A Fistful of Bowlen -- 27 Years of Cool
by TJ Johnson on Jan 27, 2010 9:30 AM MST
in Denver Broncos in the Hall of Fame
107 comments
I'm going to be honest with you.
I haven't a clue who the Broncos are going to draft right now.
I don't know Tim Tebow's 40-yard dash time. I'm sketchy on how many times Taylor Mays is going to bench press 225 pounds. And Mike Iupati's biceps? I'm guessing they are pretty large.
But a draft expert I am not. Coincidentally, the real draft experts like Mel Kiper, Jr. aren't either, so I guess I'm in decent company. At least I saved on the hair spray.
So if you wanna get mocked, I apologize in advance.
I am simply here to provide a mid-week respite from your hurricane of draft coverage. This week I'd like to celebrate one of the greatest (if not the greatest) owners in sports--Patrick Dennis Bowlen. This March will mark Bowlen's 27th season as owner. As I've said on numerous occasions, this cat has a penchant for three things in life: winning, fur coats, and winning. Luckily, numbers one and three never go out of style.
So if you're feeling fashion forward, follow me after the jump and we'll give Bowlen our own Mile High Salute with the Top 5 greatest plays of the Bowlen era--with a twist. We're looking at these plays through the lens of points value.
The Bowlen Era - The Short Version
Casting aside for a moment the mediocrity of the last several seasons, let me tell you everything you need to know about the Denver Broncos under Pat Bowlen:
- 5 AFC Championships
- 2 Super Bowls
- Best Home Winning Percentage in the NFL
If not for a Steve Sewell fumble in 1991, a Mark Brunell mind freak in 1996, and a missed pick-6 interception from Champ Bailey in 2005, Bowlen might have 3 more Super Bowls to add to his collection. In a league defined by winning, Bowlen has no equal. That's why a few seasons of .500 football can look like Armageddon to some Broncos fans. It just doesn't happen under Bowlen's watch. And it's why you're not likely to see the Broncos continue the trend. Orange is too bright a color to hide for long.
The Top 5
Picking the Top 5 plays in the Bowlen era was almost impossible. There are simply too many of them. So I decided to make it just a little easier on myself. I decided to look at the plays from an expected points analysis. I think you'll find this analysis both interesting and not just your standard water-cooler stuff.
# 5 - Dennis Smith's Blocked Field Goal - November 17th, 1985, San Diego Chargers
I hate Al Davis with every fiber of my being. Dan Fouts isn't far behind. And not because he's a dink-and-dunk announcer--the exact opposite of when he played. I hate Fouts because he was a great quarterback. That's why this particular play was amusing.
In Week 11 of the 1985 season, the Chargers and the Broncos played a hard fought game that went to overtime. The score heading into the extra session was 24-24. The Chargers won the coin toss, and as one might expect, drove right down the field for the winning field goal. They lined up at the Denver 23-yard line for a 40-yard field goal. Dennis Smith, the original Steve Atwater, blocked the kick. However, the Broncos had mistakenly called a timeout before the snap, so the Chargers received another shot at the field goal.
How often are two field-goal attempts blocked in a row? Who knows, but I can tell you it's extremely rare. And it's rarer still to have a a field-goal attempt blocked by the same player two plays in a row. But that's exactly what Dennis Smith did.
The 2nd block was even juicier because another Broncos Hall of Famer (and original Champ Bailey), Louis Wright, scooped up the ball and took it all the way back for a touchdown. The Broncos won 30-24.
The value of this play was 9.3 points because we would take the expected points that the Chargers lost and add them to the points the Broncos scored. Here is the breakdown:
Chargers Expected Points Value - 4th and 4 @ Denver's 23-yard line: 2.309 pointsDenver's Touchdown (end of game): 7 points
Total Expected Points Value: 9.309 points
Normally we would subtract the expected points of the next Chargers drive from Denver's touchdown, but since the touchdown ended the game, here we would not. What we end up with, then, is one of the few 9-point swings in Denver Broncos history.
Did I mention that Dennis Smith and Louis Wright deserve to be in the Hall of Fame?
# 4 - Rod Smith's 1st NFL Catch - September 17, 1995, Washington Redskins
When Mike Shanahan cut Anthony Miller in 1996, he told everyone that Rod Smith would make them forget all about the flamboyant and former San Diego Charger. I would classify this as a bit of an understatement.
It was a tough choice between this play and Smith's 80-yard touchdown reception in Super Bowl XXXIII. Ultimately, I chose this play because it was slightly more dramatic than the commercial-filled Super Bowl. And it represented the beginning of Smith's storied career.
This play doesn't require much of a setup. Just picture John Elway with a 4th-and-10 at the Washington 43-yard line. 6 seconds to go. Last play of the game. Elway throws a deep-left sideline pass. Smith plucks the ball out of the air over HOFer Darrell Green. Touchdown. Here's the expected points breakdown of this play:
Denver's Expected Points Value - 4th and 10 @ Washington's 43-yard line: .517 pointsDenver's Touchdown (end of game): 7 points
Total Expected Points Value: 6.483 points
The value of this play isn't particularly sexy, but you can't get through any self-respecting list without mentioning the hardest-working wide receiver in the history of the Denver Broncos.
Did I mention Rod Smith should be in the Hall of Fame?
