Mile High Report

i must agree...

As a Niners fan I was hoping that Tebow could mature Elway style, namely by losing horribly to the Niners in the Superbowl but that’ll have to wait until next year. Heh…

My point is that I really like your team right now and I suspect that the Broncos are only a couple of years from being a regular favorite to be in the superbowl.

Don’t get me wrong, I hope you always lose to the Niners but I truly believe that your team (led by Tiny Tim) has the makings of a great team and it won’t be long I fear.

You’ve a great fanbase and believe me… we over at ninernation can empathize. We really can.

Lastly, God help us all if you guys pick up a couple of great Tight-ends like SF or NE. I can’t even imagine…

Delmuir - January 16, 2012 via mobile reply

TE must become more of a part of our O going forward. I'm not

sure if it was the lack of play-calling on Fox/McCoys part or if TT was not getting it to them but we’ve got to use them more in the O. Fells was a great pickup and Rosario had his moments. You cannot win big today without TEs.

reading this I smiled

I was watching Sunday countdown and hodge was at it again claiming teams that face tebow the second time have him figured out. Blah blah blah. Tough loss great season. Never would of believed this could of happen. That being said this team has work to do and I can’t wait to make my first trip out to Dove Valley this summer for training camp. Go Broncos!

TommyTSlice - January 15, 2012 via iPhone app reply

Sounds good. If all goes well, I'll make my first trip to training camp, as well.

Fingers crossed

The offense will have a lot more chemistry after a full off season

We can’t forget that we’re the youngest offense in the NFL

ElwayFanJ - January 15, 2012 reply

Good point.... the lockout really killed us.

every team was locked out

some teams had it even worse.

But for a young team with a new head coach, it had to have been worse.

I don't know

we had the same offensive coaches and playbook…teams like San Fran had to start from scratch

True, but we also switched up the offensive philosophy midseason, as well.

yeah but that's by choice

not due to lockout

True.

By choice or not means nothing.

It goes towards the uphill battle offensive chemistry was this year, and the implications towards the room for improvemnt for next year’s chemistry.

Also switched qbs

San Fran

over the last 6 or 7 years have had a ton of HIGH draft picks. it not like there was no talent on that team. In fact it was just the opposite. And really not even comparable to the Broncos situation.

please read thoroughly

because we’re discussing the lockout’s effect not talent levels

It has everything to do with the niners turn around

even with the lock out. Its not even comparable to what we went through here :)

you're telling me

the lockout affected the Broncos more than others? Somebody will have to show me the evidence of this.

show us evidence that it didnt.

You don't prove a negative....

Good lord people.

Prove to me there’s not a teacup floating between the orbits of Earth and Mars.

I saw it...and I am missing one!

I'm late, I'm late

for a very special tea party beyond the Moon!

OFF WITH THEIR HEADS

KarlMecklenburg77 - January 15, 2012 reply

The Lockout didn't effect the Patriots as much. They didn't need an offseason to gel. And Brady doesn't need to see Belicheck every day to know the playbook.

alkatraz76 - January 15, 2012 reply

Maybe the fact that San Frans Qb has been starting for six years? That might help a bit

Ya you're right

he didn’t have to learn a completely new offence either. Wait…

Alex Smith is a 6-7 year vet, Tebow essentially a rookie. There's your difference.

what's with you and Tebow

you always seem to bring him up to defend him when nobody’s talking about him? I didn’t mention his name once. Get off it buddy and learn to read.

hey genius...miss this did ya?

“Maybe the fact that San Frans Qb has been starting for six years? That might help a bit”

OOOOOOPS. Looks like I am right again. Scorch.

JohnCalvinKnox - January 21, 2012 reply

Give me a break.

Young team and new coach plays no role?
You’re effectively claiming that having veterans and returning coaches is no advantage or head start.
Sounds ridiculous hen rephrased, doesn’t it?

yes, but talent level is part of their turnaround

They have better talent on their team, part of the reason for the big turnaround.

yes I agree

they’re better. I\m not arguing that I’m saying they were no less affected by the lockout. They had just as much to overcome as us and talent was the difference.

so were in agreement?

no because

they had to overcome more than we did. They came out better because of talent.

How exactly did they have to overcome more

Please dont use the “same coordinator, same playbook” mantra from earlier. That reason goes out the window when you consider we completely overhauled the offense when Tebow took over. Not to mention it got us the #1 rushing attack in the NFL

yes but thats not lockout related

How about the fact that they didn't replace their quarterback six games in?

And the fact that the quarterback in question was one TT for whom an entirely new offense was designed.

San Fran Forty Niners have also been picking in the top ten since the 2004 season

ultraclassic04 - January 15, 2012 reply

As a niner fan...

Let’s acknowledge the fact that this is true… the team has been perennially underachieving and stockpiling talent.

I love Harbaugh but I can’t see him being coach of the year over John Fox. Your team is going to be good in a couple of years but you aren’5 ready yet.

IMHO, the Broncos played over their talent level and that is a testament to coaching. In a year or two when your offense and defense mature then you’ll be truly dangerous… maybe even great.

Delmuir - January 16, 2012 via mobile reply

You are making a ton of sense man...sure you dont want to be a Broncos fan???

I am a closest 49ers fan…like the team a lot, always been a fan of the under dog and always saw upside in Alex Smith.
Anyhow, if you cant be stoked on what we are seeing with a very young team with obvious holes then you own a Labrador
We have holes everywhere, yet what I wanted to see happened….DEVLOPMENT of young players…..I am excited. A couple of key FA acquisitions (please I want Carl Nicks!) and some more youth at key positions we will build a winner. I am still not sold on McCoy, but he gets the benefit of the doubt for next season.
Great post KB…peace!

You can't "but" with the 49'ers....

They performed an amazing turnaround.

The difference I would argue again comes down to this teams roster. The depth is non-existent. And in many places the starters are woefully lacking as well…

I've not argued that

I said the lockout affected everyone not just the Broncos so we can’t use that as an excuse. I’m not saying anything about talent

teams with better roster talent/depth are better able to overcome a lockout

so it's a talent problem

not a lockout problem….teams with more talent have more talent. We went through the lockout and so did they. They have better players so they’re better. If they had a full offseason and we had a full offseason they’d still be better

It's an experience problem.

Simple as that.

tonks - January 15, 2012 reply

This is a crock of horse crap!

6 different defensive coordinators in 6 years and 3 different head coaches in 4 years? Please. The Broncos were at a disadvantage with the lockout along with the 9ers, Titans and the Panthers. The 9ers have had an outstanding season with all the difficulties and that is an anomoly. Teams like the Steelers, Ravens, Bengals, Patriots, Bears, Chargers, Jets, Giants, Texans, Saints, Falcons and Eagles have had it easier because of the continuity they had with players and coaches. Teams with talent like the Redskins, Buccaneers, Raiders, Seahawks, Rams, Browns, Chiefs and Vikings struggled too with first and second year head coaches and staff. Sure the lockout affected everybody, but some with less time witheir teams had it much harder. Some teams are failures every year because of poor magagement and that is their faults. Thiose teams are the Cardinals, Colts, Dolphins and Jaguars. Rookies and 2nd year players missed further develop in the last offseason and trying to evaluate them talent wise until they do is ludicrous.

bfree2bronc - January 15, 2012 reply

you just made my point

I said that the Broncos were affected but some other teams had it worse. I used San Fran as an example. Another would be Cincy.

