SUPER BOWL

Ok I've put it off as long as I can here is my Super Bowl Pick: The Saints are a great story no doubt and have statistically the best offense in the league. Their defense is a very aggressive one that has caused allot of turnovers. I don't think Peyton Manning will turn the ball over and that will make the difference. Dwight Freeney being out or even if he plays he won't be himself will result in Drew Brees having enough time to get the ball down field and test the Colts cornerbacks. This is going to be a shoot out the Colts win 38-36.

Tight Ends

Tight End has been a productive position for the Broncos for as long as I've been watching them. Of course most of that time it was Shanon Sharpe at Tight End. We had a good combination at Tight End this year but it seems as though the combo is going to be broken up.

Daniel Graham 6-3 257 8th year. Since Graham's arrival from New England in 2007 he has been a top notch blocker although he did get called for holding more frequently this past year. Graham is under rated in the passing game he has good hands and runs with power and determination after the catch. I full expect Daniel to be the Broncos starting Tight End in 2010 and a very good one that should get more catches.

Tony Scheffler 6-5 225 4th year. Tony seems to be on coach McDaniels bad side and will be gone either by trade or he will sign with another team in which case we should get a minimum of a second round pick. Schef has been a very good receiving Tight End particularly down field he lead all Tight Ends in yards per catch in 2008.

Richard Quinn 6-4 255 Rookie. Quin was selected in the second round last year and made little contribution to the offense. Quinn was able to make some contributions on special teams most notably breaking up a fake punt at Kansas City. Coming out of college Quinn was considered an excellent blocking Tight End. I believe that McDaniels plans to use the Tight End less as a receiving option and more as an extra blocker and with Graham and Quinn he has two excellent blockers to get the job done.

The loss of Scheffler will open a roster spot for another Tight End. I hope McDaniels tries to find a pass catching Tight End late in the Draft or a College free agent to groom and to compliment the two blocking Tight Ends.

QB review

Much has been made of Jay Cutler leaving town and the play of Kyle Orton. Like it or not we are stuck with Orton for at least one more year and no matter how good or bad Cutler plays in Chicago he will not be coming back so lets just move on already.

Kyle Orton 6-4 225 5th year. Orton is just a little better player than a game manager at this point in his career. He was able to post a 21-12 record as starter for the Bears 15-2 at home but doesn't play like the elite quarterbacks in the league and show the ability to bring his team back. Rather his strong suit is to make smart plays and not turn the ball over. To be effective Orton needs a great defense. I'm all for the Denver D to become dominant again like the Orange Crush days but I would like little better QB to go with that D. One more year in the McDaniels offense will be enough for me to determine if Orton can cut it. We should draft another QB to compete and or be groomed to be the starter.

Chris Simms 6-4 230 7th year. Simms had some fans calling for him to start over Orton at the beginning of the season based on pre-season performance. But when Orton got hurt in the Redskins game we all saw that McDaniels was making the right call at QB. Simms played poor enough that I can not see him returning to the Broncos or another NFL team.

Tom Brandstater 6-5 223 Rookie. Drafted as a project by McDaniels there is really no way to know how his development went. Was regarded as an intelligent QB without all the physical skills coming out of the draft. He has a football head and should know the system next season enough to be a functional 2nd string. I doubt that he would challenge Orton but it would be great if he has developed that well. I look for him to be #2 QB in 2010 unless he hasn't developed as much as I think he has. It's hard to tell as he hasn't played at all in the regular season.

I would not be surprised if McDaniels drafted a QB in the second round if one dropped to him that he likes. Colt McCoy comes to mind as a possibility. If he does it will be a sure sign that he feels(as I do) that Orton isn't the future and Brandstater isn't developing as fast as he thought. It's likely that they would draft a QB in the later round even if he is happy with Orton and Brandstater. I hope that the Broncs don't sign a veteran back up I feel they should be developing a future starter or at least trying to.

A look at the Wideouts of 2009

One area whether Brandon Marshall is a Bronco in 2010 or not the Broncos need to address in the post season. I agree that if he is gone Denver should select Dez Bryant with the 10th or 11th pick (its still up to a coin flip) in the draft if he is available. Lets look at the wideouts on the roster.

Brandon Marshall 6-4 230 4th year. Brandon Marshall is nothing short of a beast and can start for any team. Clearly a top 5 receiver over the past 3 years. Marshall has had off the field issues between him and his ex-girl friend, some driving issues, attitude during training camp, and in general doesn't seem to get along with new head coach Josh McDaniels. It seems to be the popular belief that Marshall will not be playing in Denver next season. I still have hope that he will return but if he doesn't we should get a first and third round draft pick in compensation for the restricted free agent. I'd use the our 1st, 1st rounder on Dez Bryant who has a chance to at least rival Marshall.

