Mile High Report - Denver Broncos Countdown to Kickoff: 100 DaysBy Fans, For Fans....Your Source For Denver Broncos News and Commenthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50905/mhr-fav.png2013-09-04T16:00:18-06:00http://www.milehighreport.com/rss/stream/41504192013-09-04T16:00:18-06:002013-09-04T16:00:18-06:00Peyton Manning: #1 Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MAe2n_oBZ54CHuTDA078SwvDh4M=/0x3:1000x670/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18984991/141628745.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Doug Pensinger</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This is it. The Final Countdown has begin. Appropriately, the countdown ends with Peyton Manning </p> <h3>The Rankings</h3>
<p><span>Peyton Manning</span> was unanimously selected #1 by the entire MHR staff.</p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Pete Baron</h4>
<p>If it wasn't painfully obvious who #1 is, it's Peyton Manning folks. He is the only player on our team that we can't afford to lose. Lose Manning, and the season is down the toilet. Lose anyone else, and life goes on. Why does life go on? Because we have Peyton Manning at the helm. He is worth 10 wins by himself. He isn't part of a system (like <span>Tom Brady</span>) so that if he were to be lost for the year, we could still go 11-5. No, Manning is the reason why his teams win double digits each year. His #1 is well deserved. Now lets get it done tomorrow!!!! GO BRONCOS!!!!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>Here's an excerpt from an <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/20/4639314/peyton-manning-role-reprisal-and-encore-performance" target="_blank">article I wrote </a>a few weeks back:</p>
<div class="sidebar">
<a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/23/4652010/game-day-week-1-baltimore-ravens-denver-broncos">
<h2>Welcome to Broncos Game Day</h2>
<img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19018685/20120930_jrc_ac4_297.0_standard_249.0.jpg" alt="Manning and Elway"></a>
<span><ul>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/4/4693636/broncos-ravens-nfl-2013-game-time-tv-schedule-online">Game time and TV schedule</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/4/4695418/ravens-vs-broncos-week-1-injury-report">Injury Report</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/5/4695602/ravens-vs-broncos-five-keys-to-the-game">Five Keys to the Game</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/5/4695602/ravens-vs-broncos-five-keys-to-the-game">Broncos vs. Ravens preview: Film Room</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/5/4697640/welcome-to-game-day-denver-broncos-vs-baltimore-ravens">Open thread</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/4/4693892/broncos-gameday-an-mhr-users-guide-to-kicking-ass-in-this-broncos">MHR Game Day: A User's Guide</a></li>
</ul></span>
</div>
<p>Whereas last year's team was trying to form on both sides of the ball, this year's team is going to struggle defensively. You don't lose your two greatest pass rushers and remain an elite defense. It's time to stop perpetuating the delusion. Von/Doom, the names that struck fear in bookend tackles from the edge are no more. Doom is off playing fax machine in Baltimore and Von will be lost for anywhere from 4-6 games due to stupidity. With their departure, and more specifically the loss of Miller comes uncertainty in other areas.</p>
<p>Sure Shaun Phillips can step in at rush end, but who steps in for Von? You don't fill those shoes with anyone else, period. Del Rio can scheme and plan and call the greatest defense he's ever called in his career and this unit will still struggle. Nevermind the fact that we have a third year player coupled with a 2nd year UDFA rookie as our two safeties. Nevermind the fact that <span>Champ Bailey</span> might be gone longer than anyone expects on the outside. Nevermind the fact that now the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a> will field one of the smallest LB corps in the NFL in Trevathan, Woodyard, and Irving. That 660 lbs of beef in the middle has looked like nothing more than a couple of quarter pounders from McDonalds. We will struggle.</p>
<p>You know why we're paying a 37-year old elite money to play QB for this team? Because this is what he's done his entire career. Sure it would be great if our team was strong top to bottom, the most complete talent Peyton Manning has ever had surrounding him, and we still might become that team midseason. But until then, this is why he's paid the big bucks. He has to carry this team. I don't like it, you don't like it--I would much rather see this team dominate on all sides of the ball but the NFL is not a perfect world and everyone has to face adversity. Just as the defense held things together while our offense sputtered and struggled to score points early on last year, this offense has to hold things together and be prepared to win shootouts. Outside of the center position and the uncertainty at RB, the offense is loaded and primed to light up the scoreboard. It will have to in order to keep our team competitive on a week to week basis.</p>
<p>For years Peyton Manning shouldered the load in Indy, so much so that when he was finally gone, that team had no shot to stand on it's own two feet. Our team is much better off than they were, but we will have to rely on Peyton to keep our heads above water.</p>
<p>Last year after more than a year away from football, still recovering from an injury that forced him how to relearn how to throw a football, Manning put up the 2nd greatest season in his storybook career. A year later, he is primed for a role reprisal, only this time the offense has a year under its belt. Peyton Manning is now Mr. Bronco. This isn't anything new for him, Peyton is used to facing adversity, used to shouldering the heavy load. What better way to cap off an unbelievable road to recovery than by putting he Broncos on his back on the road to the Super Bowl?</p>
