How to fix: The Offensive Line

by Fabio Broncos on Oct 30, 2011 7:02 PM MDT

The Denver Broncos have plenty of need spots on both sides of the ball and the one that concerns me more is our offensive line. This unit looked crappy last season and had an awful season opener this year against the Raiders, but I was confident that it would be better and improve game-by-game. For a moment, I thought I was right and the line was having good games with glimpses of great plays. However, against the Dolphins and now the Lions, we all were able to face the reality: it didn't improve how I expected.

The good part. We have a great LT who was a Pro Bowler in 2009 and got hurt during that offseason. Ryan Clady is still struggling to reach his elite level again, but so far he is playing a great football. Chris Kuper, our RG, was drafted very late in 2006 (5th round) and is now a veteran of this line. He accomplishes his job very well and was the offensive co-captain last season.

The bad part. JD Walton has a great upside for the incoming years and is a prospect to become an anchor C of this league. He makes some very great plays sometimes but still struggles on idiot plays including making bad snaps. Zane Beadles is a LG very capable to create push and opening good gaps for the halfbacks, but he struggles more than he should to protect the passer. He is young, and by the way our offensive line is the younger of the entire NFL, but needs to learn his job better. Our RT Orlando Franklin is a beast, and I think nobody can deny it. He can push a defender several yards back and open a big gap for the ground attack. The problem I can see here is that he doesn't have enough fluidity to play the tackle position at this level of the game. He lacks too much in pass protection and allows a lot of sacks, besides being caught several times with the defenders just rushing around him.

Another thing to consider: Tim Tebow, the starting QB since the game we faced Miami, is a left-handed player. On this way, his blindside is on the right side of the line where Franklin is the man in charge to give him enough time to check the field and make his throws. Ok, this is the current big scenario... So now how could we fix it?

One of the solutions that our front-office could provide us, would be adding an extra offensive tackle on the right side of the line. They used Chris Clark on a few reps during this season so far, but it was only on rushing plays. I brokedown this package of one of our games (vs. Chargers) and you can read it HERE if you want to. With the backup tackle replacing a tight-end on the right, Franklin play as a false guard and Tebow's blindside is much more protected. The problem is that we can't give away an eligible target (a TE at this spot) every down, because if so, the offense would be even more predictable than McCoy is doing until now. Another point is that with our 3 tackles of the roster on the field, we should have to pray every single day for them to stay healthy.

In conclusion, we could use it on rush and passing downs a couple times each game and provide more tranquility to Tebow, who is holding the ball too much as he is still learning the job: mechanics, footwork, check-down and all the inherent skills of the QB position.

The best solution they could provide us, would be admit that Franklin is not working as a tackle and re-think this move. We could plug him back to play LG, starting Clark as the RT (he looked well in the end of the game against the Lions when Franklin was out due to an injury) and think about drafting a start-caliber RT on the next draft, or signing a decent one at the Free Agency market. Meanwhile, when Zane Beadles continues to improve and develop for us to see if he is or is not an NFL staring caliber guard, he could remain on the roster being the backup tackle. I admit I didn't like him playing the position when Ryan Harris was injured before, but this would be a complete different situation.

In conclusion, we could spend an early pick or a good amount of money to plug a new right tackle and get the best from Franklin playing his former position. Our Offensive Line would be much better with: Ryan Clady - Orlando Franklin - JD Walton - Chris Kuper - Chris Clark... and upgrade it more on the next draft and/or free agency. I do think that a great team is built trough the draft so this is my shot.

GO BRONCOS!

Poll

How to fix our offensive line?

Be patient and wait JD, Zane and Orlando to develop.

11 votes

Move Orlando back to his former position and draft another RT.

26 votes

Move Orlando back to his former position and sign another free agent RT.

11 votes

Just use the extra tackle package more times and on passing downs.

2 votes

I have another solution, read the comments.

1 votes

51 votes | Poll has closed

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

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What a long orange sunday we had today….

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 30, 2011 7:06 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs

I think you are on the right track

I think the only two viable starting offensive linemen are Clady and Orlando Franklin (As a guard, not a RT). This team has had to rebuild its offensive line since before Shanahan left. Shanny really never rebuilt anything other than the left tackle before getting the axe. Then McDaniels came in and realized the deficiencies, but passed on elite talent to draft Moreno and Ayers. Michael Oher and Alex Mack were available in the first round in 2009. Then in 2010 Denver could have drafted pro-bowl center Maurkice Pouncey, but traded back a gazillion times to draft WR Demaryius Thomas and then back in the first for Tebow. Denver needs to redo the O-line on at least two positions with big strong elite talent at Center and Right Tackle.