So, i agree with both T Dot AND Bill.....

The team was effected by the lock out as much as any team, more so than the perennial club house leaders, yet we got thru to divisional play offs.
Can we all agree we over came a ton and Fox and Elway deserve a tip of the hat?

^This^^^^

and rec’d

Now

you’re guessing. good job…not

grampa16 - January 16, 2012 reply

haha a not joke

thanks for the contribution

not on D. SF had a great D going in, picked up a couple more good pieces and were in. They were in a much better position

personell wise than we were. Just shows you how poorly coached they have been over the past couple of years. Fox is OK but I sure was pulling for Harbaugh for us last Jan-Feb. He has confirmed my beliefs.

I dont know what could be worse

than hiring a new HC, who for the most part had to work with a roster that wasnt his. Changes in offense and defense with no time to implement the changes. Not having the proper personnel to execute The overall lack of talent on the roster to begin with. A Qb controversy, a change of QB’s a little over a 1/4 of the way into the season. Loosing key players to injury. Yes we still managed to pull out victory after victory, the get to the division round of the playoffs. Wow talk about a glass half empty fan. There are a lot of things to look forward to, and a lot more teams that have way more problems to over come than the Denver Broncos. If you cant see that then I guess some people are just never happy :)

we had the same playbook

and offensive coaching staff with the same terminology…the lockout did not hinder our offence any more than any other team is what I’m saying

the same playbook

that got us to 4-12 last season LOL Cheer up this team is heading in the right direction, and that fact alone says it.

it's an opinion

not fact

Well you can wallow in your

woe is me, defeatist attitude all you like. You enjoy your view of the Broncos and Ill enjoy my view of the Broncos and agree to disagree :)

who said anything about woe is me

I’m as happy as a clam bro…don’t assume you know things about others just because they fell like luck had a lot to do with where we ended up and we shouldn’t count on it next year. If you don’t think we need vast improvement then you haven’t been watching

So going from 4-12 to 8-8 is not improvemnt

And I dont assume, I infer from what I read from your posts. So I will leave it at that and I say good luck to you in finding some sort of happiness wherever you can find it.

thanks man

I appreaciate it.

ps

show me where I said we didn’t improve?

You insinuating pretty heavily right here

but this team will need VAST improvement from almost every position to even come close to replicating this season. I enjoyed the journey but I wasn’t fooled.

I insinuated nothing

I said what I said. We were better this year than last year and we’ll need to be much better next year if we want to get back to this level and compete….am I wrong in my assessment?

No

but I can easily see us at 11-5, first place schedule be danged, we are going to be much better because Elway drafts really well

well lets hope so

It’s to early to make a difinitive statement on how he drafts although so far it looks good. We need to hit some homeruns and sign some players that perform to their contract.

To even get back to 8-8 we must improve greatly

so in other words judging from your other posts, we are really a 4-12 team that got extremely lucky to be 8-8. So you’re saying we didnt improve.

we have a first place schedule next year

that alone will require improvement to match this years record. I think this team talent wise was somewhere around a 6 win team. We overacheaved due to some inspirational performances and some luck. I’m not stating this as fact but as opinion of course. I just think we’ll have to be much better next year.

my only qualm

with the first-place schedule comment is you never know how teams will fare from one season to the next

Thats true

It’s not guaranteed to be tougher just theoretically tougher

the theory needs testing

And I’d be happy to see the numbers.

Year in and year out people say — oh look at that brutal stretch between weeks x and y. And by the time week x comes about the teams in the “brutal” stretch have suffered injuries, underperformed or otherwise imploded.

I'm pretty sure we witnessed that plenty this year

Chicago and Pittsburgh come to mind

1st place schedule does not mean as much as

it used to. With FA the way it is the “worst to first” phenomenon is not such a, well..phenomenon. Our schedule this year, after a 4-12 season was one of tougher ones in the NFL. Parity is here.

notice I'm not saying we won't be a much better team

because with some development and some key additions it’s etirely possible we will be. But we’ll have to make it happen.

I guess

that fully sums it up right there.

grampa16 - January 16, 2012 reply

That playbook got tossed out the window when Tebow took over

so the fact that this team got to 8-8 with a lockout, a QB change, and an offensive philosophy change is huge.

that's a mid season choice

not affected by the lockout

Yeah it is affected by the lockout

When your young QB had no training camps, no playbook dedicated to him, oh and a team with a ton of rookies starting with no minicamps either. So they had less to overcome

it was affected by the lockout

because if there was no work stoppage, Orton would have been kicked to the curb a lot sooner with Tebow having a chance to work on his game

If the lockout killed us

we’re freaking zombies because teams that start 2-5 aren’t supposed to win playoff games tht same season!

A lot of things had to go our way for us to get this far

a lot of unbelievable, miraculous things. Those types of events are exceptions not the norm and we can’t count on them next year. Sure we may have some luck here and there but we can’t expect to be so fortunate. The Broncos don’t have to apologise for being lucky this year and it was a lot of fun but this team will need VAST improvement from almost every position to even come close to replicating this season. I enjoyed the journey but I wasn’t fooled.

Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.

There were people who were playing the Stokley catch as a fluke, but last time I checked, there’s still a W next to the Broncos vs Bengals game from back in the day.

You’re totally right. We shouldn’t apologize. The wins were wins.

If I’m walking down the street and find $100 I’d say that was luck and random chance….some people say you create your own luck which may be true on occasion but sometimes it’s just random chance

But you made the effort to get out of bed and walk down the street when you just as easily could have driven to your destination.

lol well there was no preparation involved

just me making a series of unrelated decisions that led to a random finding….lol

The point is that "random" events happen to everyone.

Particularly when they're on the same field

and playing the same game by the same rules. One must be in position to create “luck”.

yes they do

but not in equal amounts all the time. Random things happen to everyone in random frequencies.

Here's the thing about luck and randomness TDot

They tend to even out over time. In this season alone there have been just as many unlucky things as lucky things happen. Consider the dropped balls, bad calls, injuries and we’re every bit as unlucky as we have been lucky.

Great point.

Take the bears game for example. People act as though barber out of bounds was the only break of the game, while ignoring that non catch called a catch barber made late in the game, and the bs block in the back call on our td return.

It balances out. If anything, it is like finding 100 bucks after a hailstorm smashed your windshield. Even Steven.

The problem with this argument specifically is your assertion that somehow the circumstances of Denver games where those "events are exceptions not the norm"

Are you sure? I would say you have some empirical evidence based on what you have seen.

But has anyone gone back and done a game by game analysis of games played by teams like the 1998 Broncos, the 49’ers of the Montana/Young era, etc….

What factor did “luck” play in their successful seasons?