<p>Do you folks remember the Shanahan years? Fast starts, shaky defense, and hang-on-to-your-seat excitement at the end? All I can say is we're in for one hell of a ride and I'm sure glad #18 is the one steering the ship. Keep your heads up Broncos Country, it's not how you start, it's how you finish. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> or Bust.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/dv5qmi1wy-0"></iframe> <br id="1378331132137"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/4/4695384/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-peyton-manning-1-dayBronco Mike2013-09-03T20:18:26-06:002013-09-03T20:18:26-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 2nd Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HSepJWBujQKVSQKJ0zlY_HS33RI=/640x1254:1825x2044/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18940237/20130725_jla_ac4_184.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here's hoping Von has ditched that 5th wheel named Molly and her fat, cheeto-eating cousin Mary Jane. </p> <h3>The Rankings</h3>
<table width="646" height="71" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="1" class="sbn-data-table"><tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td width="98" valign="top">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td width="93" valign="top">
<p>Monty</p>
</td>
<td width="58" valign="top">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td width="52" valign="top">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td width="60" valign="top">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td width="56" valign="top">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td width="49" valign="top">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td width="47" valign="top">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td width="56" valign="top">---</td>
<td width="51" valign="top">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td width="98" valign="top">
<p><sup> 3rd<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td width="93" valign="top">
<p>3rd</p>
</td>
<td width="58" valign="top">2nd</td>
<td width="52" valign="top">2nd <br>
</td>
<td width="60" valign="top">3rd</td>
<td width="56" valign="top">2nd <br>
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">2nd</td>
<td width="49" valign="top">
<p>3rd</p>
</td>
<td width="47" valign="top">4th</td>
<td width="56" valign="top">---</td>
<td width="51" valign="top">3rd</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>Losing Von hurts. Simple as that. You cannot replicate the chaos he causes to opposing offenses. As dynamic as <span>Peyton Manning</span> is on offense, Von Miller was starting to become a similar force on defense. Suspension or not, he absolutely should be ranked this high because it changes the entire dynamic of the defense with him gone. Our secondary is going to have to hold up more than usual, Del Rio is going to have to scheme to manufacture pressure, and our offense is going to have to win some shootouts during the first 6 games of the regular season. Glad he'll be fresh for a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl" class="sbn-auto-link">Super Bowl</a> run, that's for sure.</p>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<h3></h3>
<p>Von Miller is the best defensive player in the entire NFL. You can have your JJ Watt and <span>Aldon Smith</span> and Derrell "I make a living by getting away with holding and pass interference" Revis. I'll take Von Miller! Whether he's #2 or #3 is inconsequential because he's just so damn dominant that he'll justify any top 3 ranking. Will his suspension hurt? Of course it will. You can't replace Von, you can only hope to make up about 1/2 of what he normally does with a collective effort. <span>Derek Wolfe</span> said all I had to hear to justify Von being this high up on the list. He said that last year when they were talking about needing a sack or a pressure, people would say "Von will do it"... Almost like it was a copout for them to play lazy, or focus on their job and leave the "extra" up to Von. <br><br>That "extra" is what we're going to miss. The reason why our defense was so great last year is because of Von's "extra" effort and ability. We might not stop a critical 3rd down if other guys take their minds off of their assignments in order to think about having to rush the passer. People can do their jobs and do them very well because Von gives them that luxury by picking up all the extra slack that doing nothing but your job creates. With Von being gone, we're probably going to see more guys out of place as they attempt to take on the extra burden that Von usually took up so seamlessly. Will there be missed assignments because of it? You bet there will, and our defense will ultimately suffer from it. The good news is that we'll have Von back for the back half of the season and the playoffs. By the time he gets back, I really hope that the other players elevated their game so much to make up for Von's absence that getting Miller back will just create an embarrassment of riches.</p>
<h4>Jon Heath</h4>