Kuper, Walton, and Beadles are not elite talent. They are depth.

by agentj007 on Oct 30, 2011 7:35 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs

I didn't want to talk about the previous drafts

…but you are right about it. I’m in favor of drafting at least 1 OLineman every year until the 4th round to have always a good line. This is a game won in the trenches… if ours is poor, this is what we get.

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 9:16 AM MDT up reply actions

2008 Denver Broncos offense.

over 4500yds passing.
over 1800yds rushing.
gave up only 11 sacks.

You and McDaniels are right, the 2008 Denver Broncos Offense was a hot bed of deficiencies. Once again, I thank GOD for Josh McDaniels and all the good that he did and intended to do to and for the Denver Broncos organization, it’s team, it’s players and it’s fans. Amen (I’m Tebowing right now BTW)

Thanks for pointing out the glaring mistakes that Josh McDaniels made during the draft on the offensive side of the ball. Seems what little criticism he receives at the MHR goes to the mistakes that he made during the draft on the defensive side of the ball. So now we know how well rounded Josh McDaniels really was.

by KoloradoKaos on Oct 31, 2011 11:05 AM MDT up reply actions

The way our whole OLine played today was pathetic...

They need somebody to put a boot up their butts…

by bfree2bronc on Oct 30, 2011 8:03 PM MDT reply actions

Actually now we had 2 pitiful games in a row

The problem is that now with the season in progress we are limited to the available FAs to move for this year.

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 9:19 AM MDT up reply actions

Walton and Franklin may yet develop, Beadles I am beginning to doubt will.

I don’t care whether Franklin develops at tackle or guard, as long as the new lineman to that comes in for Beadles (or Franklin if he moves over) is GOOD. Since I don’t think we are a single season away, I would say draft the lineman rather than sign a FA…with the new CBA this is not as pricy as it once was, so one could get a high potential athlete and have a few seasons to develop him. (At least, one could do that if they did not have as many needs as we do.) I would not sign a FA unless there is a unique opportunity that gives the right combination of age, quality, and price. Kuper….well I have seen worse. He is not my first worry on the o-line. Whether any of this draft talk is even relevant will depend on whether we go after a QB and who is available at what positions when we draft.

by idahobronc on Oct 30, 2011 8:13 PM MDT reply actions

I'm beginning to doubt about Zane too...

…and I don’t really think Orlando can become a good tackle. This man has a big strenght… he is skilled on pushing and using his body to anchor.. so he is a great guard but a poor tackle with no fluidity. Thus, why the heck don’t we just use our own players weapons!? I’m tired of coaches who want to plug the players on jobs that don’t explore their best abilities.

I also agree that Kuper is not that bad… He probably is looking worse because the line is a unit, and he is encircled with 2 young players who are not playing well.

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 9:23 AM MDT up reply actions

I agree but I think we need to be patient

Our O-line started off terribly but has become respectable in the run game. I think if Franklin continues to struggle (its been 2 bad games in a row now) then we need to do something.

by ShyandObese on Oct 30, 2011 10:29 PM MDT reply actions

Franklin struggles because he's being ask to protect the back of a QB who prolongs plays.

I don’t think he was picked for that, if the coaching staff knew Tebow was going to start do you think they would still go with that pick or find some else. My guess is they would have addressed this issue with a better player instead of a rookie. I think the Broncos have the makings of a good o-line in the future.

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by CPT.Caveman on Oct 30, 2011 11:38 PM MDT up reply actions

Your half right. Some of the plays, both this week and last week, were prolonged by Tebow

about an equal amount was just bad protection. Tebow didnt have space to even step up. When the QB hasnt finished his dropback and he is already under pressure, thats a bad sign for your oline. Franklin struggles mostly with speed guys like Wake and Wimbley but Avril did a number on him as well. I think what we are seeing is the same thing we saw last year with Beadles and Walton. Young O-line. Just need some more experience.

by ShyandObese on Oct 31, 2011 12:26 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs

Hey Cavey

I agree with SO that you are half right.

And let me just add a comment here. Several times that Tebow was pressured / sacked / hit / fumbled and etc, the most part came from his side. But I’m sure that even P.Manning on the pocket with his fast read and delivery would have problems since a lot of times the DLineman just rushed around Franklin and penetrated the pocket.

Anyway, today is the first time this season I’ll watch a KC game… For me you guys had the biggest downgrade this offseason and now are getting better again. Hope you beat the SD to keep the records low on our division.