I’m not saying to discount fortunate events, but this analysis where we say that everything this team and Tebow accomplished is based on some exorbitant amount of luck is not complete I would say.

every team has luck

but it’s not somthing to expect….hell I’d say we had our share of bad luck the last few years

Finding the $100 4-5 times in a row is not luck however, that means

you’ve gotten good at looking for money. We may have thought John Elway getting us to the first SB was luck because we all said he had inferior talent around him that he carried to the big game, but after the 3rd one in a row with basically the same level of talent around him, we could no longer call it luck. TT going on the winning streak he was on and getting us to the playoffs cannot be called luck. I think what we witnessed this year was a player(s) winning despite lack of experience and w/o polished skill sets (which will come with the experience). Much of what we saw this year was accomplished with heart (willpower, drive) and raw ability. This bodes very well for the future if those involved polish the gem in the offseason and training camps.

obviously those close/comeback wins showed tremendous poise

heart and grit. That said, over the course of thousands of NFL games, teams pretty much win at the rate their point differential would expect them to. For example:

Bart Starr
Expected Winning Percentage (based on point differential): 71.9%.
Actual Winning Percentage: 69.7%.

Joe Montana
Expected Winning Percentage: 73.5%
Actual Winning Percentage: 74.1%

John Elway
Expected Winning Percentage: 60.0%
Actual Winning Percentage: 63.4%

This year after the QB change the Broncos had an expected winning percentage of 38%, and went 7-4 (63.6%).

To use your money example, this is like a situation where nobody out of many hundreds of example has ever proven good at finding money, and yet based on a sample size of like 10, you determine that you are the very first person to possess that skill.

atomiccafe - January 16, 2012 reply

Fun year, time to come back to earth.

I agree with your post.

I don’t see how this team doesn’t take a step back next year with all of the holes they have. Tebow has to get better, a lot better and fast.

BroncoBuff - January 15, 2012 reply

One time is luck.
Twice is chance.
Three times is a coincidence.
Four times is skill.
Five times is habit.

You cannot attribute luck to everything, bucko. Luck ceases to become luck when it happens over and over and over again. You can go point out Barber going out of bounds and I’ll point to a defense that kept us in the game that long. You can point to an onside kick recovery and I’ll point to the hours spent practicing that very play. You can point to lots of things and I’ll point to the fact that no one play ever decides an entire game.

There were lucky moments, but the season itself was earned with heart and sweat. Your comments are ridiculously shortsighted and it makes me sad for you. Give credit where it’s due. Yes, the team needs work but there are going to be 31 teams going to the drawing board this season. The Denver Broncos, your team and mine, are going back two weeks later than most. For you to attribute that to luck is an affront to every player on that team.

Show a little respect.

GTFO of here witht he no respect thing

I’m not disrespecting anyone. The overacheived and they had a lot of things go their way. They also played tough hard ball and kept themself in games to a point where a little luck could put them over the top. If you don’t see how fortunate this team was throughout the year then you missed a lot. You can’t rely on crazy events to get by every time. They’ll have to be better.

TEBOW is not the answer

But we have bigger holes to fill

scottwchicago - January 15, 2012 reply

Why isn't he?

Honestly, I’m not looking to fight, I just want your opinion to why he isn’t? He played well this year. Especially for a “rookie” QB. And IMO he showed a lot of growth and progression throughout the season. I think consistency is his biggest flaw and area of improvement, but that will come. I think he’s great and deserves the shot to lead this team.

RebelChris - January 15, 2012 via mobile reply

As when he was drafted. He needs 2-3 years to correct flaws.

THIS DOES NOT MEAN YOU PLAY HIM. He MUST work with coaches.
John Elway stated that ‘we must start with his footwork’ then correct the arm mechcanics.
BUT YOU DO NOT SACRIFICE 52 PLAYERS TO DEVELOPE JUST ONE!!

DLMyers - January 15, 2012 reply

Tebow led this team to the playoffs. He will start 2012 and beyond.

Dove Valley will be burned to the ground otherwise.

Yikes

so if Tebow stinks out the joint, fans will burn the place down?

I agree with JCK....

Regardless of his play, if he is benched, the fanbase may march on Dove Valley with pitchforks and torches….

well

then that speaks volumes for the fanbase. Players come and go it’s the Broncos that are forever/

Todays NFL fans are pathetic for the most part and the Bronco fans seem to be spoiled as well.

Many of us were around for the first SB run. We were here for the first winning season and those are TRUE fans, not the fair weather variety that we see too much of today. Those fans stuck behind the players, not the uniform.

as they should

While you hate Tebow (it's obvious)...

You are in the minority. He put 300 yards and 30 points on the #1 defense. As many others have pointed out, several QB’s have stunk it up in the playoffs and been kept in their position. Or do you forget 55-10 SB good ol Elway lost?

Tebow also spent the night on his back and running for his life. His recievers dropped sure catches or flat could not get open. He led them to the playoffs. The players love him and go to battle for him. Elway is his biggest fan. The people in Colorado love him. He is here for a good while. Enjoy.

when did I say I hated Teboy

*Tebow

I appologize. I attributed another quote to you. I am sorry.

Will we see improvement?

Everything you mentioned is something to take into consideration, but I think what we need to concern ourselves with is what improvement will we see next year?

I am sure he will work hard an improving. The question is how much will he improve from this year to next. The Broncos as an organization has invested a number of draft picks for Tebow. Based on this year I think it warrants seeing where Tebow’s ceiling is in terms of development.

Kwon - January 15, 2012 reply

Thats the same with every fricking player on the roster, not just Tebow.

You're absolutely right, DL.

Every player must be completely free of flaws before you play them. Each player of all 52 must be absolutely perfect – beyond reproach in any aspect of their technique, performance, or otherwise. If we can’t field a team of 53 absolutely perfect players, then we’re a failure. Under no circumstances should players be allowed to learn and develop as they play.

Because, as you said, the other 52 players on our team were ready for the run to the Super Bowl. Tim just held us all back.

Touche Morse!

Good to see you...back....not...dont remember you commenting when we winning DL....some of you guys are god damn ridiculous!

I'm not convinced Tebow is the answer, either. But he should be the starter in 2012.

Because there are other holes to fill and until that is done no quarterback could take this team to the Super Bowl. And maybe in the meantime, Tebow improves enough as a traditional passer that he become the answer. That would be fine – no sense spending more draft picks on quarterbacks than necessary (see: Cincinnati Bengals, 1991-present).

ClarkFan - January 15, 2012 reply

Who is the answer? Brady Quinn? A draft pick? Matt Flynn?

Because obviously you should give up on players and assume they’ve hit their ceiling after their second season. Your ability to scout talent so well from your couch astounds me.

Do I know if Tebow is the answer? No. But, I’m not speaking in very specific terms now am I? What you should have said is “TEBOW is not where we need him to be yet, but being the savvy football fan that I am, I will give him some time to grow before making rash statements.”

You’re welcome.

Total truth

I was jacked this morning…for next year. Somebody wake me up draft day morning

elliottw - January 15, 2012 reply

Don't sleep that late

We got free agency and some OTAs prior to the draft!