<p>These rankings were obviously created before word came out of <span>Von Miller's</span> six-game suspension, but he still may be the second-most important player on the roster this fall regardless of his suspension. There's an old cliche that says, <i>it's not how you start, but how you finish</i>. The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a> will finish the season with Von Miller on defense and his performance will be vital to their playoff run.</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/3/4692252/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-von-miller-2-daysBronco Mike2013-09-02T15:00:05-06:002013-09-02T15:00:05-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 3rd Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IMzBCcRMs6-bJvcG7MzB5ggpsJE=/0x12:1000x679/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18861075/20120410_kdl_am8_048.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Richard Mackson-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Newly minted team captain Ryan Clady is our 3rd most important Bronco</p> <h3>The Rankings</h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Monty</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup> 3rd<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>2nd</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">3rd<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">4th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">6th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">3rd <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">5th</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>2nd</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">2nd<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">2nd</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<p><span>Ryan Clady</span> is a top 3 Left Tackle in the game today, and do you know what? He's OURS!!! Putting value on the person who's biggest responsibility is to protect Peyton Manning is hard to do. How high up should he be? I contend that he should be 2nd only to Manning. Without Manning, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a> go down the toilet (unless Brock is another <span>Tom Brady</span> who comes in for an injured <span>Drew Bledsoe</span>, but that's HIGHLY unlikely). Who's more important, <span>Von Miller</span> who makes our defense better, or the person who is responsible for having our season continue by protecting the ONLY player on this entire team that we can't afford to miss? To me, that's enough argument to put Clady at #2. But ultimately, him being in the Top 3 of our countdown series is plenty good for me. We have him locked up long term, and our offensive line was noticeably better with him in the lineup (albeit briefly). The best part about Clady being #3? It's that there's only 3 days until KICKOFF!!!! GO BRONCOS!!!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>The Broncos knew just how valuable Clady is to their team when they inked him to a deal that pays him like a top 3 LT. After watching <span>Chris Clark</span> trying to fill in this preseason, they were absolutely correct and Ryan Clady is worth every penny. Our offensive line transforms in effectiveness with him starting. Running the ball, pass protection, all of it add up to tell the story of Ryan Clady and just how dominant a player he is. Suggs or Dumervil, whoever is going to face Clady will have their hands full.</p>
<p>Let me address another sentiment I've seen around these boards consistently. "<span>Peyton Manning's</span> so good it doesn't matter who our line is". BULL. Yeah, Peyton has the quickest release in the game. Yeah, Peyton is a genius when it comes to diagnosing opposing defenses and putting his guys in positions to succeed. But having a quality starting 5 in front of him only helps augment what he is capable of doing. With Ryan protecting his blindside, Peyton can concentrate on pushing the ball downfield.</p>
<h4>Monty</h4>
<p>Ryan Clady is my favorite current Denver Broncos player. He has been since only months after the Broncos drafted him in 2008 - when my <a target="_blank" href="http://broncotalk.net/2008/04/1359/broncos-blog/ryan-clady-a-franchise-player-worthy-of-trading-up/">optimistic thoughts</a> on him as a college prospect in the NFL were confirmed with my own two eyes. Ryan Clady can play at the highest level. And he can dominate.</p>
<p>I have him ranked as my #2 most important Bronco based on both importance of position and talent. Clady is tasked with the single-most important job on the Broncos' roster: protect Peyton Manning. He does that extraordinarily well. He also graded extremely proficient as a run-blocker in his first three seasons - his last two less so, but I expect that to improve this year with the introduction of zone-blocking Godfather Alex Gibbs to the Broncos as an offensive consultant. Ryan Clady, who used zone blocking extensively at Boise State, will take to the Alex Gibbs' system like Jesse Pinkman to blue crystal. Finally, Clady is healthy when it matters. In his five-year NFL career, he has never missed a single game, a single start. The Broncos paid this guy for a reason. Now Ryan Clady will pay them dividends.</p>
<h4>Notable Broncos to wear #3:</h4>
<p>Kicker Rich Karlis (he kicked barefoot folks!!!)</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/2/4686692/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-ryan-clady-3-daysBronco Mike2013-09-01T18:56:03-06:002013-09-01T18:56:03-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 4th Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qaxARXEnu1BEbLnETbvJ0xBitow=/516x268:870x504/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18826297/134182664.