Beaten and Battered, Broncos lose to Chargers 32-3
by John Bena on Nov 22, 2009 5:49 PM MST
in 2009 Game Recap
138 comments
The Broncos are who I thought they were. From the beginning of Training Camp, I said this team was neither deep enough, or talented enough, to overcome poor play from any of the three phases of the team - offense, defense, special teams. Through 6 straight wins to start the season that was the case, and through 4 ugly losses it is the case. The Broncos are not good enough to overcome mental mistakes, they are not deep enough to overcome Red Zone turnovers, and they simply don't have enough talent to beat quality football teams when they commit unsportsmanlike conduct penalties that neutralize one advantage they might have - in the return game.
None of that is any different than the way I felt on July 1. The Broncos are now making the mistakes they weren't before. The Broncos are committing the penalties they weren't before, and most importantly, the Broncos are turning the ball over at the worst possible times and at an alarming pace.
I am going to withhold comment about Kyle Orton/Chris Simms until Josh McDaniels gives his explanation. Until then, I guess the good news is the Broncos will be back on the field in 96 hours, and will still control their destiny in many ways. Talk about the game here, and remember - keep it clean and productive.
0 recs |
138 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Good post
Only thing I would say is that the Broncos did commit some boneheaded turnovers in some of the wins – remember the NE game? In some ways, it’s kind of unbelievable they were able to overcome the two penalties on the punts that gave the Pats two more first downs late in the game.
Very good post, though. The turnover issue has been, in my mind, particularly key.
by thekingofjoy on Nov 22, 2009 5:54 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
I just want to know...
What the bye did to us? How did we go from playing solid, fundamental football to giving up games?
We played hard, even in the losses, until today. I did not see any pop or effort from the D, save for a few drives. That defense gave up.
What the hell happened?
"One time, I want to see a fork lift lift a crate full of forks. It would be so littteral..."
RIP Mitch H.
by m_d0231 on Nov 22, 2009 5:55 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
disagree
in the first 3 quarters, the defense played the run much better than they have since before the bye. they didn’t start missing the gaps until late in the 3rd when fatigue and desperation set in.
the only reason the chargers were able to move the ball in the first half was because rivers played exceptionally well. i think he was 16/19 at one point, and he wasn’t making too many check down throws either.
by bailey disciple on Nov 22, 2009 6:14 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
But 16-19 says the defense was breaking down
Not enough pressure and/or not enough coverage. The Chargers went to running when they had the game in hand, and succeeded at that, too.
by ClarkFan on Nov 22, 2009 7:23 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
He was at the game
I don’t think there will be a radio show tonight.
Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks
by KaptainKirk on Nov 22, 2009 5:55 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Backup
I wouldn’t be surprised at all, if Tom Brandstater will be the new back-up QB, unless Simms was taken off the field because of an injury (didn’t seem like it, but as Guru said, we have to await McDaniels’ comments). Anyway, Chris Simms did not look better imo than last week in Washington.
by Mad Mel on Nov 22, 2009 5:59 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Sputter, Sputter, Pfffffffffffft........
nothing more to be said. Until something positive changes our road leads to the cliff we have fallien off of 4 games ago….
by pwsbronco on Nov 22, 2009 6:01 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
I'm under the impression...
That Andre Goodman played much worse than the defense as a whole. Am I off-base here? Or, did Goodman look bad because the defense looked bad in general (third down conversions, etc.)? He got picked on a lot, and got victimized a lot as well.
by MarshallMcCard on Nov 22, 2009 6:03 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
The secondary looked a lot more out of place after Dawkins left....and P. Rivers is good...
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:04 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but...
Those underneath passes were getting completed even before Dawkins left.
by MarshallMcCard on Nov 22, 2009 6:09 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Also....
I was at the game…and both the team and especially the crowd really reacted positively to Orton and the offense looked completely different. That fumble was just devastating.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:03 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, obviously...
I don’t actually think this Broncos team is much different from the one that beat SD the first time around, or even the Broncos throughout the first part of the season. Those teams got some breaks and made plays, this team today had some breaks go the other way (Moreno’s fumble caused by the lineman’s knee, etc.). I don’t know if we need to panic so much as we need to be praying for the same luck we had in the beginning.
by MarshallMcCard on Nov 22, 2009 6:07 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah..no panic.
Concern…yes. But panic is premature. I’m still counting on the veteran leadership to pull us together for December.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:12 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I think that the coaching staff also needs to make better in-game adjustments; they continue doing things that aren’t working, and occasionally abandon things that are.
by thekingofjoy on Nov 22, 2009 6:14 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
True.
But we should still remember this is McDaniels’ first season…I mean there are bound to bumps on the road…unless you have Peyton Manning….
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:27 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. Well, both fumbles were devastating. The Broncos were in good shape to at least nail a FG on the opening drive (and they were running the ball very well), and obviously they were very close to scoring a TD there. Then you have a lead or a one-possession game at worst, and who knows what may have happened?
by thekingofjoy on Nov 22, 2009 6:11 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly.
AND if we score a TD on the next drive, we don’t need to try that onside kick (which SHOULD of been caught by us…).
