many games since 1998. I’m so excited to see Jake Plummer, Ashley Lelie, and Mike Anderson against the Jets on Sunday.

Don't Understand

2005-06-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Broncos felt that Raylee Johnson and Trevor Pryce were not completely doing there job last season. The ended up bringing in the Browns defensive line, particularly Courtney Brown and Ebenezer Ekuban to rotate with Pryce and Johnson. Funny thing is that Brown and Ekuban were let go because of lack of production and injury. I don’t know if it was the smartest move signing these guys. The good thing is that both will be coming off of injuries soon to join the team in their late mandatory mini-camps this month.

Cover Corner

2005-06-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

The secondary has been looking good now n’ days for the Denver Broncos. Of course, Champ Bailey still remains the most elite cover corner on the team and in the league. The great thing about Champ Bailey is that he is an all around athlete that can shut down almost any receiver, and his athletic ability allows him to be a great tackler as well. The only thing missing is another corner to complement him on the other side. The Broncos are hoping that corner is Lenny Walls.

Deep Threat

2005-05-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

For the past four years the Broncos have had a secret weapon in Ashley Lelie. Lelie had a break out season in 2004 and became the biggest deep threat the Broncos have had in recent years. But Lelie said that towards the end of the season, defenses starting taking away the deep routes from him leaving him virtually none existent in the passing game. So Lelie has spent the off-season working on intermediate routes to improve his play.

Interesting

2005-05-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

The latest acquisition for the Denver Broncos has been punter Todd Sauerbrun. The Broncos traded their punter Jason Baker along with a seventh-round draft pick to acquire Sauerbrun. I don’t know why the Broncos would trade for him though, the guy has been in trouble with the law in more ways than one. He is under investigation for steroids and has pleaded guilty for DWI.

A Lengend in the Making

2005-05-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

Making a stand and what some thought would be maybe his last season in the NFL; John Lynch made believers out of everyone. After undergoing neck surgery at the end of 2004 the Bucs released Lynch thinking he was done for.

Now Lynch a year later with the Broncos can still impose his presence on the field. I can still she the receivers hesitate as the cross the middle hoping that the hard hitting lynch is no where is site.

With 12 years of experience Lynch has a lot of knowledge under his belt that he uses to overcome his only flaw, his deep coverage. Most importantly though Lynch is a leader and every football team looks for leaders.

Lazy or Smart?

2005-05-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

from Foxsports.com

The Broncos won't have a May minicamp. Or a June minicamp, either. Breaking from convention and tradition, the Broncos won't hold their three-day, mandatory minicamp until July 6-8, just three weeks before training camp opens.

Shanahan said that trying to shuttle in rookies after the draft was too hectic and he would prefer the later minicamp because he thinks the young players will retain more of what they learn.

Taking a Chance

2005-04-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

Denver's draft was curious. The team needed an offensive playmaker but came away with a risky project in RB Maurice Clarett. It also took cornerbacks with its first three picks. Clarett was a major reach in the third round. He's the type of downhill runner the Broncos love, but his lack of speed and conditioning make him a huge gamble. Plus, he played just one season at Ohio State. The team would have been better off taking a big receiver.

2005 Draft Preview: Offensive Line

2005-04-14T16:48:00.000-07:00

By Andrew Mason, from DenverBroncos.com

A look at the Broncos' roster reveals key contributors at almost every position who arrived from other NFL teams.

There's a starting fullback drafted by Carolina. A starting quarterback who spent six seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. A recent signee at tight end who's played for three teams in his NFL career. A weakside linebacker who spent a year in Tampa Bay and then returned. A pair of safeties acquired through various modes of free agency. A starting cornerback acquired in the NFL's first Pro Bowler-for-Pro Bowler swap in three decades. And, of course, there's a defensive line with four key imports from the Cleveland Browns.

And then you have the offensive line. The Broncos began 2004 brandishing five homegrown starters, five players who've never known any other professional colors but orange and blue. And even after Dan Neil moved to the inactive list and Cooper Carlisle took his place, there remained a quintet of career Broncos up front.

Of Denver's five starters, only George Foster was a first-round pick. The two guards -- Carlisle and Ben Hamilton -- were both fourth-round selections in 2000 and 2001, respectively. Center Tom Nalen arrived as a seventh-round pick in 1994, and tackle Matt Lepsis wasn't even drafted, joining as a rookie free agent right after the 1997 NFL Draft.

In an era where champions are as liable to be cobbled together through unrestricted free agency as with grooming players straight from the college ranks, the Broncos' offensive line stands as not only a throwback -- but as a testament to the notion that teaching and development of young players is still essential for building a winner.