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Harry How</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>For perhaps the greatest CB in Denver Broncos History, this season is one of redemption. </p> <h3>The Rankings:</h3>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Kyle Montgomery</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup> 4th<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>4th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">6th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">3rd <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">2nd<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">4th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">3rd</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>5th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">7th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">5th</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<p><span>Champ Bailey</span> might not even be the best cornerback on our team, but he's probably the most important. Chris Harris and DRC might both be more physically capable than Champ, but Champ has the whits about him to be every bit as dangerous, if not more so, than any CB in the NFL. Champ forces one of two things; He either makes a QB throw away from him (and into the hands of DRC and Harris), or he makes them make an even dumber decision by throwing at him. With the exception of the game we do not speak of, Champ was one of the top 3 CBs in the entire NFL last year! That's nothing to scoff at. Even with Champ getting "exposed" in the playoffs last year, remember this: After he let those 2 TDs burn him (and it's arguable if the first one was truly his fault, AND the 2nd was just a ridiculous catch or Champ has a pick going the other way), Champ completely shut Jones down in the entire 2nd half of that game! I had him ranked #4, so obviously I'm going to say this is right where he needs to be. Even if he isn't the best CB on our team, he most certainly is the most important, which is why he's Top 5 on the team! Even with how good he still is being removed from the equation, he's a silent leader, and teammates would love nothing more than to win one for Champ! All these reasons, and so much more is why he is most deserving of this lofty position!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>For Someone who played so well last year, how in the world does Champ need redemption? Unfortunately, this world is one fueled by the sentiments of "what have you done for me lately?" Well the last thing Champ Bailey put his name to was an embarrassing playoff performance where he failed to jam his receiver at the LOS, allowing him to blaze on through the secondary on route to a TD. It happens. Even the best have bad days.</p>
<p>So if one isolated incident of burn-age isn't a case for redemption what is? How about the fact that in Champ's storied career he's only seen action in 8 career playoff games. How about the fact that he has sniffed the AFCCG only once? This road to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">the Super Bowl</a> is a road to redemption for a player who has done so much during his career. This year is a chance to write all of those wrongs. A player like him deserves to go out as a Champ, and for #24--this might be the last and best opportunity he has at a ring.</p>
<p>I am confident DRC can fill Champ's shoes week 1 if he cannot go against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a>. I am confident that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> are infinitely better on defense with Champ and DRC on the field at the same time. I know that for the Broncos to be successful in 2013, Champ Bailey has to continue the journey through greatness he began in 1999.</p>
<h3>Current Bronco wearing #4:</h3>
<p><span>Britton Colquitt</span></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/9/1/4684478/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-champ-bailey-4-daysBronco Mike2013-08-31T20:02:39-06:002013-08-31T20:02:39-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 5th Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/D1FxvaTz-1J5ePe_7uBnm1UPIWM=/94x148:315x295/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18775675/135518567.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Doug Pensinger</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Optimus Prime. The 5th Most Important Bronco of 2013.</p> <h3>The Rankings</h3>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Kyle Montgomery</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup>5th<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>5th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">4th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">5th</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">5th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">5th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">12th</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>5th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">5th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">10th</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<p><span>Demaryius Thomas</span> is the best wide receiver that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a> have ever had! Yes, I just went there! He might not be the greatest of all time (<span>Rod Smith</span>), but that is simply because he hasn't played as long as good 'ol Rod. But make no mistakes about it, DT is by far the most talented WR that has ever donned the Orange and Blue! The scary thing about DT is that he will only continue to get better. What we've seen from him so far is still only scratching the surface for this immensely talented player. While I'm not saying that he'll be a Megatron clone, I will say that he can be 98%+ what Megatron is! You know that old saying about unstoppable forces and immovable objects? Well, with this unstoppable force playing for us, there is no such thing as an immovable object! Here's to you DT, the Broncos best WR ever!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>141 targets. 0 Interceptions. <span>Peyton Manning</span> was never picked off when throwing to DT. Not once. Two things dogged Thomas last year. The first being that many folks saw him as injury prone. He had fought injuries off and on to begin his career. The other was his route running. Demaryius shattered both perceptions in the biggest way. In his first healthy season as a pro, the pro-bowl WR managed to snag 94 catches for over 1400 yards and 10 TD's.</p>