Eddie Royal 5-10 180 2nd year. Eddie's numbers went down significantly in his second year as did many of the Shanahan hold overs. I don't think it was that he had trouble learning the offense either. He learned the system to quickly under Shanahan. He has the skills to be a player like Wes Welker not Wes Welker but a similar player in McDaniels system. I'm counting on Eddie to be a starter next season.

Jabar Gaffney 6-2 200 8th year. Gaffney was second on the team in receptions and yards receiving and had the best pro season of his career. Gaffney was brought in due to his familiarity with McDaniels offense and was successful. Gaffney will be back and get plenty of playing time maybe even start. McDaniles likes 3 wide receiver sets.

Brandon Loyd 6-0 194 7th year. Brandon Loyd has made some incredible catches in his career. I have always liked him and his potential which he has not lived up to. Loyd was inactive for Denver's first 14 games but played in the last two starting one. He had 8 catches for 117 yards in those two games. i fully expect Mr. Loyd to be a productive member of the Broncos receiving corps in 2010.

Brandon Stokley 6-0 192 11th year. Mike Shanahan called him the best slot receiver he has ever seen. I'm of the opinion that McDaniles thinks Wes Welker is better and he probably is but to earn the praise of Shanahan, Stokley is a great receiver. Stokley had his moments but but was not what he was a year ago and I'd be shocked to see him playing for Denver next season. The Redskins are not out of the question though.

Kenny McKinley 6-0 183 Rookie. Kenny was called the best wide receiver I have ever coached by Steve Spurrier. McKinley's only contribution last year was on special teams. Look for McKinley to be back on the roster in 2010 and compete for more playing time at wide out next season.

The Broncos need to sign at least 2 wideouts during the off season 3 if Marshall is gone. The wideout isn't a weak position but some youth and depth needs to be added though.

Senior Bowl Impressions

It's to early to make any real draft projections, but I would like to talk about my impression of the Senior Bowl and what the Broncos need in the draft this year. If Brandon Marshall is traded or signs as a restricted free agent we will have to address wideout but we will have more picks to address that if we have too. I'm only talking Senior Bowl participants and there are allot of Juniors coming out that will effect the draft.

One need that can be addressed at some point is the Nose Tackle. To run an effective 3-4 a large run stuffing Nose Tackle is a must.

Terrence Cody fits the bill as a run stuffing big guy. If he is available in the second round when Denver picks we would be an excellent choice. He will be a first and second down guy and doesn't have any pass rush at all but in the 3-4 all he needs to do is eat up blocks and stop the run.

Dan Wilkenson is a more well rounded (sorry Cody is more round) a better all around DT but is expected by many to go in the first round.

We need to upgrade with bigger interior Offensive Lineman. John Jerry stood out to me he is huge and handled everyone he was up against his stock is on the rise but he looks to be a 4-5 round pick.

Dexter Mccluster is small but quick and fast he can play WR or RB. He looks to go in the second and there is some risk but I believe he can come in and make lays like Desaun Jackson of the Eagles.

LagGaret Blount is interesting to me if available in the 6th round. I would like to see his 40 at the combine but he looked fast enough on the TD he scored in the Senior Bowl. His anger management may be an issue that will keep him from going higher then that but you never know how much someone likes him and would take a reach.

Brandon Graham looked great but I'm counting on Robert Ayers to play the other OLB opposite Elvis next year.

I'm working on the rest of the Draft and will give my feed during and after the combine. We will know what is going on with Brandon Marshall in March. Dez Bryant with the 10 or 11 if Brandon is playing some where else.

Cornerbacks of 2009

Everyone knows Champ Bailey is a stud corner but what about the rest of the CB's.

Champ Bailey 6-0 192 11 year vet. Champ hasn't showed any signs of slowing down and was named to his 9th Prow Bowl. Voted Team Captain his work ethic and veteran leadership where vital in the Broncos finishing 7th in overall defense in 2009. I'm a huge Bailey fan but he will eventually loose a step and will not be the shutdown corner he has been. Some more young corners to learn from him should be brought in.

Andre Goodman 5-10 184 8 year vet. Goodman came over from Miami along with safety Renaldo Hill and played extremely well. It isn't easy to be the corner on the other side of Champ Bailey. Lead the club with 5 picks and 15 passes defensed. Should start next to Bailey in 2010 although McDaniles would like to see Alphonso Smith push him in training camp after trading a 2010 1st round pick to move up in the second round of 2009 to get him.