It also helps the Broncos find their types of offensive linemen, though they cannot be placed into set categories. At 338 pounds, George Foster proved that one doesn't have to be a relatively small offensive lineman to fare well in Denver's scheme, as was commonly believed to be the case.

The offensive line is still smaller than the NFL average, but Foster meshed well quickly thanks to remarkable lightness on his feet for someone of his size and the ability to grasp the scheme after a rookie-year gestation period, most of which was spent ont the practice squad.

Denver's scheme is something that many rising rookie offensive linemen notice immediately as they watch games from afar, studying for the fast-approaching day when their NFL opportunity arises.

"They're not the biggest guys in the NFL," said Oregon's Adam Snyder. "A lot of people think that you have to be 380 pounds (and) 6-foot-7, but that's really not it at all. They're technicians. Everything they do is right, from the way that they move their feet, to the way that they place their hands and are able to pull outside of the line of scrimmage and really run with blocks. So you don't have to be this huge mammoth of a man."

Not mammoth -- just fluid, fleet of foot and precise.

Getting Defensive

2005-04-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

Denver's rebuilt defensive line has a decidedly Cleveland hue to it. Four former Browns defensive linemen -- DEs Courtney Brown and Ebenezer Ekuban, along with DTs Gerard Warren and Michael Myers -- are expected to be major players in Denver's defense. Ekuban, who had a career-high eight sacks last season, and the oft-injured Brown, are an intriguing pair of bookends. Ekuban, a former first-round draft choice, could be a steal. He was obtained as part of a trade for RB Reuben Droughns. Ekuban is not as fast on the corner as Reggie Hayward, who departed Denver for Jacksonville early in free agency, but he's more rugged against the run and doesn't get lost in traffic. Brown, the first overall pick of the 2000 draft, has loads of talent, but hasn't come close to fulfilling his promise. The Broncos gave him a one-year, incentive-based contact. It was a wise move. If Brown can stay healthy, and come back from a major foot injury that wiped out most of his 2004 season, Denver could find an adequate replacement for DE Trevor Pryce, who is still seeking a trade. Brown can be a big, fast pass rusher the Broncos desperately need. Brown and Warren are expected to start, Ekuban should see a lot of playing time and Myers will compete with Mario Fatafehi and Monsanto Pope for playing time. The Cleveland quartet's transition will be made easier because former Browns defensive line coach Andre Patterson is now in Denver. Patterson was one of the major reasons Brown chose the Broncos over the Redskins, and Patterson is convinced Brown can reach his potential if given a new start. . . .

DE picks Denver over three teams

2005-03-30T15:15:00.000-08:00

By Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com

Free agent defensive end Courtney Brown, sought avidly by four teams despite a career marred by injuries and a glaring lack of production, has reached a contract agreement in principle with the Denver Broncos.

Financial details of the one-year deal with options to increase to increase it to five, which is expected to be signed later this week, were not immediately available.

Released by the Cleveland Browns on March 14, the five-year veteran chose the Broncos' offer over proposals from Washington, Jacksonville and Seattle. The Browns had also indicated an interest in re-signing the former Penn State star to a deal more palatable than the $8 million he was owed under his original contract. That included a roster bonus of $2.5 million and base salary of $5.5 million for 2005.

It is believed Brown's decision came down to Denver and Washington. All of the contract proposals were reportedly in the same financial range, and laden with incentives, with the Broncos perhaps gaining a modest edge with a slightly superior bonus package.

Brown's agent, Marvin Demoff told the Gazette of Colorado Springs: "I think (Denver) had everything he was looking for. If he had a list of 10 things, they hit on all 10."

With the Broncos, who had put their pursuit of other free agent defensive linemen on hold while they awaited Brown's decision, he will be reunited with Andre Patterson, his position coach in Cleveland the past two seasons. Patterson has been very outspoken in his support of Brown, and publicly defended him against detractors who have pointed out the poor numbers he has posted in a star-crossed NFL tenure.

Denver will incorporate some 3-4 fronts into its defense this season and feels that Brown has the hybrid-type skills to be productive in that scheme.

But in five seasons, Brown has only 17 sacks and has never demonstrated the kind of upfield explosiveness Cleveland saw in him when it made him the first overall choice in the 2000 draft. Cleveland paid him approximately $27 million for five years and Brown missed 33 games with knee, ankle, neck, biceps and foot injuries.

Brown, 27, finished each of the last four seasons on injured reserve. He continues to rehabilitate from what is known as a Lis Franc sprain to his left foot, an injury from which only a few players have recovered and enjoyed productive careers.