<p>The first catch that comes to mind for me highlights just how far he's come as a route runner. That would be the gorgeous TD grab he had against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> week 2. Triple move. Slant, Go, Corner against cover 2 shell. Set his man up perfectly. I suppose that was the easy part of the play. Next came the catch:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136777/DT1_medium.PNG" target="_blank"><img alt="Dt1_medium_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136777/DT1_medium_medium.PNG"></a> <br id="1378000373807"></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136787/DT2_medium.PNG" target="_blank"><img alt="Dt2_medium_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136787/DT2_medium_medium.PNG"></a> <br id="1378000394702"></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136809/DT3_medium.PNG" target="_blank"><img alt="Dt3_medium_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136809/DT3_medium_medium.PNG"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136825/DT4_medium.PNG" target="_blank"><img alt="Dt4_medium_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3136825/DT4_medium_medium.PNG"></a> <br id="1378000470419"></p>
<p>A thing of beauty! Demaryius is the WR Peyton Manning trusts the most. Peyton loves to pick a spot to throw to knowing that most of the time his big target will go up to get it. This tandem will give our offense the big chunks of yardage it needs down the field. It is going to be an amazing sight to watch!</p>
<h4>Notable Broncos to Wear #5:</h4>
<p><span>Brett Kern</span></p>
<h4>Current Bronco Wearing #5:</h4>
<p><span>Matt Prater</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><br id="1377999777299"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/31/4681342/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-demaryius-thomas-5-daysBronco Mike2013-08-30T20:30:07-06:002013-08-30T20:30:07-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 6th Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SjxGRRMRXOVM2JyXPaZB1D7EuWc=/98x145:361x320/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18721215/144196466.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Justin Edmonds</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3>The Rankings:</h3>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Kyle Montgomery</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup>6th<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>12th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">15th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">16th</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">11th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">6th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">6th</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>7th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">6th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">18th</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Ian Henson</h4>
<p>It's too bad that football players don't have intro songs like baseball players do or <span>Derek Wolfe</span> would have a heck of one. It's hard to find something new about him to say that <a target="_blank" href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/4/23/4180864/wolfe-season-two-episode-one">I haven't said already</a>, but that injury in the third week of preseason was sobering. He will come back reinvigorated, with a new take on the season and what his goals are-- it's only natural after coming so close to losing it all. I know that comparing him to Houston phenom <span>J.J. Watt</span> is silly, but <span>Von Miller</span> felt comfortable doing it, so you can too.</p>
<h4>Big "I won dinner from Bronco Mike because CJ Anderson made the final 53" Pete</h4>
<p>I love me some Derek Wolfe, but I think people need to temper expectations for him. I'm hearing people say that he should get 10, 12, 15 sacks.... STOP, Take a deep breath, and back away from your computer. Look, I like Wolfe as much as the next guy, but in this defense, he's not getting double digit sacks. I hope I'm proven wrong, but I think that 8 sacks would be an amazing year from him. But who knows, maybe he really is the next J.J. Watt... I'm just not buying it. Either way, Wolfe is definitely an important part of our defense which makes him an important part of our team.</p>
<h4>Bronco "Even a blind squirrel finds an acorn once in a while Pete, STFU" Mike</h4>
<p>Can Wolfe take that next step in year 2 and become a more dominant force a la JJ Watt? I'm not saying you can expect to see 20+ sacks, but can we start to approach double digits in year 2? He is more of a power guy. I don't think he has the unique skillset that someone like Watt does who takes the term "disruptive force" to a whole other level. I do think he has the talent, work ethic, and motor to consistently be a strong factor in shutting down the running game as well as disrupting the passing game. Hopefully the full moon is rising for this Wolfe-man.</p>
<h4>Notable <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a> to wear #6:</h4>
<p>Bubby Brister</p>
<h4>Current Bronco wearing #6:</h4>
<p>N/A</p>