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:14 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
I also really don’t understand why you would try an onside kick with nearly 24 minutes left in regulation, down by only ten, whereas you wouldn’t go for it on 4th and inches the play before. And the way they covered the onside kick? Brutal.
by thekingofjoy on Nov 22, 2009 6:17 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno...
it felt right at the stadium….the energy of the game was just such that had that worked it would of been so big. Orton and Knomo were really movin well….it could of been quite the momentum shift…and they came out and did it real quick…we really should of come down with it too…oh well. Life goes on.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:21 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, it definitely would have been big. But if you want to gamble and go for the gold, why not go for it on 4th and inches? But I understand what you’re saying.
by thekingofjoy on Nov 22, 2009 6:24 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
when orton came out
the offense looked very very good for his first 3-4 drives (exclude the 30 second drill attempt because in that situation, orton knows he can take more risks as SD will not have the time to capitalize on them).
there was actually a play in the 3rd where merriman delivered a quasi-lateish low hit aimed at the injured ankle. after this play, orton was visibly limping and he rushed his throws and looked like he was thinking about the ankle for the rest of the game. it was really devastating.
while i don’t think his ankle was injured badly enough that it got in the way, his subconscious compensation for the injury after that hit really ruined an offense that had established a very good rhythm and was making plays.
by bailey disciple on Nov 22, 2009 6:20 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Good observation. Thank you.
Didn’t see that from my seats. That sorta helps explain why Simms may have gotten the call.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:24 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Merriman hit
That looked pretty dirty. Hope the league sees it and fines the roid rager….
by tradbronco on Nov 22, 2009 6:45 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The Moreno fumble hurt, but
The Chargers offense owned the defense. Even if they score there, the Chargers looked like winning the game.
by ClarkFan on Nov 22, 2009 7:26 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Doom and Gloom?
We lost two games to two really good teams in the Ravens and Steelers. Then we lose two more games, mainly because our starting QB is hurt. Todays game wasn’t as lopsided as the scoreboard said. I just don’t get all of the negativity. We still have a good team. We are still in the playoff race. We still control our own destiny.
by TR3X on Nov 22, 2009 6:04 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
I'm sorry, but I've got to call this comment out.
The Ravens and Steelers are pedestrian, just as we are. We lost an inexcusable game to the Redskins, and then we came home, with the season on the line, and played like it was the first game in August. We are an AVERAGE football team that is not improving. We are not a good team, and if we managed to luck into the playoffs, we’d be ousted in rather extraordinary fashion.
by legendarywalton on Nov 22, 2009 6:47 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
I agree and disagree
The Ravens and Steelers are good teams having average years. Both teams also have played Denver enough to WANT to beat them. This is still a rebuilding season, litteraly!! If we make the playoffs it will be short lived but man what a first year that would be for McD :D
by Sean in Pa. on Nov 22, 2009 6:58 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
+1 on making the playoffs.
That would exceed my wildest dreams from the beginning of the year. Still, after the success we experienced, I don’t think it’s fair to this organization to give them a pass if we don’t make it in. This kind of collapse wasn’t tolerated for Shannahan, and it shouldn’t be tolerated for McDaniels— I just feel if you’re going to rip last year’s team, you’ve got to rip this year’s team.
by legendarywalton on Nov 22, 2009 7:06 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The point of my "rebuilding" comment
I don’t think you can compare this team to last year. Shanny had a system and staff that had been in place for decades. This is a brand new Broncos team almost from top to bottom, even the hold over players are learning new systems.
Our early success was as much luck as it was other teams not knowing what they were going to face. Now other teams have game film to go on, McD along with the rest of his staff need to fine tune what they want to accomplish. We are getting to a point where they should have enough film of what is being done to us to make those adjustments.
by Sean in Pa. on Nov 22, 2009 7:13 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
That's fine, but I'm getting sick of the press conferences...
“We need to improve, and we will improve.” It doesn’t seem like the staff is putting players in a position to succeed. Case in point, Polumbus protecting the blindside against on of the premier pass rushers in the game — Shaun Phillips. Why leave him on an island, and why not make and adjustment as the Chargers continued to bring pressure to that edge?
We haven’t made any adjustments to the blueprint that the Ravens produced on how to beat us. I’ll give you that we have a banged up QB, but if Orton is that important to the function of this team, we should have gotten a backup that was truly capable of running the show. Look at how important it was for McDaniels in NE. Just a lot of questionable calls after six weeks of magnificent coaching.
by legendarywalton on Nov 22, 2009 7:18 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Great post
my thoughts exactly. Perhaps the issue is the Broncos just do not have the personnel. We knew this was an issue. They lack depth, experience, at DL and the OL appears to have some holes as well. They have been abused in the trenches for four weeks. Today SD ran the ball down their throat. Offensively we just do not have the talent at QB to spread the field.
by PinchHitLancePainter on Nov 22, 2009 7:24 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
It is more painful to see the growing pains after the thrill of the early success.
I am really pushing the positives because I believe at this point the Broncos need support more than anything. I know when I can’t seem to find the answer, or right way I respond much better to positive re-enforcement than to blame or ridicule.
C’mon Josh McD and gang….. You Can DO IT!
by Sean in Pa. on Nov 22, 2009 7:25 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Six magnificent weeks of coaching followed by four terrible coaching performances. I’m as guilty as anyone of forgetting he is a rookie coach. Thus far, he has not shown an ability to bounce back from taking one on the chin. But he is a rookie coach and should get better with experience. He still has a lot to learn, but I still believe his upside is very high as a HC. His play calling needs a lot of work and he can’t abandon the run as quickly as he does, but I do believe patience will come with experience.
Priefer on the other hand… No. That guy needs a pink slip not 2 minutes after this season comes to an end.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 7:29 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
It is all about perspective, I guess.
I just wish we saw some of the fire that McDaniels had earlier in the season about not every being on a losing team. He’s clearly disappointed, but I’d like that raw emotion to get communicated in both victory and defeat. If you just show it when you win, it seems like when you lose, you’re just absolutely baffled as to what just happened.
