Live Bloggin From Broncos Training Camp

by John Bena on Jul 31, 2008 8:09 AM MDT in 2008 Season Preview Comment 29 comments

2008trainingcampreport_medium

8:00 AM mst - Good Morning from the Press Room at the worldwide headquarters for the Denver Broncos. With The Denver Post on one side of me and the Rocky Mountain News on the other, MHR has taken the next big step towards complete respectability. I know the Broncos read this site, so let this be my public Thank You! It means a lot to this lifelong fan to be given a tremendous opportunity and I plan to make the most of it!

In true Guru fashion, I have once again stumbled onto this day at the perfect time. John Lynch has left the Broncos, though there will be a press conference with him after the morning practice. I'll listen in, and give you my thoughts afterward.

A few things I am going to watch for this morning include -

--Who is running with the first team at safety now that Lynch is gone?

--Just how awesome does Josh Barrett loook in person? People have been raving about him throughoout camp and I want to lay eyes on him for myself.

--What is the general mood of the team during the workout. Players will aways say the right things to the media, but find it hard to mask it when it comes to their enthusiasm and effort. There will definitely be a letdown, especially in the leadership department, and how quickly the players get over it is something to watch.

--I'm just psyched to watch some football!!!

Stay tuned to MHR all day. Today more than ever, MileHighReport is YOUR SOURCE FOR THE DENVER BRONCOS!

1 recs | Comment 29 comments

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I'm just hoping for some good news

from the commish’s office in gthe next day or two. I’ll be interested to hear how whatever sentence is handed down affects the mood there. And how Marshall handles it.

Have a great time at camp!!
We look forward to your posts from ground zero….

by Broncs Cheer on Jul 31, 2008 8:44 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Jealous to say the least Guru

Enjoy the time looking forward to the scoops!

Until Terrell Davis makes it into the Hall of Fame, I refuse to acknowledge the existence of such a place other than the Ring of Fame at Mile High!

Davis to the Hall!

by Jon Tollerud on Jul 31, 2008 9:38 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

O.o

The Broncos read this site!? Is anyone here on the Broncos??

Right now, I really wish I could be you Guru, not sitting at home sick. How long are you going to stay at camp?

Why do I live in Kansas City?

by papigrande on Jul 31, 2008 9:41 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Ebenezer Ekuban

There is no way they’re cutting Ekuban. He is our best d-lineman against the run.

Michael Fabiano really knows nothing about football outside of regression analysis and stat extrapolation. If it doesn’t have to do with fantasy football, his opinion is worthless.

by kwool79 on Jul 31, 2008 9:54 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Where did that come from?

"Greater is an army of sheep led by a lion, than an army of lions led by a sheep" Defoe

by Steve Nichols on Jul 31, 2008 12:19 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

horse tracks

Sorry, wrong thread.

Michael Fabiano really knows nothing about football outside of regression analysis and stat extrapolation. If it doesn’t have to do with fantasy football, his opinion is worthless.

by kwool79 on Jul 31, 2008 1:00 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just saw it.

Still, you broke the news for me! Thanks!

"Greater is an army of sheep led by a lion, than an army of lions led by a sheep" Defoe

by Steve Nichols on Jul 31, 2008 7:11 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's a mistake, but run with it anyways

I’m intrigued about Ekuban’s move inside, too. Previously, I’ve said that we’re looking at a different prototype for DTs this year—one with more speed and less ‘immovable object-ness.” The staff was planning on putting Ekuban inside for passing downs this year, so I guess simply moving him over on a permanent basis isn’t too radical a switch. Having read some of hoosierteacher’s comments on moving DEs inside, I’d be interested in his take on this.

I have a feeling that Crowder, as well as Dumervil et al, are making DE a little crowded while DT had until recently looked like it needed help. With both Peterson and Ekuban now manning the position, in what I presume are more of less permanent moves, there’s suddenly some interesting and unanticipated competition at DT. We’ll have to wait and see how successful the position switch is during the pre-season games, but maybe the silver lining is the depth at DE is what prompted Eukaban’s move inside.

by Colinski on Jul 31, 2008 7:41 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

My take on moving DEs inside to DT.

I don’t like it as a rule, but its a matter of taste. My school of thought is that a DE that is a terrific run stuffer has a role on a team. When not needed, you can have a pass rush guy in the role, but the strong side should have a run stuffer (Ekuban) or a middle of the road guy (Crowder) on most downs. In many schemes you don’t move a proven DE inside.

Denver can do it though. We’ll be more of a one gap defense, and this allows for flexibilty. While we may not have a major player (a giant two gap type) in the middle of our base 4-3, we’ll be able to use more looks along the line. We’re trading dominance in the middle for flexibility.