Like the other teams with which he visited, the Broncos believe Brown will fully recover from the foot injury that limited him to just two games last season and perhaps reach the kind of productivity that has eluded him to this point in his career.

The Broncos lost their top pass-rusher, Reggie Hayward, to the Jacksonville Jaguars as an unrestricted free agent earlier this month. Denver has auditioned a number of defensive linemen and, in addition to Brown, demonstrated interest in end Marques Douglas of Baltimore, and tackles Ed Jasper of Atlanta and Cincinnati's Tony Williams. Even with the acquisition of Brown, the Broncos will almost certainly sign at least one more veteran defensive lineman.

Key Issues

2005-02-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

from Foxsports.com

The Broncos are hoping that DE Marco Coleman comes back for his 13th NFL season. He proved last year that he still can be an impact player, specially against the run. Coleman is no longer an every-down player, but he provides quality depth and is a good situational player. . . .

The Broncos are toying with the idea of moving TE Dwayne Carswell to offensive tackle - again. They tried that experiment in 2004, but soon changed when it became apparent they needed depth at tight end, so they moved Carswell back to his normal position. Carswell never lost weight after bulking up to 290 pounds and that was part of the reason he wasnot every effective as a tight end. Carswell is clearly nearing the end of his career, but he might be able to make the roster as a back-up tight end. . . .

The Broncos are going to be faced with a major decision during free agency: whether or not to chase after DE Reggie Hayward and offer him big money to remain in Denver. Hayward led the team with 10.5 sacks and he's going to command a lot of attention and money. The Broncos lost Bertand Berry to Arizona last season and don't want to lose another pass rusher. But the Broncos also must ask themselves if Hayward is worth a major investment. While he's a good situational pass rusher, he's not particularly strong against the run.

Welcome to Mile High, Slowik

2005-02-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

Bob Slowik has eight seasons of being a Defensive Coordinator under his belt. Not to shabby for the new secondary coach for the Denver Broncos.

Slowik was with the on the Cowboys staff in 1992, and help cultivate the defense for “America’s Team” during their three championship season in the 90’s. Soon after, he followed fellow assistant coach Dave Wannstedt to Chicago. Then he went to help the expansion Browns as DC in ’99, followed by a short tenure as assistant head coach for the Green Bay Packers.

Now he joins our Broncos, and this is actually a reunion of sorts for Shanahan and Slowik, since they coached under Charley Pell at the University of Florida for 2 years.

History Repeats Itself

2005-01-23T10:01:00.000-08:00

The atmosphere in Denver right now is defiantly not a mile high. It is hard to stomach a loss like that against the Colts especially two years in a row, and that is not to mention that they beat them the week before.

Plummer is a good QB but he is no Elway nor is he a Manning... It might be time for another QB. Well, I might be jumping to conclusions, so I will give Plummer the benefit of the doubt and blame it on the lack of the run game towards the end of the season.

Memory Lane

2005-01-04T15:52:00.000-08:00

The worst thing you can do in any sporting event is dwell on the past. Learn from the past, yes. Move on from the past, yes. But never think once, that past in a precedent. The past is there for examples of what to do and what not to do.
"We don't talk about those things. We look at film, we get a game plan, and try to focus on what we need to do now; not what we have done in the past." - Head Coach Mike Shanahan
With that in mind, I know every one remembers the 31 point loss to the Colts last post-season. It was a tough loss. The kind that fuels the fire too burn hotter. Make no mistake my fellow Bronco fans. It is not revenge the Broncos will be seeking, it is a reckoning.

Bailey and Lynch Earn Pro Bowl Nods

2004-12-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

By Andrew Mason and Mike Sarro, DenverBroncos.com

When Denver added Champ Bailey and John Lynch to the roster last March, the club knew it was adding two quality players.

Nine months later, they're the Broncos' only Pro Bowlers.

Bailey and Lynch were both selected to the AFC All-Star roster for the Pro Bowl on Wednesday, marking the fifth and sixth selections for each defensive back, respectively.

As a member of the Washington Redskins, Bailey made the trip to Hawaii after each of the past four seasons. But making it a fifth consecutive trip didn't weigh heavily on his mind in the day prior to the selection announcement.

"I just want to win," he said. "We've got to get in these playoffs. Forget the Pro Bowl. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, it doesn't."

His head coach vouched for his case.

"I'll be honest with you, of course I do (think Bailey deserves to go)," Mike Shanahan said. "He's one of the best corners in the league, if not the best. But that's neither here nor there."