There’s a lot to like about the guy, and he’s been validated in his choice of Kyle Orton in my opinion. The only problem is that we clearly have very, very few players that fit his system, because once their technical flaws were exposed, we could no longer win using that system.
We were playing above our heads, and I wonder if the rallying cry about Cutler, the media, etc. was such a powerful motivator that we willed ourselves to those victories. A lot of work, and difficult decisions to be made. Based on the Patriots history of unorthodox moves, I can bet you’ll see some crazy stuff this summer, i.e. Marshall not resigned, Clady traded, big money deal to a guard, etc (no I’m not advocating any of that, I’m just trying to come up with what craziness could go on).
by legendarywalton on Nov 22, 2009 8:37 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I hope we don’t make too many crazy moves. I know its early, but I am seeing very little from our rookie class and think we may have laid an egg with our 2009 draft. Those guys should all be McDaniels guys and yet Smith can’t get on the field and Ayers is a health scratch. Quinn? Does he play?
I hope McDaniels does not do too much outside the box thinking like trading away a 1st round pick for a 2nd rounder.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 8:48 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
+1 Why even play Simms and not protect him?
very disappointed in Josh’s choices there. Don’t put a guy in and not give a chance! Now his confidence is for shit and we might as well cut him.
by Whidbey Bronco on Nov 22, 2009 8:38 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Simms is no longer an NFL QB. The game has certainly passed him by. He should be cut once Orton is healthy. Simms is of no value to Denver.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 8:45 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
BS.... This team looked devoid of anything that has we looking forward to the rest of the season
No heart and bad scheme on defense.
The fact that KO had to play at all shows you all you need to know about Simms. This season is done. We now need to get to start planning for long term future of the team .
McD is drowning and he will learn from this, but the defense gave up today and I am disgusted by that.
I know we are 6-4 but this effort today by the d was pathetic ans for 4 weeks we have been outcoached ….. And by 2 pretty average coaches.
Not stoked!
Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.
All I want is 53 Rod Smiths. Is that asking too much????
"Peyton Hillis didn’t rip the sleeves off his jersey, they flew off out of fear."
Calijoefornia.
by boydy2669 on Nov 22, 2009 8:50 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The Coach of the year talk should be dead at this point. Josh McDaniels is certainly not doing the best job of any coach in the NFL.
The lack of improvement is what gets me. We are getting worse, not better, with more experience in his system. Why is a question that needs to be asked?
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 8:54 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
It was more lopsided than the scoreboard said
The Chargers kicked several field goals in the red zone because they didn’t have to be aggressive at that point. It could have been worse.
by Cutler's Ghost on Nov 23, 2009 6:35 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The last four games
are virtually identical in the issues. Offense can’t produce anything but TOs, defense wears down, ST gives up big plays. Today’s was the OS kick
by PinchHitLancePainter on Nov 22, 2009 6:05 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Mental Mistakes Are Killing Us
Playing smart at least give you a chance. Infuriating things today:
Jarvis Moss offsides, turning a 3rd and 8 into a 3rd and 3. Why is he in the game anyway?
Marcus Thomas unsportsmanlike conduct during field goal.
Vonnie Holliday late hit on Rivers.
Forget last year, today the defense reminded me of Ray Rhoads days. Undisciplined, bad attitude (not in a good way), out of position, pointing fingers.
by xandervan on Nov 22, 2009 6:11 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Ugh...Jarvis
That play just made me feel bad for him…I mean….goodness.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:25 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
McD said Orton was "touch and go" in pregame warmups. Simms had practice reps. Orton said after he cldn't practice Fri, Simms would start
Orton said he felt OK in pregame, but it was already understood plan was to start Simms. Orton said he’ll be ready to go Thurs, no setbacks
by Calibroncoboy on Nov 22, 2009 6:14 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
I guess that makes sense....but I still wonder how the game would of gone if Orton had just started.
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:15 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
yep My Dad says the real mistake was made against the Skins
He says Josh shouldve played Orton the first series of the second half against the Skins because he was just playing too well at the time . He says the streak wouldve been over and this game wouldve given the Chargers a tie but not the lead .
by Hoopforia on Nov 22, 2009 6:27 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Why
does Al Michaels always look blitzed off his ass
by T.Dot_Bronco on Nov 22, 2009 6:25 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Well if you had to work with Colinsworth....
by Gr3yStreet on Nov 22, 2009 6:28 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
lol
touche
Conversation nonstarters: hoping McDaniels fails, comparing Bears to Broncos, Cutler to Orton, apples to oranges, and casual drinkers to Raiders fans.
by broncosmontana on Nov 22, 2009 6:31 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Incredibly fair assessment, John
Thanks as always for providing ballast for our heads. 13-3 we aren’t this year. But we’re still in the mix, and I will be very curious to see how the team responds in coming weeks.
Conversation nonstarters: hoping McDaniels fails, comparing Bears to Broncos, Cutler to Orton, apples to oranges, and casual drinkers to Raiders fans.
by broncosmontana on Nov 22, 2009 6:34 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Turnovers and mistakes KILLED us today
The only thing that will cheer me up a little bit is to see Cutler throw a mininum 5 picks.
by BroncosCanada on Nov 22, 2009 6:34 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
sorry
could only muster one tonight. My boy Phil sure looked good though.
by Cutler's Ghost on Nov 23, 2009 6:38 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs
AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks just needed to vent.
by ThorpeBroncosfan on Nov 22, 2009 6:39 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
I needed to vent too
but mine didn’t sound like that…maybe you should get a doctor to check you out
by T.Dot_Bronco on Nov 22, 2009 6:40 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I think his was just more
from the back of the throat…
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Nov 22, 2009 6:57 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
lol nice.