Alphonso Smith 5-9 190 Rookie. McDaniels and the Broncos rated him out as 1st round talent last year and moved up to draft him. Some fans have been very critical of him this year an I would like him to be taller but he has had his moments and will develop into a starter maybe when Bailey is done.

Tony Carter 5-9 175 Rookie. Carter was signed as a free agent and spent the first 14 games of 2009 on the practice squad. Was on the active roster for the final 2 games of the season and even started in front of Smith one game. Undersized but must have showed the Broncos more then Smith to start a game should be in on dime packages at a minimum in 2010.

Ty Law 5-10 200 15 year vet. Law was brought in and played right away mid season. Josh McDaniels continued to show his desire to sign ex-Partiot players. I don't see Law playing in Denver in 2010 and if he is I'll be concerned about our cornerbacks.

Rashod Moulton 5-11 184. Moulton spent the entire season on the practice squad for Jacksonville in 2007 and was out of football in 2008. Finished 2009 on the Broncos practice squad. Not much to say except the practice squad is best at developing lineman offensive and defensive not corners who usually have athletic skills and learn technique on the active roster.

I could see the Broncos using a 3rd or later draft pick on a corner depending on who is available when they draft in 2010. They will have time to develop behind Goodman and Bailey.

Jokers Wild Don"Wink" Martindale named Defensive Coordinator

As expected Don "Wink" Martindale was named Defensive Coordinator today. Josh McDaniels stated the defensive scheme will remain the same. We will miss Mike Nolan but Martindale appears to have the experience to keep Denvers defense improving. http://www.denverbroncos.com/page.php?id=334&storyID=9822

A look at the Running Backs

Running backs where interchangeable under Mike Shanahan. The zone blocking scheme was awesome at producing 1000 yard rushers. It didn't seem to matter who it was carrying the ball.



Josh McDaniels had made it clear that zone blocking will be gone and the offensive line will become bigger and stronger next year. My first reaction was "why change something that has worked so well?" But after thinking about it for a while, the zone blocking scheme was not all that effective on short yardage situations, goal line or not. So why not let McDaniels make the switch and see if a more physical running game can improve our Red Zone offense.



Knowshon Moreno 5-11 210 Rookie- Knowshon would benefit from the power running attack. He is a tough inside runner that continues to fight for extra yards. The extra effort resulted in to many fumbles. Moreno is also a good receiver out of the backfield but needs to become more adept at picking up blitzes. I'm sure Bobby Turner moving on to the Redskins will hurt but Knowshon is a hard worker with a positive attitude and will be an even better overall running back next year maybe even silencing some of his critics.



Correll Buckhalter 6-0 223 9 year vet. Buckhalter has had an injury riddled career an fought nagging injuries all year long. Correll went into the season as the starter but gave way to Moreno mid way through the season. His numbers looked better the Knowshon's as he had a higher yards per carry. I believe the zone blocking implemented by the Broncos offensive line was better suited to Buckhalters running style. Most of his effective runs started out off tackle and then one cut up field. His experience and talent will allow Denver to have a great 1-2 punch at Running Back in 2010.



Peyton Hillis 6-1 240 2nd year. Hillis was a fan favorite after becoming the starting RB in a season in which the Broncos' back field but 6 backs on the IR. Peyton was slow to pick up what McDaniels was putting out for the offense or just doesn't fit into Josh's plans at any rate Hillis will become a welcome addition to a team that needs a good all around fullback that can play tailback and has great hands. I wish the young man luck unless he is going against the Broncos.



Spencer Larsen 6-2 243 2nd year. Larsen drew allot of attention for playing both ways last year but even though I like the story and love a guy who works as hard as he does he just isn't good enough at fullback or Linebacker to play much full time but his versatility may land him a job.



LaMont Jordan 5-10 242 9 year vet. Jordan didn't get much playing time and I would be surprised to see him back in Denver next year despite McDaniles love of former Patriots.



The Broncos must become more consistent at running the ball in 2010. In 09 when they ran well they won or were in games. Lets hope the power running game brings consistency and more short yardage success in 2010.

Review of the Safety Play

Denver's Safety play was greatly improved over last year. In 2008 the safety play was the weakness of a bad Defense. Josh McDaniels went to the free agent market and was able to hit a homer run with veterans Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill. The development of Josh Barrett, David Bruton, and Darcel McBath makes the position appear a team strenght going into 2010.

Brian Dawkins- 6-0 210 14 year vet. Brian Dawkins exceeded the high expectations that Bronco fans had and was the inspirational leader of an over achieving defensive unit. The hard hitting safety was voted Team Captain and finished second on the team in tackles with 116. Brian may be in the twilight of his Hall of Fame career but he showed no signs of slowing down and was an inspiring leader on the defense.