For Lynch, the selection marks a return to the islands for Lynch, who missed last year's game after qualifying after the 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Denver has had a defensive player named to the Pro Bowl every year since 1989. But the Broncos' offense was shut out. Unless any players are added as alternates in the next seven weeks, the Broncos will be without an offensive Pro Bowler for the second time in three years after having at least one offensive player selected for each of the previous 13 Pro Bowls.

Linebacker Al Wilson and center Tom Nalen were passed over after earning nods following last season. Wilson was added as an alternate on Jan. 22 after being passed over in the primary selection, giving him a streak of three consecutive Pro Bowls. Nalen's selection last year was his fourth in the previous seven years.

At the conclusion of the fan voting on Dec. 17, Bailey and Lynch led their respective positions (cornerback and free safety, specifically) in the voting. Bailey received 263,863 votes -- fifth-best among all defensive players -- while Lynch garnered 119,680. The total fan vote counts as one-third of the Pro Bowl ballot tally. One-third of the vote comes from the players, and the other third from NFL coaches. Players and coaches cast their ballots over the weekend.

You can catch the announcement of both the AFC and NFC Pro Bowl rosters this evening at 5 p.m. (MST) on the 2005 Pro Bowl Selection Show on ESPN. The game will be played in Hawaii on Sunday, Feb. 13 and televised by ESPN at 5:30 p.m. (MST).

Pryce Looks to Take Next Step

2004-12-15T13:32:00.000-08:00

By Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com

Among the Broncos and their followers, there seems to be unanimity on one subject -- that defensive lineman Trevor Pryce can make the defense at least a little bit better whenever he returns to action.

But try telling that to Pryce himself.

"I think a lot of y'all set me up for failure because I'm going to come back and really I'm not going to make any difference," Pryce said. "I think the guys playing my position are doing a great job. I mean, look what they've done without me. They're the fifth-ranked defense in the league, and I'm not playing. So what do you think I'm going to do?"

At the very least, he can provide the Broncos another contributor in the team's defensive-line rotation. And while he has been listed as "out" on every injury report for well over two months, there is a possibility he might be upgraded to "doubtful" when the first injury report of this week is issued Wednesday.

"Yes, there is a chance," he said. "I think I'll know something Wednesday. I have to practice again, you know what I mean?

"So when I practice again Wednesday, they'll know a little more, because I practice and they watch the film. I guess when they saw Wednesday's practice (last week), they said, 'Oh yeah, he's out.'"

Pryce hasn't played since the Broncos last faced Kansas City on Sept. 12, when he slogged his way through 40 plays while battling the lower back pain that would eventually necessitate disc surgery.

A return in time for the rematch this Sunday could be possible, but might not be prudent, at least from Pryce's perspective.

"I don't think it's a good idea," he said. "But if I can keep my balance and run, I'll play. It was good for me to get back on the field, even if I might not play."

But when he practiced on the scout team for three days leading up to last Sunday's win over the Miami Dolphins, his balance improved from day to day.

"It was actually pretty encouraging for me because the first day (Wednesday, Dec. 8), I really couldn't keep my balance at all," he said. "The second day (Thursday, Dec. 9), I couldn't keep my balance on some plays. The third day (Friday, Dec. 10), I had some balance, I just couldn't run fast. So hopefully Wednesday I'll run a little bit more and just put everything together."

The issue is working into football shape. Pryce has been no stranger to strength and conditioning workouts since recovering from the late-September procedure on his back.

But getting in condition to actually play involves far more than that.

"When I first got in my stance, I was like, 'My stomach is touching my knees; this is not right.' You know, one of those things," Pryce said. "The balance improved because I had to get used to playing football again.

"When people say, 'You have to get in football shape,' that's very real. You can be fast and healthy and in great shape running sprints, but until you play football or basketball or tennis or whatever you do, you're not in shape. The only way you get in football shape is by playing football, period. End of story."

Denver Broncos vs. Oakland Raiders

2004-11-30T14:04:00.000-08:00

from DenverBroncos.com

Before the start of Denver's Sunday night game against Oakland Head Coach Mike Shanahan declared the following players inactive: Chris Young, Cecil Sapp, Jeff Shoate, Jashon Sykes, Cornell Green, Darius Holland, Trevor Pryce and Luther Elliss. The game began with snow on the field and it fell throughout the game. The temperature at kickoff was 17 degrees and the wind chill made it feel like it was 7 degrees. The Raiders won the coin toss and received the opening kickoff.