<h4></h4>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/30/4677576/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-derek-wolfe-6-daysBronco Mike2013-08-29T16:35:44-06:002013-08-29T16:35:44-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 7th Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="Original Painting by Artist Don Medina" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hDl4aLJFRi1rT8fac6FrjYK1A1U=/0x281:700x748/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18651565/elway.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Original Painting by Artist Don Medina</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Somehow I think this number is already retired.......but oh well, we'll go with it. Rahim "The Dream" Moore is up next!</p> <h3>The Rankings</h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Kyle Montgomery</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup>8th<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>8th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">5th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">10th</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">14th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">14th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">15th</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>20th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">8th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">8th</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>From The Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Jon Heath</h4>
<p>There are some questions marks at the back-end of Denver's secondary, but <span>Rahim Moore</span> is not among them. Second-year player <span>Duke Ihenacho</span> has impressed this preseason and fellow second-year defensive back <span>Omar Bolden</span> was also just moved to safety, but it's still relatively unknown who will be starting across from Moore this fall. Regardless, Moore showed growth in Year 2 and is poised to continue progressing entering his third season.</p>
<h4>Kyle Montgomery</h4>
<p>"That night, I couldn't sleep for nothing," Moore told reporters this offseason, and you know exactly what 'night' he was referring to. "That's just how the game is, you know what I mean? But I was right back on the plane and right back to work, I felt good, I was healthy. ... I'm not one of those guys that gets beat down." Moore's bounce-back attitude this offseason will serve him well this season. Just like he has practiced his play recognition, just like he has practiced his backpedal, just like he has practiced his tackling, Rahim Moore has practiced his ability to forget. He has a short-term memory when it comes to that terrible play from January. A season of improvement was wiped away by a moment of miscalculation, but Moore isn't dwelling on 2012, he's focused on 2013. It'll be vital to Moore's career - and vital to the 2013 Broncos season - that Moore perfects his ability to forget. And practice makes perfect.</p>
<h4>Ian Henson</h4>
<p>I am not sure that most fans are aware of this, but in 2011 the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> made Rahim Moore the first safety drafted in that years draft. Moore spent 2011 playing sparingly, as fellow rookie safety <span>Quinton Carter</span> took most of the snaps and exploded into the post season. In 2012 it was Moore's turn to start and he rewarded the Broncos for the opportunity by putting up numbers that placed him in the top nine of all NFL safeties in first down percentages (<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fblog%2F2013%2F01%2F30%2Fsignature-stats-first-downs-allowed-safeties%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2013%2F8%2F29%2F4673464%2Fdenver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-rahim-moore-7-days" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">a <i>PFF</i> statistic</a>), with only one safety having more snaps then him and allowing less first downs-- <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> Harrison Smith. Sure there is <i>that </i>play, but just weeks before Moore had done nearly the same thing and knocked the ball away from <span>Vincent Jackson</span> and stopped the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> comeback.</p>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<p>Rahim Moore gets a bad rap around Denver. Everywhere I turn, people are wanting this kid's head on a plate. Why? Was he the only one at fault last year for the Broncos playoff loss? Was he even the most directly responsible? <br>Fact: If Matt Prater hits a 40-49 yard FG, we are up by 10 and that play doesn't even matter even if it plays out the same.<br>Fact: If Champ Bailey doesn't allow not 1, but 2 TDs, that play by Moore doesn't matter.<br>Fact: If Trindon Holliday doesn't have 2 return TDs, it's a blowout and that play doesn't matter at all, especially because it'd be Flacco taking a knee instead of Manning to end the game.<br>Fact: That play didn't lose anything. It was a Peyton Manning INT in overtime that lost the game. All that Moore play did was allow the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> to TIE the game (with 31 seconds left, 2 Timeouts, and PFM on the team.)<br><br>I was at training camp and I'd constantly hear fans say "I hope Moore comes over here so I can give him an ear full"... Stay Classy Denver!<br>How about you hope that Manning comes over to you so you can give him an ear full? His play lost the game, Moore's simply tied it!<br><br>Do you know what Moore is? He's a 3rd year safety who improved more than any player on our team from year 1 to year 2. He owned his mistake and apologized to each and every person on the team and the fans. He stood there like a man and never backed down from any interviews even though he knew the line of questioning because he said that character will never be questioned when things are good, only when things go bad, and do you know what? He's right! <br><br>This kid has an EXTREMELY bright future ahead of him, and I'll be the damn vocal leader of his fan club if I have to! I'd rather take my lumps with a young safety who is still learning on the job. "What doesn't kill you will only make you stronger", and guess what? Moore is still standing here! He's grown since that play, and he's gotten stronger because of that play. <br><br>Before you yell at him or blame him any more, ask yourself this... Would you rather have a stud Safety in the making on our team, or booed off of it? I'd rather have him right here for the rest of his career than boo him out of town and watch him flourish with someone else! This is Big Pete, you stay classy Denver!