Renaldo Hill- 5-11 205 9 year vet. Renaldo Hill played a solid safety for the Broncos in 2009. His experience as a corner allowed him to complement Dawkins run stopping and blitzing abilities. Darcel McBath will challenge Hill for playing time in 2010.

Josh Barrett- 6-2 2252nd year. Good combination of size and speed spent first 11 weeks of his rookie season on the practice squad but started the final three games. Josh was a special teams stand out in 2009 finishing seventh on the team in special teams tackles. I look for Barrett to develop under Dawkins enough that he may be able to step in when Dawkins retires.

Darcel McBath- 6-1 198 Rookie. Darcel was able to make an impact on special teams right away and led the team in special teams tackles. Got some significant playing time as the season progressed. Like Hill he has experience at corner that is a big plus for a free safety. I really see McBath starting at safety next to Dawkins before the end of next year maybe even at the start of next season. Finished the season on IR with a broken forearm.

David Bruton- 6-2 211 Rookie. David was also an impact player on special teams and started one game, against the Raiders. Could also push to step in for Dawkins but I like Barrett's size and hope he develops faster. That said Bruton can be a starter in the NFL at safety and isn't as raw as Barrett.

Vernon Fox- 5-10 206 8 year vet. Vernon was cut by the Broncos after training camp in 2009 but was resigned after Dacel McBath broke his forearm. I would expect the Broncos to replace Fox in camp with a late round pick or free agent next year.

I think the safety position was one of best things Josh McDaniels did last year Dawkins was great and Hill was also very strong. Two rookies came in and contributed on special teams and have a chance to develop into starters. I think the roster is set at safety position and not much will change at this position in the off season perhaps some free agents or a late round pick to come in and compete for a roster spot.

Pees out Martindale apears to be in

The coach that many had slated as the next defensive coordinator in Denver Dean Pees was announced as the Linebackers coach for the Ravens today.http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_14270808

The connection to Josh McDaniels through New England was thought to link him to the vacant Denver Broncos defensive coordinator job.

Now it appears that Don Martindale currently the Broncos Linebacker coach is the leading candidate.

Monday Review

Ok about time I had a good weekend picking. I may have gotten lucky with the Saints but some luck went against me early in the Playoffs. I'll be looking to pick the Super Bowl correctly and end with a 6 and 5 record. I'll post my picks the day before the Super Bowl. Sirius NFL radio is at the Senior Bowl I'll be listening and starting to work the Draft. Tomorrow I'll review the Safties.

The Broncos seem to be committed to converting to the power running style. I know the zone blocking worked so well with Shanahan but I really think that the change suits Knowshon Moreno better and will improve our Red Zone and short yardage running game. Lets be real while the Broncos have ran the ball well between the twenties the Red Zone and short yardage have been terrible.

If the Defense can continue to improve (may be difficult without Mike Nolan) and we become more of a physical team on offense Kyle Orton will be more effective. I think McDaniels will have the passing game working better next season.

Here's to a great off season.

Conference Championship Weekend

New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts- The Jets shocked me last week when they beat San Diego. I shouldn't have underestimated the combination of the NFL's top rushing attack and Defense. When Payton Manning struggles which is rare but when he does it's against 3-4 defense like the Jets. The Colts have been knocked out of the playoffs by the Steelers, Patriots, and Chargers all 3-4 teams. After saying all that I still have to go with Payton Manning and the Colts in this one. The Colts run defense is under rated. The Jets D will be effective but in the end it will be the Colts defense that wins the game. The Colts will score enough to win look for Dallas Clark to have a big game like Gates did last week. Colts win 20-10.

Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints- This game is going to be great. I picked against both teams last week. The Saints snapped out of their losing streak and the Vikes took it to the hot Dallas Cowboys. This game will be a shoot out, Favre against Brees. The Vikings have the better defense but the home field advantage and Drew Brees are enough to tip the scales in favor of the Saints 38-31.

Defensive Line Break Down

After the 2008 season and amid all the drama with the Shanahan firing, Cutler trade and Brandon Marshall's off field adventures popular opinion was that the defensive front seven would be a focus of the Broncos in the off season. It turns out that while there where plenty of new faces no real impact player was added.



Ronald Fields 6'2" 314 was the starting nose tackle. Starting NT in the 3-4 is more about disruption and taking on blocks to free up the inside linebackers then sacks and tackles. Fields did a fine job primarily at the beginning of the season and was second among Bronco defensive linemen in tackles. I would hope someone a little bigger will step up next year if we are to improve our run defense. Chris Baker or Carlton Powell have a shot.