FIRST QUARTER
Micah Knorr's kickoff was caught by Doug Gabriel at the goal line and returned to the 20 for Oakland's offense to begin from. The Raiders advanced to Denver's 40-yard line but Al Wilson made a statement for the Broncos when he slammed the door on an airborne Tyrone Wheatley on 4th-and-inches to give the ball to Denver's offense on downs.

The Broncos had marched inside Oakland's 30 on their first drive, but Reuben Droughns fumbled Jake Plummer's handoff and Raiders safety Marques Anderson recovered the ball at his own 30 giving the visitors the first takeaway of the game.

Knorr's first punt of the game almost resulted in Denver getting the ball back when it fell to the ground and then bounced of return man Phillip Buchanon. Both Mike Leach and Kenoy Kennedy had opportunities to recover the loose ball but it was Jarrod Cooper who came up with it to escape danger at his own 14-yard line.

SECOND QUARTER
After three straight three-and-outs, (two by Denver, one by Oakland), the Raiders threatened with 6:55 remaining as Sebastian Janikowski tried a 48-yard field goal. But, the kick missed to the right giving the Broncos the ball at their 38-yard line.

On their next possession, Denver would not be denied as Jason Elam booted a 32-yard field goal with a major assist from Knorr on the hold as the snap was high. The kick capped a nine-play, 48-yard drive that spanned 5:01 and gave Denver a 3-0 lead. Denver ran the ball six plays and threw twice on their way to the score. Droughns carried the ball five times for 24 yards and Garrison Hearst added a two-yard rush. Plummer also threw to Darius Watts for 19 yards on 3rd-and-7 and Kyle Johnson made a three-yard reception.

The first touchdown of the game came shortly thereafter when Plummer connected with Rod Smith for an 85-yard scoring pass to open a 10-0 lead with 45 seconds left in the half. The Broncos got the ball back after a three-and-out by Oakland and didn't waste any time as the two-play drive took 18 seconds. The pass was the longest of Plummer's career as well as the longest reception of Smith's career. It also was the eighth-longest scoring pass in franchise history.

Oakland would not go quietly as it responded with a 42-yard touchdown pass from Kerry Collins to Jerry Porter to cut the lead to 10-7 just 28 second later. The Raiders had taken a few shots downfield earlier in the game and this time they connected as the pass eluded John Lynch and Champ Bailey to complete a quick, three-play drive that covered 51 yards.

The teams had played a scoreless half for the first 28 minutes before combining to put up 17 points in the final two minutes in the wintery conditions.

THIRD QUARTER
Denver opened the second half with the ball, but it was a short possession as Droughns put the ball on the ground again and for the second time it was recovered by Oakland when Charles Woodson scooped it up at the Broncos 36-yard line. Two plays later, Collins hit Porter on a 14-yard pass for the receiver's second touchdown of the game and a 13-10 lead for the visitors. Janikowski's extra point was blocked by Monsanto Pope keeping the deficit within field goal range at three points.

Denver got its first takeaway of the game when Oakland running back Justin Fargas caught a screen pass from Collins but lost the ball when Kelly Herndon hit him and Donnie Spragan recovered the ball at the Raiders 26-yard line. Denver then immediately squandered the opportunity it had been given on the next play when Plummer made a terrific play to elude two Oakland would-be tacklers, but threw an interception as he was trying to find Smith in the end zone. The pass was picked by Ray Buchanan and returned to the Raiders 37-yard line. Denver's third turnover of the game would not lead to Oakland points as the defense forced a Shane Lechler punt.

FOURTH QUARTER
Ashley Lelie continued his penchant for making long receptions as he caught a 57-yard pass from Plummer on the first play of the quarter over former Broncos cornerback Denard Walker. Walker had fallen down before Lelie made the catch and the receiver himself dove to snare the ball, then had the presence of mind to get up and run to the Oakland 3-yard line where Walker caught him. On the next play Droughns made up for one of his earlier fumbles by punching the ball into the end zone to put the Broncos back on top at 17-13. The scoring drive took six plays, travelled 83 yards and lasted 3:16.

In another quick sequence of events, Denver pushed its lead to 24-13 when Ellis Johnson intercepted a Collins pass and returned it 32 yards the other way for his first NFL touchdown. On the first play of his team's drive Collins' pass was batted at the line of scrimmage by Monsanto Pope and the ball bounced to Johnson who made a one-handed grab before taking off for the end zone. In the span of sixty seconds Denver had gone from being down 13-10 to up 24-13.