Darin H - January 15, 2012 reply

Thank God

because last year was no fun worrying about that lockout nonsense.

wiebrod - January 15, 2012 reply

no more lockout, party time!

maybe NHL lockout

NHL still playing?

oh you

The thought of Tebow not being here next year is laughable.

Games like this happen in the playoffs, a break here and there and the next thing you know you’re 3 scores down and pressing. Do you think the Pack needs to replace Rogers after his dismal performance tonight? Honestly what other first or second year QB would you trade Tebow for ? The future is bright Bronco fans but show some respect for the game, you don’t get to the elite level with a handful of good players that are in their first 3 years in the league. Every team in the final 8 has/ had more overall talent than our team IMO. We’re on the right track but need about 6 more solid veterans at key positions.

55-10 in the Super Bowl.

I guess Elway should have been cut/traded, too. It’s just a ridiculous notion….

IMO making the playoffs this year saved us a year in our ascent to the top.

Not only do we now know precisely what we need to address in the offseason, i think we are also a much more attractive destination for some free agents that would have previously dismissed us as non contenders. Also the confidence gained by beating a top team like Pittsburgh has to count for something.

Absolutely. +1

AlwaysRightSometimes - January 15, 2012 reply

Tebow's it.

Whatever the ‘it’ factor is, he’s got it. Said by many, and it’s true. He’s the Broncos QB for the next decade. It’s fairly incredible he led this team, which does have a large number of holes, to the division title. This has been the most fun I’ve ever had watching the Broncos. The greatest single game was the first super bowl win, but for pure fun, this team’s been fantastic. Tebow’s put the Broncos on the map, worldwide. There’s a lot of work to be done. WR, S, MLB, TE, DT, and I still think we could use a better ROT. Franklin’s a rookie, and will get better, but his feet are too slow to be on Tebow’s blind side. I think Ryan Harris is a better player. All in all, this will be a fun team to follow, and I’m stoked for the development of the Broncos.

7sky - January 15, 2012 reply

Perhaps Harris will stick around longer for cheaper this time...

Either way you look at it, competition at the RT position will be good.

Agree...

i was happy to hear he was back.

Move Harris to RT, Franklin to Guard (might be too tall though)

Carl Nicks would be a great acquisition.

yes he would

good example Troy

I hated that game but Man did I love Elways play before and after. Same now with TimmY.

CenCalBronco - January 15, 2012 via mobile reply

DEFENSE!!!!

tjpmontana - January 15, 2012 reply

+1000000 and rec'd:)

Rec'd and

The good news is there is talent there. I want an absolute beast middle linebacker (a la Al Wilson – man do I miss that cat). A big stick safety and after that…well, the front office knows better than I.

Yep, gotta get solid up the middle

asinsoin

I like Tebow but Cam Newton in half a second.

" Honestly what other first or second year QB would you trade Tebow for ?"

KansasBronco - January 15, 2012 via mobile reply

Jim clausen

This was brought to you by the expert Mel kiper jr.

McGeorge - January 15, 2012 reply

nice.

i almost forgot about that. boy, ol’ hairpiece really had the fever for clausen. wonder if they still keep in touch or if they were just two ships that passed during draft day.

AlwaysRightSometimes - January 15, 2012 reply

Cam Newton played well... he also had about twice as many attempts as Tebow...

and twice as many INTs.
He was also throwing to Steve Smith and Jeremy Shockey.
I’d still keep Tebow over Newton all day long and every day.

Give Tebow a Steve Smith caliber WR, and an offensive play caller that allows him to throw 40 times a game like Cam Newton and lets see what type of numbers he puts up.

There's risk/reward between the two players

I understand how you would trade Tebow for Cam, but I would keep Tebow. I believe they both will have very successful careers. Between the 2, I want a guy like Tebow leading my team. Fans in Pittsburgh wouldn’t even consider trading Ben for either of these two young QB’s, but I personally know a lot of them sure are embarrassed that their QB is a rapist.

DaLostBoy4 - January 16, 2012 reply

Good Post

Our upstart tremendously flawed Broncos were led by their tremendously flawed Quarterback just as far as the wonderful and perfect quarterbacks of the wonderfully perfect Packers and Saints…

30%Right - January 15, 2012 reply

Exactly!

AlwaysRightSometimes - January 15, 2012 reply

Tebow is the answer...

I think it would be an absolute disastrous mistake to give up on Tebow now… He needs to get better no doubt, but so does the rest of the team. After having some time to think this over, I think the best thing that could happen over this offseason is for the Broncos to work on defense. They need help at cornerback, safety, and d line.

I’m fairly confident the offense will improve with another year of experience… the pieces of the puzzle are already there… I like the o-line. The receivers are gonna keep getting better and better… the running game is decent, although the running back committee could use another player… the tight ends seem to have potential.

I love where this team is right now… and the future is bright…

Go Broncos!

tjpmontana - January 15, 2012 reply

I hope stick with Tebow and get him a good QB coach and an OC who is a good match for his style

Look at Alex Smith. It took years, but he finally broke through and they are hosting NFC championship game. I’m sure Tebow can do no worse than Alex Smith.

si_ice - January 15, 2012 reply

I agree

Tebow needs to get better. But there are other needs.

broncosfan1129 - January 15, 2012 reply

People listen to the media to much instead of going with Logic.

The media will question…“WILL TIM TEBOW START NEXT YEAR?!” and shove that down there throats. Common logic points to Tebow starting for 2012.

Now, last night sucked. Big beat down on national TV in the playoffs. I didnt wake up with the smile, but after i thought about it…

A. We made the playoffs
B. We were 1-4
C. Kyle Orton is gone
D. We beat the steelers and sent them and their annoying fan base home
E. Tebow to Thomas is going to be a geat connection for years to come
F. We have a young core to build around

Scotty Payne - January 15, 2012 reply

Thanks for providing some perspective. This team overachieved in a major way this year. It’s possible that they take a step back, but it’s also likely (more likely, IMO) that they take another step toward being legit contenders. Another offseason for the young guys, another draft and free agency period to fill a few more holes.

Tebow has earned the first four or five games next year – at least. If he struggles mightily and hasn’t improved, EFX need to have a contingency plan in place. Bring in a vet that won’t expect to start, draft someone in the later rounds of the draft, and coach TT up as much as possible.

EddieRoyalwithCheese - January 15, 2012 reply

Compare him to younger QB's

Look at his playoff stats compared to Andy Dalton, Matt Ryan, and TJ Yates. All are young qbs and of course they get that excuse for all playing horrible in playoffs. Plus they’re on more talented offenses, so I think the argument to bench Tebow is ridiculous. The fact he’s a young qb sadly never is brought up.

Bustos - January 15, 2012 reply

meant to say, Ryan/Dalton/Yates get the “young qb” pass, but Tebow rarely gets that opportunity for as an excuse.

Bustos - January 15, 2012 reply

May Improve and Have Worse Record

Agreed it was a season worth celebrating. If for no other reason than the excitement and spotlight on Denver. With that said many holes exist. If we can fill them and stay injury free we will improve. That improvement may result in the same or worse record. No way to count on some of the inexplicably fortunate things that happened in the comeback games. Also we will have a tougher schedule (ask the Chiefs about that).

This team is at least 3 years away from being a serious title contender. So let’s enjoy the process and be thankful and realistic at the same time.

denverrefugee - January 15, 2012 reply

Then why did our last place in the division...

lead us to the toughest schedule in the division this year? Past years have no bearing in future schedules.

DaLostBoy4 - January 16, 2012 reply

?

Past years have no bearing in future schedules.

You might want to research this a little better.

azdenfan - January 16, 2012 reply

Poor choice of words

Basically tried to say that no matter how well a team did the previous year, it has no bearing on the following season. Yes we finished last in the division in 2010, but ended up having the toughest schedule in 2011 anyway. Hopefully that worked? =P

DaLostBoy4 - January 17, 2012 reply

Perfect post for today

I woke up Sunday morning and felt great. I smiled. I was proud to be a Broncos fan.

This was me as well. Sure is sucks to lose 45-10 in any game let alone the playoffs, however after being 4-12 and a 1-4 start, I am quite pleased with how they finished. No one and done in the playoffs. That win over the Steelers will be on my mind for quite some time.

weazel - January 15, 2012 reply

The broncos need to call someome from NY giants

And find out how to draft defensive players

broncosfaninphilly - January 15, 2012 reply

How about we kidnap there D-line coach

Automatik41 - January 15, 2012 reply

*their

Automatik41 - January 15, 2012 reply

When asked this morning how I was doing the day after

I said better than you would think. Denver may be only one of 3 or 4 teams that are pleased with their season. We have a QB and we are trending up. Good piece Troy.

chikndnnr - January 15, 2012 reply

As I've said on earlier posts on this topic

TT has earned first chance to fail next year… just like KO did with good performance in ‘08-’09.

TT will have to continue to improve, and he is in no way a sure thing for us long-term. He may not make it past week 5 or 6 if the he continues to struggle at the same things and the team is losing. That said, he did enough things right that he’s earned the benefit of the doubt and will go into next year the undisputed starter.

We well may draft/grab a FA a high-potential backup QB… that is just sensible given TT’s uncertain future… but there are many obvious holes that are much higher priority (MLB, DBs, RB, oline depth) than a new starter QB.

cjfarls - January 15, 2012 reply

Off-season

I’m excited about this off-season and the direction we are going. Last night was very disappointing, but it doesn’t take back what this season was, and it was one that so much fun to be a Broncos fan. Sure it had it’s down moments, but the ups were outstanding. It’s great to see Mile High Magic back and the city of Denver rockin.

The only part of the off-season I’m not looking forward to is the constant from the media, “Is Tebow Denver’s qb?” I believe TT has earned his chance next year after a full off-season with the coaches.

wiebrod - January 15, 2012 reply

Yep last night was rough

But after reflecting on the season as a whole and then watching the Gmen spank the Pack tonight things don’t seem so bad after all.

It's always tough to lose

but what’s being lost in the conversation is that we actually believed we could win and that’s what makes it hurt. Tebow is a huge part of that, but so is the rest of the team. This team made us believe in our Broncos with all of our heart.

There is so much in that one word belief, it has amazing power. There was a point earlier this year and before this year started that this word was just thrown around. That is why losses like last night are rough, because we gotten back to feeling like how Broncos fans and teams should.

wiebrod - January 15, 2012 reply

Great post.

Glad someone else felt like I did.

Being at the steelers game last week was the best sporting event I’ve ever been too, and I will always remember it. I can thank this team for that.

It wasn’t all roses – I was at the Lions game too – but this season has given me hope for next season. As long as we don’t spend the entire off-season in a QB controversy, which would kil me…

Today’s GB-Giants game showed it truly is down to ‘any given sunday’. (Hats off to Eli Manning, the guy is ice cold and still in big bro’s shadow). With some more work and improvement, I look forward to having Tebow ‘our guy’ in those tough Sundays, alongside Von, DT, and others….

tonks - January 15, 2012 reply

Yeah, nobody is saying that Aaron Rodgers is in jeopardy of losing his starting spot

Rodgers got blown out by an underdog — I bet if they had played the Pats they would have looked much like the broncos.

bballanalyst - January 15, 2012 reply

I love me some Tim Tebow, but even if he is the starter, they shouldn’t tell him.
We saw how playing for his job made him light up on the Steelers game!
So for all purposes, let’s have him fight for the starting position, even if he is the de facto starter. Hehe.

red13th - January 15, 2012 reply

I'd love to see you guys add backfield pieces that are threats to throw the ball.

If you’re going to run the proverbial ‘Wildcat’ as your base offense, then you do that as well as possible. I do suspect that there will be more to your offensive scheme next year, and I do expect a continued effort to develop Tebow as a passer.

Not sure about Ronnie Brown’s health, but he could be very interesting for the Broncos to consider. Dare I say LaDanian Tomlinson? Perhaps, also some Randle-El/Rod Smith types, who played some option and/or QB in college, but also project as NFL wideouts? I’m not an option fan, but I see you have the best option QB around, by far… with the potential for more.

Your option game can be way more effective on its own, with some dynamic pieces added into the mix, and that’s without considering the opportunities Tim will have to improve as a passer, under the organization’s guidance

Either way, good show this year. I’m wishing your team luck into the future, and beyond.

Cut Block - January 15, 2012 reply

I hope they ditch the option....

Not really sure what purpose it serves. It clearly did not perform over the last few games.

When we ran a standard run game with play action, it looked pretty solid. Our straight runs against the Pats were great. The zone read and option stuff went no where. Why is it still even in the playbook?

I agree completely!

Broncotodd - January 16, 2012 reply

Yes the Broncos will degress in 2012. Why?

Start with the 2012 schedule.
First, John Fox is not the future for the Broncos. You can not run Fox ball or Tebow-offense in the NFL and be consistantly competitive. 2011 was a rebuilding year and needed a Fox type coach. Hello Dennis Allen.
Can Tim Tebow improve as a passing QB, not much. Either you are born able to throw or not. If God wanted Tim to be a passing QB in the NFL, he would have given him a throwing arm. IMO he can be an average passer, backup equivalent.
EFX can NOT afford to run this Tebow-offense next year. The NFL is currently pass oriented, check ever game in the playoffs this year, yes even Denvers win, YOU HAVE TO PASS TO COMPETE.
If there is REAL competition in the off-season, Tim losses because he has a large learning curve to catch up to any QB.

DLMyers - January 15, 2012 reply

Tebow will work on passing in the offseason

With poor passing he was able to make it to the playoffs and get one win.

What do you think happens when he becomes even just an average passer?

bballanalyst - January 15, 2012 reply

Tebow will never be a Brady or Brees, no doubt....

But I think he can be a very effective QB in a motion type attack…..lots of play action, bootlegs, etc…..

Flacco was 14/27 for 176 and 2 TD’s and they are on the way to the AFC championship. Tebow can consistently put up those kind of numbers…….so what is your point?

plummer II

i could see tebow as that type of QB. i actually think tebow could improve on plummer though, with his passion for the game and football intelligence.

I'd take that

over a Flacco

amen, brutha.

or a sanchez…

double amen

plus Tebow won't flip off the crowd

or throw left-handed… oh crap!