Ryan McBean 6'5" 297 was a second year starter that had a solid year and will compete to stay in the defensive line rotation.

Kenny Petterson 6'3" 265 7th year player that made some big plays I believe he is the most secure of the starting D linemen to retain his starting role.

Vonnie Holiday 6'5" 285 was second in sacks on the team the 12 year veteran brings experience to otherwise fairly young line and should be back.

Chris Baker 6'2" 329 listed as the 3rd NT in my opinion has the best chance of anyone on the roster to be the dominant nose tackle we need to run the 3-4. Many thought he was the second best nose tackle in the 09 draft perhaps a 2nd or 3rd round pick. Off the field problems forced his transfer from Penn State to Hampton University and dropped him completely out of the draft. Over come the off the field distractions and after one year on the team I look for Chris Baker to be a force on the Broncos front in 2010.

Marcus Thomas 6'3" 316 listed as the second string NT lead the defensive line in tackles. I see Marcus as a better fit as a 3-4 defensive end if Chris Baker improves at NT next year.

LeKevin Smith 6'3" 308, Everette Pedescleaux, and J'Vonne Parker will add depth and compete for a roster spot.

Carlton Powell 6'2" 312 spent his rookie year 2008 on the PUP list after injuring his right achilles tendon. This next year will be his make or break he either catches on with Denver or will likely be a journeyman Defensive Lineman.

Look for the Broncos to get at least 5 new faces to compete for time in the defensive line rotation. Increasing the size is a must to take some heat of the linebackers so they can flow to the ball carrier.

The key may be who is going to be the new defensive coordinator.

Offensive Line Review

To me the offensive line was disappointing this past year. We are set at Tackle as long as Ryan Harris can return healthy next year. Up the middle tough we struggled.

It appears that Josh McDaniels will be changing from the zone blocking style that was so successful under Mike Shanahan. While I hate to see the ZBS move one it doesn't fit the McDaniels offense. My hope is that by switching to the power blocking we can have a more effective running game in the red zone and I really think it will fit Knowshon Moreno's style better. I'll take a look at the offensive lineman on the roster and make some predictions as to what the Broncos will do as far as the O-line. In general the Broncos will be getting larger on the O-line and and moving away from the smaller more athletic lineman that are required in the ZBS.

Ryan Clady LT- Not much to say he is headed to the Pro Bowl. He was not as dominant as last year but that can be said of the entire offense. Clady is a unique blend of size and athleticism making him effective at both pass and run blocking. He has the size(6'6 325) and has shown that he should be a corner post of the Denver Broncos and should be locked to a long term contract as soon as possible most likely after next season.

Ryan Harris RT- As mentioned earrlier the tackles did well last year. Harris ended the year on IR (toe) and may not be available for all off season activities. At 6'5 300 he should fit McDaniels offense and if health can be relied upon to hold down right tackle.

Ben Hamilton LG - 6'4 290 the 9 year vet will be moving on to a team that zone blocks (Houston, Seattle, Washington). I will miss Hamilton but the move to larger linemen makes him expendable.

Casey Wiegaman C - 6'2 285 again this 14 year vet isn't big enough to fit the system and will be gone next year altough he started all 16 games.

Chris Kuper RG- 6-4 302 Kuper a 4 year vet is a restricted free agent if there is no labor agreement and should stay in Denver I think McDaniels would like a bigger guard but Kuper did a good job.

Tyler Polumbus T- 6-8 310 took over for Harris after his injury and did a fair job as a backup will likely remain the top backup tackle on the roster as McDaniels beefs up the inside trio.

Russ Hochstien G- 6'4 305. Was in New England with McDaniels and replaced Hamilton at left guard until he was placed on the IR. Should be back to compete for the left guard next year.

Seth Olsen G/T- 6-6 305 has experience in college at both guard and tackle. Much to plodding to be effective pulling. Is naturally big and a powerful run blocker. Will eb a long shot to play much but should make roster for depth.

Brandon Gorin T- 6'6 307 another form Pat started 23 games from 2003-2005. Will add experienced depth if he makes the roster.

D'Anthony Batistle T- 6'4 314 4 year vet on practice squad is unlikely to make an impact next year.

Mitch Erickson G-6'6 290 will be a victim of the up sizing O line.

Matt McChesney G at 333 fits the increase in size but at this point nothing but training camp fodder.

Dustin Fry C 326 huge center another example of the increased size intriguing to me because of the size at center.

I believe that there will be many interior lineman brought in from free agency and later in the draft to compete for left guard and center during training camp and the pre season.