The see-saw nature of the action continued when the Raiders came back with a 52-yard completion from Collins to Porter down the middle allowing Oakland to set up shop with a first-and-goal from Denver's 8-yard line. A 5-yard pass to tight end Doug Jolley set up 2nd-and-goal from the 3. Collins went for Gabriel in the corner of the end zone as Willie Middlebrooks was there to defend and knock the pass away, but he was flagged for pass interference, putting the visitors on the 1-yard line with a first down. The Raiders wanted to run the ball from here but wound up shooting themselves in the foot. On first down, Collins turned to hand the ball off, but lost control of it and it squirted out to Denver's 12 where Marco Coleman downed him. Then the first-round draft pick, tackle Robert Gallery, was whistled for a false start penalty which put Oakland in a 2nd-and-18 situation from the 18. Collins dropped back to pass, threw for the end zone where the Broncos made their second takeaway of the game as John Lynch picked off the pass at the 1-yard line to end the Oakland threat.

This game had now turned into a classic rivalry matchup between the clubs and Oakland made it tighter when it rebounded after its miscues to score another touchdown when Ronald Curry made a one-handed catch in the back of the end zone from Collins for another score. The Raiders tried for a two-point conversion, but they were unsuccessful and the score was 24-19 with 6:11 left to play. Oakland moved 41 yards in four plays over 1:49 to make it a five-point game.

The Raiders took the lead back with less than two minutes remaining when Collins threw his third touchdown pass to Jerry Porter. The 5-yard strike put Oakland up 25-24 as they were unable to make the two-point conversion.

Denver got the ball back and moved downfield to the Raiders 24-yard line and put themselves in position to win as Elam strode onto the field. With 31 seconds remaining and on fourth down he attempted a 43-yard field goal, but the kick was blocked by Langston Walker and fell well short, thus sealing the win for Oakland.

Broncos in the Backfield

2004-11-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

from FoxSports.com

Traditionally, the team's' running game is at its best late in the season. In the last seven regular-season games of 2003, the Broncos rushed for an average of 195.7 yards. With RB Reuben Droughns running hard and the line in sync, this year should be no different. The running game is crucial because it sets up Jake Plummer's play-action passes and allows him to roll outside the pocket, where he's most productive.

TE Jeb Putzier is a player to watch. He's gaining Plummer's confidence as a downfield receiver, is deceptively fast and has terrific hands. His blocking has improved, and his routes have become more precise. If he is more of a factor, it will help open up the passing game.

Jimmy Spencer was promoted to defensive backs coach, replacing David Gibbs. A player-coach last year, Spencer retired as a player before the season.

Key Issues

2004-11-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

From FoxSports.com

The defense isn't forcing enough turnovers, and QB Jake Plummer has 10 interceptions after throwing seven all of last season. Plummer has put up some big numbers but hasn't always played smart football. Opposing quarterbacks are picking on the cornerback opposite Champ Bailey, whether it's Kelly Herndon or Lenny Walls. With LE Trevor Pryce (back) sidelined, the pass rush has become anemic. RE Raylee Johnson and RT Luther Ellis have played well at times, but Pryce's push off the edge is missed. The lack of a pass rush is one reason turnovers have been infrequent.

West Coast Action

2004-10-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

First off, I expect more big action from Reuben Droughns, and hopefully some nice turn-overs against Oakland's sloppy offense. I predict 20-7, Denver. That is all.

Off to a great start!!

2004-10-06T15:08:00.000-07:00

3-0 and we're at the top of the AFC West. Let's keep it that way. Here's some news from nfl.com:

While the offense sputtered Sunday, Jake Plummer and company did just enough thanks to a strong defensive effort in beating the winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers 16-13. Plummer threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Patrick Hape and Jason Elam kicked three field goals, the last of which snapped a 13-13 tie midway through the fourth quarter. The defense limited Tampa Bay to just one touchdown on a play in which former Bucs safety John Lynch failed to knock down receiver Michael Clayton, who was getting up off the ground. "It's a shame. Ultimately the responsibility lays on me. I've got to tackle him," said Lynch, who had an emotional return to Tampa Bay. "There's a new league emphasis. If they're laying down and you hit them, you're going to get 15 yards. I tried to do the right thing for the first time in my career and keep (the NFL) out of my pocket, and I get burned."

Denver Broncos vs. San Diego Chargers

2004-09-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

From Nfl.com

Plummer completed 25 of 36 passes for 294 yards with two touchdowns, a long of 33 and a quarterback rating of 112.5, his best statistical line of the season. Smith caught five of those passes for 75 yards, averaging 15 yards-per-catch and a long of 32 to go with one score. Lelie caugth four passes for 67 yards, averaging 16.8 yards-per-catch and had a long of 33, which was his touchdown. Jeb Putzier also chipped in with five receptions of his own, for 66 yards, averaging 13.2 yards-per-catch and a long of 24. On the ground, Griffin led the team in carries with 12, but it was only for seven yards, a 0.6 yards-per-rush average with a long of six. Garrison Hearst gained the most yards with 13 on three carries for a 4.3 average and a long of 11.