So it wasn’t “ooooooo” as in, surprise and alarm????
If Taylor Swift were to try and tackle me, I'd let her.
by kentuckybronco on Nov 22, 2009 8:28 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I hate the DOLTS SO much.
The lack of discipline is maddening. We looked like the 2007 team today and we quit in the 3ed quarter. Very frustrating to watch.
I was hoping (not expecting) a week of reps in practice would help Simms, but it is beyond obvious that he is no longer a capable NFL player. Does anyone see him ever making a positive impact for Denver? Once Orton is healthy, Simms should be released because he has no future here or in the NFL (IMO).
I’m disappointed in our rookie class. We had FIVE picks in the 1st two rounds and we are not getting much out of any of them. If Denver is a rebuilding team (and I don’t think we are but some of you do), a team rebuilds thru the draft. How are we going to be better in 2010 and 2011 if our young players are not impact guys or far more importantly, are not showing improvement and progress.
Why was Ayers inactive? I hope he was sick or injured because he is the one rookie I do see getting better on a week to week basis. If he was inactive by choice today, that is a terrible sign that he’d be inactive for such an important game. Ayers looks like an NFL player (not a bust like Jarvis Moss), but I do wonder if Ayers will only a complimentary player instead of a star. Being inactive today really concerns me.
I’ve always hated the Alphonso Smith trade so again I ask why we traded away a 1st round pick for Alphonso Smith if he can’t even get on the field. McDaniels was very sure about this guy by making that trade and now McDaniels won’t even play the kid. Something smells rotten about this.
Moreno looks great some weeks, but the fumbles are just brutal. 10 carries for 80 yards is awesome though. I hope we can get back to running MORE.
At this point, maybe McBath is the jewel of our draft class and that is not saying much.
These 1st and 2nd round picks need to be making an impact in their rookie year and ours are not. 10 games is a pretty big sample size and it’s fair to say we won’t have to worry about any Sophomore slumps in 2010 since none of these guys is lighting up the league this season.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 6:40 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
wooda been sooooo nuce to have 2 1st round piks next yr
by Calibroncoboy on Nov 22, 2009 6:43 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
It would be even better if Alphonso Smith was good. Right now, he can’t even get on the field.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 6:45 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
We need a stud young corner and if he could be the guy he was in Cincy than I have no problem with that trade….but man does that seem like a long time ago….
On To Victory!!!
by alacumba!! on Nov 22, 2009 6:46 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
If we are going to trade up so aggressively like we did, our scouts better be damn sure they have a guy who will be great. If not, what does that say about your scouts?
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 6:49 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
McGeorge
whats your take on the tension with Marshall/Moreno Marshall/Orton?
I would hope you would support who we are. Not, who we are not. Coach Norman Dale "Hoosiers"
by dmitchell624 on Nov 22, 2009 7:01 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I think it is nothing more than heat of the moment. Marshall is very competitive, just watch him run with the ball in his hands. I’ve read Moreno is also a similar player. Moreno made a game changing mistake and Marshall probably told him so.
I’m not worried about this at all.
I’m worried about our long term future because of all our new players, the best ones are in their 30s, like Dawkins, Andra Davis, Goodman. Our least effective new players are the rookies and the rookies don’t look to be improving either.
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 7:05 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
OVER???
Was it OVER when the German’s bombed Pearl Harbor???
Conversation nonstarters: hoping McDaniels fails, comparing Bears to Broncos, Cutler to Orton, apples to oranges, and casual drinkers to Raiders fans.
by broncosmontana on Nov 22, 2009 6:56 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
weve been nuked...........like hiroshima......THEN it was over
by Calibroncoboy on Nov 22, 2009 7:00 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
oh well then
I’m off to play with cuddly animals on a desert island. Later Cali. ^^
Conversation nonstarters: hoping McDaniels fails, comparing Bears to Broncos, Cutler to Orton, apples to oranges, and casual drinkers to Raiders fans.
by broncosmontana on Nov 22, 2009 7:14 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty excellent summation, JB
Not much to add to that. I think after a couple of weeks, I put McD and the coaching staff up on an unrealistic pedestal. I don’t mean that in a negative way, but rather to say that this shouldn’t be a surprising as it initially was (this slide).
That said, I was immensely disappointed in the defensive game plan and the onsides kick. I can’t make sense of either. As for Orton coming in, I can understand— but why he was left in so long seems pretty reckless to me. I’ve seen enough of Simms to conclude that this team is pretty hopeless with him him at the reigns.
Hopefully, they can take advantage of the Giants immense scheduling disadvantage this week. I’m keeping the faith, always will.
by PredominantlyOrange on Nov 22, 2009 7:05 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
SD has owned the AFC West for 4 years, maybe we should just admit it????
Let’s face it: as long as Rivers is the SD QB, we are in trouble. He came along after the time when SD could never win in Denver…………. in fact, he is the Hoculi call short of being 4-0 in Denver with a couple of thrashings (41-3, 32-3.) He loves playing against us, whereas the previous SD QBs feared coming to town. And he’s only 28 – I don’t like how the next 5+ years are shaping up.