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>Nothing but respect for the kid. He faced up to the folks that dogged him all offseason, stood in front of cameras and answered every question about his mistakes, he's a stand up guy. Something like one's role in a prevent defense can be taught. I'm looking forward to both of our young safeties stepping it up to become a dynamic duo on the backside.</p>
<h4>Greatest Denver Bronco in History:</h4>
<p>#7 John Elway</p>
<p>Painting courtesy of Artist Don Medina, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Art-of-Don-Medina/268274389883368">check out his facebook</a> page to see more of his fantastic work!</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3127135/MANNING.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Manning_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3127135/MANNING_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1377815720251"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/29/4673464/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-rahim-moore-7-daysBronco Mike2013-08-28T19:51:12-06:002013-08-28T19:51:12-06:00Countdown to Kickoff: 8th Most Important Bronco
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PrcQG9QsrvOIdWST8idyRHQL8eY=/1119x1055:2097x1707/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18597231/20130725_jla_ac4_183.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Just when you think "The Duke" is gonna stand pat, he goes out and gets Peyton Manning not only another elite offensive weapon, but also a good little foot soldier as well. </p> <h3><b>The Rankings</b></h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" height="71" width="646"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p>Overall rank (1-20)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>Kyle Montgomery</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
<p>Bronco Mike</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">
<p>Tim Lynch</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
<p>Ian</p>
<p>Henson</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
<p>Scotty</p>
<p>Payne</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">
<p>Topher Doll</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>Big Pete</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">
<p>Mr. East</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">
<p>Jon Heath</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="98">
<p><sup>8th<br></sup></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
<p>6th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">9th <br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="52">8th</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">8th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">8th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="59">16th</td>
<td valign="top" width="49">
<p>19th</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="47">14th<br>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">---</td>
<td valign="top" width="51">17th</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p>*Becomes the first Bronco on the countdown to get a vote from each staffer</p>
<h3>From the Horses' Mouth</h3>
<h4>Big Pete</h4>
<p><span>Wes Welker</span> came in at #19 for me, but after I just drafted him last night, I'm willing to put him higher ;) He's a reception machine, and Manning appears to like throwing to him. If he's in open space, look out! I think he'll crack 1,300 yards and about 15 TDs this year, and yes, I'm official bias towards him!</p>
<h4>Bronco Mike</h4>
<p>I have two categories of rankings in my list. 1) The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a> would be in bad shape if this guy goes down 2) This player adds a different dimension to this team. Our offense would be fine without Welker--I'm convinced of this. But having him is like turbo charging a hemi.</p>
<p>There is not a man in this league that can shut down Wes Welker on a consistent basis. No one. Add that to a lineup that will see two young superstars on the outside in Decker and DT and you have 3 bona fide game changers on your roster. Welker is going to become Manning's best friend. When we need a first down, look to Welker. When our offense is sputtering and needs a spark, #83 is your man. Wanna double someone or roll coverages to one side? You have "Rudy" underneath.</p>
<p>He is going to present matchup issues for any LB corps and any DB corps for that matter. Expect Welker to be an extension of our running game. Someone who can get that quick reception and yardage on a consistent basis. Also expect his prowess to be showcased in certain situations down the field.</p>
<h4>Notable Broncos to wear #8:</h4>
<p>Gary Kubiak (1983-1991)</p>
<h4>Current Bronco wearing #8:</h4>
<p>N/A</p>
<p><iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/USt5FT7Wmqg" frameborder="0" height="315" width="420"></iframe> <br id="1377740845136"></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bill Belichick is da Debil</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<h4></h4>
<p> </p>
<h3></h3>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/28/4670128/denver-broncos-countdown-to-kickoff-wes-welker-8-daysBronco Mike