Flacco still had a completion % > 50%

Bustafluff - January 15, 2012 reply

and?

a lot of his completions

are dumpoffs to Rice. A completion is a completion I know and it’s good to get him the ball but I’m just sayin. Also it’s something the Broncos don’t do much for whatever reason.

iBleedorangeandblue - January 15, 2012 reply

Elway needs to tell Tebow a 3-4 yard dump off/checkdown is better than throwing in the dirt or away.

Automatik41 - January 16, 2012 reply

Degress isn't a word.

And the rest of the post wasn’t much better.

Typical dlmeyers post

Predictably negative and a waste of time.

agreed!

DLMeyers was previously known as Myerda—still a hater…

citrite - January 15, 2012 reply

You can not run Fox ball or Tebow-offense in the NFL and be consistantly competitive. 2011 was a rebuilding year and needed a Fox type coach. Hello Dennis Allen.

Fox is the 3rd winningest coach in the NFL since he came into the league. He took the 2nd worst team in the NFL and doubled their wins, won a playoff berth, and won a playoff game. Try harder

I feel the joyful irony

in noting that the top two passing offenses were knocked out of the playoffs this weekend .

Also, this:

Either you are born able to throw or not.

is quite possibly the dumbest thing I’ve ever read. Although, I have heard the stories that Favre and Elway came out of the womb throwing perfect spirals, so you have that going for you. Perhaps you can add some of these gems to your repertoire:

+ “Either you are born able to walk or not”
+ “Either you are born able to lift 275 lbs or not”
+ “Either you are born with a microphone in your hand or not”
+ “Either you are born with a weak Fu Manchu like Joe Flacco or not”

Please, feel free to use any of those in your upcoming Tebow dissertation.

To be fair

the two top passing offences did get beat but it wasn’t because of defence. It was because of their turnovers and their own D’s inability to stop the pass.

Agreed

I suppose my intent was to portray that a singly powerful element (i.e. passing game) without a sufficient supporting cast is no recipe for success. If you happen to have an off day inside the passing game (as the Saints and Packers both did), there is nothing to pick up the slack.

thats a good point

The Packers could have lost 45-10

If the officials didn’t make all those horribly ridiculous calls. The Giants D did win that game. Yeah, it helped that the Packers receivers dropped several balls too.

Trogdoor - January 16, 2012 reply

the officiating was horrendous

It seemed to me that the refs were doing everthing they could to help the Packers

Either you are born able to throw or not.

This is not true.

YOU HAVE TO PASS TO COMPETE.

The NFL would love you to believe this, but it’s simply not true either. You just have to be able to run consistently and have a very good defense. I’m not saying it isn’t beneficial to throw for 400 yards a game, but most NFL GMs would say you have to have either an elite offense or defense to win the Superbowl. Those high powered offenses that you’d like Denver to be – NO and GB – are both out of the playoffs and lost two some very good defenses that forced a lot of turnovers and made their offense look quite a bit better than it is.

Yes Eli can sling it, but his defense won that game – same with the 9ers.

Its simple...

Do we hear anyone say that Peyton or Tom need to learn to run to be complete QB’s? Why? Because they will never be able to learn to run faster….thats genetics.
But you sure as hell can teach someone to pass better! WIll TT ever be those guys as passers? Nope…but neither was Favre, Elway, Young or a host of other great QB’s.

Id like to see how successful these QBs would have been 15-20 years ago

I think its more than coincidence that the year the league installed the new passer friendly rules we saw 3 5,000 yard passers, and Manning coming thisclose to breaking 5k. There was also 7 above 4k yards. I dont think they would have enjoyed as much success as the QBs in Elway’ hey day. Thats why Marino’s record is so awesome because it was set during a time when the league wasnt as friendly towards QBs and WRs.

Calikula - January 16, 2012 reply

When you drop back to pass

3 bad things can happen, Sack, Interception, Incompletion. Yeah, the 1 good thing can be very good and is necessary, but if you have a great running game, you are better off even with a 2nd and 8 or 9 than with 2nd and 10. Plus you help the Defense, and slow down the other team with the quick strike slinging QBs.

Work on the Defense, get players to complement Tebow’s abilities, and give him a full off season of work and planning.

Broncos 11-5 in 2012.

Trogdoor - January 16, 2012 reply

As a Chiefs fan

I think Tebow should be Denver’s starting QB. He has great intangibles, and he knows how to win. However, he needs to improve drastically because Denver’s offense was getting figured out by late in the season, and the Patriots showed how to take away the option away. How Denver played Tebow took a lot of teams by surprise early, and I believe that is why Tebow won so many games. All a defense needs to do is stack the box to stop the run and pressure tebow, assign single assignments on options, and tell the cornerbacks to never bite on the double move (Couple things Steelers did not do the entire game).

But the good news is that Tebow appears to be a very intelligent person and very willing to learn about how he should improve as a QB. Yes, competition would help tebow further improve, and I believe Tebow will be much better with his reads and finding the intermediate passer next season. The risk of course is if Tebow never gets it as well and quick as he is expected to, the franchise will be set back a couple years.

andrew33 - January 15, 2012 reply

Out of curiosity…what can Tebow do before the OTAs? Is he on his own or can he work with the coaches before that…what are the CBA rules?

SubwayAlumni - January 15, 2012 reply

This was much needed KB

I don’t what the deal is with the ungrateful, whiny, quick fix fans. The same people who want Tebow out, are the same people who would be patient as all get out with Andrew Luck or Sam Bradford…. even if they struggled worse and took longer to develop than Tim. I don’t care how Tim helped us get it done…. for the most part, it…. got….. done!!!

PaleHorse78 - January 15, 2012 reply

Good grief, people!!

Enjoy the success we have had this year. I’m in total agreement with KB.

Give a QB went 9 – 7 over his first 16 starts a chance to develop. After all, what did you put up with for KO in terms of win/lose?

To say the Broncos, or TT, won’t get better is totally unfounded at this point.

GB2

83BroncoFan - January 15, 2012 reply

speaking in finite terms is never a good thing

You can’t say they won’t get better just like you can’t say they will get better. There are only expectations.

Looking back on this season

We’ve got a lot to look forward to next season. Do I know whether Tebow should be the franchise QB? Not yet. But he should be given the chance. There were a lot of things about this season that showed me the Broncos have a bright future. DT proved what a great receiver he can be when healthy, and Decker has shown he can be a solid receiver. The O-line, while they had their struggles, proved that they will be very good for years to come. We’ve seen what havoc a healthy Von Doom can bring. And McGahee proved to be more of a key signing than we all thought he would be. Several others stepped up this season as well. While last night was disappointing and will probably bother me for a while, I’m excited for the future. We should all remember where this team was a year ago. I don’t know how you see this season anything but a success.

Most of the bright spots you listed are on the offensive side of the ball

the D needs a lot of work. Dawkins may be gone Champ and Goody will be another year older. We’ll need to make some big moves on that side of the ball

Well I wasn’t gonna keep listing players lol. Yeah, the D definitely still needs some work. But I liked what I saw for the most part. The secondary obviously needs a lot of work. With the way Harris played and with Squid coming back, I hope we can find a #2 CB in free agency or the draft and we’ll be fine. It’ll be interesting to see what they do at Safety.