I guess that we are just an average team that got off to a great start……….. too bad the momentum did not come later in the year, because we look pretty dead right now. Pitts has the tiebreaker over us and we are not going to catch SD. Mike Shannihan is probably smiling (finally)
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:14 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
don't admit anything cause its not true
this is only what like week 11……we still have time you have to look at who SD still has to play….its not over yet, don’t lose hope
by Whosbob89 on Nov 22, 2009 7:24 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
really?
You don’t think that we need to admit that SD has owned the AFC West for the past 4 years and that Rivers seems to like playing aginst us……………… and beating us?
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:42 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
No because a team should never admit defeat
they should fight until the end
by Whosbob89 on Nov 22, 2009 7:45 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree........
Yes, fight every game to the end, but admitting that the other team has been/is better does not mean a lack of fight. I am sure that the NYJ know that NE is better and Houston knows that Indy is better – they still play them hard and hope to be better than them one day. Right now SD has a better team, much better QB (Rivers has performed at a high level for all 4 of his years as a starter, Orton for less than half of this season), better recivers overall, and a younger/better secondary. Also a better kicker and punter – need I go on? They also have Sproles as a weapon. Tough to admit but true………..
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:50 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The chargers own us... When it's crunch time we golf like a deck chair on the Titanic... Regardless of coach!
Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.
All I want is 53 Rod Smiths. Is that asking too much????
"Peyton Hillis didn’t rip the sleeves off his jersey, they flew off out of fear."
Calijoefornia.
by boydy2669 on Nov 22, 2009 8:59 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
The Chargers are the class of the division.
That’s probably not saying much, this being such a poor division but I don’t think that fact is lost on most people.
But that really has little to do with the Broncos. It’s the Chargers’ job to be good, just like every team in the league. The Broncos at this point probably no better than an average team, but they’re better than they’ve played the last few weeks.
That’s the frustrating thing. I doubt there are many sane people who expect this team to make the Super Bowl or even to go deep into the playoffs. But they’re better than this.
Don't argue with fools. It's how they reproduce.
by TheMastermind on Nov 22, 2009 7:50 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
can we get the tiebreaker with jax?
by Calibroncoboy on Nov 22, 2009 7:23 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
How the hell do we end up playing the colts and the pats and SD plays neither
by Whosbob89 on Nov 22, 2009 7:25 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
coincidence?????
If Taylor Swift were to try and tackle me, I'd let her.
by kentuckybronco on Nov 22, 2009 8:29 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
They got Tenn
and Pitt who in theory were last years first place guys.
by PinchHitLancePainter on Nov 22, 2009 7:25 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
They got Tenn we got the Colts, they got Miami, we got the Pats
other than that our schedules are the same.
Man is not a rational animal, he is a rationalizing animal.
by MrFNSunshine on Nov 23, 2009 2:24 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs
not as bad as I thought, but we can still finish strong
all right people, admit it. At the start of the season when this dreaded 8 game stretch came out on the schedule, and considering all the off season drama, a lot of people we’re figuring we might not win a game or two during this stretch. We’re now 3-4 so far, with the game left against the G-men, who don’t look that intimidating. Granted, we still have to go to Indy and Philly, but I think finishing this stretch at 4-4 would be a tremendous accomplishment for this team. Yeah, they’ve got to cleanup the penalties and turnovers, but there are still some winnable games on the schedule.
by micb on Nov 22, 2009 7:26 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
colts and pats
Because the Colts and Pats finished 2nd in their divisions last year (Tenn and Miami were the 1st place teams), so the Broncs play the ‘other’ 2nd place teams from the previous year. SD plays Tenn and Miami
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:27 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
"The Broncos are who I thought they were..."
If anyone else—besides an expert— had posted this, they would’ve been dogpiled and run off the website. Just sayin’….
by oxmouth on Nov 22, 2009 7:27 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
"Experts"
When the Broncs were 3-0. most of the ‘experts’ predicted they would be 4-7 after 11 games
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:28 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Hell..........we've still done better than anybody thought we would. There will be growing pains. I'm behind the Broncs all the way.
We are an average team that started 6-0 on grit and toughness. Anybody remember that none of those 6 wins were blowouts? We barely won most of them. Now the breaks are going the other way. I agree with John, we are not good enough to overcome a lot of mistakes. Especially 2 redzone TO’s. We probably aren’t good enough to be 6-0 but we aren’t bad enough to be 0-4 either. We are middle of the pack, I’ll take that with all the changes.
Our new DOOMesday Defense!!!! YOU LIKE??????????????
by Broncofan on Nov 22, 2009 7:28 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
What's the future?
It’s just tough to swallow when we started 6-0…………. it would have been better if we had not all gotten so excited. And what are the prospects for the future, with a journeyman QB and an aging (?aged) defence, especially the secondary?
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:46 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you.
This sucks but this team is 6-4 and already sports a better record than most people would have predicted. They’re certain to win at least a couple more games, and if they finish 8-8 after all the off season turnover and such a tough schedule, that’s probably nothing to be ashamed of.
People expect single season miracles these days, but the reality is that when you turn over most of the coaching staff, the offensive and defensive system and 2/3 of the roster, most teams tend to finish south of .500 that first year. I think that the Broncos are sitting where they are is in itself a blessing, but it sure doesn’t feel that way after such an ugly game.
On the other hand, and this is just MY opinion – this is NOT currently a playoff team but they are better than THIS. And they can still make the postseason. This is far from over but man, these guys need to look in the mirror, starting with the coaching staff. McD has called some good games this year but like a lot of the guys on this roster he’s a rookie too, and I think he might need to adjust his approach.
You make some good points.