Here is hoping that increased size will increase the up the middle running capability of the Broncos. The offensive line should be an overpowering group next year.

Mike Nolan next victim

One thing that is consistent in the Denver Bronco organization has been a new defensive coordinator each year. The Broncos are expected to hire former New England Dean Pees according to the Denver Post. Pees chose not to renew his contract that expired. The Post may be correct but Pees sounds like a man who should consider retirement to me. He had to leave the last game of the year in the second half with shortness of breath, had prostate cancer surgery during the summer and fought blood clots in his leg. He is reportedly cancer free but is facing other medical issues. http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/news/story?id=4826721&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines

Mike Nolan and Josh McDaniles met after the completion of the season and agreed that their coaching styles would clash and are parting ways. I think that the hiring of Mike Nolan was one of the few things McDaniles got right. If there are any doubts look who has already signed Nolan as D coordinator. The Miami Dolphins with Bill Parcells calling the shots that's a sure sign that Nolan is top notch.

I understand McDaniles wanting people he is familiar with to be his assistant coaches and Pees seems to have had success in New England but his health is a real concern.

This story also adds to the growing opinion that McDaniels is hard to work for. To this point the evidence has come from his dealings with players like Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler. But now it's McDaniels and a highly effective and respected coach that was hired by another team in less 24 hours.

As I've said before while I hope Denver can turn it around next year it looks like the team is getting worse not better. I don't know what the off season has in store for us but things are not looking good to this point.

As for my miserable picks for the Divisional Round what can I say other then I gave to much credit to Kurt Warner and not enough to Favre and the Jets Defense and end up 1-3 for a total of 3-5 for the playoffs. Terrible start but maybe I will be the opposite off the Broncos and start slow but finish strong if I go perfect the rest of the way I'll be over .500 at 6-5.

I took that last few days off working on my evaluation of different positions on the Broncos roster and where I think they should improve the most in the off season. I will be posting the O-line evaluation tomorrow. Next week the Sirius NFL radio crew will be headed to the Senior Bowl and they will start to evaluate the Draft.

NFL Divisional Playoff Picks

Last week I was 50% not good enough I need to step it this week.

Arizona Cardinals @ New Orleans Saints- I made the mistake of underestimating Kurt Warner last week. Green Bay came back and made it a great game but a poor start and a poor finish doomed them. This week the Cards will likely have Anquan Boldin back he is tough, and even if they don't have Boldin, Breston and Doucet really stepped up. The Saints biggest weakness has been stopping the run and the Cards now have a running attack with Wells and Hightower. The Saints are on a losing streak and have let other teams stay in games even get ahead of them throughout the regular season. Besides how can I go against someone who before Arena Football and then the NFL was bagging groceries in Iowa. Cards win 42-31?

Baltimore Ravens @ Indianapolis Colts- The Ravens shocked at least one person (me) last week in handing the Patriots their first home loss of the season.  Meanwhile the Colts shut it down and rested starters after locking up home field advantage. In the playoffs it normally comes down to who has the best quarterback and coaching. Peyton Manning is arguably the best quarterback in the NFL but who knows about Jim Caldwell really. Pass protection and stopping the run must be the key focus of the Colts who start slow but win 28-17.

Dallas Cowboys @ Minnesota Vikings- The Cowboys came through for me last week and are playing great despite the coaching of Wade Phillips. Brett Favre is having a great season and is keeping the turnovers down, the Vikings Defensive line is stout against the run and will control Marion Barber but Felix Jones will have a couple of big plays. Tony Romo out plays Favre and gets the win 27-20.

New York Jets @ San Diego Chargers- The Jets also came through for me last week and the only team I dislike more than the Chargers is the Raiders (even thought the Raiders are irrelevent) but I just don't think the Jets are going to have enough Offense to keep up with the powerful Charger Offense. Darrelle Revis may slow down Vincent Jackson but even if he does the Kerry Rhodes Antonio Gates match up very much favors the Chargers. The top rushing attack of the Jets will be taken away by the Chargers offense more than the defense and the Bolts win 36-17.

Broncos Coaching Changes

I should have seen it coming Mike Shanahan has used the associate coach title before of course he would use it to get Bobby Turner. Turner will be missed in Denver as will Rick Denison who is headed to Houston. I think that coach McDaniels was ready to replace Denison anyway and move away from the zone blocking that has made the Broncos one of the best if not the best running teams in the NFL over the last 15 years. I can hope that the power blocking works in Denver. More personnel changes are sure to be on the way. Ben Hamilton, Casey Wiegmann and Chris Kuper are likely going to be on the move. Perhaps we can send them to the Redskins, Texans, or Seahawks. The ties are obvious Shanahan and Turner in Washington, Kubiac and Dennison in Houston and with Pete Carroll hiring Alex Gibbs in Seattle. The zone blocking scheme will live on just not in Denver.