Just a question

but a lot of people bring up Squid when talking about players for next year. What did he do to garner this type of admiration? I’m not asking to be a jerk I genuinly want to know becase watched him so I don’t have an opinion one way or the other/

*because I haven’t watched him

I’ve always thought he was a solid nickel CB.

Good stuff

Yeah, I don’t understand why people are so quick to judge one way or the other with Tebow. I live in Michigan so I got to watch Stafford’s first 15 or so starts and most of them were putrid bad, yet everyone was pretty wiling to be patient and let him grow. Not sure why people are so much more hesitant with Tebow.

scooter17 - January 15, 2012 reply

Here's what happened....

Nobody in reality is actually quick to judge him….

The media created the Tebow-mania straw man as a foil for a storyline.

They play up Tebow, who has a polarizing story and they easily invented a “conventional wisdom” amongst the public that Tebow could do no wrong (but have you ever really met anybody that truly felt that way?). This gave them a sensational story to play over and over again based on a premise that never actually existed.

So, as the Architect in the “Matrix: Reloaded” puts it, “Which brings us at last to the moment of truth, wherein the fundamental flaw is ultimately expressed, and the Anomaly revealed as both beginning and end.”

The media invented Tebow-mania. Lets hope EFX can disregard it and its trappings…..

Denver post

I rarely read the comments on Denver post but I did tonight. All I can say is woo wow. There are some seriously weak people out there. Can you seriously blame that loss on tebow? The whole team failed to win. Tim gave us a chance all season, gave the franchise some vitality. My lord, be thankful for what the Broncos did after last year. I personally am proud of this ball club. They did much more than was expected. Tim played his heart out. Blame the fact they played a better team and find solice in the fact the Broncos will only get better.

MajorG - January 15, 2012 via mobile reply

That is of course a wasteland of ignorance and illiteracy.....

Pay no mind….

way too negative at DP always

Mike@4th&99 - January 15, 2012 via iPhone app reply

There are some young players that I feel will be the future cornerstones of this team

Von Miller… Tim Tebow… Demaryius Thomas… Eric Decker… Ryan Clady… Beadles & Walton… Orlando Franklin… Chris Harris… Quinton Carter.

We need to see some progression from Knowshon Moreno… Rahim Moore… Nate Irving… Robert Ayers… Julius Thomas… Daniel Fells… Jeremy Beal… and if we do, we’re sitting in a good place. These things take time…. this was Foxy and Allen’s first year here (with no offseason to install), why wouldn’t the fans want to see more?

PaleHorse78 - January 15, 2012 reply

I'm not sold on our O-Line guys at all

but they’re still young and inexperienced so hopefully they’ll improve next year.

You’re in the minority, then, if you’re not sold.

Our offensive line got so much praise this year, they didn’t need to go to church. They’re just young and OL continuity is extremely important.

Robert Ayers is a great player

he belongs on the cornerstone portion

Our defense really fell apart towards the end

Our Safety core was the thinnest in football – you don’t beat the Patriots with Rahim Moore and Rafael Bush at Safety. This is another weak Safety class coming in as well, so perhaps a free agent is needed there (Bryan Scott – Buffalo)?

This team needs to figure it out at Safety (whether that be in house, FA’s, or draft again).
We need to get stouter at DT. Bunk was a godsend… but his role isn’t a playmaker. I’d love to see us find a young gem to plug the middle and bring some pressure from there as well.

Yes, we do need another CB or two, but more importantly than that, we need an athletic stud MLB. This defense won’t roll like it should without one.

So, I say we find us a #2 CB in FA to fill in for Goody (leave Harris where he is), and draft for DT, MLB, and a backup – situational pass rush rusher. If there’s a Safety worth having in the mid rounds, take that as well.

PaleHorse78 - January 15, 2012 reply

Fox's D's

always had a stud MLB

Gotta have one with a 4-3

ClarkFan - January 15, 2012 reply

If the Panthers don’t re-sign Dan Connor, I wouldn’t be surprised if Fox signed him. He was pretty good for them after Beason went down.

was he so good that they'd let Beason go?

one can dream

Lol I wish. Beason is pretty damn good. And if I’m not mistaken, they just signed him to an extension before last season.

I’d love to see Denver draft Burfict. I really think he’s going to be a beast in the NFL.

Quinton Carter seriously impressed me. I think he’s a starting safety. Rahim Moore – well, apparently he is very immature and it is a lot to ask a 21 year old (he might have just turned 22) millionaire to be overly anxious to be a professional. The skill is there, I’m sure, but I was given the vibe that his preparation was, well, terrible.

We shall see, but yes, it is weak. I think if Chris Harris continues to improve, he gets moved outside with Champ and then we have Squid and Vaughn in nickel and dime situations, but another corner is important.

Up front I am pretty happy with the group we have when healthy, but we desperately need depth at DT. Bunkley is a keeper and we’ll get Big Vick back, but a youth infusion won’t hurt. Doom and Ayers are solid, Von is obviously solid. MLB is a concern. Mays just can’t cover. Irving could come around, but we shall see.

Ideal draft as of right now? Burfict and LaMichael. I think Julius Thomas comes full circle in the offseason so we get a TE threat. LaMichael is another RB receiving threat. I think Knowshon finally shows up. Rest of the offense isn’t bad, although I think Eddie has played his last play as a Bronco (heads to WAS to try to kick start his career).

That’s just off the top of my head, though. I still need to do my research.

oh yeah..better is right. Thx !

csason - January 15, 2012 reply

Some of you folks are laughable...The Packers were basically penciled in as returning Champs and they got clobbered by the Giants 37-20.

Every team has their day and the Packers had one today. This team along with Tebow showed lots of progression over the season and should get better by next year. Lots of young talent to develop that’s what we have, and lots of holes to fill.

bfree2bronc - January 15, 2012 reply

Evaluate

I hope Elway looks at all the quarterbacks in free agency and the draft and goes with an honest evaluation and does whatever that evaluation tells him.

if he can get one that gives us a better chance of winning a championship than Tebow gives us than I hope he takes that QB. If Jacksonville offers an amazing trade we can’t refuse… see you later Tim. Thanks for the great memories of this season.
If not, go Broncos.

I watched Eli Manning tonight throwing laser beams around and I just feel like Tebow will never even get close.

He’s earned his shot for next year nonetheless.

I think he’s going to look for a way to get out in a trade but that’s another thing.

ddtraveller - January 15, 2012 reply

why do you think that?

You are right, he will probably not ever be that kind of QB....

The real question is does he need to be.

I dont think so.

We can't make that assumption

I don’t think anyone can be certain that Tebow can’t develop into that type of QB. A prime example is Vick. He spent an entire off season after his first year with the Eagles working with Mornhinweg to improve his passing ability.

So I believe the precedent is there, the question is will it be done? The Jags drafted Gabbert so any prospect of a trade with them is highly unlikely. In regards to the draft and FA, we need more QB depth so I think that’s a certainty.