Don't argue with fools. It's how they reproduce.
by TheMastermind on Nov 22, 2009 7:58 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Orton probably not the long term answer
And the problem is that we will probably finish around 8-8 (9-7 if we get lucky) and be unable to draft a franchise QB. The other teams are ‘on to’ McDniel’s offense, and unless we get Brady, Welker, and Moss to run it, I don’t see it being all that successful in the future.
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:32 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
our record doesn't matter with our 1st round draft pick
because our first round draft pick depends on chicagos record
by Whosbob89 on Nov 22, 2009 7:36 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Orton can be fantastic in this system
he’s shown that.
by JeffG on Nov 22, 2009 7:38 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree to an extent.
Orton can make all the throws. The problem is that they need to attack downfield more often, especially with the TE’s. Fouts was actually pointing that out during the game that they weren’t using Scheff to their advantage. If they don’t attack downfield, the corners are just going to sit on routes like they the last few teams have done.
by micb on Nov 22, 2009 7:42 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
That'll come with time
Orton has shown he can get the ball down field. And I don’t agree with Fouts that Simms has the stronger arm. It’s just that Orton doesn’t wind up as much before he throws the ball.
by JeffG on Nov 22, 2009 7:47 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I do
I was in the Navy, based in SD when Dan was playing QB. That man knows what a strong arm is :) LOL I swear sitting in the nose bleed seats that ball looked like it was as high in the air as I was. Seriously, I respect the comments he makes even if they aren’t the right answer for the team on the field.
by Sean in Pa. on Nov 22, 2009 7:50 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
didn't say I cared . . .
but he is HOF QB who knew a little bit about throwing the ball downfield
by micb on Nov 22, 2009 7:51 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
depends
it’s not really a question of Orton’s ability. I think we agree on that. The issue I see is the gameplan and playcalling. Maybe McD doesn’t want to throw in too much, but since it sounds like he gameplans week to week for each opponent, I would like to see more in game adjustments when the other team has countered your playcalling. What I was referring to with the TE’s is that both Pitt and Balt played 8 in the box most of the game, so you counter that by running a TE up the seem. The Colts do it all the time, but I don’ t think we use Scheff and Graham enough to counter some of the defenses we’re seeing.
by micb on Nov 22, 2009 7:59 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you on Orton. I think he can be the long term QB for Denver.
But I doubt you feel as good about the Alphonso Smith trade as you did several months ago. McDaniels targeted this kid and now he won’t put Smith on the field.
What is up with Ayers being inactive? Do you know why?
This is my favorite website.
by McGeorge on Nov 22, 2009 8:02 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
AGREE AGREE AGREE AGREE 100%
What’s the message being sent? If These guys are going to be impact players Why are they not on the field. Way frustrating!!!
by Terry8377 on Nov 22, 2009 8:51 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
"Fantastic"??????
That’s embellishing a lot, don’t you think? He’s played only two quality games against quality opponets (NE and Dallas) and the D helped win those games by limiting the opponent scoring. And he played for years in Chicago and was never more than mediocre, couldn’t even win a starting job against Rex Grossman! The guy is OK and the team started well, but he’s not a long term solution…………… for a playoff team that is.
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 9:25 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Brady says it will take 2-3 years tomaster the O. I'll give em 2 before I call for anyones head. Plus you don't build a great team overnight. We need to get a littlepatience as a fanbase.
Our new DOOMesday Defense!!!! YOU LIKE??????????????
by Broncofan on Nov 22, 2009 7:40 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Nonsense
It takes a while to master, and if Orton hadn’t gotten injured last week, you’re looking at a 7-2 team entering today’s game.
The key to this offense at this point is complementary play. Orton is not the answer as a guy you bring in having essentially staked the other team to a 20-3 lead with a few minutes remaining in the 3rd quarter.
He is, however, the guy who should have started this game. With the way the Broncos were running the ball, and Orton at the helm, the game would have remained tight and the Chargers would have had to honor the run. Even a bum wheel — and with a bum finger for the first three games — Orton has shown he can move this team and win games.
He is 4 months older than Cutler. He has less than a year in this system, and has played only a handful of games fully healthy. When you squint, you can see how this offense is supposed to work, and you can see, at times, glimpses of how it will work once everybody is on the same page, and once the QB reaches that point where he knows where everybody will be on the field at any given moment.
Unless McD is planning on going to a roll-out, West Coast type offense, Orton is the perfect guy to run what it is the coach wants to do. He’s a pocket passer who, with a good running game and a solid defense, will win most of his games.
by JeffG on Nov 22, 2009 7:45 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Schedule
SD has had to play Indy and NE just about every year for the past 4 years, as they ha all pretty much finished 1st each year.
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 7:33 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Well we can hope for a wild card
or we can go out and TAKE THE DIVISION
by Whosbob89 on Nov 22, 2009 7:37 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Playoffs? Playoffs? Are you talking about playoffs?