Droughns had an excellent night on kickoff returns by taking four for 137 yards, a 34.3 average-per-return and a long of 48 to help set up Denver's final field goal. On punt returns, Smith had only one fair catch as one punt was downed, one went out-of-bounds and three went for touchbacks.

The defense kept the ever-dangerous LaDainian Tomlinson under wraps by yielding only 60 yards on 22 carries for a 2.7 yards-per-rush average and a long of 16.

Denver gained 328 total net yards of offense to the 214 put up by San Diego. The Broncos gained 291 yards through the air and only 37 on the ground compared to the 129 in the air by the Chargers and 85 on the ground. Denver's rushing total was the fewest number of yards gained on the ground since the club was held to 35 yards against the Chiefs in a 15-7 loss at Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 20, 1993.

Denver went two-for-11 on third down, an 18 percent conversion rate while San Diego was six-for-15, a 40 percent success rate. The Broncos were one-for-one on fourth down while the Chargers did not have an attempt.

The Broncos had their best game in terms of penalties by committing only three for 25 yards while the visitors were called for six for 61 yards.

For the first time this year the Broncos lost the time of possession battle, 30:45 to 29:15.

The Broncos will now go back on the road as they travel to Tampa Bay to play the Buccaneers as John Lynch returns to the place where he spent the first 11 years of his career. The Broncos and Bucs will square off at 4:15 p.m. (EDT) at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 3 with CBS broadcasting the game.

Go Broncos!

34-24

2004-09-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

Right on: an excellent way to start the season! Mr. Griffin: you played well, sir. 156 yards rushed, 2 touchdowns... and a touchdown catch.

A solid win despite 3 turn-overs.

Injuries and Special Teams

2004-09-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

You must admit that they played their last Preseason game well considering that 2nd and 3rd string players were on the field for so much of the game. We need our starters on the field and healthy!

It's quite obvoius that Specials Teams needs to be tweaked in order to have a successful season. Now, I'm ready for some real football: let's get this show on the road!

"A Painful Ending"

2004-08-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

I don't like the sight or sound of that, which is the title to a main article on their official website:

Denver's 31-17 win over Houston was overshadowed when Mike Anderson was injured on a punt play late in the fourth quarter. "He felt the groin pop," Mike Shanahan said...

"He felt his groin pop." Ouch. That's why I watch rather than play... well, I don't play for a few other reasons, but this is neither the time or the place to delve into all that.

You say I'm lazy,

2004-08-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

I say I'm busy. I'm just trying to keep this blog going until the real football starts... but, according to the Broncos official website, the real football has already started:

On Schedule

For Watts and Other Rookies, It's Time to Get Used to a Regular-Season Routine
By Andrew Mason
DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The fact that the Broncos practiced with far more players than they will use in the regular season -- 89, to be exact, with the Monday addition of linebacker Riall Johnson -- meant that in one respect, Monday's work was little different than what the team faced for the previous three and a half weeks.

BRONCOS TV: A LOOK BACK AT THE WIN OVER SEATTLE

But the hundreds of spectators who attended the practice sessions were gone, along with the bleachers in which many of them sat. So too were the phalanx of television cameras that documented every snap of training-camp practice.

Most importantly for the players, two-a-days are a thing of the past -- at least until training camp begins anew next summer.

"Maybe I can get home before six o'clock," said tight end Byron Chamberlain.

"It's great," fellow tight end Jeb Putzier added. "We're all excited to be home, maybe in time to watch Friends or something. You can study at home, you get a chance to hang out and have a home-cooked meal."

But as wide receiver Darius Watts discovered, studying at home isn't enough. When he arrived, there were a few new wrinkles that he had to absorb in time for the afternoon session.

"They gave us a couple of new plays today," he said. "We had to come out here and had to know them. So we had to get in there real quick and try to brainstorm and get it all in, try to make sure we didn't mess up."

In that respect, Monday became just like a Wednesday during the regular season, which is exactly what Head Coach Mike Shanahan wanted to convey to his team for the first of three practice sessions leading into Friday night's home preseason opener against the Houston Texans.

"What we try to do here is the same schedule we have during the season," Shanahan said. "It's a little different for some of the guys that haven't been here because they are not sure about our schedule during the season. So this first day is a little bit unusual with the film during the morning and the walk-throughs in the early afternoon, special teams practice and the way we go about our Wednesday practices, which is essentially what we did today."