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 9:32 AM MDT up reply actions

thanks Fabio

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by CPT.Caveman on Oct 31, 2011 11:00 AM MDT up reply actions

Also Cave, the reason I think they picked Franklin was because of Fox's history. Jeff Otah has scary similarities with Franklin. (they even look the same)

The two guys are like identical twins. I believe Fox saw his past success with Otah and wanted to replicate that here. Tebow probably didnt factor in to much consideration with that pick. I also agree that the O-line has good potential, they are already much better than they were under McDaniels tenure.

by ShyandObese on Nov 2, 2011 2:08 PM MDT up reply actions

Being worse than under McD tenure

would be a very tough job!

I’m still not sold on Fox so far… I have the impression that he is just trying to repeat his turnaround with the Panthers in Denver. And it’s not possible. The situations, although both come from a pitiful season, are veeeery diferent.

When he stops trying to repeat his formulas and recipes, we’ll be on the right path.

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by Fabio Broncos on Nov 2, 2011 3:23 PM MDT up reply actions

I see glimpses of great plays in the run game...

…but do you remember how ineffective it was on the season opener? I think it changed from water to wine in this regard, but it’s still not enough. Our backs are playing well. As Tebow is struggling to pass and McCoy is calling several rushing plays, our backs are having several oportunities to show their talent. McGahee is playing a very stud football, Moreno is playing a decent one and Ball more than I expected.

The biggest problem is how to protect Tim, specially because besides a left-handed he is still learning to don’t hold the ball for much time. And this is awful for now.

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 9:28 AM MDT up reply actions

Fabio the most undermentioned topics on this site are the play of our Offense in the run and the D-line against the run

Both have improved vastly since last year.

by ShyandObese on Nov 2, 2011 1:55 PM MDT up reply actions

You are right..

We must be able to recognize success (even the little scale ones) and feel better seeing some improvements.

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by Fabio Broncos on Nov 2, 2011 3:25 PM MDT up reply actions

I wonder how much Green getting hurt affected this.....

Wouldn’t he line up next to Franklin to assist?

In the short term, I had to vote to just bring in an extra tackle if our TE can’t help enough.

W-L record doesn't matter to me.... I just want to see a team on the rise at the end of the year!

GO BRONCOS and GO CARDS!!!

by Broncotodd on Oct 31, 2011 9:47 AM MDT reply actions

The OL not that much..

He is a catcher, so we miss his other skills until he can return…

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 5:15 PM MDT up reply actions

Time and patience.

The draft is the way to go but then we all need to be patient and let the rookies develop.

It is better to keep silent, and appear to be wise, then to ramble on and remove all doubt! The Wisest Man, Solomon.

by metalman5050 on Oct 31, 2011 10:10 AM MDT reply actions

Yes, metalman..

..but do you think there is a chance of Franklin develop to be a great tackle? Aren’t we wasting precious time instead of plug he as a left guard and get better at his former position?

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by Fabio Broncos on Oct 31, 2011 8:17 PM MDT up reply actions

There is nothing wrong with this OLine.

They were looking pretty good before Tebow started. Teams will stack the box to force Tebow to throw and that will effect the running game. Tebow will pull down the ball and try to scramble when he shouldnt and that will effect the sac total. I know everyone on the team had a bad game against Detroit, but dont place blame for a situation on the OLine when it doesnt belong there. These guys are good, and will be great in a year or two.

by AttwaterForHOF on Nov 2, 2011 5:57 PM MDT reply actions

Actually,

Our OL was struggling to protect Kyle Orton as it is still struggling to protect Tebow. What makes this lack of protection more evident, is that Tebow is afraid of trusting his instincts and he is holding the ball too much. He reads, but doesn’t react. He looks, but doesn’t throw… so we end giving a sack.

But even with PM and his fastest delivery, this OL wouldn’t look great on pass protection.

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by Fabio Broncos on Nov 3, 2011 1:52 PM MDT up reply actions

I think there is nothing wrong with this line for run-blocking purposes—that is the least of my concerns.

The problems lie in pass protection. I think Franklin, Walton and Beadles have all been deficient in pass protection. Most of all Franklin—he’s just a turnstyle on many of Tebow’s sacks. Unfortunately, this has only been exacerbated by the move to Tebow. Franklin on the blindside is only a small part of the problem, though. The rest of the problem is that the line is currently mediocre to poor at blitz pickup and that we have few to no backs and TEs that can help very well in pass protection. I think McGahee is by far the best among the TE/backs at blitz pickup and he was injured last week. Fells I think is an OK pass blocker. Dante Rosario is a pass-catching TE and average to below average at pass blocking, Julius Thomas is a WIP in blocking of any sort and Virgil Green is a basketball conversion project all around. Ball is young and needs work at blocking, Moreno is also young and makes his share of mistakes in blocking.

Add to that the fact that the book on Tebow now is to blitz blitz blitz—the line’s weakness is the way teams want to attack our QB. Then you have the fact that the offensive staff seems to be either unable or unwilling to scheme any plays to slow down the pass rush (RUN A SCREEN for one thing). So it’s an unfortunate confluence of issues IMO.

The good news is that McGahee should be back soon, J Thomas and Green should only get better at blocking, the line should get better at blitz pickup (one rookie, two 2nd year players) and Tebow should get better at recognizing and combating the blitz. Most of the players involved are young and should get better, but will the coaching staff scheme any better? That remains to be seen and is frankly my biggest concern.

Jason
The Hanging Curve

by poorboywilly on Nov 3, 2011 12:25 PM MDT reply actions

I agree with all... that's my point: the pass protection

You went further, talking about how the blitzes are killing us. Ditto.

How do you think we could fix it? McG back it’s still too few for anything..

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by Fabio Broncos on Nov 3, 2011 1:49 PM MDT up reply actions

Sorry, I didn’t mean to imply you thought the run blocking was an issue.

Part of how we can fix it is simply to let players get better. This can be really frustrating waiting for people to get better, and some of them might not get better. Beadles, Walton, Franklin, Thomas, Green, Ball and of course Tebow all probably have plenty of room for getting better with experience in this department. I read somewhere that we have the second youngest OL in the league and our TEs are very young too. Besides McGahee, our backs aren’t particularly old either. Big things here is Tebow needs to be able to make a hot read quicker and deliver the ball accurately. As you said above it appears to me too that he is getting reads made but is reluctant to throw the ball. Then OL, TEs and backs need to work on blocking, communicating.

The other half of the coin I think is scheme. I want to see way more screens. Tebow is effective at the screen game, more so than Orton IMO. He made some great screen plays in the Miami game. Plus it plays to Moreno’s strengths too. I want to see some draw plays. I want to see more running from shotgun. During the Detroit game, our RBs gashed on shotgun – specifically 10, 0, 2, 12, 12, 5, 8, 15 yards when they ran—but that’s only eight attempts from 51 shotgun snaps. I think running out of shotgun more will keep the defense on its heels and help guys like Franklin since he can put those DEs on their butts and wear them out. I want to see more quick throws out away from the stacked up box in the middle of the field, and hopefully Decker, Thomas, Royal and Willis can beat a defender who is left one-on-one to hurt the defense. Also I want to see bootlegs and some pocket relocation concepts—I think Tebow can throw on the run and I think it might help him react more than think. Also, there’s two components here—the coaches have to come in with a good gameplan and be willing and able to tweak that gameplan if Oakland is dictating the terms of play, but also the players (all of them) have to be able to execute those.

Once we pull pressure off the line of scrimmage, I think Tebow can breath and play more like he did at the ends of the last two games than the middles. Further more, if we take men out of the box, the running game can be even more effective than it has been and help us control the game.

Jason
The Hanging Curve

by poorboywilly on Nov 3, 2011 6:24 PM MDT up reply actions

Great points, pbw

And I guess you are right. We need some patience, some scheme and playcallings improvement, and the most of all we need our players to develop.

I’m still not sold that Franklin will become a good tackle. It still hammers my head with some thoughts that we are wasting time forcing him to play tackle where he struggles, when we could plug he at guard and have a great upgrade over Zane Beadles. Beadles, btw, would be a great backup to play either LG or RT if needed.

Anyway… maybe just time itself can be the most important factor. We need patience to wait.

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by Fabio Broncos on Nov 3, 2011 7:06 PM MDT up reply actions

It’s frustrating because we can’t see practice, so we really don’t know how good the backup o-linemen are. The fact that Franklin hasn’t been moved/replaced (other than his injury late in the Detroit game) might say something. I too am worried about Franklin—thanks to the “breaking down the o-line film” posts we have some info on how he is doing. The fact that he is getting such little help in pass protection really needs to change unless he gets a lot better at it. There’s all the more pressure on him now that he is the blindside.

That’s another schematic thing I’d like to see—Fells is probably our best blocking TE, have him line up next to and help out Franklin more.

Jason
The Hanging Curve

by poorboywilly on Nov 3, 2011 8:23 PM MDT up reply actions