# 3 - John Elway's 4th-Down Pass to Vance Johnson during "The Drive II" - January 4th, 1992, Houston Oilers
While The Drive gets a lot more attention, The Drive II, and this play in particular, were simply amazing. In a 1991 Divisional Playoff game and facing a 4th-and-10 at his own 35-yard line with only 59 seconds remaining, Elway was flushed from the pocket, scrambled to buy time, drew the defenders up to him, and with the flick of his wrist got the ball to Vance Johnson along the left sideline for a 44-yard gain. This was quintessential Elway, and if you've seen the replay over the years, you probably still lose your breath for a few seconds. The expected-points value breakdown of the play is as follows:
Denver's Expected Points Value - 4th and 10 @ Denver's 35-yard line: -.556 pointsDenver's Expected Points Value - 1st and 10@ Houston's 21-yard line: 4.268 points
Total Expected Points Value: 4.824 points
Here Elway was facing a negative expected-points value, and in one larger-than-life play, turned it into almost 5 expected points. Of course the Broncos went on to score from here, but this play (and let's not forget Gary Kubiak's hold) was the most critical of the drive.
Did I mention John Elway should be in the...oh, well they got one right at least.
# 2 - Elway to Mark Jackson during "The Drive" - January 11th, 1987, Cleveland Browns
Any card-carrying Bronco fan knows this drive by heart. The particular play I'm mentioning is the 3rd-and-18 at the Cleveland 48-yard line with 1:47 remaining in the game. Elway threw a 20-yard laser to Mark Jackson to give the Broncos a 1st down at the Cleveland 28-yard line. The rest, as they say, is NFL history.
The expected-points value of this play is as follows:
Denver's Expected Points Value - 3rd and 18@ Cleveland's 48-yard line: .593 pointsDenver's Expected Points Value - 1st and 10@ Cleveland's 28-yard line: 3.611 points
Total Expected Points Value: 3.018 points
Again we see the magic of Elway at work. His ability to convert on 3rd and 4th down created a lot of expected points value because of the context of the drive. In this case, the play was worth about 3 points.
# 1 - Champ Bailey's 100-yard Interception Return of Tom Brady - January 14th, 2006, New England Patriots
Surprised to see this at the top of the list? You won't be after I show you just how much this play was worth. I'm convinced that this single play is quite possibly the most valuable play (from an expected points standpoint) in the history of the Denver Broncos.
Before I break down the value, let's recall the play quickly. This was a Divisional Playoff game and the Patriots were driving for the go-ahead score in the last minute of the 3rd quarter. The Broncos stood tough near the goal line, and the Patriots faced a 3rd-and-goal from Denver's 5-yard line. Before the play, Bailey and Darrent Williams decided to switch places as another way to confuse Brady. When Nick Ferguson blitzed, Brady was forced to make a quick decision, and Bailey stepped in front of the pass, intercepted it, and headed down the sideline for the score. But Patriots TE Benjamin Watson had other ideas. Watson hustled back on the play and leveled a gassed Bailey at the Patriots 1-yard line. Mike Anderson scored on the next play.
Bailey would later say of the play:
''I was on the ground because I was gassed. I couldn't even get up and walk. I was just happy to get the pick. When you can get a pick in the red zone that's quite a turnaround. They could have got 3 or 7 and we turned around and got 7."
I'm not sure if Champ Bailey is a stats guy, but he was almost right about the value of this critical play. Here is the breakdown:
Patriots's Expected Points Value - 3rd and 5 @ Denver's 5-yard line: 4.825 pointsDenver's Expected Points Value - 1st and Goal @ Patriot's 1-yard line: 6.296 points
Total Expected Points Value: 11.121 points
Bailey's instincts in this case created an 11-point swing because we take away the Patriots' expected points and add them to Denver's. The only way that the play could have been more valuable would have been if the Patriots would have been at the Denver 1-yard line when the play started and, instead of getting caught by Watson, Bailey would have scored the touchdown (like last year's James Harrison interception of Kurt Warner to end the 2nd quarter of the Super Bowl). Nevertheless, 11 points is a huge swing and I can't recall a similar play in the entire history of the Denver Broncos that matches its value. So it had to come in at #1.
Did I mention that Champ Bailey will go to the Hall of Fame?
Giving It Up for Bowlen
There are two kinds of teams in the NFL. Those with loaded guns and those who dig. Actually, there is a third, those that dig and then shoot themselves. But we'll discuss the Raiders another time.
Pat Bowlen is the reason the Broncos are always fully loaded. The results and the plays above speak for themselves.
Pat Bowlen, congrats on 27 years and making this franchise the best in the NFL.
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The Strip
I think it was Tyrone Braxtons strip of Ernest Byner that set up “the Drive”
You are mixing up your games and seasons.
The John Elway helicopter was easily the best play in Bronco history. It is played every time you see Elway videos. That play propelled us to our 1st Super Bowl.
The Eddie Mac block and finger point in that same game, was also awesome.
A man wearing a girly fur coat is NEVER cool. NEVER.
San Diego Super Chokers – The annual preseason Champs, eternal post season chumps. Stay Classy
by McGeorge on Jan 27, 2010 9:55 AM MST up reply actions 4 recs
The Helicopter
Agree with the Elway Helicopter as the greatest Broncos play in Bowlen’s history as owner of the Broncos.
I'll take a devil's advocate position here
Though I too wondered where it was on the poll when I first scanned it.
My premise here will be that the helicopter was the best play of Elway’s career, but that what the Broncos are goes above and beyond even Elway’s great story.
The question is, can this be summed up in just one play? I chose the Rod Smith TD vs. the Redskins to try to demonstrate this counterpoint.
To me, rooting for the Broncos has always been an underdog role, and this play seems to symbolize that a bit. That it features one of the greatest underdogs of all time (Smith) and a guy who was a posterboy for championship underdogs (Elway), is a nice bit of poetic justice, but the context is up to the task as well.
What that play represents to me is how this team thrives on being competitiors. They have never really been a “dominant” franchise, except for a short 2 year span, but they have always been a franchise that tried to overdeliver on expectations, to a grateful fanbase.
Ok, now don’t try to convince me too hard here, since I will probably sway easily.
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 27, 2010 10:50 AM MST up reply actions 2 recs
My premise is incorrect
should have targeted it at “what the Broncos represent under Bowlen,” which may be better described as a concerted effort to attain respectability int he NFL…
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 27, 2010 11:04 AM MST up reply actions
The Helicopter. Absolutely. That's my winner.
All you get from drafting the "best player available" is a team full of good football players.
Cotton McKnight: I'm being told that Average Joe's does not have enough players and will be forfeiting the championship match.
Pepper Brooks: It's a bold strategy, Cotton. Let's see if it pays off for 'em.
by orangeblood on Jan 27, 2010 12:38 PM MST up reply actions
Good calls, McG!
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
McGeorge has it.
Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks
by KaptainKirk on Jan 27, 2010 10:06 AM MST up reply actions
Needs to be added to the poll.
That play said to the whole world, “This one is mine.”
Man is not a rational animal, he is a rationalizing animal.
by MrFNSunshine on Jan 27, 2010 10:15 AM MST up reply actions
I agree with the helicopter but voted #3 - I'll never forget that one!
And Joe Namath certainly WAS cool in Fur!
by Whidbey Bronco on Jan 27, 2010 6:16 PM MST up reply actions
That play makes my top 5, but not #1 in my book.
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
THE FINGER POINT!!
Hands down my favorite Broncos highlight. Maybe not a greatest play nomination, but it sums up the “badass-edness” that was Eddie Mac in one glorious slow motion clip.
by Lunchmeat1212 on Jan 28, 2010 8:18 AM MST up reply actions
The helicopter run was my choice as well!
The Mile-High Magic must be rediscovered!
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence."
John Adams
The Strip
I think it was Tyrone Braxtons strip of Ernest Byner that set up “the Drive”
I don't recall this
From what I remember the “Drive” was after a Cleveland touchdown and Ken Bell fumbled the kickoff so the Broncos had to start at the 2
Drive II against Houston I believe was set up by a downed pun at the 2 yard line. My dad and I were at that game and my dad said “We got them right were we want them.”
Jeremiah Castille did cause Byner to fumble in the 87 AFC Championship game leading to a 38-33 victory.
"No more my bad just make the play"-McJedi
by RockyMountainThunder on Jan 27, 2010 9:48 AM MST up reply actions
Was at the game, also....
12 at the time, it was an awesome experience.
I think
I’m not sure but I think your talking about the year after the drive. We played Cleveland in back to back AFC championsip games. The drive was in the first game resulting in us playing the Giants in the superbowll. The strip was the second game when Byners great running in the second half brought them to the doorstep of victory only to cough it up on the goaline resulting in us playing the Redskins in that superbowl.
by johnnyurrotten on Jan 27, 2010 12:22 PM MST up reply actions
Greatest play.
The “Drive” began when we needed a first down. I believe we were third and short and Elway said to Shannon Sharp. “Get open, I’ll find you” He got open and got a first down to begin the “Drive”
That wasn't in "The Drive"
You are referring to the AFC title game when we beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
huh?
quote you, in a fanpost “I am 78 years young and an avid Bronco fan for most of my life.”
BS. You would know that The Drive was way before Shannon’s time. I wasn’t even born yet and I know that!
Because Montana has no professional sports, I gotta support the land of my birth.
Socrates was once executed for 'trolling'.
^Needs explaining: don't call someone asking uncomfortable, slightly antagonistic questions trolls. In all odds they probably just want to learn. It's real easy to differentiate a 'Socratic' post from a trolling one (unless you're a resident of WCG).
^Needs further explaining: I have yet to post anything on WCG, don't worry, I'm not trying to rationalize anything I've done. I've just lurked over there and man, they are the model of post-peloponnesian war Athens.
Great post T.J.
Bowlen is the man!!! Rec’d
"No more my bad just make the play"-McJedi
by RockyMountainThunder on Jan 27, 2010 9:49 AM MST reply actions
Has to be the Helicopter!
Take my advice... I'm not using it!
"If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague."
I'm with you on this. Helicopter FTW.
If Taylor Swift were to try and tackle me, I'd let her.
Why has nobody made a live-action game of Chutes and Ladders? I'd be first in line.
by kentuckybronco on Jan 27, 2010 10:30 AM MST up reply actions
Yup it has to be the Helicopter
there is no finer moment in Broncos History.
"A great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do" Walter Gagenot
"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible."
Good calls, everyone. If I get another 5 to 10 suggestions, I'll come back with another piece
with the points values for the plays you suggest!
Thanks!
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
I had to go with Elway - to - Johnson against the Oilers...
I was at that game, and I’ve never experienced a more electric crowd respond to a more electric moment. It was the quintessential magical Mile High Stadium experience. To put it in full perspective, Denver got crushed by the Oilers that regular season, were down 21-3 at one point in the game, that was the second consecutive 4th and 10 on that drive (Elway ran the other), and that version of the Oilers made the current Chargers seem classy.
It was probably my favorite live sport moment of all time.
So this is war...misfortune at every bend in the road. Misery and murdered mules and sudden death in a ditch.-- Rick Atkinson
by PredominantlyOrange on Jan 27, 2010 10:03 AM MST reply actions
And like TJ so astutely pointed out
Kubiak redeemed some earlier mistakes with his work on the bad snap. Kubiak will ALWAYS be a Bronco in my eyes…
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
my bad the actual strip is below....
1987 AFC Championship Game-Browns vs. Broncos "The Fumble"
Browns running back Earnest Byner appears on his way for game-tying touchdown after taking a handoff from Bernie Kosar at the Broncos 8-yard-line with 1:12 remaining in regulation.
But at the 3-yard-line, Byner is stripped of the ball by Broncos defensive back Jeremiah Castille, forcing a fumble that is recovered by Castille.
The Broncos go on to win the game 38-33 after taking an intentional safety, and advance to their second consecutive Super Bowl.
Despite gaining 187 all-purpose yards and scoring 2 touchdowns, Byner is seen as the goat of the Browns’ second straight heartbreaking loss in the AFC Championship Game to the Broncos.
I was in the South Stands that day
Not more than 50 feet from the play. I was 8 years and was with my Dad and brother and was scared to death of the drunk and cursing fan a few rows behind us. In my entire life since then I have never been to another sporting event that even comes close to the vibe from that game. The way the south stands shook, watching the wave go around the stadium, Vance Johnson coming 80 yards to us for a touchdown on an out pass, chanting Ber-nie over and over. In many ways, everything you need to know about me as a fan begins on that cold night in those shaky stands.
by NCDonkeyfan on Jan 27, 2010 10:30 AM MST up reply actions
Awesome memories, BC.
"I got a ring, too. It says Love. Think about THAT."
"EVERYBODY LOVE EVERYBODY!!!"
I love it
Theirs been several comments on here with people being at these games when they were young but the best part is you were their with your dad. Thats F’n priceless dude. GOOD STUFF.
by johnnyurrotten on Jan 27, 2010 12:29 PM MST up reply actions
Well said TJ, and RMT, & Rec'd
Mr. Pat Bowlen IS the best Owner in sports….period
btw, Dennis Smiths two ( consecutive ) blocked field goals has my vote.
Go Broncos
Real Power, comes with the realization that One cannot change the Moment;
only ones perception of it: Atitude! JQM
UB3, thanks. When I looked at the points value of this play, I was stunned. Great play.
Dennis Smith. The dude was simply amazing. Very possibly better than Atwater. But not as well-known.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
I'll never forget
Cant remember if it was the first or second game against the Browns. Some sports show had D. Smith and E. Metcalf doing an interview from 2 differnt locations. Metcalf was a rookie at the time and they were asking him about the oppurtunity to go to the superbowl. That asked each man " wht would you say to the other about playing in thisgame. Metcalfs awnser was to just enjoy it and have fun playing. Dennis’s awnser was " you better have your head on a swivel because this ( pointing to his elbow ) is coming with me everywhere I go." Best safety tandem in the history of the game, Smith and AT
by johnnyurrotten on Jan 27, 2010 12:35 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Thanks for this TJ
without getting into the best play, (Mine also being the helicopter) I want to take a minute and reflect on the sentiment and the general message of your post. You’re absolutely right. 3 years or utter mediocrity have seemed like fire and brimstone to us fans. But it’s because we’ve been so spoiled. Teams speak all the time of a “tradition of winning, excellence etc” But the Broncos truly embodied excellence under Bowlen. He gave us a tradition of winning. We should all remember while we’re complaining and bellyaching that we’re not the Browns, Lions, Bengals, or any other team that has been truly made to suffer. Yes it is unacceptable and painful to see the team where we are but it could be damn worse and we’re lucky we have Bowlen who would never let us sink to those depths. We should be happy that mediocre is the depths at which Bowlen will force action and demand results. The man wants to win. That’s it. He doesn’t squeeze money out of the team and it’s fans, he doesn’t take advantage of a large fanbase like some other owners. He is driven to win. And thank God for that.
by T.Dot_Bronco on Jan 27, 2010 10:15 AM MST reply actions 8 recs
great post
Maybe that championship was the turning point for the fanbase? You know the turning point I mean, the one that keeps getting blamed on Invesco Field.
It is easy for a fanbase to stay lean and mean, in fighting shape, when their diet sustains them on big-time dreams and the stardust and pixie farts of oh-so-close misses and the magic of the comeback. Maybe the Real ThingTM was just too fattening, and the fanbase became a bit too gluttonous in the aftermath.
Fanatacism requires exercise too, even if we don’t feel up to it all the time.
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 27, 2010 11:00 AM MST up reply actions
TD, I had to rec your comment because I couldn't have said it any better
Bowlen will never allow this team to descend into Bengals territory.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
so many owners
in pro sports who just want to make a buck (hey clippers, hey bengals!). bowlen wants to make a buck, too, but he has always understood that the best way to do that is to win. not only that, but you can tell that the man loves to watch football. i HATE owners who seem to know nothing about their team’s sport. die owners-who-know-nothing-about-your-team’s-sport, die.
at the first superbowl parade, i remember bowlen saying that he wanted to thank “his fans”… a big oops (in full disclosure, pat’s got a corner on not being a good speaker) but yeah, pat, you’ve won me over. i’m a fan.
now, bring back the orange jerseys and the fur coats please.
Point made perfectly
That is what I keep reminding myself when I see how bad we are playing at times and the leads we have given up. I’ll take a .500 team that is rebuilding til we get where we want to be.
Not easy replacing the best QB of all-time.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
Thanks TJ for putting this up.
Always cool to stroll down memory lane and visit those awesome moments in Broncos history. I know the majority will pick “The Drive” in 1987, however I voted for the Oilers game in 1992. In 1987 I wasn’t a Broncos fan yet, however that pass to Vance Johnson was a great play and once again showed what Elway can do. I remember watching this game in my living room and was jumping up and down when it happened. Other than Elway, Johnson was my favorite Bronco during that time.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
Vance has a little flare to him as well...not a TO flare, but a little Billy "White Shoes"
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Love It!
I’m gonna have to spend some time to figure out what the best play is (to me), but I just loved this article TJ, thanks for it!
Tweeting via @jtkimbell
I voted the Rod smith vs. redskins, but only after going "Huh? Where is the helicopter?"
And it’s why you’re not likely to see the Broncos continue the trend. Orange is too bright a color to hide for long.
Man I hope we go back to Orange jerseys soon. The personnel department has a philosophy that takes some adjusting to, especially after the Shanahan years. but Orange jerseys could be huge in uniting the fanbase, giving them something to rally around. Orange belongs to the fans, and for the team to embrace that would be a big time move, IMO…
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 27, 2010 10:37 AM MST reply actions
"Orange belongs to the fans" - Love it!
Sounds like that could be our season slogan: “the 2010 Denver Broncos: Orange Belongs to the Fans!”
Does it get any better than this:
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
by TJ Johnson on Jan 27, 2010 11:29 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
alright, alright:
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
c'mon, dude...
you know the rules of predominant colors: the less the color, the more it predominates. this one’s even worse.
seriously though, i do like that first #7 one. let’s do that. do i call my congressman?…
That's the Jersey I Have
It’s awesome!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Jan 27, 2010 2:21 PM MST up reply actions
That's the one my son wears all the time!!
My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.
by Blackshirt4Broncos on Jan 27, 2010 4:13 PM MST up reply actions
I've got to have something for the sequel, Styg!
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Points value of the Heli?
Probably won’t hold up against any of the others. Emotional value of the heli? Yeah, none of the others come close. Well, they probably do, but we won that SB :p
I went with the Champ one. That was just ridiculous. I think it was earlier that year (or maybe next year) that he had a regular season red zone pick….no, a pick on a fade route in the end zone, I think…against the pats. So sick.
Because Montana has no professional sports, I gotta support the land of my birth.
Socrates was once executed for 'trolling'.
^Needs explaining: don't call someone asking uncomfortable, slightly antagonistic questions trolls. In all odds they probably just want to learn. It's real easy to differentiate a 'Socratic' post from a trolling one (unless you're a resident of WCG).
^Needs further explaining: I have yet to post anything on WCG, don't worry, I'm not trying to rationalize anything I've done. I've just lurked over there and man, they are the model of post-peloponnesian war Athens.
Good call, drizzt, the other I remember was the pick-6 on Drew Brees on the first or 2nd play of the 3rd quarter
…..now if I can just remember the year! I’m guessing it was 2004. I will have to add this to the next list!
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
there were those 2 or 3 years...
when he was playing alongside Al (and like the year after Al) where he won us a lot of games with his redzone D. If I had to pick one player for a redzone stand (be it making a key tackle, or a turnover, or defending a pass, or whatever else you want to throw at him), that player would be Champ.
Because Montana has no professional sports, I gotta support the land of my birth.
Socrates was once executed for 'trolling'.
^Needs explaining: don't call someone asking uncomfortable, slightly antagonistic questions trolls. In all odds they probably just want to learn. It's real easy to differentiate a 'Socratic' post from a trolling one (unless you're a resident of WCG).
^Needs further explaining: I have yet to post anything on WCG, don't worry, I'm not trying to rationalize anything I've done. I've just lurked over there and man, they are the model of post-peloponnesian war Athens.
Champ is a very good choice, but...
Gradishar would be better.
If this be Hell, let us make the most of it!
by Trinidad Jack on Jan 28, 2010 10:51 AM MST up reply actions
Oh SNAP!
you’re telling me that The Drive “TOUCHDOWN! MARK JACKSON!” touchdown isn’t #1? that thing single-handedly turned around the entire franchise and started the superbowl dominoes falling forever (well at least up to 1999). i hate when my eyes tell me the wrong thing.
dennis smith. ugh. the man is so sadly sadly unknown and underrated. as good as ronnie lott, better than atwater, not as good as louie wright…. louie wright! damn. how is louie wright not in the hall of… AAAAARRRRRGH….
by oxmouth on Jan 27, 2010 11:00 AM MST reply actions 1 recs
memory lane
not always the right prescription… :)
Precision in thought, concision in style, decision in life.
"That's MR.Styg..."
by Jeremy Bolander on Jan 27, 2010 11:02 AM MST up reply actions
Ox, my man! Had I known, I would have made it #1! But in keeping with the expected points theme
I had to go with the most “valuable” play. But I agree that the Mark Jackson TD was a show-stopper. Also, remember, I’m going for a sequel here!
I’m with you on Smith and Wright. Simply two of the greatest. What a shame.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Dennis Smith
Left it all out on the field every game. Everyone “remembers” when Atwater took Christian Okoye down because he was wired and it made for so many film reps, but I remember Dennis Smith leaving wideouts, TEs and RBs teeth on the ground too many times to count. If he didn’t have hands of 2×4s and had more picks he’d probably be in the HOF right now. IIRC, he and Ronnie Lott came in the same year, and held each other in very high regard.
I loved it when Smith and Atwater played together, they used to call them “Smatwater”. Just the thought of being leveled by either of those guys was worth many dropped passes from short arms by opponents who dared to run a crossing route.
Jeff Zepp, Kittredge CO USA
One No One Has Mentioned
not far behind Elway’s helicopter play is the Shannon Sharpe clutch reception in the AFC Championship game two weeks before at the old Three Rivers Stadium, anyone remember that one? My apologies to McGeorge, I never thought Kyle Orton was a real soldier, it was a stupid comment on my part on the labor argument thread. I should have said Orton has a really good attitude but as one who is underpaid himself at my podunk job in radio in south central Utah and I don’t really like it either. However, I just do my job regardless of what happens financially and I think Orton will do the same. He has more integrity than that piece of trash Jay Cutler far and away. YES, Mr. Bowlen is the best owner in sports. Multiple recs TJ, when are we going back to Bon Jovi references in your posts!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Jan 27, 2010 11:04 AM MST reply actions
Brad, great catch. I'll include this one in the sequel. As I recall, Sharpe one-handed that pass and it was 3rd and 5 at the Denver 15?
Selling yourself wayyyy to short on the radio gig…if you’re reaching just one person, you’re reaching someone, my friend.
Thanks for taking some time to stroll down memory lane.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Another huge play that always flown under the radar...
…was Eddie Mac’s catch of an Elway bomb in the AFC Championship game in ’99. Not only was it a tough catch in high wind conditions, but it tipped momentum in a very frustrating game and it only happened because both Eddie and Rod realized they line up wrong and adjusted themselves to the routes the other was supposed to run. So many heros and world class pros in those days…
So this is war...misfortune at every bend in the road. Misery and murdered mules and sudden death in a ditch.-- Rick Atkinson
by PredominantlyOrange on Jan 27, 2010 11:17 AM MST up reply actions
PO, awesome suggestion....make it down for the sequel, my friend!
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Ha Ha
I got it right. Before I read thepost.
by WYO(MF)BRONCOBOY on Jan 27, 2010 11:16 AM MST reply actions
Amazing Choices - I was at the game for 2 of those
Wow – I feel lucky and blessed.
I was at the Washington game where Rod Smith had his first-ever NFL reception. I chose that in the poll because it was so improbable. Not mentioned in the description was the fact that not only was it the last play of the game, but we were tied at the time and most likely were going to go into OT. Another fact is that about 5 guys went for the ball – it was a true hail-mary type throw. IIRC there were 3 defenders and 2 receivers. I remember watching Elway scramble around to buy enough time for everyone to get downfield. I was in the North stands and the play was in the South end zone so I couldn’t tell it was our score instantly, but the crowd reaction was pretty quick – quicker than it took the official to signal the score.
And I was also at that divisional playoff game against Houston. THAT was a heck of a game. We had better seats for this game, about mid level at around the 40 yard line on the West side. A couple additional facts about that particular drive. It started on the 2 yard line (sound familiar?), and included not one, but 2 fourth down conversions. The first one was way back deep in our own territory on an Elway scramble. I also remember that when the drive started, fans started leaving the stadium, assuming we were going to lose. I was wearing a Walkman listening to Larry Zimmer do the play by play, and I remember hearing him comment that these fans ought to know better, what with Elway at the helm and in possession of the ball.
Great post, thanks Dude!
Jeff Zepp, Kittredge CO USA
RZ, you lucky dog! And all I got was the 1996 Jacksonville Playoff game.....
you want to see some angry fans. That game was truly a train wreck.
Classic story on Zimmer. I don’t doubt he said exactly that. I remember him saying something similar on other occasions, including the Jacksonville playoff loss. Elway almost brought them back that day as well.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Yep me too
I tried real hard to forget that day. I don’t think Brunnell played that “out of his skull” before or after that game he was pinpointing it all damn day. We couldn’t do anyhting to stop his completeions.
I’m not sure, abut I may have been one of the leave early fans from the Redskins game. too. Whoops.
by WYO(MF)BRONCOBOY on Jan 27, 2010 2:28 PM MST up reply actions
Lucky and Blessed
I remember that Jacksonville game too. We had rested our starters the last couple games of the season after we had everything locked up for home field throughout the playoffs. Lost our edge. I was thinking of that season when I saw what Indy did this year – it worked out better for them than it did for us.
But the 97 season, we didn’t forget and stayed hungry all season and throughout the playoffs. We were on the road (as a wildcard) throughout the playoffs, and were the underdog in every playoff game. That was the “Revenge Tour” – we beat Jacksonville in the wildcard round, then KC (who had beaten us earlier in the regular seaon) and then Pittsburg (who had also beaten us earlier in the regular season). I remember Shanny being relieved that the SB wasn’t going to be a “road game” because it was on neutral turf.
Speaking of great plays during the Bowlen era, how about Sharpe’s 3rd down conversion at the end of the AFC championship game against the Steelers? Not that great from an expected points stat standpoint, but it sealed the game. I remember Romo taunting Stewart after one of his throws that went for a pick – stats that do not lie.
On the Zimmer quote, I believe I have it on an Elway video. They used KOA’s play calling for the audio of the plays. I had almost forgotten about it until I got that video, but it was burned into my memory and resurfaced when I heard it again.
Jeff Zepp, Kittredge CO USA
The Romo taunt...
absolutely hilarious! Just slaps his forehead twice right in Kordell’s face. ROFL
Because Montana has no professional sports, I gotta support the land of my birth.
Socrates was once executed for 'trolling'.
^Needs explaining: don't call someone asking uncomfortable, slightly antagonistic questions trolls. In all odds they probably just want to learn. It's real easy to differentiate a 'Socratic' post from a trolling one (unless you're a resident of WCG).
^Needs further explaining: I have yet to post anything on WCG, don't worry, I'm not trying to rationalize anything I've done. I've just lurked over there and man, they are the model of post-peloponnesian war Athens.
Obviously
The choice is obviously Elways pass to Mark Jackson. The drama and the implications of the play are undeniable. However, im thrilled you added the play to V. Johnson against the Oilers. Obviously I’m getting old because I thought that Gerald Willhight ( cant remember how to spell it ) was on the recieving end of that play. Oh well doesnt matter what a play. The defender on that play had one hell of a decision to make, continue covering Johnson and allow Elway to run for the first or bite the bullet and come after John. He was screwed either way. With a flick of the wrist Elway mildly lofted it over the defenders head and THE VANCE was off to the races down the sideline for a nice gain. The play exemplified Elways superior athletic ability.
by johnnyurrotten on Jan 27, 2010 12:14 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Hey Johnny, not to worry, I had originally thought it was Daniel Graham who chased Bailey down!
Excellent last point. Even the most ardent Orton backers will have to cede that we’re probably not going to see plays like this out of him. But of course, John Elway does not come along every year either.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
It's Wilhite
He wore #47, I believe?
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Jan 27, 2010 7:01 PM MST up reply actions
All these are great comments and memories
I may be in the minority here, but I still think that Atwater’s “Get up, you big baby!” hit on Christian Okoye has to mentioned as a great moment, as well. It is on my top-3 list of great Broncos plays. Also, during our first SB win, how about Atwater knocking just about everyone in attendance out trying to decapitate the GB receiver. Even John Mobley’s knocked down pass attempt to seal it. I cried when that happened.
"I got a ring, too. It says Love. Think about THAT."
"EVERYBODY LOVE EVERYBODY!!!"
by Zogernaut on Jan 27, 2010 12:33 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Freaking Atwater
God I miss that guy. Elway and AT, my 2 favorite Broncos of all time. When AT was playing for the Jets against us in that playoff game broke my F’n heart.
by johnnyurrotten on Jan 27, 2010 12:42 PM MST up reply actions
I think I missed that game on purpose...lol
Atwater and Elway = 1b and 1a in my favorites.
"I got a ring, too. It says Love. Think about THAT."
"EVERYBODY LOVE EVERYBODY!!!"
I just couldn't shake the feeling
that he was going to come up with a big play against Elway, just for some kind of karmic justice for letting him go or something…
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
I was just about to skip to the bottom and comment on this moment as well!!
So I am glad someone took the initiative!
Here is a link to a clip with sound! (Atwater hit on Okoye)
I was only 10 years old at the time. What did that play do for me? As an undersized youth it showed me that it didn’t matter how big you were… if you played with heart and emotion you can knock anyone on their a$$… including the Nigerian Nightmare!
My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.
by Blackshirt4Broncos on Jan 27, 2010 4:21 PM MST up reply actions
My favorite Play was:
“This one’s for John”
Victor Frankl:
What man actually needs is not a tensionless state but rather the striving and struggling for some goal worthy of him. What he needs is not the discharge of tension at any cost, but the call of a potential meaning waiting to be fulfilled by him.
Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.
The Helicopter - Hands Down Greatest Broncos Play
But that aside, I was at that Chargers game you refer to in #5 … also was incredible for having not just one but TWO kickoffs returned for TDs … best football game I have ever seen in my entire life.
Xteve, what an amazing game. I only wish more people realized just how good Dennis Smith was
I put him right up there with Ronnie Lott.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
I hope in twenty years...
we’re not saying things like: “I only wish more people realized just how good Champ was. I put him right up there with Revis.”
Because Montana has no professional sports, I gotta support the land of my birth.
Socrates was once executed for 'trolling'.
^Needs explaining: don't call someone asking uncomfortable, slightly antagonistic questions trolls. In all odds they probably just want to learn. It's real easy to differentiate a 'Socratic' post from a trolling one (unless you're a resident of WCG).
^Needs further explaining: I have yet to post anything on WCG, don't worry, I'm not trying to rationalize anything I've done. I've just lurked over there and man, they are the model of post-peloponnesian war Athens.
Kneel Down play in Super Bowl 32
My favorite play by far was the kneel down in Super Bowl 32 because it meant the Broncos were champs.One could make a case that the five greatest palyes were from that game.
#1.The Helicoptor-defined John Elways career
#2The sweep by Davis on 1st and 18 to the one and the faceplant that Eddie MAc put on a Packers linebacker to set up the winning touchdown
#3The tipped pass by John Mobley on a Favre to Chmura failed connection on 4th and 4 after Denver lost two of its defensive backs
#4The blitz by Atwater on Favre and the subsequent fumble.Atwater played the best game of his illustrous career that hopefully will lead to the Hall of Fame someday
#5(Tie)The fumble recovery by Tim McKyer on the kickoff to set up Denver on the 20 yard line(Tie) TD blinded by a migraine going into the game at the 1 yard line even though he couldnt see to set up a play fake on the Elway score
That was such a great game and was the pinnacle of my existance as a Broncos fan
by OrangeCrush4082 on Jan 27, 2010 3:35 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Rec'd
Atwater may have been the MVP of that game, IMHO.
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
Greatest game by a safety ever!!!
The triple knock out hit was icing on the cake. Hands down, my favorite Bronco ever.
So this is war...misfortune at every bend in the road. Misery and murdered mules and sudden death in a ditch.-- Rick Atkinson
by PredominantlyOrange on Jan 27, 2010 5:56 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Someone already said it
But didn’t it make you want to cry seeing him come into Mile High as a member of the New York football Jets?
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
Yep
So this is war...misfortune at every bend in the road. Misery and murdered mules and sudden death in a ditch.-- Rick Atkinson
by PredominantlyOrange on Jan 27, 2010 8:34 PM MST up reply actions
I'm going with the Oilers game
I love the reaction of, I believe it was Warren Moon, and the other Oilers on the sideline as the play was unfolding. It just shows it so clear on the TV, it was beautiful.
"Pain don't hurt" - Swayze (Road House) -- We miss you man!
My personal favorite is
Steve Atwater knocking out himself, our CB, and the Green Bay WR on the final Packers possession of our first Superbowl win.
I’m surprised Elway’s helicopter spin didn’t make the top five list.
by jaffe28 on Jan 27, 2010 5:02 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
The Drive
That started the legend of Elway. I wanted to go with Vance against the Oilers, for sentimental reasons.
I’ve yet to read all the posts, but seems to me Atwater vs. Okoye should merit some consideration…
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
And of course
Zoger beat me to it. I should’ve known someone would make sure it got mentioned!
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
"Orange is too bright a color to hide for long. "
PERFECT line, TJ!
Bring back orange unis!!!
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
Looks like there will be a sequel to include:
1) Shannon Sharpe’s AFC clinching catch against the Steelers
2) The Helicopter play
3) Atwater v. Nigerian Nightmare
4) Elway bomb to Sharpe vs. Seattle (ducking the defender)
5) Atwater hit on Favre in SB
6) “The Fumble”
7) The two fumble/TDs on Monday Night Football against GB (1984)
8) This year’s Stokley play
9) Eddie Mac Faceplant play
10) Any TD run ;-)
11) Eddie Mac Bomb in AFC Championship vs. Jets
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
10) Any TD run ;-)
Tell you what dude, I have a tape of SB XXXII, and whenever I watch it I am reminded of what an awesome football player he was. Not just a RB, a football player.
Zimm, T-bone, Howard Griffeth, and, Stinky (“We got a game on Sunday, I need another knee surgery”) Schlereth were certainly key, along with having Smith, Sharpe and Eddie Mac as dangerous receiving threats to be respected, but TD was simply incredible. He was at his peak in 97 and 98, and to watch him turn a 2 yard loss into a 5 yard gain was something else. Week after week, drive after drive, the dude was a total stud.
I had forgotten about it, but someone posted up a link here to his coming of age in the NFL in 95 as a special teamer. That’s when Stink gave him the highest compliment – “That’s not just a running back, that’s a football player”
Jeff Zepp, Kittredge CO USA
Every time I hear Dwight Schrute say "spin move,"
I just get the mental image of a spinning TD leaving several defenders grasping at air….
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
This may be a REAL reach....
Would Elam’s 63 yard FG have any value beyond 3 points? Coming at the end of a half like it did, I would guess no, but I’m not much of a ‘numbers guy’
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
Ncm, I will add this to the list, but quickly
the expected points value of a 4th and 8 at the opponent’s 45-yard line is .456. And Elam’s kick would be given the full 3 points because it ended the half. So it would be effectively (the play) less than 3.
But…let’s say the same kick with time on the clock and the next kickoff pinned the opponent (on that day, Jacksonville) at their 10-yard line. The points expectation for J-Ville would be -.942. So we would do this:
3.00
- .456
+ .942
EQUALS
3.48 points
So each field goal (and touchdown for that matter) if we are being technical depends on your opponents next starting drive. This is why touchbacks are an important part (and field position in general) the game.
Does this make sense. If not, I will explain it with some more examples.
"But I hate the way our identity has changed..Kyle Orton might not be the flashiest quarterback, but the guy is a winner, and that formula worked for us. I hate to say it, but that’s the truth." --Brian Urlacher
Makes perfect sense
And thanks as always.
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
Jim Turner touchdown catch vs. raiders in oakland?
that’s in my top 5, but probably isn’t well remembered here since it happened slightly before Jesus was born…
Here are mine
7. 3rd and 18 on January 11, 1987
6. Howard Griffiths screen pass in SB32.
5. Stokely’s Miracle Play
4. Atwater blowing up Nigerian Nightmare
3. Elway Helicopter run
2. Champ INT in 2005
1. Elway converting two fourth downs in that 1992 game against Houston. You outta knight the guy!
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
AWESOME POST TJ I LOVED IT!!!! Keep up the good work!
There's lots of ways to lose your life. All at once............or one day at a time.
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