Kwon - January 15, 2012 reply

I agree with this statement.

I'm with T.Dot

Why would you think that Tim would have any desire to be traded? He’s arguably in the best situation he could be in right now, and has had a chance to gain some support inside the Front Office. He has a good contract and a passionate Bronco fanbase. Plus, he gets to work with John Freakin’ Elway. I just don’t see any reason for Tim to want to leave.

It depends on the situation

I don’t see Tebow asking for a trade unless it develops into a situation where he’s not getting any more opportunities to be the starter.

He has an opportunity to be the starter here. It’s not certain he’d get the same chance elsewhere.

Kwon - January 15, 2012 reply

It's true

where else could he go even if he wanted out? The whole Tebow being treated poorly by the Denver staff was MSM nonesence.

ThorpeBroncosfan - January 16, 2012 reply

Wanna know what Eli did in his 16th start?

He completed just 47% of his passes and threw 4 INTs. Hmmmm….

DaLostBoy4 - January 16, 2012 reply

MLB please!

It was disappointing seeing a TE jumping and making one handed catches across the middle were we should of had a fierce fire breathing MLB plowing through his guts!!

OrangeRhino - January 15, 2012 via mobile reply

TE Play

TE’s were ridiculous this year. In a copycat league, this will only happen with greater frequency. On the offense, we drafted 2 TE’s that can hopefully develop into something similar. I was wondering if Elway had the foresight to see something like this and drafted TE’s as soon as possible. If its true that certainly says a lot about his draft strategy.

On defense, we didn’t have an answer for this at all. If we’re going to run into this more often we have to find a way to stop it.

Kwon - January 16, 2012 reply

Need better players at S - but that was true already

ClarkFan - January 16, 2012 reply

Great post

Thanks Troy (and other MHR crew) for a great year of Broncos coverage, and I look forward to another offseason of the same.

I definitely woke up with a grin (and a slight headache) this morning, and I BELIEVE that we will keep building this team towards contending with the best in the league. Tim will be a anchor and a leader for many years to come. More reps, and more time with the coaches and receivers will only make him better. We have a solid base, and it only gets better from here!

GO BRONCOS!!

MTorange&blue - January 16, 2012 reply

If Kyle Orton was still our starting QB "we" wouldn't be complaining about how poorly he played in the playoffs.

true, we wouldn't have made the playoffs to begin with

lol

Broncs55 - January 16, 2012 reply

I can't wait for next season already!!!

Adam Manter - January 16, 2012 reply

This time last year

We were all talking about the Senior bowl and who they were scouting. Wasn’t this season great!! I forget which talking head said it on NFLN but I think it is the best single statement I have heard.

Tim Tebow has earned the right to be the starter going into camp. Because of the fan emotion attatched to Tebow it will be difficult for anyone to come in and compete for the job.

Probably not exactly right but you get the idea. I think Tebow gets the start next season but I still want to have a guy that can come out and play Broncos football if Tim does go down or decides to suck :P

iBleedorangeandblue - January 16, 2012 reply

Sharpe said that on CBS' NFL Today.

ah, right

Thanks.

Absolutely spot on!

I’m excited for the off season and I can’t remember the last time i could say that.

metalman5050 - January 16, 2012 reply

I F'n can't believe this is being debated...

did people not watch the 2011 football season? This is nothing more than ‘Media Meddling’.
Tell you what – you swap us Tebow for “I’m afraid to take a hit” Gabbert – the man with media immunity – and it would have been us in the play-offs. Tebow and MJD… Ouch!
Good Season Denver.

Jaghomer - January 16, 2012 reply

I don't know if Gabbert has immunity

it’s probably more to the fact that nobody gives a shit about the Jags. But I agree with the just of your point

I feel the same way you do!

We are further along in the rebuilding plan than anyone could have hoped for. We also got to see a playoff win…that’s a pretty good combo.

TT, DT, Decker, Green and JT need to spend a lot of time together this post season!

Fix the D through FA and draft.

Great season BRONCOS!!

Broncotodd - January 16, 2012 reply

Rec'd - Totally Agree

I’m “All In”. It was total gravy this season to get excited to watch the Broncos each week…after the 1st 5. The first 5 I didn’t care nearly as much. Hoping somehow the D and Orton could pull it out at the end…if Orton was the QB for the whole season, we would have likely had a much higher draft pick, and we would have had to watch the Raiders in the Playoffs. Please, just stick needles in my eyes now!

I was rooting for the 49ers and Alex Smith…7 years in the league, and they didn’t give up on him. Many, many times he was called “a bust”.

I’m also happy that the Big Pass offenses lost this weekend (Saints and Packers). I was rooting for the Defense there. I was mildly rooting for the Texans, but now…GO RAVENS!

Go Broncos!

Trogdoor - January 16, 2012 reply

That should at least give the naysayers pause...maybe.

I was rooting for the 49ers and Alex Smith…7 years in the league, and they didn’t give up on him. Many, many times he was called "a bust".

I look for big improvement over the off season and preseason. From several positions.

azbroncomaniac - January 16, 2012 reply

So your point is that we should have given Orton 7 years, right?

azdenfan - January 16, 2012 reply

I'm not sold

But he did earn 2012 as a starter but if you listen to the likes of Decker and Mays in regards to their endorsement of Tebow and you’ll get a different pulse. Completing an average of 47% of your passes isn’t going to win you games unless special teams and defense are keeping you in games.

dcrespo7 - January 16, 2012 reply

With all respect to Decker and Mays

One is by far the weakest link on our defense, and the other seems to have his hands coated in butter before each game.

TheMorseFile - January 16, 2012 reply

I'm concerned about overheated expectations

Yes, 8-8 and winning the division is a tremendous success given where the team came from. However, the Broncos also had the second worst point differential of any playoff team in the history of the NFL (2010 Seahawks were the worst). That means they could actually improve considerably and still finish with a worse record (point differential give the Broncos this year a 6-10 projected record).

I’d look for improvement from the young players and see how the front office does in filling some of the gaping holes on the roster before calling something like a 7-9 season a step back, since that could very well signal an improvement in skill but a loss in luck.

atomiccafe - January 16, 2012 reply

I think you've put what I was trying to say

perfectly. I shall consult you before I try to speak again.

Great post.

Fans

Fans in Denver shouldn’t be happy with anything other than a sucessfull franchise.

Baghdad - January 16, 2012 reply

I would call this past season

successful and I am happy. Now, next season……….

Warren Moon or Steve Young

If Tebow can play like those two I’d be happy

Baghdad - January 16, 2012 reply

The day after...

The Broncos flamed out. You know what? It’s okay. They never should have been there.

What the Broncos did was give every one of us one of the most incredible 7 game winning streaks we’ve ever seen. They gave us one of the most exciting first round playoff games in history. They made it further than 12 of 15 other AFC teams. And, I found MHR to boot.

Good season of football.

Tezcatlipoca - January 16, 2012 reply

They made it further than 12 of 15 other AFC teams. And, I found MHR to boot.

Thank goodness for that. :)

Troy Hufford - January 16, 2012 reply

@ the end of the rainbow

Is a Pot-O-MHR