More of a power run game and a stronger Defense are all good moves if it happens. Can Mike Nolan return the Denver D back to the days of the Orange Crush I think he can. I'm not as confident that McD and who ever he brings in as running back coach and offensive line coach will be as successful. I was excited when they drafted Knowshon Moreno; his determined power running style I thought would work well in the one cut zone blocking system in Denver. I wonder if McD was drafting him to run in a more Patriot like power game. Changing the O line along with the other changes made on the roster may have been more then McDaniels wanted to take on in one season. While the Broncos line was one of the best under Shanahan in order for McDaniels to run the style of Offense he wants to, changes will have to be made. I hope that all works out in the end and McDaniels is as advertised.

As a devoted Bronco fan I will continue to state my opinion but at the end of the day all I really want is a competitive Bronco team that has a chance to win a Super Bowl. I'm willing to wait, I've waited before I just hope this period of change (rebuilding) doesn't actually set us back.

COACHING CHANGES IN DENVER

While many fans are calling for the fire of Josh McDaniels just as many it seems are supporting the first year head coach. When coach Shanahan was fired I was surprised and upset I wondered who out there available to be Head Coach would be an improvement? I still am not sure if we have improved at the Head Coach position; but I'm a Bronco fan and I understand that McDaniels is likely here for two more years. Part of the reason I feel this way is because I resit change in almost everything. While I have never met coach Shanahan I feel as if he was an old friend one who has brought two Super Bowls to Denver. I always new what I was getting no real surprises. I could count on having one of the best running games in the league, a Defense that showed promise at times but never really got the job done and an offense that could move the ball between the twenties as good as any.

Now Shanahan is in Washington and wanted to interview Bobby Turner, probably the the best running backs coach in the NFL. The Broncos said no which is there right as Turner is under contract and I would like to see him stay in Denver.

The Texans asked to interview Rick Denison the O line coach who learned the Zone Blocking Technique from the great Alex Gibbs. Denison is most likely being interviewed for the Offensive Coordinator job and is all but a lock to get it. I think this is a sign that the Broncos are going away from the zone blocking and moving to the slant blocking or power blocking technique. They have also signed 3 O-line man that are over 300 lbs. Denver's O-line has been undersized and a little more athletic than most in order to run the ZBS.

It seems clear to me that Coach McDaniels is cleaning house and changing schemes. Coach Nolan did a great job his first year changing to the 3-4. The offensive change was not as successful and with McDaniels being an offensive mind he has decided to just change over to the system he ran in New England (it may be a little to much to call it his system it's more Charle Wies's) completely he may or may not keep players who where productive under Shanahan. All of this drives me crazy as like I said resist change in my life and enjoy the comfort of what I know.

In the coming months with the free agent signing starting in March and the Draft in April I will try to keep my mind open to change. If and I still believe that's a big IF the D continues to improve and McD can improve the Offense especially in the Red Zone maybe I can grow comfortable and even optimistic about the Broncos future. At any rate change is here and I might as well welcome it as difficult as that may be. Success next year would sure make it easier to grow comfortable.

Wild Card Week Results

My Saturday picks went well but today went just the oposite that I planned. I realy tought the Ravens where a better team but didn't want to go againts Tom Brady and Bill Biliechek at home. Wow was I wrong look how far the the Pats have fallen. The other game what a slug fest like all play off games mistakes were magnified and turnovers where the difference. Good news for me was Warner and Rogers where my quarterbacks in the fantasy playoff challenge.

Crimson Tide National Champions

Good game I kind of lost interest at the half and turned the channel. I was surprised to see the Freshman Gilbert make a game of it. I'm not trying to take anything away from Bama but no Colt McCoy resulted in those turnovers that was the difference in the game. Unfortunate for McCoy I believe it will adversely effect his draft position. We will see what the doctors say. I had Bama in this one but now I wonder what would have happened if McCoy had not been knocked out of the game. Bama won on what I saw as their strengths though no secret here running the ball and defense. I do kind of question what could be called (at least I would call it) running up the score. No style points in the championship game I can see it early in the year to get the higher ranking but in the final game of the year bad form.

Wild Card Weekend Preview

Lets see if I can get lucky and get a few games right.