With the loss of Powell, the depth at DE, and the question mark that is DRob, the move makes sense. To be real honest, I don’t like it, but it’s not a bad idea. I’d rather have a true DT at the position, but its a sound move. (By the way, if anyone is ever in doubt, the Denver coaches know a heck of a lot more about their job than I do. If I wouldn’t do it, and they do it, odds are pretty staggering that they are the ones who are right). : )

"Greater is an army of sheep led by a lion, than an army of lions led by a sheep" Defoe

by Steve Nichols on Jul 31, 2008 8:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

depth at DT

One of the dilemmas I’ve had when formulating my mock roster is the depth situation at DT, and Powell’s injury obviously impacted that situation, even though I don’t believe they were going to count on him for more than a small portion of the snaps. But even with a healthy Powell there weren’t enough quality DTs to ably man that position. Shoring up that position seems imperative now that Powell is out for the year.

Just to give you an idea of my thought process regarding roster decisions, the following paragraph illustrates the quandaries I had when attempting my first mock roster in June.

One player I really expect improvement from this year is Crowder, and I think his development will be enhanced by the added playing time he’ll receive with Ekuban inside.
I became aware of the crowding at DE when looking at my mock roster. The number of DEs on my roster - 5 - struck me as one too many. But it was also clear that all 5 DEs were important contributers, so cutting one wouldn’t accomplish anything except meeting the roster limit. The opposite problem existed at DT. Five DTs seemed preferable given Robertson’s limitations and Powell’s (then) projected minutes.

I have high hopes for Mallard and Harris, but I think it’s also clear that they have yet to prove themselves. And McKinley has experience but he’s yet to show he’s more than a backup. In short, there’s a depth problem at DT, and it became an untenable situation when Powell was injured, although I had suspicions that they might address the depth problem there even before Powell’s injury.

Moving Ekuban inside (assuming it’s a permanent switch) was necessary, and although it may not be an ideal switch it’s not an ideal situation. It appears to be a move to address the weakness at DT.

BTW—I predict we’ll also see Peterson remain at DT and make the roster for that position. Also, I’m not sure at this point if McKinley will make the roster, but I’m a little more comfortable now that they’ve added something to the depth there.

by Colinski on Aug 1, 2008 3:32 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess we will just have to see how they play.

My tickets for the Dallas game are in the northwest corner in the second tier. I am high enough to see the entire field and should be able to see the lines. My focus the entire game will be on the trenches. Thanks for all the info HT and Colinski.

What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us. - Emerson

by firstfan on Aug 1, 2008 5:31 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's get this done!

I can’t wait to hear what you have to say about what you see from camp Guru.

There is nothing you cannot be, there is nothing you cannot do. There is nothing you cannot have.

by sirsam on Jul 31, 2008 10:13 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

You are the man Guru....

and I am excited for you. That is nice timing on your part so now you can get the whole scoop on Lynch and how we will be back there without him and his leadership. I always enjoy hearing whats going on in TC, yet with you there I know you are going to find out really going on. I hope some of the players look as good as I have been hearing.

Have a blast.

by weazel on Jul 31, 2008 10:22 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Fan Mood & Calling out whats done

I have read that attendance is down at the camps, and of course those reporters who like to sell you on their opinion are suggesting it is because fans are tired of the losing, or tired of players like Marshall, or that people do not expect much this year.

My guess though is that gas prices and the hot weather has kept some fans away. Maybe you can get some random feedback from the fans and find out what their expectations are, how they feel about Marshall, Shanny, and the team, and of course John Lynch.

Speaking of John Lynch, I know everyone including myself was disappointed to hear he is done. And I believe 95% of fans have really appreciated John as a Bronco, not to mention his contributions to the community.

However, I have to say I am disappointed in the way he has ended his tenure with the Broncos. It seems to have been an impulsive, spur of the moment, selfish decision, based on the less than one week playing time in camp. He is smart of enough to have read the writing on the wall before camp, and of course Shanny was straight with him that there were no guarantees. So for him to storm out mad and quit, seems so contrary to the professional and team first attitude he has always displayed. He should have retired or asked for his release during the off-season. Now this may hurt the Broncos depth, and this poor behavioral response is not a good example for the rest of the team. So I have heard TSG say he will call out, and not stand for any player action, which may hurt the Broncos, as he is a TRUE FAN. So it seems appropriate to call out Lynch on this poor display.

by The Gun Young on Jul 31, 2008 10:39 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

I agree

I dont think he was gonna make the roster, to tell ya the truth. Its sad that he had to end his career (possibly) in this fashion. But the last time I checked he was not guaranteed anything. I wish him well and did enjoy his play here.

by broncfanstuckinsd on Jul 31, 2008 11:15 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gunny...

I am interested in the first part of your post as well. Hopefully Guru will dig a little deep on those topics as well.

I take Lynch’s decision with a little different slant. Maybe he now knows for sure that he isn’t up to the task this year. The young horse are all fresh and maybe it took seeing them up close and competing again them really put it home to him that he is getting old. He may of thought he could still win his job… but camp was proving otherwise. Maybe he is stepping aside for the betterment of the team. This will also free up some money. Not tons but some. Better to go out on his own terms.

I just don’t think he would pull an Ocho Cinco to hurt the team. We haven’t seen that in the past, why would we now? It isn’t like the Broncos have been counting on him being there. Look at the reloading season moves we have made with free agents and the draft. I think we should be honoring him as a great Bronco.