PERFECTIONIST: During Saturday evening's win at Seattle, Denver's defense yielded just 183 yards, three points, allowed only one foray into its red zone (and another that reached the Broncos 20-yard-line) notched five sacks and allowed the Seahawks to control the football for just 21 minutes and 10 seconds.

That wasn't enough for defensive captain Al Wilson, who assessed the defense with all the sympathy of a college professor bent upon vengeance.

"I'd give us about a C, C-plus," Wilson said. "We're working. It looked good on TV, but it's not what we want it to be. There's still some things we can clean up on the defensive side of the ball and we're trying to improve in those areas."

The three points conceded to a team with a highly touted offense is a sterling effort, but Wilson believes that the defense could have allowed more based on its errors -- which included 62 yards' worth of penalties on six infractions -- three for holding, two for illegal contact and one 36-yard infraction for pass interference, whistled against rookie Roc Alexander on the fifth play of the fourth quarter.

"We made a few mistakes here and there," Wilson said. "Not costly mistakes, but mistakes that we feel can definitely be changed and we can make a difference in the football game. Those are big plays that we could have made. We're just going to try to continue to improve."

BELL AT WORK: Shanahan held Tatum Bell out of work Saturday night, but the rookie running back was back on the field Monday afternoon, resuming the work he began when he came back from surgery on Aug. 11.

A cast still protected his right middle finger as he went through his on-field work.

"You can't take the cast off," Shanahan said. "He's not going to have that off for a while. I'm not even sure when he's supposed to get it off. But he's feeling a little bit more comfortable with it. He's starting to run better, and he's starting to catch the ball with it."

As far as determining who the team's running back will be, the game remains afoot.

"There is a lot of competition right there," Shanahan said. "We have to get a pecking order. 'Q' (Quentin Griffin) has been playing extremely well. I think we know what Mike Anderson and Garrison Hearst have done. We haven’t seen Tatum, and we've got a little idea of (Ahmaad) Galloway and (Santonio) Beard, but it’s great to get this extra game to get to evaluate them.”

I'm definitely dismayed...

2004-08-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

These words are brought to you by nfl.com:

After suffering a 20-17 loss to Washington in the Hall of Fame Game, the Broncos were downed once again, this time at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. The Broncos' offensive struggles continued as starter Jake Plummer went 3-of-11 for 40 yards, had two INTs and sacked twice in the team's 16-6 loss to the Bills. "It's about making plays. We didn't do that during the first two series," Plummer said. "Throwing two interceptions is one of the worst ways to start a game." The Broncos find themselves down 0-2 in preseason action. Next up is Seattle on Saturday

News from training camp...

2004-08-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Some info from the team's offical site:

Denver released its first 2004 depth chart Monday morning, and amidst all the names and placements, the one that jumped out was Roc Alexander's status as second-team right cornerback, right behind Kelly Herndon and ahead of fifth-round pick Jeff Shoate, who sits on the third team, and third-round selection Jeremy LeSueur, who is listed on the fourth string.

The depth chart is affected by Lenny Walls' absence as he recovers from ankle surgery he underwent last week. But Alexander has shown some solid play in the past few days. For him, the second-team placement wasn't cause to pause; he simply saw it and continued on his way.

A litte news to tide you guys over:

2004-07-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm supposing at least somebody out there is checking out my brilliantly-worded blog. I'll keep this simple and quote from nfl.com:

A beginning ... and an end?

On the eve of Denver's 45th training camp, the Broncos decided to make a crucial roster change. Linebacker John Mobley, who has been with Denver since he entered the league in 1996, was released after he failed a physical. Mobley, 31, has not fully recovered from a neck injury he suffered Oct. 26 during a game against Baltimore. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan says the team has not completely cut ties with Mobley. "If six months to a year from now he feels like he is ready to go, then we will assess him then," Shanahan said. In 1997, the season in which Denver first won a Super Bowl, Mobley was named first-team All-NFL by the Associated Press, The Sporting News, Pro Football Weekly and Football Digest

Preseason is Just Around the Corner!

2004-07-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

The first Broncos preseason game is August 9th: they'll play at home against Washington, who they will hopefully stomp into the ground in a friendly battle. After that, there will be four more preseason games, and the regular season will start September 12th ( vs. Kansas City). Are you ready for some football?

New Broncos Blog

2004-07-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey folks,

Thanks for dropping by. Sorry things aren't up and running yet, but they will be soon, so come back and see what's happening!!!