Playoffs would be nice but right now, man..just score a damn touchdown. How many quarters has it been? And then, win a game. I am just looking forward to the next win. LOL
Don't argue with fools. It's how they reproduce.
by TheMastermind on Nov 22, 2009 8:03 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Nice
We needed another reference ROTFLMAO
by Sean in Pa. on Nov 22, 2009 8:16 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
CHEMISTRY
I am a big fan of chemistry and if it isn’t broke then why fix it. The Berger pick-up & the Ty Law deal, to this day leave me a little perplexed. With youth you get energy and I don’t see the benefit that we are reaping with the old dog.
by Terry8377 on Nov 22, 2009 8:41 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
looks like another bad season to me this is the pattern the Broncos followed the past 4 seasons start fast and end slow this year wont be different just seems like they cant perform under pressure seems like the Broncos have a bunch of low IQ players like Jarvis Moss who should have retired like he said he was and Marcus Thomas. i just dont think the Broncos will rebound dont get me wrong i love my team but i will not lie to myself and say that we have a chance at the playoffs i mean cmon we lost to the Redskins. where was Hillis where was the Chef why does Knowshon keep fumbling why Does Goodman get beat on every play why cant the Champ keep up with young wideouts why do we comment stupid penalties why cant we drive the ball down the field why cant we stop teams on thirddowns why cant we get interceptions why is our defence always out of position why does our special teams suck why i’ll tell you why its because we have low IQ players with no passion for the game but i bet you they will have no problem picking up their game checks on Monday they do that really well if football was picking up their checks on Monday then they would be undefeated the Broncos need to get rid of that 2007 draft class cause they all suck and they have never did anything for the Broncos since they came in the league the Broncos are just a waste of a Sunday these days. Playoffs? Playoffs? Are you talking about playoffs? i’m sick and tired of our fans babying and being nice to the Broncos lets keep it real with them and just say they suck i think because Denver is a soft city it rubs off on the Broncos and makes the team soft.
by thirdandlong303 on Nov 22, 2009 8:48 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Rookie Coach, Rookie mistakes
I’m afraid too many folks, myself included, were drinking the orange kool-aid as we rolled to 6-0, including the players & coaches. This team lost its focus in Baltimore, re-grouped a bit against Pittsburg for 3 quarters, and then drifted off completely. I think all the issues that people were worried about at the beginning of the year are still there and our new rookie head coach is learning the position the only way you can…the hard way. He had his team rolling, then they hit a wall. How does he get them back on track? Tough job, I’m sure he has trouble sleeping at night.
The Redskins & Chargers really didn’t play amazingly well, we just played much worse. The silly mistakes and turnovers just keep piling up. You can’t feel good about that. Until the coach and the players get their acts together we will continue to under-impress.
I really miss the Denver running game, how can you expect to beat a team like SD unless you run, run, run and keep Rivers off the field? I don’t get it.
All I can see is a rookie coach making rookie mistakes, and players who are following suit.
by buckeyebronco on Nov 22, 2009 9:12 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
Buckey agreed...we gave games away the last 2 weeks...NEVER even wanted to play which is disappointing...Frickin patheic...I have never been this disappointed by the Broncos ever!
Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.
All I want is 53 Rod Smiths. Is that asking too much????
"Peyton Hillis didn’t rip the sleeves off his jersey, they flew off out of fear."
Calijoefornia.
by boydy2669 on Nov 22, 2009 9:21 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Rivers
As long as Rivers is in SD and likes to torment — and beat — the Broncos, we are in trouble the next 5+ years. I think he looks forward to coming to mile high – we need someone to put him on his butt to shake his confidence. We hate to admit it, but the guy is good.
by ZigNate on Nov 22, 2009 9:27 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see where McD
made rookie mistakes, I only saw the first half and the start of the third, but the only questionable call he made was the onside kick, and that was executed perfectly, we really should have come up with it.
Is it his fault Simms held onto the ball too long and got strip sacked? Is it his fault Moreno tried to extend into the endzone and lost the ball? Is it his fault that NONE of our players can apparently HOLD ONTO A BALL? His fault Simms couldn’t complete a pass to the broadside of a barn? I’m not saying McDaniels is without fault, right now I see players who are not performing as good as they can, straight up.
Jason
The Hanging Curve
by poorboywilly on Nov 22, 2009 9:55 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
People are funny
Some people, when this team went 6-0, actually thought this was a good team.
Some people, now that this team has lost 4 in a row think this is an awful team.
Can’t anybody see the team for what it is?
The Broncos are rebuilding. They’ve been mediocre for the past decade, just fired their head coach and turned over half the roster. That’s called rebuilding. If you ask me, the rebuilding process has gone quite well. We’ve seen some flashes of success and some positive on a defense that was a doormat for years.
Plus, we obviously won on the Cutler deal. Scored a bunch of draft picks and its clear Cutler is not great. He is a gunslinger who will throw a bunch of picks year in and year out.
I’m shocked that people are stunned we’ve lost 4 in a row.
by charlesnelsonreilly on Nov 22, 2009 10:09 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
What I find difficult to understand is how the offence, with almost entirely the same personal, has declined so dramatically in the period of one year. Yes, Orton does not have the physical talent that Cutler had, but that in itself is not enough to explain such a dramatic drop in offensive production. I had high hopes at the start of the year that the offence with all it’s talent would continue to thrive. What explains this collapse?
by BroncoMarc on Nov 22, 2009 10:33 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
We don't have a QB that scares anyone
there is not a team out there that is scared of Orton. Not to say he has not done well by the numbers of passes completed and all but the fact is he can not score points. He can not threaten anyone in the redzone when we get there. He does not have a running game that helps him. Our running game scares nobody.
Not to say Cutler is any better but he had the ability to scare the hell out of other teams (when he wasn’t throwing to them) But he did put a scare in teams.
You don’t see that in Orton at all. I don’t care who you are, you can’t tell me that you actually believe that Orton is going to go out there and just scare the crap out of the other team to the point that they are going to have to cover him. Just the opposite, they stop our run game and try to make Kyle win. It just doesn’t happen.
And when you only score as much as we do this year all a team has to do on the average is score 21 points and they will win. Any team has the ability to do just that.
We have to figure out how to score pts, if we do this the defense can at least take a break or at least only play 30 min a game. We have a great need at QB, I don’t care about all the arguements about how well Kyle has done for us but the fact is Not one of us would have picked Kyle to be our QB if he were out there and didn’t come with a trade. NONE OF US WOULD……… EVER…….
We got him in a trade and that is what it is. He will play for us until we can get another QB to lead this team, he may be a great guy and a great team guy but he is not our answer and he will not be able to ever scare any team out there….period….
by pwsbronco on Nov 22, 2009 11:58 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
clueless and will you please stop assuming you speak for everyone in your made up scenarios
Teams are game planning for Orton . The one thing that has ben established so far this season offensively that if Orton is given enough time he will pick defenses apart . Thats where all the dialed up pressure has come from . The deep passing missing from our offense has nothing to do with Orton but everything to do with the conservative nature our coach and his situational offensive philosophy.
No QB by himself scares the crap out of a team and the ability to score points is more a scheme team as Orton has a history of being very good in the redzone . The spread in the redzone is the problem so far as well as the running out of the spread .
Its amazing having to explain this stuff after 10 weeks to someone who claims they follow this team .
Its amazing how many people Ive seen write that Orton isnt the answer to questions that make no sense.
I dont want to scare teams I want to beat teams .
by Hoopforia on Nov 23, 2009 9:22 AM MST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't recall insulting you or trying to attack anyone else personally because of thier point of view
so whatever makes you think you can do that to me only makes you the clueless one. I have gone back and read a few of your responses and it seems like you take other peoples opinions or just a release of thier frustrations. (mine included) very personal, especially any negative or questionable comments on Orton.
I don’t know what makes you think that you can call people names or try and make yourself look better or even attempt putting other people down because they may have a different point of view as you. I do feel that was your intention on your response to my view. I admit that I can go off a bit but I love my team and always will, I do get very frustrated and passionate with the way this team plays and I vent my thoughts.
I may be offending those that don’t agree with what I say or how I say it, But I never and I mean never try to offend anyone personally or try to demean or put down anyone for speaking thier opinon. (unless they are being completely idiotic and attackful)
Whenever I hear people like you trying to put others down and trying to puff your self importance up it only reminds me of the many years fighting for my country.
It was always the guys like you that were the ones in the rear hiding and crying for thier mothers when the fight was on.
So, you might really want to take a look at how you talk to others that you don’t agree with because it may not be coming off the way you really mean it. And if it is, I am sorry for you and you may just want to change your pants because as I mentioned above, those same guys that were hiding and crying for thier mothers also pissed themselves. And if you don’t believe me just ask anyone that has been shot at. what people like you under fire really do when it all counts, they hide and wimper and when it is all over, they are right there trying to take credit in the action that they hid from.
I hope you take this as something that may help you in dealing with others that have different opions than yourslef, and you may just be a better person for it. there are a couple of more regulars that do the same as you and maybe they will also look within themselves…..Go Broncos….
by pwsbronco on Nov 23, 2009 3:07 PM MST up reply actions 0 recs
Props to Bronco fans on this site
I must say that I am impressed with the posts that I have been reading on this site by the Broncos fans as opposed to some of the mindless, sour milk, ramblings on the signonsandiego site. I appreciate the level headed approach of assessing the game and the level of the team’s play. I am a diehard Chargers fan and prior to the game, I had a very strong feeling that the Chargers would blow out the Broncos. Normally, I wouldn’t feel that way but after but when I added everything up, it had the same feel prior to the final regular season game last year. Make no mistake, when the Broncos dismantled the Chargers at the Q a month ago, I assumed that the Chargers AFC dominance was over and there was a new sheriff in the West. Bizarre. I know that feeling when your team seems to be doing everything it can to lose. That’s what the Broncos looked liked today. McDaniels needs to shoulder respsonsibility for some very inept game management. I don’t think that it’s about the two Superbowl victories for the Broncos organization or the Chargers inability to win the big one to get to the biggest one. We all want to see our respective teams play hard, focused, disciplined, football with minimal mental miscues. Good luck with the Giants, you will need it.
by Mattincabo on Nov 22, 2009 10:52 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
On top of an ugly loss to the Chargers
The Chiefs beat Pitt and the Raiders beat Cinci. I didn’t see the games and I’m not saying either of those teams have arrived, but it sure makes you wonder if they’re at least getting better while we aren’t. I think a lot of us had chaulked those divisional games up as wins.
by BroncosRock! on Nov 22, 2009 11:01 PM MST reply actions 0 recs
RT
With Harris in, Simms no doubt would have had a much better opportunity to succeed. Polumbus just couldn’t hack it…
by Merlin Scott on Nov 23, 2009 12:02 AM MST reply actions 0 recs
Over
This season is over history shows it in the last 4 seasons i dont think McD knows what he is doing with his play calling and why is Hillis, Chef, Ayers and Smith not on the field and how long is Harris going to be out damn!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and get the damn ball to your impact players damn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by thirdandlong303 on Nov 23, 2009 1:19 AM MST reply actions 0 recs
Damn
The Broncos are like a old man……cant stand up under pressure lol.
by thirdandlong303 on Nov 23, 2009 1:22 AM MST reply actions 0 recs
The Two Major Things that Lost the Game
1) That Moreno Fumble. The man’s becoming a liability.
2) Absurd Onside Kick. Sure, if it went the other way it would look ingenious but it put us in a 20-3 hole and that was essentially the end of the game.
by NYCBronx on Nov 23, 2009 8:02 AM MST reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Mile High Report
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Getting Social With MHR
Web Stuff
Certain photos copyright © 2010 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