Lets wait and see what surfaces before we discredit one of our own.

by YellowStoneBronco on Jul 31, 2008 11:25 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once again

Excellent insight YellowStone. Carefully considered and well expressed. Thank you.

What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us. - Emerson

by firstfan on Jul 31, 2008 11:52 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Another thought

not nearly as rosy, but still good, is that he looks at his playing time quandary, and then notes that the team may have a ways to go before it is a championship contender, and he decides that his limited time is better spent on a different team, NE or JAX, possibly some NFC teams. In those options, limited playing time has a much better chance of netting him another ring before he is through.

And if those teams aren’t interested? BFSISD has it nailed with going to SD to be on the radio (or the outside possibility of a TV spot with the big boys).

Mountains, forest, sea: these render man fierce, but yet do not destroy the man.

by Jeremy Bolander on Jul 31, 2008 1:38 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Congrats Guru

The chair in which you sit is no accident. Your hard work and dedication to this site is paying off. Great job!

Now go out there and let the rest of us live vicariously through you!

by jonahsilas on Jul 31, 2008 10:53 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Honor to Retire

YellowstoneBronco,

If Lynch says he decided to retire because he realizes he needs to step asside to allow the young more talented players a chance, then you are right, this timing and manner is classy again.

However, if he says he still wants to play, and he ends up playing for another team this year, then this was a selfish, spur of the moment, team hurting display. The reports at this time, are that he is still wanting to play and hoping to get picked up by another team.

by The Gun Young on Jul 31, 2008 11:32 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

I've gotta disagree

Lynch leaving helps the team, it opens up a roster spot, and helps us get younger. Maybe he could have stayed and mentored the young guys, but he has been very clear that he has no interest in such an idea. I respect his decision regardless of where he goes.

I just didn’t see him getting a starting spot. I doubt he can find a team that he could start for, but maybe someone else with more league wide safety knowledge knows better.

Not For Long has taken its toll on him, he should hang up the cleats before he breaks his neck with those crazy hits. I’m sure there are a lot of commentary spots open for him too.

"It's the first time that I've probably ever seen a 260 pound back run into a free safety and go flat on his back, I mean it was exciting." ~John Elway

by jibbons on Jul 31, 2008 12:28 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think it was on good terms.

“I had a good meeting with Mike [Wednesday],” Lynch said, according to the Rocky Mountain News. “There are no hard feelings, I’m just looking at what’s out there. In my heart I want to play, but I need to look at everything right now and that’s what I’m doing. Is playing still part of that? I really have to look at that and see.”

Doesn’t sound like an angry Favre type to me. I wish Lynch the best.

"Greater is an army of sheep led by a lion, than an army of lions led by a sheep" Defoe

by Steve Nichols on Jul 31, 2008 12:31 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

My thoughts...

We really don’t need Lynch. I love him as a player. But we don’t need him. It is evident, the coaches know it and Lynch knows it. He has been a great Bronco. If he goes and plays somewhere else I say good for him. Better that he uses his last year to help another team when he has been slated to ride the bench for us.

I am bitter against Walker and Lelie type of defections. But this just isn’t the same. I see this more as a Jason Elam thing. An honored bronco.. that just wanted to play a few more years.

While I would love for him to retire as a bronco and go to broadcasting (70% probability), I would wish him the best if he suits ups in pads (30% probablity).

by YellowStoneBronco on Jul 31, 2008 12:58 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Guru, do you think you can get wireless access?

A nice broadband wireless card for a laptop (from spirint or virizon) could let you blog live while you are watching the action. Quick one line anecdotes every few minutes as you watch the action would be cool.

The quality and overall feel might not be there in the live blog, but you would address that that when you do a complete report at the end of the day.

Go So Cal. I am the bigger one.

by amirebram on Jul 31, 2008 12:59 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

I have one...

Using it right now, which is good since the wireless access in the media room is flaky at best. I don;t think they would let me take it on the field, but I could use Twitter from my cell phone!

-TSG

www.milehighreport.com

by John Bena on Jul 31, 2008 1:24 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sweet.

I read the report and liked what you saw. Could you concentrate a bit more on the OL vs DL next time? To me, that’s the critical part-DT and OT are where our season begins and ends.

On Nalen, if dude is out, then we need Holland back fast. Move Hamilton to C, Kuper to LG, and return Holland to RG.

The one thing that is clear is that Weigmann isn’t gonig to cut it at C. He has been getting blown up these past couple of days.

Go So Cal. I am the bigger one.

by amirebram on Jul 31, 2008 2:31 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree amir

but I had not heard about Weigmann getting chewed up. Any sign of K-Lich?

What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us. - Emerson

by firstfan on Jul 31, 2008 5:24 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh you should read some Orangemane stuff

Cutler was running for his life because of all the pressure comming up the middle—that started right after Nalen started to sit out practices.

Based on everything I have read so far, K-Lich is a bit lost in the system right now. Too many mental mistakes and slow to act is what I hear. Nothing wrong with that. Give him time and he will be ready for 09 (or 201; depends on Hamilton and Nalen), but he isn’t an option for week one in in Oakland.

Go So Cal. I am the bigger one.

by amirebram on Aug 1, 2008 4:15 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs