Spencer Larsen's Future

by Muse_Cubed on Jan 3, 2009 3:22 PM MST Comment 37 comments

This past season made me realise how spoiled we've been at MLB over the years with Al Wilson and it's clear that it's one of the positions that needs sorting out. The main question is whether Spencer Larsen could be that guy: there's no question over the season that he was the best available player at MLB this year although he was not rewarded as such (to the detriment of our defence). Ideally, you want a beast at MLB in every respect. A top athlete, intelligent, a great leader, adept at shedding blocks, able to read the game and able to channel their aggression and not overpursue on plays. Al was all of those, and although his fundamentals suffered towards the end of his career, not only was he always in position, but he also raised the play of his fellow OLBs - case in point in 2003 where Donnie Spragan and Jashon Sykes (yes, who indeed) came in for Messrs Mobley and Gold mid-season and kept the Broncos' defence respectable.

From what I saw of Larsen last year, I saw a guy who could go sideline to sideline, shed blocks well and - maybe most importantly - he directed guys on defence. It was a rare sight last season (especially from DJ who simply isn't cut out for captaincy and I believe his play suffered partially as a result from that responsibility) I only really saw it from Larsen and Winborn (occasionally from the DEs, desperately screaming at people to get in position and failing to get a response). However, I'm not ready to annoint him as "the answer" to the MLB spot as we've not seen him in extensive action. We will be bringing in more MLB guys over the offseason, whether that's through the draft or FA; the dilemma is whether we bring in a high draft pick/big-ish name FA or a guy who is probably going to be a backup. There are questions surrounding Larsen's coverage and if we were to go to a Tampa 2 (which is a possibility), could we count on him to cover the deep middle zone? I know the idea of getting someone like Karlos Dansby in FA or Rey Maulauga (sp?) or James Laurinitis in the draft is quite popular amongst Broncos fans, and whilst they'd be great pick ups, I think there is a strong possibility of Larsen being something special.

So, if we were to pick up a starting MLB in the offseason, what do we do with Larsen? I think he deserves more than a career as a backup and whilst he could potentially be used more as an FB, would he fit in as a Sam backer? He's strong, and can shed his blocks very well. Of course, coverage is a big part of being an SLB, and that's one of Larsen's question marks. However, if Barrett ends up starting at SS next year, that'd help him out a lot there. SLB is currently a big question mark with Bailey slowly going the same way as Courtney Brown and Winborn - who I like - mixing in moments of excellence with moments of facepalm (I think playing next to Nate "Kamikaze" Webster didn't help him rein in his aggressiveness this year), it could be a good use of our resources as well removing the position as a need next year.

There are several areas on this team which need fixing, and MLB is a big one. I'd just be a bit miffed if we wasted what we already had.

This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR

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We really have to wait and see how the new coach and GM evaluate the current talent.

We don’t even know what systems the team will run.

by SethGrandpa on Jan 3, 2009 3:34 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

True, however judging by Larsen's play, he shouldn't be going anywhere.

"It doesn't dissipate" ~ Mike Shanahan

Cutler's 4th qtr/OT game winning drives: 9

by weazel on Jan 7, 2009 6:21 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Good questions, Good analysis

I haven’t seen enough of his film to know if he’s got any coverage skills. Anyone?

Jim Goodman for Broncos GM!

by Emmett Smith on Jan 3, 2009 4:02 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

His coverage is average to above average

for a MLB. His athleticism is his best physical trait, allowing him to lineup for hits and dive for the broken up pass.

It’s actually pretty impressive, and I think he could win the job against almost all but the most highly touted rookies, after the experience he got this year.

Concision in style, precision in thought, decision in life.

by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 3, 2009 6:03 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree Styg...

It is not up to the MLB to make bone crunching hits UNLESS he is surrounded by lesser athletes and tacklers at SLB and WLB.
Now, he is a SMART player, he shepparded the play well, was calm and collected, was always at the ball, and if he was not making the tackle he was around it. It was no coincidence we looked best defensively against Altlanta and Jets was when we had the Stormin Mormon and WW in the line up.
You surround him with WW (I almost prefer him over DJ) and bring in a strongside LB like Cushing and then we have a VERY good corps.
If we go 3-4, keep Larsen ILB and either keep DJ, play Moss or bring in Mike Peterson.
He would be awesome in this type of set up.
Great comments everyone and great post Muse!

Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.

by boydy2669 on Jan 3, 2009 8:13 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

My view is this

Larsen is most importantly a football player in the classic sense, is he limited athletically, yes, but he makes up for it in smarts and hustle. I think there will be a position for him on this team either as a MLB or as a SAM (likely as a back-up), I really don’t like him at FB other than for special situations (4th and 1 and Hillis toting the rock), I applaud the effort, but I think it is a waste of his talents. He may never be an all pro, I see him being somewhat similar to Glen Cadrez, a special teams standout, good starter, but not a pro-bowler, but just a good football player.

"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman

by Broncoman on Jan 3, 2009 6:49 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

What about in a 3-4?

If we change defensive philosophies I assume he fits in as one of the two inside guys, but our outside guys are too small unless Moss moves back to OLB.

by DBinKC on Jan 3, 2009 7:40 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

The fullback detour

To be honest, I never understood that move as anything other than a Shanahan obsession with stealing every available talented player for the offense. I have nothing but respect for Mike S but his lack of concern with the D is well documented (I nearly died of shock when he had Champ take a few snaps at WR).

That said, I think that if Larsen’s coverage skills are average to above average (and thanks, styg), after seeing his other traits in action I’m pretty sold on him at Mike. If we need to move him to Sam, well, Ok. But why would we want to? We can draft based on need, and needs we got plenty of. We could probably get a top safety at 12.

If we keep him at MLB, its one less need and small dollars for the chance to see if he will work out. I would be he does. He does everything we’ve asked him to up to now. And I think body is right – we seemed to have our best LB play when Larsen stood up next to WW. It’s food for thought.

He’ll be in his second year in 2009 and out of rookie status. We have a young team and the ‘new’ team (after a new HC and a new DC) should be willing as well as able to take direction from Spencer where as some vets might not have this year. He’s very smart and has ‘football smarts’ to boot ; he also has a rare skill that not a lot of our players currently do – he knows how to tackle.

We need a FS desperately, ditto a DL and could use a top CB as well as a Sam or two. Let’s not use picks on positions where we have a low cost, very effective option available. Just an opinion…

Jim Goodman for Broncos GM!

by Emmett Smith on Jan 3, 2009 11:13 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

Great point bear...

not having to use one of the most valuable picks on MLB, and focusing on another position of need, may be the difference in this team picking up that game changing difference maker this team needs. Then we can always get a backup MLB later like in the 5-7th rounds. I still think DJ’s brother Worrell would be an interesting option if we go this way.

by donbok1 on Jan 4, 2009 8:29 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

We had some great discussion on this topic a few weeks back...

Larsen’s greatest contribution by donbok1:

One of the greatest quotes from MHR came from that thread….

I agree, Larsen shouldn’t get any bigger
I am getting tired of his bone crushing hits knocking the pixels off my TV, once they fall to the floor they are very hard to find. by Arctic Bronco on Nov 18, 2008 12:02 AM PST

My image is the Circa 1960-’61 Broncos home uniform sock. Some what folk lore to me ... but referred to as the clown sock by my Dad.

by YellowStoneBronco on Jan 3, 2009 11:42 PM MST reply actions 1 recs

Oops... the link didn't show for donbok1 fan post.

Try this:

www.milehighreport.com/2008/11/17/663820/larsen-s-greatest-contribu#10105797

My image is the Circa 1960-’61 Broncos home uniform sock. Some what folk lore to me ... but referred to as the clown sock by my Dad.

by YellowStoneBronco on Jan 3, 2009 11:50 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Ohh... and excellent post and rec'ed

My image is the Circa 1960-’61 Broncos home uniform sock. Some what folk lore to me ... but referred to as the clown sock by my Dad.

by YellowStoneBronco on Jan 3, 2009 11:59 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

That was brilliant.

Arctic Bronco with the quote of the year? Guru, we should start keeping tabs on this sort of thing. We could have an end of the year awards show, and hand out things like, say, most active member, most commented post, largest amount of useless comments, stupidest question, worst troll, best post, most dominant fantasy team… I think we have something here.

In Bowlen we trust. Find someone special.

by papigrande on Jan 4, 2009 12:21 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks, I decided to update my signature

I agree that Larsen should get a strong look at either starting at MLB or SLB next year. That would free up a high draft choice for some of the other needs on the D.

I agree, Larsen shouldn’t get any bigger. I am getting tired of his bone crushing hits knocking the pixels off my TV, once they fall to the floor they are very hard to find.

by Arctic Bronco on Jan 4, 2009 12:24 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

We need Maualuga @ #12, he's head and shoulders above Laurinintis. However, there's this kid a South Carolina named Jasper Brinkley. He's 6'4 and 265 and a MLB. He's not a 1st rounder but could be a 3-4th. Bring him in to challenge Larsen/Haggans?

"Attitude reflects Leadership" Hogblog...aka KSM

by Hogblog on Jan 4, 2009 9:21 AM MST reply actions 0 recs

we already have a dominant mlb

NATE WEBSTER. Hes great, keeps the play behind him and always makes sure that the mis direction is well over pursued.

by robbo650 on Jan 4, 2009 9:32 AM MST reply actions 1 recs

Well when you put it that way...

Is there a LB out there that is worse than Webster?

"If you don't know where your going you might find yourself somplace else."

by BroncoJoe87 on Jan 4, 2009 9:45 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Perfect analyses of Webster. LMAOLMAOLMAOLMAOLMAO

The player who thinks he can and the player who knows he can are two different players, which one are you???

by Broncofan on Jan 4, 2009 10:19 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

or

the game is ALWAYS too big for him.

by denver_diaspora on Jan 4, 2009 10:28 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

You forgot to mention that he is the best non-tackling hitter on the team!

I have never seen anyone take such bad angles so consistently, he must be the antithesis of good Geometry.

I agree, Larsen shouldn’t get any bigger. I am getting tired of his bone crushing hits knocking the pixels off my TV, once they fall to the floor they are very hard to find.

by Arctic Bronco on Jan 4, 2009 11:31 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Let's not forget

Most Helmets Lost!

"It's all over Fat Man" - Tom Jackson to John Madden 1977 AFC Championship Game

"tough times don't last, tough people do" - Mike "The Mastermind" Shanahan

by DesertBroncoFan on Jan 5, 2009 4:03 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

AOGG

The new acronym for Webster. Let’s hope we don’t have to use it for very long.

How terrible am I? Wishing a player gets cut. He’s got a family to feed, and a life to lead. I’d feel bad for him if he were cut, but I think our team would be better for it.

by CalgaryFan on Jan 4, 2009 12:34 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

lol

Jim Goodman for Broncos GM!

by Emmett Smith on Jan 4, 2009 3:46 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

No need to cut Webster, just switch him to RB.

His natural ability to bounce off of other players will make him a force in the backfield! He better make sure that the NFL doesn’t outlaw Flubber, otherwise he will be done for.

I agree, Larsen shouldn’t get any bigger. I am getting tired of his bone crushing hits knocking the pixels off my TV, once they fall to the floor they are very hard to find.

by Arctic Bronco on Jan 4, 2009 1:06 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

Or it they require you to play with your helmet on...

Jim Goodman for Broncos GM!

by Emmett Smith on Jan 4, 2009 2:08 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Maualuga

If they choose to go with Maualuga in the 1st on the basis that a MLB like him doesn’t come around all that often, is there any reason to not move Larsen to SLB. I understand that he’s not as fast as some, but his quickness is impressive, he’s big enough and he hits, wraps and tackles.

In that vein, after Barrett’s job on Gonzales, we can get help on the TE and free Larsen to blitz more. In fact, hey, let’s consider the blitz part of the defense….

Jim Goodman for Broncos GM!

by Emmett Smith on Jan 4, 2009 1:45 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

Blitz?

I’ve forgotten what that is now…

by Muse_Cubed on Jan 4, 2009 1:46 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Bear....

In that vein, after Barrett’s job on Gonzales, we can get help on the TE and free Larsen to blitz more. In fact, hey, let’s consider the blitz part of the defense….

I agree. We need to find ways to use the talent we have. I think we all agree that WW and Larsen are good and can become great LB’s. Barrett and Jack Williams have futures as well. I hope the new staff sees some of our project guys and makes the most of them.

Trust in ~~Shanny~~ err.. Pat B.

My image is the Circa 1960-’61 Broncos home uniform sock. Some what folk lore to me ... but referred to as the clown sock by my Dad.

by YellowStoneBronco on Jan 5, 2009 10:54 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs

If Maualuga isn't there at 12 I just hope we don't reach for a MLB or DT...don't waste the value of the pick...

If he and Mays are off the board, I hope Denver will try to trade down with a team like the Eagles who have two first rounders. We could then nab Chung and BJ Raji, then grab the best MLB then a running back. Get 5 picks in the first 3 rounds would be a better way to utilize the 12 pick in what is a relatively weak draft unless a difference maker like Mays or Rey are there. Most mocks have us taking Mauluga and on the averages of all the mocks they have been on the money for us the last two years, they all said Moss and Clady…so here is hoping three for three.

There is a running back from Liberty who may be a steal in rounds 3-4. He plays for a D2 school but he is an absolute beast. He is a big huge however and I prefer a speed HR hitter type back. Hey Mobley worked out pretty well from Kutztown!

Was it hard? "It hurts. But tough times don’t last — tough people do. That’s life." - Mike Shanahan

by Steve O' on Jan 4, 2009 8:17 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Blitz???????........................

hmmmmm, must be some new age style of defense. What is it and how do you do it? LOL I haven’t seen an effective one for awhile.

The player who thinks he can and the player who knows he can are two different players, which one are you???

by Broncofan on Jan 4, 2009 4:33 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

i saw a buch this year

when i was watching my #2 team the ravens

by robbo650 on Jan 4, 2009 8:05 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

*buNch

by robbo650 on Jan 4, 2009 8:05 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Completely off the topic

but I wanted to comment on how awesome it is that your avatar is freaking Yoshi.

They call me Bubblegum.

by SlamDunkTheFunk on Jan 5, 2009 6:06 PM MST reply actions 0 recs

It’s a classic :D shame the thing didn’t let me upload the gif properly – usually it blinks!

by Muse_Cubed on Jan 5, 2009 6:18 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

Haha

It’s awesome and I wanted to commend your efforts to promote the Mushroom Kingdom.

They call me Bubblegum.

by SlamDunkTheFunk on Jan 5, 2009 6:31 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs

I've got one of those.

"WTF" By Zappa. 1/5/09

I can deal with bears....sharks on the other hand.......of course, I am not talking about if I were menstrual(I’m a guy so that isn’t it), but yeah. I can deal with bears if my arm or something was bleedin’, but sharks? I’ll pass on those. The worst feeling in the world is to be out in the surf and feel something very large brush up against your leg as you were alone waiting for your next wave. I don’t think I’ve gone out past waist deep in the ocean since. lol It was probably just a damn dolphin or something, but yeah. Screw sharks and the evolutionary train they rode in on!

by papigrande on Jan 5, 2009 8:22 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs