Why So Much Optimism? Broncos Will Thrive Behind Kyle Orton
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 9:01 AM MDT
in Strictly My Opinion
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Call it bold, call it stupid, call it Kool-Aid--I don't really care. Say what you want, but the Denver Broncos are going to be serving a lot of crow this year.
In South Dakota, I don't get much chance to talk football outside of Brett Favre, the Minnesota Vikings, or my brothers' beloved Chicago Bears. For whatever reason, though, whenever I proudly wear my Bronco colors, someone always has a comment to make. For instance:
"The Broncos are a train wreck."
"Broncos? They will be lucky to win four games this year!"
"I didn't know the Broncos had anymore fans!"
And the comments go on...and on...and then on some more.
For whatever reason, I've had enough. Not that I care about the Bronco bashing, because after four years of mediocre football, they somewhat deserve it. But in all honesty, it doesn't take more than a casual fan to see that the Broncos have improved quite a bit off of their 8-8 campaign from a year ago. People have gotten so caught up in the hype of Brandon Marshall and Tim Tebow that they forgot the Broncos have 80 other guys on the team right now to talk about.
And that, my friends, is the reason why I write...
I recently sat at a softball tournament, proudly sporting a Denver Broncos ball cap. I was asked about the Broncos' chances this year, and I stated that 10 victories was not out of the realm of possibility if the team could generally stay healthy. The response? Laughter, combined with several snide comments. A fellow Bronco fan among them:
"Sayre, I'm as big a Bronco fan as there is, but there's no way they are winning 10 games this year."
I was then asked, "When do you think Tebow will be starting?"
Of course I replied, "Hopefully not this year unless injuries force him to. I think Kyle Orton is going to have a big year this year."
More laughter ensued.
For some odd reason, everyone thinks that our current starting quarterback sucks, for lack of a better term. In case you haven't heard, nobody thinks the Broncos are going to be good this year. I simply cannot figure it out, because nobody is assuming injuries (other than Dumervil) when making their predictions.
I asked the group of guys taunting me, "Name a spot the Broncos are weak right now on their team, minus injuries."
Perhaps not the most fair question, because injuries are just as much a part of the game as anything else, but everyone looked at me with blank stares. One person chimed in, "The defensive line sucks!"
This is where I start to get outraged, because people simply don't pay attention. How could someone have missed that the Broncos spent millions upon millions of dollars revamping their defensive line this offseason?
What the typical ESPN watching football fan doesn't know is how much the Broncos have improved. They are by far the most under-wraps team in the NFL right now, and a lot of that is thanks to Tebow Mania. I'll bet if you surveyed fans of 30 NFL teams, not including the Bengals or Broncos, you couldn't find a single one who knows who started the game at running back for the Broncos on Sunday night.
To that point, I'll bet you couldn't find a person that knows even a rough estimate of Kyle Orton's stat line from that game, which included two touchdowns on two straight drives through the air on two Pro Bowl cornerbacks and a defensive line throwing plenty of different looks at an inexperienced left side of the offensive line for the Broncos.
NFL fans aren't going to know what hit them if Kyle Orton starts throwing all over NFL defenses. We have all seen the effects of Orton playing on a bum ankle and with a dislocated finger, not to mention a glove on his throwing hand (which he hated). Orton played MVP caliber football in spite of all those things. He hurt his ankle in Chicago, and he hurt the other one in Denver. He dislocated his finger in last year's pre-season, and he played through it. When he hurt his ankle, he was a completely different player. Both of those ankles are back to full strength now, and Orton looks as confident as ever.
For what credit is given to Tim Tebow because of his toughness, people should have a new found respect for the toughness of Orton, who is poised to have the biggest season in his NFL career.
I'm not writing this to give some bold predictions about Kyle Orton. I'm not even doing it to keep tooting this guy's horn, which people have been doing of late. But Orton is getting paid about as much attention to him as your average third string quarterback, and I am ready to declare him the most underrated player in the NFL today.
Kyle Orton is the Broncos' X-factor.
You have heard it from multiple MHR writers, and you'll hear it from me yet again: The Denver Broncos are Kyle Orton's team. He will wear the captain's "C" on his chest for the second straight year, and he will be the commander of Josh McDaniels' Broncos.
Orton has made great strides in McDaniels' offensive system, and I would venture to say he speaks the language fluently, so to speak. We have seen what happens when quarterbacks gain a mastery of this offense. Pro Bowl numbers are commonplace, stars are born, contracts are renewed, and most importantly--the team wins ball games.
Orton reported to Broncos camp in much better shape than he's been his entire career in my opinion. He looks quicker, he looks more fit, and his confidence is brimming. I am not shy about my support for Tim Tebow, but I have never been more sure about anything football related as I am about Kyle Orton for 2010.
He is the real deal.
As Matt Williamson suggested on Scout's Inc., Peyton Manning may be the only player in the NFL more important to his team than Kyle Orton. As Orton goes, so will the Denver Broncos. We have all seen the disaster that is the Indianapolis Colts when Peyton Manning is not at the helm. For four quarters last year we had to suffer without Orton, watching Chris Simms contribute as much as he could to a 2-8 finish to the 2009 season.
I am willing to go so far as to say Orton has all the tools it will take to bring the Broncos to the big dance. Champ Bailey said as much, and when that guy speaks, I think Broncos Country should listen. You have all heard phrases like "head and shoulders above the rest" and "pulling away from the others" in regards to Orton and the other Broncos' quarterbacks, and you should believe it.
Provided he can stay healthy, this is the year for Orton to shine, and I think he will. He has a fine arsenal of weapons at his disposal, and when everyone is healthy, he may not have any idea what to do with himself. There will be a learning curve thanks to all the injuries, but when the Broncos hit full stride, the rest of the league had better take notice.
I am tired of Orton flying under the radar, though I don't mind it. I am one of those people where I think credit needs to be given where it is due, and this guy has more than paid his dues. But he doesn't care what anyone says. He took a gigantic media circus and turned it into the best offseason of his NFL career. He took on young Brady Quinn and "golden boy" Tim Tebow, and he flat out dominated what some have called a three-headed quarterback race, when anyone who knows anything knew all along that there was no race to be won.
Orton is standing at the finish line, polishing his shoes. He is the leader the other quarterbacks need to follow, and it's always been that way.
There has not been, nor will there be a quarterback controversy in Denver. As much as people have made about the other acquisitions at quarterback, the competition has driven Orton that much more to be "the guy," and he has more than earned that title. The pre-season opener against Cincinnati was proof enough of that.
Am I getting riled up over one quarter of work from Orton? Perhaps a little, but take a look at what has been documented over the course of this offseason. Orton is making huge strides. His job is to win football games, and he will be the catalyst for the Denver Broncos in 2010.
I guess when it comes to uninformed doubters and haters, I just need to let Orton and the Broncos do the talking. I am not one to make bets or bold predictions, but guys and gals--if Kyle Orton and the Broncos can stay relatively healthy, this team is going to be a force in the AFC. Orton isn't flashy by any means, but he will pick your team to death, and the Broncos seem to have the depth defensively to allow him to play his game.
For this year, no Bronco fan could ask for a better chess playing duo than the combination of Orton and head coach Josh McDaniels. The Denver Broncos will thrive behind Kyle Orton, and hopefully will return to AFC prominence. I am not ready to crown this team or anything, but enough is enough.
If this team is going to go down, it will go down kicking and screaming, fighting until the clock reads all zeros and there is no football left to play.
That, you can take to the bank.
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If you would have written this a week ago I would have laughed!
But after watching Orton distribute the ball against the Bengals, I agree with you. He looked great. The line played well enough. The first team defense was solid. If we win the close road games, 10 wins is in the realm of possibility.
All work and no play makes Homer something something.
He looked great last year...
I am still surprised at how this got by people.
by Mhantra on Aug 18, 2010 9:41 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
It's like a person with anorexia . . .
She (usually, it is a she) will put her pencil-thin body in front of a mirror and see a fat person. If one believes something strong enough, that is what one will see, regardless of the reality.
I believe Orton did a magnificent job, considering he was playing on a still unhealed high ankle sprain the first 8½ games, then on two high ankle sprains the rest of the year – and the gloved finger, as Sayre pointed out.
Orton looked great the year before, too, in the first seven games, until he injured that right ankle. One word used to describe him during that stretch was “hot” – and so he was, clipping along at a 91.4 QBR pace . . . in only his second year actually on the field.
BTW, I red’d you. You said a lot in a handful of words . . .
-
BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
I like to make the point
That we play ten of our games this year against the two worst divisions in football (at least recently). The AFC West and NFC West have been the butt of the NFL of late, and we play ten games against them. Not saying we’re going undefeated, but that’s out there.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 12:46 PM MDT up reply actions
yes
I hear a lot of people talking about how hard our schedule is this year. But this time last year we had the hardest schedule possibly in all of the NFL. If not the hardest, one of the hardest. We did well considering we had a huge roster turnover, new coaches and players learning new roles.
I think our schedule is twice as easy as it was last year during the same time.
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Great Write up Sayre!!!!
I said last year during this time that Orton is a good QB! Living in Chicago I watched him a lot! Many people didn’t believe me, and didn’t listen.
I think Orton is also poised to have the best NFL season in his career – he’s going to make some heads turn!
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
THanks!
I agree. Orton should be a force this season!
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 12:47 PM MDT up reply actions
Sucks when that happens!
Hope all is going well, Mhantra. I hope to come visiting this summer, but I have to visit Besta as soon as things free up in March. Give my love to Sarah.
Sayre, thanks for your opinion...
Nice article and I think you might be right on about Kyle. Two things I notice from TC and the game against the Bengals, Orton is throwing with more zip and quicker release and if he brings that confidence to the regular season it’s going to be an entertaining year.
One side bar; To keep the competition on going Tebow will be Orton’s back that you can take to the bank.
oc60
"I'd rather have a lot of talent and a little experience than a lot of experience and a little talent." John Wooden
Dead on, oc60
Over the offseason, Orton and Tuten got together. They worked on strengthening his ankles, calves and knees, and they worked on the muscles that go into the release. Orton is out of pain for the first time in about 2 years and it really seemed to show. It was against Cincy’s 1st team D, and they’d already had one game. Nice to see Orton get the love he deserves – he could end up giving Denver a very fine years
Gnothi Seauton
by Doc Bear on Aug 18, 2010 12:50 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, I would say that is very contingent on alot of things
1st is going to be the ability to run the ball, if this line can’t generate a consistent running attack and be able to convert those 3rd and less than 3’s, Orton is going to have a long season. The problem I see is that we have some great unanswered questions- 1 is Clady going to be ready and more importantly be able to perfrom at a high level the whole season, can Harris stay healthy for 16 games, and can we find a RB to be a threat. Unless we can answer yes to all those, then Orton is going to have a hard time, he is going to be spending a lot of time on his back and taking hits and if that is the case, he won’t make it through the season. I hope he has a big season, but he needs alot of things to get worked out before the start of the season.
"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman
"Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun" - Ash from Army of Darkness
"H.I., you're young and you got your health, what you want with a job?" - Evelle from Raising Arizona
"It happens sometimes. People just explode. Natural causes." - Agent Rogersz from Repoman
you nailed it Bman
I’m a huge believer in KO, but the O-line really worries me. First team seemed to do well against the Bengals, all things considered, but they’ll need to be healthy if they are going to sustain their performance all season long, especially given the inexperience inside. Call me optimistic but nervous.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Aug 18, 2010 9:52 AM MDT up reply actions
I'm not as worried as I was
One, New England did well one year with two rookies on the line. From what I’ve heard both Beadles and Walton are doing well. Two, since only three positions in the Bengals game were manned by the regular starters (Harris, Beadles and Walton), what we saw was how the line might perform if one or more starters get injured. They didn’t do badly, and this is before the new starters have finished their first training camp and against a team that already had a game under its belt. Cincinnatti has a good defense and will probably be near the top of the league in rushing the passer. Recall that Antwan Odom was leading Doom and everybody else in sacks when he went down last year. Three, reading between the lines the linemen themselves have an air of people who have a secret: Nobody realizes how good we are. I’m intrigued by the thought that they might be surprisingly good, even before Clady is fully up to speed.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
Well, they were using max protect
But all in all, they looked okay — and Walton and Beadles should only get better.
Plus, Quinn didn’t even play, and from what I’ve been hearing, he’s a superb blocker.
I agree
I saw the two keys to the Broncos’ 2-8 slide to close the 2009 season as the inability to stop the run, and the inability to run on 3rd and short.
I think the Broncos have addressed both issues with their additions, so they should be ok.
If Clady comes back stong, this offense should be dominant by the end of the year.
I can see almost...
…anything happening. Starting two rookies on an offensive line that already has health issues at the other three positions could spell disaster; especially when your defense depends on a lot of guys on the wrong side of 30. I hate to agree with John Clayton on any point, but if any defense is susceptible to wearing down, its Denver’s. Inconsistent oline play could ripple across this team in profound ways.
On the flip side, I’m a big believer in chemistry and intangibles. Spirits seem high, and despite the conventional wisdom, the team seems to like and respect its head coach. Throw in a career year from Orton, improvement in some young personnel, and the drive inherent with being so profoundly disrespected, and its very possible that this team could make a lot of people look really stupid.
Low expectations, high hope is my motto.
Denialists replace the open-minded skepticism of science with the inflexible certainty of ideological commitment.-- Michael Spector
by PredominantlyOrange on Aug 18, 2010 9:55 AM MDT reply actions
I don't like to set low expectations
Or maybe I simply can’t. The Broncos always get my hopes up. Maybe it’s because they’ve never really been bad since I’ve been a fan, IDK. It’s a lot different being a Broncos fan than being a Cubs fan. I take that approach with the Cubs because they are never good. The Broncos keep my confidence high, for whatever reason, so I don’t set low expectations ever.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 12:52 PM MDT up reply actions
not true
Cubs lately have been pretty good the last few years but fall apart in the late stages. And then this year, they’re tied for worst in their division. lol
Glad I’m not a cubbies fan, feel sorry for the wife tho lol
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Again, those two years, got my hopes up
Dreams killed, lol
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 12:59 PM MDT up reply actions
sorry homie :(
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Barring a lock-out...
…my expectations for 2011 are very high. But after the Bolts humiliated the Broncos to end the 2008 season, I came to grips with the fact that there were serious, serious problems across the roster. Maybe that’s why I’ve always been receptive to McD and his ‘change of culture’ mantra. I admittedly loved Cutler right up until he did his best toddler imitation— but beyond him, I was starting to lose hope. So for me, a playoff appearance in 2010 is gravy— but I’m ready to eat my potatoes plain for one more season if need be. I honestly believe chemistry and luck separate most of the pack between 5-11 and 11-5— I think there is more parity than most are willing to admit— so a Bronco finish anywhere in that range wouldn’t shock me.
Denialists replace the open-minded skepticism of science with the inflexible certainty of ideological commitment.-- Michael Spector
by PredominantlyOrange on Aug 18, 2010 1:25 PM MDT up reply actions 2 recs
At the end of 2008, I’d seen the same movie way too many times. The team always, always seemed to be close. The next great runner was just around the corner. The linebackers would fly around and make up for other deficiencies again. Shanny would continue to squeeze the best out of the roster.
The cynics frustrate me, but they are right (despite themselves, almost) that patience has its limits and at somepoint becomes inseparable from drinking greedily of the Kool-Aid. But we’re one year into a massive renovation project. Like you, I expect big things for 2011. It’s enough time to get the young players experience in the system, to build up depth, to have a team fluent in the play book. It kills me to think they might flame out this year, and I’m not going to engage in gambler’s fallacy by saying that a bad record this year guarantees a good one next year. But in as much as taking a short-term hit reflects a patient approach to team-building, I’m not just OK with it, I legitimately believe it to be the source of a long-term competitive advangtage for the Broncos.
I find it remarkable
that we were able to reach 8-8 in a rebuilding year. And be absolutely sure that what Josh did was rebuild this team.
Think about all those perennial cellar dwellars, even a few teams in our division of late, that had to suffer through 4-12 or worse seasons while rebuilding.
I’m also of the opinion that we are a better team this year, but you are right CBx, I also expect big things for 2011.
So I see you rolled your way into the semis?
by OutOfYourElement on Aug 18, 2010 4:54 PM MDT up reply actions
Agree with you
The Broncos will be a contender, just in time for a lockout.
"All credibility, all good conscience, all evidence of truth come only from the senses." Friedrich Nietzsche
Orton is a big part of it
But if we can’t tackle better than we did against Cinci, first, second and third string, he is going to be spending at least 2/3 of the game on the bench and it won’t really matter.
I think we will
Remember that this was Cinci’s second game, whereas it was our first time out tackling opponents for real.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
by spock on Aug 18, 2010 10:40 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Again
First game tackling of the year. THat should improve.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 12:53 PM MDT up reply actions
Orton's the man...
I thought so much of KO last year that I bought an authentic, yellow throwback jersey last year and chose Orton. I don’t care if he’s here for only another year, that jersey will always remind me of the 6-0 run to start last year—one of the most exciting times that I’ve ever had as a sports fan. I agree that Orton is capable of having a huge year in 2010. He knows the offense and has a very deep, complementary WR corps that will serve him well. The biggest question mark for Kyle is, can he stay healthy? If so, the sky’s the limit because I think this year’s offense will be a QB’s dream.
Everyone seems pretty freaked about the OL. Rightfully so, it’s easily the biggest concern on the football team. I’m going on the assumption that Clady is going to be on the PUP at best. Kuper and Harris will be fine, Batiste/Polumbus will be subpar, and the rookies will struggle. If that’s the case, I can see this offense looking much like it did during the first quarter on Sunday night. We could have a team that throws the ball 40-60 times a game. Not ideal by any stretch of the imagination, but I think this group of guys can make it work. Bubble screens will be our running plays, most of the actual passes will be quick hitters over the middle, and the team will take plenty of shots downfield.
If Clady can return at full strength in 2011 and the rookies are solid, we would have a more balanced attack in the future, but this year I think it’s going to be spread-em out and dare the other teams to stop it. If that’s the case, we’re in for a fun year, and if they pull it off, KO will have huge numbers. I just hope we’ll have a franchise tag to burn in the new CBA.
Won't bow. Don't know how.
One thing that will help him stay uninjured
is being uninjured, and hence more agile and better able to avoid the kinds of situations that get players injured. Having a lingering injury in one ankle at the start of the year made him vulnerable to further injuries due to lack of escapability. We all saw how well he moved Sunday.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
Expectations for the Broncos are extremely low in the far north, too
4-6 wins seems the cost common guess around here, associated with a lot of eye rolling and smiling. I don’t think this is bias against Denver, it’s more just disinterest in Denver. Small market, everyone knew and respected Shanahan, McD looks young and pompous and flouts conventional wisdom and suffers, image wise, from his association with Belichek, Orton has a goofy name, looks sorta goofy, he aint no gunslinger and the positives of his game require a little time and sophistication to appreciate — which means he was never appreciated in Chicage. Whiney boy Puffy Eyed Pouter’s skills were obvious, as were Dumb then Dumber then Dumberer B Marsh’s. What McD is doing in Denver is not obvious, not to me, and I’m a fan, and not to fans who are far smarter than me, but I think we’re beginning to see it, and it’s fun. I’m certainly learning a lot more football this way, that’s for sure. So I think you’re right: Orton is widely underestimated and will shine, and we will survive our plague of injuries better than anyone in the national media is guessing, and we get no respect primarily because we’re a small market and everyone is confused by what we’re doing. Fair enough. I’m in no mood to argue. To quote the tuna, ‘it is what it is.’ Give them time. But I think I’ll enjoy this season, even if we are only 8-8, more than most.
If you are going through hell, keep going.
-- Winston Churchill
by broncimo on Aug 18, 2010 10:17 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Orton was born with an anti-charisma gene
He seems forever destined to fly under the radar. That he’s the X factor is exactly right. Unlike many of us I think Marshall being gone is a definite loss, but I also think Orton’s improvement is more than enough to make up for it. The only way Orton is going to emerge from the shadows is if the Broncos win big with him at the helm. When a team wins big it goes under the microscope as opponents and observers try to figure out why. That’s when they’re most likely to realize how important the quarterback’s play was. We’re in a good position. People don’t realize how much we’ve improved and how good Orton and his receivers are. Like last year, opponents will tend to mark the Broncos game down as a win. I look forward to a lot of rude awakenings. Even if we get off to a fast start they’ll keep expecting us to fold. I like our chances with Orton, and if in a year or two we have two very good quarterbacks we’ll either have the best backup in the league or have the opportunity to win valuable prizes from one of the league’s quarterback-starved teams.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
by spock on Aug 18, 2010 10:18 AM MDT reply actions 2 recs
I agree, right on
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
by Topher Doll on Aug 18, 2010 10:32 AM MDT up reply actions
Its impossible to fly under the radar
when you are in the PLAYOFFS!!!!
So I think its now or never for him, lets TAKE IT!!!
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
- Thomas Alva Edison
"Success is not a place at which one arrives, but rather... the spirit with which one undertakes and continues the journey."
- Alex Noble
I almost always agree with you Spock
and this is another example. One slight difference is that I do believe Ortin has the respect of the team. He is the recognized leader and does have that charisma. It is not recognized in the media, but it is in the locker room, where it counts.
It all starts in the trenches - HT 11/11/08
Leave the hateful vitriol to the uninformed - HT 3/16/09
Agreed, his teammates talk about how he is the leader on the team
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
Very definitely
He’s no secret to his teammates, just to the outside world, including a large slice of Bronco fandom.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
Just bought my...
Orange authentic Kyle Orton jersey last weekend. I am ready to believe and get serious about this guy. I have always liked his attitude and work ethic, and it just continues to shine through in every situation he’s put in. He is the consummate professional and ultimate teammate. I am fully behind our QB and I anticipate nothing but 100% effort every single game.
That's what I want to hear
More starting quarterback jerseys out there rather then the rookie.
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
by Topher Doll on Aug 18, 2010 10:33 AM MDT up reply actions
Does it make you slower?
JK I couldn’t hlep myself. Good for you man. I hope he plays well because it sucks when when the best Bronco jersey you own is a QB that doesn’t do well, or isn’t with the team. That’s loyalty man!
Better then owning the jersey for a guy whose never played a snap
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
The jersey
makes him chug whiskey and dance with the hotties! (according to a few avatars on this site)
So I see you rolled your way into the semis?
by OutOfYourElement on Aug 18, 2010 3:06 PM MDT up reply actions
I bought mine last year...
..I had to! I already had a Purdue one and a Bears one…had to complete the triumvirate! I have always defend him because (this is almost to cheesey to write) I saw the greatness in his Beard!
Thanks Sayre
Nice article
Last year Kyle Orton came to Denver and was roundly criticized. The man played through injuries and showed toughness few could even hope to live up to. There is no doubt that the team lost, the team fell apart, the Broncos did not look good at the end of the season. What completly baffles me is how so many people can lay that at the feet of KO. The TEAM fell apart. Not one player, the team.
Kyle Orton played as well as anyone could hope given his injuries, and the team did what it could despite other injuries that hurt us.
This year we see KO has learned, healed and grown confident. YeeHawwww! We have a new back up. I was sadly unimpressed with Chris Simms and I hope he does well where he is. I am not real happy with our choice for a new back up because he was not treated well in Cleveland, he has confidence issues and I will tell you that the fans are not helping. Brady Quinn needs support and time to overcome the demands put on him and to regain his confidence in himself. The FIRST pre-season game did not help and the fan reaction as well as the MSM did even more to scar him. I say he deserves time and a chance to relearn how to be a confident QB in the NFL
Tim Tebow, well what can you say. No doubt an exciting prospect. All the hype is just that….Hype. He seems to be handling it well and he was fun to watch Sunday night. I hope he can keep perspective and grow. That will not happen if he is pushed into a leading role before he is ready. Let the Professionals take care of that. There will be plenty of time to watch him play throughout his career.
The future of the Broncos looks very bright indeed and I for one am excited. This is a team and it will require a team effort. I think we have a lot of good quality players and I am happy no one thinks we will be any good. Should lead to a nice W/L column.
Opinions are like......, Well anyway, this is mine.
Don’t worry about it. As an ignorant redneck, I’m qualified to say that.
by Sean in Pa. on Aug 18, 2010 10:22 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
You tell 'em, Sayre
Nice strong article. You said what I have been thinking. I like Tebow and hope the best for Quinn, but I have been behind Orton since McD traded for him. Purdue has turned out a couple other pretty good QB’s, like Bob Griese of the ‘72 Dolphins and Drew Brees of the ’09 Saints. You should look up Orton’s college stats compared to them. Let’s hear it for Orton and the ‘10 Broncos. I’m not predicting a SuperBowl, but I fully expect a playoff team this year. I also see Orton getting a nice 4-year contract with the Broncos while Tebow develops. Maybe Quinn will still be around too. Go Broncos, the future is bright.
1st string O-line?
was it a 1st string O-line that played against the Bengals? NO. It was missing 2 starters. (Clady Kuper) The rookies are still learning what it means to be a NFL lineman. They will improve a lot in the next 3 weeks. IMO the O-Line will be a top, if not the top pass protecting line in the league. I’m not sure how they will be run blocking but then again isn’t this a pass oriented league.
I like the defense except that it will have to rely on schemes to get to the QB.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
Great post Sayre!
It would be super if the majority of fans and the local sports media could jump on the Kyle Orton bus. Once this kid gets a good team behind him on the field, the sky is the limit. Rec’d!
Provided he can stay healthy, this is the year for Orton to shine
if Kyle Orton and the Broncos can stay relatively healthy
These are my concerns. Orton doesn’t mind standing in the pocket and taking hits, this has resulted in a tale of two Ortons that last couple of years. I pray the revamped line will help keep him upright and healthy!
It might be helpful to remember
that only the finger injury came in the pocket.
The two ankle injuries both came on scrambles: 08 – when his cleat caught in one defender’s pants as he was being rolled out of bounds by a different defender, and 09 – when he was fallen on from behind while trying to scramble up the middle for a first down.
We live in an age when instant gratification isn't fast enough
by Brian Shrout on Aug 18, 2010 1:27 PM MDT up reply actions
I've been hammered for the last 1½ years over saying the same things about Orton . . .
I started out actually anti-Orton because of my ignorance on his play. No one has gone into a deeper research on him than I have. The results have been that I have diametrically reversed my opinion of him, and I see a very good QB there. A very good QB.
Thank you Sayre, for this. The rec I gave you doesn’t seem enough. I wish I could treat you to dinner – well, not just for this, but for all your sterling reports . . .
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
I don't think Sayre even kisses on the first date
you’d be better off with a raiders fan – lol
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
AZ - what to share archives?
I’ve done a tiny bit of research on him myself – love to hsare and see what each could add, if you get interested. My current email is alloverfatman@gmail.com if you’re interested.
Doc
Gnothi Seauton
Lol
Doc, you have the best handles. Love that email address. :)
by BroncosBassist on Aug 18, 2010 1:29 PM MDT up reply actions
Irony
It’s ironic. This offseason I wrote on MHR that Orton could – if he stay’s healthy – be a Top 10 QB and was smugly told he had reached his ceiling. Which is a step up compared to the laughs and ridicule I get mentioning something like that outside of MHR.
Orton is just one of those guys who has generally been overlooked his whole career.
That’s not to say he doesn’t have problems. But, I’m completely comfortable (and happy) with Orton at the helm. Great article.
Most people are running around - umbilical cord in hand - looking for a new place to plug in
by SSMT on Aug 18, 2010 10:49 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Flip floppers
They’re everywhere these days.
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
nah, they're not really
Oh wait. Yes they are indeed.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Aug 18, 2010 2:55 PM MDT up reply actions
Orton's year last year.
His QB rating was ranked a so-so 14th in the league. But, when you factor in the fact that it was a brand new scheme for the entire team, he O-Line was in flux, and he was playing on 2 bad ankles, he did pretty well. Just think he just has to by-pass 4 QBs to become a top ten QB.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
by 3nS on Aug 18, 2010 10:50 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Bingo!
It’s nice to see someone else recognizes that – well, I’m sure many others do. I just think there has been some timidity involved because of the hammering from naysayers . . .
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
"...a so-so 14th in the league"
Might the first 13 be: Rodgers, Warner, McNabb, Romo, Brees, Brady, Roethlisberger, Palmer, Schaub, Manning, Manning, Rivers, all vets with at least a few years with established teams? Plus Favre, with an established team? Toss in Joe Flacco and Matt Ryan in their second years with established teams and coaches.
Orton rocks. Pure and simple.
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.
heh
Warner is retired. Roethlisberger is not going to put out the same number he typically does as he will be at home the first 4 games – doesn’t that slide Orton up on the top 15 list?
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Take out Palmer and put in Flacco
Palmer was 16th and Flacco 13th. Ryan 20th. Campbell was 15th and I expect him to do a lot better also.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
Good one!
For what credit is given to Tim Tebow because of his toughness, people should have a new found respect for the toughness of Orton, who is poised to have the biggest season in his NFL career.
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.
Ya know
As unthreatening as Orton is to opponents — he’s practically a genius at it — you have to give credit to McDaniels for seeing his potential when he had managed to fly under management’s radar on 31 teams, including his own. It wasn’t just about unloading Cutler (although I think we underestimate the degree to which the divorce was instigated by McDaniels, not forced on him by Cutler or mandated by Bowlen). It was also about getting Orton. Peter King and at least one other commentator said it at the time. McDaniels really likes Orton. He saw in Orton, before Orton had a real opportunity to show it, what the rest of us have been discovering since.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
I saw it from the beginning . . .
Sorry, had to say it. I’ve taken a beating over Orton the last year and a half . . .
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
Your day is coming :)
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
Great writing Sayre
Honestly it might be your best written article. Much more vivid descriptions and real hheart expressed feelings. Nice job.
As to Orton. I was almost beheaded last year when I wanted the Vikes to grab Orton with his RFA tender. Still can’t get people to see his value. Some Bronco fans might still accept a first round pick for him.
All I can say is this. The Vikings need a young accomplished QB to lead their west coast offense. His contract is up this year. I sure hope our GM calls the Broncos.
Disclaimer: Orton is from my home town area so I have a soft spot for him. But he has earned my respect. The Bears lost my respect when Orton got them to the Superbowl but started someone else.
"Is it normal to wake up in the morning in a sweat because you can't wait to beat another human's guts out?"
Joe Kapp
by lifelongvike on Aug 18, 2010 11:12 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
If KO is getting traded
I would love to see him go to the Vikings. The Vikes are not shy about using draft assets to get what they need, and I could see after a big year from Orton a Schaub-like haul for the Broncos, provided they franchise him and try to trade him. It’d be nice to get as much as they can while they can, seeing as Tebow is the future here.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 1:10 PM MDT up reply actions
With Minnesota's talent
If Orton goes there, they will be right back in the Super Bowl, IMO . . .
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
Farve is better than Orton and couldnt get it done last year
but not saying he wasn’t capable. Farve was very capable, the cookies just didn’t crumble his way last year.
But yes, I agree with you. Orton would have a good shot at going there as well!
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Couldn't get it done last year?
Favre DID “get it done” last year and, if not for one errant pass, might likely would have won it all.
I know
but he caught an unlucky break thus not able to get it done.
It was at no fault to effort or skill.
Just sayin – “If you’re not first you’re last!” – Ricky Bobby
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
And if the Broncos won 8 more games, they would have finished 16-0
The idea that you can arbitrarily separate out Favre’s bad passes is risible.
Risible, Chickbronx?
I was referring to ONE final pass that literally meant the difference between ending the season and going to the Super Bowl. You are comparing that observation to a hypothetical "IF the Broncos had won 8 more games."? The word "risible" does have its place relative to your post but it has nothing to do with anything I said.
You can say the same thing about Manning
And I think I will – “…if not for one errant pass, the Colts might have won it all.”
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.
agreed Sayre
Farve’s final season is here – this is his last in my humble opinion. This is the first season I’ve said it, even when he retired the first time I said “he’s got 3 more seasons left!”
If not this season, than next.
Hopefully we’ll be able to use the franchise tag next year. If so I’m sure we’ll franchise Orton to get good trade value, if not for good trade value then to have him start for one last season. A team like the Vikings would be great for him!
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
This raises a curious issue.
With the NFL labor contract expiring will there be franchise tags in 2011?
If so would Denver waste it on Orton or are there other resources you need to protect?
Crap, a whole new area of CBA I have to look at.
"Is it normal to wake up in the morning in a sweat because you can't wait to beat another human's guts out?"
Joe Kapp
by lifelongvike on Aug 19, 2010 11:15 AM MDT up reply actions
How about Webb?
From what I saw of Webb in the first game, you vikes might have your future QB. And apparently he came into camp as a receiver of DB. He looked very good to me for a first game.
by ivanthenotsobad on Aug 18, 2010 1:25 PM MDT up reply actions
He's very raw
He is the only player to evr run for 1,000 yds and pass for 2,000 yds two seasons in a row in D1 college ball. But it was still a small school. He was drafted as a WR and was standing around in mini-camp throwing the ball with some other prospects. Coach saw him throw and said " lets move him to QB for a couple of days. Has not been back with the WRs since. But that was pre-Farve. We can’t keep 4 QBS. But he did look fast and strong in the 4th quarter against the Rams. I repeat. The 4th quarter against the Rams.
"Is it normal to wake up in the morning in a sweat because you can't wait to beat another human's guts out?"
Joe Kapp
by lifelongvike on Aug 18, 2010 1:59 PM MDT up reply actions
I'm a big Orton fan (and a Bears fan) but...
I’m pretty sure you’re thinking of 2005 when the Bears went 11-5 w Orton at the helm, then they pulled him because their heir-apparent Gross-man returned from injury just in time for the playoffs so he could lose the game for us. Granted, the next year, they benched Orton and they ended up in the Superbowl, which Grossman promptly screwed us out of with all of his interceptions. The best thing about Kyle is that he’s smart and smart with the ball. Grossman is either awesome or sucks. The problem was he always sucked when the pressure was on. Orton does some of his best work when the team needs him to. Big difference.
orton without marshall this year will be better
this might not be popular to say, but the broncos offense will be better because Brandon Marshall is gone. if you look at last year, Orton always went to Marshall and hardly anyone else. A QB is at his best when he doesn’t have to worry about getting one WR all the stats. why do you think Peyton Manning is so good? he never has one WR that he goes to. it’s always someone different and how do you defend that? we saw a glimpse of that with Orton against the bengals. it was almost always someone different every time. you never would have saw that last year because of marshall (today’s version of T.O.). what everyone saw against the bengals is just the tip of the iceberg, wait until moreno/buckhalter get back. you put a good running game with Orton this year, there’s no reason why this offense shouldn’t be top 10 material.
by tiderfootball09 on Aug 18, 2010 11:17 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
I could be mistaken
But if you want to know why people are down on Orton you can look no further than the pre-season game. Don’t get me wrong he looked great, but he only had one pass completed more than ten yards beyond the line of scrimmage. There’s cause for concern right there.
I’m not talking the deep ball here, I’m talking medium range.
I also don’t think that you can say that Orton can carry the team, and therefore be as important as Peyton. Orton is more fragile so he needs better blocking. He doesn’t throw as accurately ten yards past the LOS so he needs WR’s who are better at YACs. He can’t consistently score as quickly so he needs a better defense.
He’s just not as important to this team as Manning is. Thankfully we don’t need him to carry the team, we just need the team to be healthy, and he’ll be just fine for us.
You could not be more mistaken . . .
Take the words of McDaniels, who said Orton has “always been accurate” and is “even more accurate” now. If you don’t think Orton
passes accurately past 10 yards, I suggest you go to NFL.com and look up Orton’s highlights over the last two years, even throwing off a high ankle sprain and much of that time on two high ankle sprains.
It’s incredible: Even in the face of contrary evidence, the naysayers continue this argument. Incredible . . .
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
by AZDynamics on Aug 18, 2010 1:30 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
stop watching highlight reels
They never show the whole picture. Look at the numbers, I have and I’ve posted them here before. From 10-19 yards past the line of scrimmage Orton’s accuracy is like other QBs on their deep throws.
He also did it again Sunday night with two healthy ankles which is why there is cause for concern.
by Fan in Exile on Aug 18, 2010 2:46 PM MDT up reply actions
I guess you don't know me very well
As I have repeated time and again, ad nauseam, I have researched Orton for hours and hours and hours. So do not limit me to the highlights. I suggested you check out the highlights because it is obvious you don’t know much about Orton.
I know the highlights don’t show “everything.” In my 50+ years of playing and observing football, I know that. But what they do show is that Orton is capable of the deep pass and can throw it with accuracy. And that is backed up by those who have had the advantage you haven’t have of seeing Orton every single day: his coaches and teammates.
Moreover, Orton was razor sharp Sunday night. You can try to tell me the sky is green, but only you will believe it.
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
AZ I can't know you this is the internet
I also don’t believe you. People who have been playing and watching for 50 years don’t trust highlight reels so why would someone who claims that do so?
The coaches never said anything about him being accurate past ten yards, they just said that he is accurate, his accuracy up to the ten yard line really makes up for it. More than that if you really had the experience that you claim to have you would know that coaching sound bites are worthless.
He was razor sharp on Sunday night up to the ten yard line, then you get his passes of 40, 25, 15, 14, 45 all fell incomplete. That’s what actually happened.
This is the reality Orton has a lot going for him, but medium and long range accuracy is not on that list.
by Fan in Exile on Aug 18, 2010 3:36 PM MDT up reply actions
I was going to make the friendly offer to agree to disagree, but
Since you called me a liar, go to hell.
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
by AZDynamics on Aug 18, 2010 4:20 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I responded to your initial comment in this thread below.
Similar reasoning here. I don’t sense you as a hater, just a doubter. I am sure that if we see those attributes (medium and long range accuracy) suddenly apparent in the regular season, you will be ecstatic enough about winning to graciously retract the opinion. BTW…Orton had good accuracy down the field in college…well, at least better than Quinn.:)
Yes, you do know me, Exile
We’ve posted together for some time on football message boards. I am “topscribe” on most of them, and “Greybeard” on a couple others. We go back years together, and we mostly have had respect for each other . . . or at least I’ve respected you.
Sorry for my initial reaction to your post, but at the very top of my table of values is honesty and truth. I get a little excited when someone questions that. I have a lifetime of building on that, and I think I’ve earned a little recognition for it. But you’re right: this is the internet, and you didn’t know me from Adam by this username. So all is good with me if it is with you.
And all I did in citing those videos was to point out that Orton is capable of throwing a good deep pass. I did not hope to prove anything other than that with those videos.
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BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
Fie
Fan, I don’t know you. I do know AZD, and he has studied this issue at length. So have I.
Yes, I’ve seen your stuff on how he can’t throw beyond X yards. I’ve asked you before (but without an answer) – did you read TedB’s commentary on Orton from his Shallow Thoughts and Nearsighted Observations? He set out exactly which long throws Orton does and does not make well. John Bena goes to camp and one of the first things that he said in his analysis was that Orton’s arm is quite strong enough. Historically, it always has been so, dating back to high school.
There are a lot of factors that go into completing longer throws, and some involve the QB while others don’t. – these include the OL giving you time (which certainly didn’t happen last year, and certainly didn’t happen in Chicago, whose OL was like tissue), the receivers getting open, having enough experience with each receiver or that specific receiver to connect well and so forth. Brian Shrout has written on this issue of Orton’s ‘problems’ with longer passes. He completed about what most top 10 QBs did last season – in fact he was 10th in the league in passes completed over 40 yards. for completions over 20 yards he had 43, the same as Tom Brady. Link
But what concerns me when I read your material is that you’ve avoided one of the key issues in this debate. Orton noted that he’d gotten more coaching in 4 months in Denver than in 4 years in Chicago. Chicago has long been a terrible place to be a QB – poor line and WR play, lousy coaching, snap decisions that in retrospect made no sense at all. I lived there. I still have friends there. That the Bears have had these issues is pretty common knowledge around Chi, and refusing to recognize the issues that played into Orton’s career and record makes no sense.
His predraft says specifically that to be successful, Orton is best taken on as a project and shouldn’t play for 3 or so years. yes, he had more INTs than TDs in 2005 – the rookie year he was supposed to sit out, but played in and won 10 games. Having sat out 2006, Orton played 3 games in 2007, all of 2008 and all of 2009. The jump in his stats between those last two years is sufficiently substantial that ignoring it suggests a prejudice to support rather than an attempt to discuss an issue. The voices of those who have gone to camp – and the voices of the coaches and players who train him or train with him there, have universally said that his accuracy is way up, he’s leading the team well, his confidence is excellent and his performance has been equally good. Yet, your sole argument appears to be that with your numbers, he’s not throwing mid and long range passes well enough. Even if it might once have been true, it has nothing to do with this year.
McD noted after last season that they were going to increase the number of longer passes. He and his staff went over every route and every throw in the offseason. If Orton couldn’t make those throws, it makes no sense at all that they would change the system to play to his weaknesses. I’m left with two options – your numbers are an inadequate argument or the coaching staff doesn’t know anything about football. I’m not going with the second one.
Gnothi Seauton
wow
if I had a dollar for everytime someone asked me that same question….
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Josh is always saying
to take what they give. Early on they (the Bengals) gave the short stuff….result…it was 14-0 when Orton went out. If that kept up, the Bengals would have to change things up on defense, and then either the run or the medium and deep routes open up. You simply can’t say “look no farther than the preseason game” when there were only two series, and the initial series of the season to boot. Let’s wait a bit longer before declaring that last years offensive deficiencies have carried over to this year.
Terrific post, Sayre!
It was a surprise to me that Orton had two injured ankles through the end of last season. Orton is an uncomplaining and gutsy quarterback. I sincerely hope that he can stay healthy all season.
Thanks and rec’d, sir!
"A man's life is dyed the color of his imagination."
Marcus Aurelius
by hairybear on Aug 18, 2010 11:39 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Loved the article Sayre!!
agreed on all points. I’m getting the same reaction by people when i talk about the possibilities for the Broncos this tear. Maybe that is because I’ve only seen one more bronco fan in a country of 4 million people. Go Broncos!!
Orton has always gotten a bad rap.
He doesn’t play sexy, he comes across as boring and he doesn’t talk a lot. But he gets the job done. And while I am not one of those guys around here who is secretly talking about myself instead of the Broncos, I will this one time say that I’ve championed this guy for years. I have always insisted he’s better than he’s been given credit for being and I think what he needed was a chance of scenery, some coaching up and a fire lit under him.
It just makes me happy to see him starting to thrive because I think he’s a good guy and a good player.
The Broncos are quietly building a pretty decent team around Orton, and if they can overcome this recent of injuries there’s no reason to believe they won’t be competitive. Its early yet, and I am sticking with “8-8 until they’re not”, but I think this team just might surprise a lot of people this year.
You're either a fan or you're not.
by TheMastermind on Aug 18, 2010 12:13 PM MDT reply actions 2 recs
"Weebles wobble, but they don't fall down."
At the end of last season, I made a comment in a post calling Orton the “anti-weeble”, making fun of the man’s lack of mobility, and tendency to fall from the breeze created by a nearby D lineman.
I prefer my generous helping of crow baked, not fried, thank you.
While I did give the man credit for his toughness through the finger injury, and success on many occasions, I couldn’t quite get past the mobility thing.
I had no idea about the lingering injury from the previous season, and probably didn’t give enough credit to the injury sustained during last season, but he still looked like a completely different QB on Sunday. The man has stainless steel huevos.
Go Kyle! Go Broncos!
"People who live in glass houses...shouldn't."
by jayrockstone on Aug 18, 2010 12:24 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs
this
Always respect a guy for manning up.
"All credibility, all good conscience, all evidence of truth come only from the senses." Friedrich Nietzsche
Cautiously Optimistic
I agree with many here that there is reason for optimism this year in Broncoland despite the injuries and loss of some Pro Bowl players.
Some things seem to be coming together. Some holes have been filled.
On the other hand, I could see the wheels coming off the cart quickly if things start slowly. Orton can be brilliant or weak. The O line may gel or it may not. The RB’s may be good, or a disaster depending on injuries. The defensive backfield may be brilliant,… or old and the meat in the middle may stop the rush, or they may not.
At least things won’t be boring.
by Baltimore Bronco on Aug 18, 2010 12:25 PM MDT reply actions
It is easy to believe you "agree with many here."
“They could be good or they could be bad. They may be strong or they may be weak. They might win or they might lose.”
Thanks for sharing.
by warmick on Aug 18, 2010 1:35 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
lol
are you trying to say that any team is in that same situation?
Peyton Manning like Brady did a couple seasons ago could get hurt and miss out on 15 1/2 games this season – the Colts could suck.
Ed Reed could have a change of heart and hang up his cleats, thus the Ravens defense could be suffering all the while Flaaco quits football to go work as a missionary.
Cutler could throw 30 interceptions and lead the Bears to another 8-8 season
And lastly Ben Worthlessburger could get caught with his pants down and be suspended from the first 4 games of this season.
We could play these “What If” scenarios all day, but why bother? I’d rather work with what info the team has shown and make my predictions that way.
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
If we start slowly, we need to just remember the chargers season last year.
Actually, the schedule seems to suggest that will be the pattern, at least to me.
Agree Completely
Couldn’t agree more. Orton will have 4000+ yards passing and over 30 TDs. He will be the new Tom Brady. Can’t wait till the season begins and he starts tearing it up. Our offense is loaded, our defense is loaded. We will be in the playoffs, and if we catch a few nice breaks, can go deep and get to the super bowl. Orton already carried one team to the Super Bowl, but they threw Grossman back in for some reason at the end.
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Good point
Orton already carried one team to the Super Bowl, but they threw Grossman back in for some reason at the end.
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.
lol I said that earlier this season
but someone went and corrected me and said he only brought them to the playoffs. My memories not the best and I didn’t research it, but living in Chicago and watching the Bears for the entire season, I recalled Orton actually carrying them to the Superbowl, when they benched him for Grossman who threw the game away.
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
That might be a bit too optimistic
But hey, got to hope right?
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
I don't have to say anything to tick this crowd off
I am sure plenty of Bears fans will be offended I posted a comment here in the first place. One thing is true someone named in, or commetning on this post will be eating crow in 2010. Orton, the poster (blind Orton lovers), or non-lovers who don’t believe Orton will live up to this billing. Most people already know what side I fall on.
I am just shocked that Bears fans get main MHR love because of their undying love for Orton. I can’t wait for the season to begin to see whose right and who’s choking on feathers.
Feathers?
I’m a Bears and Broncos fan, and my love for both teams doesn’t hinge on one player. Like 99% of all sports fans, I make predictions, and like 99% of fans, I’m wrong sometimes, just like you are wrong sometimes.
I am a bear of very little brains and big words bother me.
Decent post...yeah, one side or the other is going to be eating crow, just
like it looks like those that were backing Zo strongly lare already glancing through cookbooks to see just how that crow should be cookied. No, I don’t think there is any significance to the fact that crow and rook are interchangable words…..(I’ll let that one just sit there a while, maybe it will ripen into something).:)
If I understood your last sentence, my only comment would be that I wouldn’t be shocked that an Orton supporter (you could tone down the adjectives here, but your choice dependis on the message) would give “love” to anybody who agreedwith that assessment….seems like that’s just human nature.
Is it me? or does every player in Football and Baseball
show up to camp in the “best shape of their career” “looking better” “looking great”
My heart is Black and it makes Rocky Mountain purple blood and I piss the Orange and Blue Denver Bronco excellence.
besides Albert Haynesworth
My heart is Black and it makes Rocky Mountain purple blood and I piss the Orange and Blue Denver Bronco excellence.
by waterboy31321 on Aug 18, 2010 12:41 PM MDT up reply actions
Now that J. Russel is gone.
If this be Hell, let us make the most of it!
by Trinidad Jack on Aug 18, 2010 3:51 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I can just see this headline:
Champ Bailey Shows Up to Camp in Third Best Shape of Career.
“I’m really looking forward to having a significantly better year than some of my years but not as good as a couple others.”
"This signature intentionally left blank" Josh McDaniels
Thanks for the post Sayre
I became a fan of Orton when he played through that horrible looking finger injury last year. That is one tough guy.
It all starts in the trenches - HT 11/11/08
Leave the hateful vitriol to the uninformed - HT 3/16/09
I'm still surprised how many seem to not take that injury into account.
I was flat out shocked that he could perform with that thing.
Nice to see Orton getting some much deserved respect
Thanks, Sayre.
Rec’d
We live in an age when instant gratification isn't fast enough
instant gratification?
my wife complains about that all the time lol
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Good one 55
There is no end to the depravity on this site.
It all starts in the trenches - HT 11/11/08
Leave the hateful vitriol to the uninformed - HT 3/16/09
And what's so bad about a little depravity?
If this be Hell, let us make the most of it!
by Trinidad Jack on Aug 20, 2010 1:08 PM MDT up reply actions
Good article, Sayre
I was one of those who got dissed for supporting Orton from the first. I thought that he would thrive in McD’s system and he is beginning to show signs that he will. I still think he is at least a year away from reaching his potential in the system.
One thing I’ve not seen mentioned is the value he will have as a mentor to both Quinn and Tebow.
I did not have high regard for either when they were acquired – in fact, Sayre, I teased you for so strongly supporting him. I was more impressed with Tebow’s first game than I thought I would be though I’m still not convinced that his motion is not a liability or that he can make quick reads and subsequent throws.
I also was more impressed with Quinn than I thought I’d be. He started jittery and had that bad interception (can’t remember the number of times I cursed Elway for bad interceptions), but I saw his throws improve and his comfort settle as he got more plays.
I see both Quinn and Tebow benefitting greatly and quickly from the raised bar that Orton is presenting. And I expect both to improve as the preseason progresses.
Concerning the OL, I was more impressed with the “first team” OL than I expected to be, even though it did not include Clady or Kuper. Beadles and Walton had their weak moments, but they’re getting the early reps and have to face Jamal Williams and Justin Bannan in camp, which IMO already shows. Even Batiste looked better than I expected. And i noticed that the rookie Daniels played a lot and, at times, pretty well. I’m not as concerned about the OL as I was, though I admit that it will not be at full efficiency at the beginning of the season.
by ivanthenotsobad on Aug 18, 2010 1:42 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs
I'll make the prediction for the second season in a row
Orton will have a better season statistically than Jay Cutler
Pretty bold
Because Cutler’s coordinators seem like a complete opposite of each otehr
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 1:59 PM MDT up reply actions
The problem for Cutler is the 5-7 step drop...
He has to have time for 7 steps while the Oline he has had trouble holding for 3 step drops last year…its gonna be hard
Yes but will he win more games?
"Is it normal to wake up in the morning in a sweat because you can't wait to beat another human's guts out?"
Joe Kapp
by lifelongvike on Aug 18, 2010 2:00 PM MDT up reply actions
Well, Orton has a much better supporting cast
I would be willing to wager that, but I don’t know. Orton having better stats than a Martz QB, little iffy there, but it’s certainly possible.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Aug 18, 2010 2:03 PM MDT up reply actions
he'll have less interceptions I can tell you taht
Martz’ QB’s have a lot of interceptions. But I think Cutler has been able to cope well with throwing them, after all, it’s never been his fault!
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Orton vs Cutler
So far Orton’s career has statistically been better than Cutler’s and his winning percentage has been better so it is not a reach.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
everyone take not that he said the word Career
and not last season about the winning record.
It’s true, Orton may not be flashy, but he’s a winner – isn’t that what his former Linebacker said about him?
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
?????
Outside of last season, when does that statement hold any water?
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say will be misquoted and then used against you.
I was thinking
The last 2 years combined. Orton’s #‘s in Denver was better than Cutler’s 86.8-86.0 and Orton’s #s in Chicago was better than Cutler’s 79.6-76.8. Overall Cutler has a better QB Rating 83.8-76.9 the difference being Cutlers QB rating gets worse each year he plays while Orton’s gets better.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
How about wins?
I still find it fascinating that Cutler never had a winning season at the college or pro level.
Orton’s record is 29-19. (Of course, he wins because of the defense) :)
But I’d argue that winning is often a reflection of the timing of a quarterback’s level of play. Cutler can certainly derail at times causing the loss in my opinion.
So I see you rolled your way into the semis?
by OutOfYourElement on Aug 18, 2010 5:00 PM MDT up reply actions
I tend to give Cutler a pass on the collegiate level
The guy played at Vanderbilt! Vandy has had 2 winning seasons since 1975, and both of those were a single game over .500, so who is at the helm seems to have very little to do with it. And yet in the midst of that, Cutler managed to win SEC player of the year. I think it’s time to put the college comparisons to rest.
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say will be misquoted and then used against you.
You're right improv
Both Orton & Cutler have been in the NFL long enough that what should be compared are their accomplishments at the professional level.
We live in an age when instant gratification isn't fast enough
by Brian Shrout on Aug 18, 2010 9:51 PM MDT up reply actions
Good point
So I see you rolled your way into the semis?
by OutOfYourElement on Aug 19, 2010 10:41 AM MDT up reply actions
It's a good thing
we came out ahead on that trade. We sure pissed away the 1st (2nd) round draft choice of Phonz
It all starts in the trenches - HT 11/11/08
Leave the hateful vitriol to the uninformed - HT 3/16/09
That pick wasn't involved in the Cutler trade.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
What I'd like to see
Is Orton and Tebow playing on the Broncos for a few years. It seems like like the two have different strengths and weaknesses and their personalities mesh. Both seem humble and seem like they could share the ball.
no one ever wants to share the ball
some are just forced to
Don’t you remember your mom or dad yelling at you to share the ball when you were a little kid?
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
although I could see Tim
lining up at halfback with Orton tossing it back to him as Tim throws it deep. Not a wild horses package. That would really throw them for a loop huh?!
daaayuuuuum! you gonna take that KB?!? lol -Broncs55
Absolutely not. KB is a function of aggression and rage, the derivative of which can be traced back to my childhood.-KentuckyBronco
PS3 ID: KoRnHo|ed
Actually had this image myself.
Tebow would be enough of a running threat to make them defense it honestly. Would need to have the timing down pat, though…lots of room for screwing it up.
Nice article Sayre very well put .
Im not really surprised by Orton so far I think he went through the best trial under fire someone could go through last year and that prepared him for this year.
He faced 8 of the leagues top 15 passes defenses including 5 in the top ten . This doesnt count our own everyday in practice.This doesnt even count the bears cover two or the niners defense in preseason
He has plenty of game film to study and saw pretty much every type of defense you could see from the bend but dont break cover two of the Colts to the man to man of Oakland to the blitz happy Eagles to the Steelers zone blitz . There is not anything more than can be used against this offense that he doesnt have on tape already and hasnt had 8 months to study .
What could Cincy show him that he didnt see last year week one ? That tough schedule and adversity that he had is probably the best thing to ever happen to him and us .
Weve finally getting a chance to see Orton healthy under normal circumstances and I dont think he is gonna disappoint .
by Hoopforia on Aug 18, 2010 2:44 PM MDT reply actions 2 recs
Great, great article Sayre, Rec'd.
I don’t think you’re getting riled up over just one quarter of pre-season football at all. You see the way KO has handled himself this entire off-season, how he has prepared, how he has played this entire TC, and THEN he comes out and proves all of us right versus a worthy opponent in the Bengals. I think you’re getting riled up over the entire off/pre-season that KO has put together and you’re confident that there are better things to come, I know I am.
You can take the man out of Colorado, but you can't take Colorado out of the man.
by manbearpig5000000 on Aug 18, 2010 2:56 PM MDT reply actions
As Everyone Knows
I’ve tried to be one of those Broncos fans “supportin’ Orton” as they say. I know he’ll do well. The man just works hard and tries to be the best he can. What more can you ask for? Championships, of course, but who’s to say KO won’t provide them?
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Aug 18, 2010 3:07 PM MDT reply actions
I certainly don't underestimate Orton, Sayre.
Thanks for the hopeful look at our starting (and hopefully finishing) QB. This man is one tough cookie. A high ankle sprain is really painful and, even more debilitating, it’s unstable making mobility really difficult. It boggles this doctor’s mind that he played on a professional football team with these injuries and actually played pretty effectively.
Charisma? So he doesn’t look like the square jawed QB of high school cheerleader’s dreams – who cares? The players respect toughness and leadership which is all the charisma you need and he’s got this team totally believing in him.
Intelligence? This QB has got all the football smarts to master one of the most complex offensive systems in pro football. Tom Brady remarked that it took 3-4 years to learn the system and it sure looks like Orton is ahead of that timeline. He’s significantly improved every year he’s been in a system.
Remember a QB a few years ago that wasn’t thought of as charismatic, or more than average in skill set? His team drafted a hot shot QB to replace him. He got injured and no one wanted him except one team who took the chance. Turns out he got a Super Bowl ring last year for the Saints. We should be cautious when diminishing the power of persistence and discipline in this player.
Imagination is more important than knowledge. A. Einstein
by Ponderosa on Aug 18, 2010 3:18 PM MDT reply actions 2 recs
Great writeup!
I’ve got to agree with you on just about everything you said here, it’s spot on!
Rec’d
"Mr. President, call in the National Guard! Send as many men as you can spare! Because we are killing the Patriots! They need emergency help!" - Shannon Sharpe
Nice writeup Sayre.
“Broncos? They will be lucky to win four games this year!”
I had some annoying Charger co-worker saying this to me after our first preseason game last year. I immediately responded by saying we will definately win more than that. Boy did I make sure he ate crow after that statement. Then I had a bigger laugh when the Jets knocked SD out.
Anybody who says Orton sucks, really doesn’t follow football.
Floyd Little: HOF Class of 2010.
2009-10 back-to-back NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009-10 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
So true Sayre, so true
“The Broncos are a train wreck.”
“Broncos? They will be lucky to win four games this year!”
“I didn’t know the Broncos had anymore fans!”
And the comments go on…and on…and then on some more.
I just sat next to a Patriots fan today in a meeting at work and we were talking about the upcoming season. I told him that we would be set at QB with Orton as long as he stayed healthy, and he looked at me and said: “Why would you want that guy?” After pointing out his improved stats in his career as well as the fact that 90% of a QBs success is based on what he has between his ears, he backed off. But for every fan that backs off, there are about three more who are convinced that Orton is no good.
Maybe this is a good time to put some of these folks on film…get the camcorder out and start recording what these folks are saying, then play it back to them at the end of the season. I bet that exercise would produce some amusing results.
Excellent post on Orton, Sayre. I am cautiously optimistic about 2010, but agree with your post overall.
"All credibility, all good conscience, all evidence of truth come only from the senses." Friedrich Nietzsche
by Horsepower on Aug 18, 2010 10:23 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Seems to me Orton needs a good PR manager
For whatever reason, the general public really thinks Orton is synonimous with Loser. Maybe its his goofy haircut? His “Orton Hears A Hoo” name? Some up and down seasons in his past.
The only way he can change this perception is to finish strong in 2010/11 like many are predicting. I don’t think its impossible to finish in the top 10 QB rating if he performs like we know is possible. Even then, I’m still not 100% sure you change everyone’s mind. Some people are just stubborn.
So I see you rolled your way into the semis?
by OutOfYourElement on Aug 19, 2010 10:57 AM MDT up reply actions
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