Jets @ Bengals- The game from last week moves to Cincinnati but I don't think it will change the out come it should be a closer game but still the Jets pull it off. QB Mark Sanchez should not throw the ball much maybe 15 times more then that and they must be playing from behind. He will hit a couple of long plays on play action though because the Bengals need to commit to stopping the run after giving up over 250 yards last week. The Jets really bring it from the Defensive side of the ball and have the NFL's best rushing attack. Jets in a close one 17-10.

Eagles @ Cowboys- It is historically hard to bet the same team three times in one season, Andy Reid is a better coach then Wade Phillips, but the Cowboys have really come on strong and the running game will be the difference. Cowboys 27-24.

Ravens @ Patriots- Our third rematch New England having won in week 4. The lose of Wes Welker is going to be huge but it's hard to go against Brady and the Hoodie. The Patriots stay undefeated at home and win again 30-20.

Packers @ Cardinals- Another one week later rematch but I feel this one will go the same way as last week. Kurt Warner keeps it closer but Arizona needs all their weapons at full speed and even if the tough Anquan Boldin plays he wont be 100% and Ryan Grant for the Packers is playing like he did 2 years ago Packers in a high scoring exciting game 37-30.

Lets see how close I can get on the scores.

Josh McDaniels I'll give him a chance

It seems the most popular topic in Bronco land post season is if the Josh McDaniels hire was good or bad. The fact is it's to early to tell. McDaniels does deserve another couple of years to get a implement his players and system. The comparisons to Shanahan are pre-mature. there is no way anyone can say with any certainty how this is going to work out. I enjoy reading others opinions and I have my own but in the end we should be thankful for the success we had during the Shanahan years and hopeful for the future with McDaniels.

Pardon the Interruption

Interesting topic on PTI. I could not hear from where I was but the question was who will make it ind to the Super Bowl first; the Denver Broncos or Mike Shanahan. Unfortunatley I think it will be Shanny. The Redskins have a great D and the Mastermind will make thier offense better right away. The main problem the Skins have is the division in which they play. The NFC East may be the toughest in the NFL. I sure hope I'm wrong and Denver can turn things around and make it back to the Super Bowl with Josh McDaniels as coach, he is young and I'm sure he will improve going into next year.

Congrats to the Wasshington Redskin Fans

The Redskins will be a greatly improved team next year under Mike Shanahan. I wish them luck as long as they are not playing the Denver Broncos. Which shouldn't happen next year as we played the NFC East this year. Here is hoping our McDaniels next season goes better both on and off the field. As much as I want to know everything going on with the Broncs allot of this past years off the field drama might have been better handled in the locker room and not in the media. X and O's wise I hope that McD can bring in some more talent and with another year under his system offensively and Mike Nolan's defensively we can improve in all areas as Bronco fans have come to expect.

The way ahead

Well lets take a look at what we need to improve on first:

1. Red zone offense- To me our most glaring weakness. The o line got little or no movement for the most part all year even before the Ryan Harris injury. When we scored on a run play it was usually due to great effort by Moreno. Penalties all year long in the red zone made for bad down and distance. The passing game was to conservative and willing to settle for three. Sure we don't want turnovers but Orton's low INT rate was partly due to ultra conservative offense most notably in the red zone.

2. Pass rush- Take away Elvis and we really had none. I expected more from the other LB's this year. It didn't take long (6 weeks) for the rest of the NFL to have us pegged.

3. Tackling- as the season went on the tackling got worse this has been the case for the past few years.

4. Punting- what happened if we make a mid season change it should be for the better. Although Berger had a good game today.

What did we do right must be some thing to go 8-8.

1. Improved D- During the first six weeks we had top notch D. Our strong point was our coverage in the secondary. With league rules the way they are favoring the WR and our lack of pressure our DB's did well all year long.

2. Turnovers- Another reason we did so well in the first six weeks. Fewer turnovers on offense and more turnovers created by the D.

How do we get better?

1. System familiarity- Orton should be better next year with a year in McD's system (like it or not who else will be under center). The D will be better as well with another year of Nolan.

2. More talent- get players more suited to the 3-4 in the front seven. Beefier O-line based on new philosophy. I hope we don't take a step back in the talent department on offense players like Hillis, Royal, Stokely, the O-line all had better seasons last year.

3. Coaching- Lets face it our HC made some rookie mistakes and needs to get better at managing the ego's that exist on all teams in the NFL even in New England look at the support Randy Moss got after the Carolina game.


I will always be a Bronco fan first and fore most but clearly we have some improving to do to get back to the Super Bowl or maybe we should concentrate on getting to the playoffs first.

KC game

The Broncos are sure making this a lot tougher then I thought it was going to be. And as much as I hate the Oakland Raiders we need them or the Bengals to win.