Camp report from Texas night practice

[Mediator12]

Takeaways After Dark
By Andrew Mason
DenverBroncos.com

HOUSTON -- It was another step forward for a defense looking to fix the one single thing that ailed it in two seasons of ranking in the league's top five.

An offseason and summer of work on finding ways to become more opportunistic showed another sign of bearing regular-season fruit on Wednesday night, as Denver's defense scuttled two Houston Texans drives with interceptions to close out the teams' joint prime-time practice at Reliant Park.

On the first of the practice-closing drives -- which saw Houston's No. 1 offense face Denver's first-team defense (which was still minus Champ Bailey nursing a hamstring injury) -- safety Nick Ferguson closed out matters by intercepting a David Carr pass that was intended for Andre Johnson.

When the second-teamers took the field, Broncos cornerback Curome Cox picked off Tony Banks to close the Texans' five-play march.

"Even though it was in practice, the whole thing is to carry it over to the game and actually turn it over into the season as far as turnovers," Ferguson said. "Most of the time, we don't get those picks and overthrows. Hopefully we can turn that over into the game."

It's not so much being aggressive to force the turnovers at it is being receptive to them and finding the ball when it springs loose. Denver did just that Wednesday, with Darrent Williams intercepting a pass in the evening session and Al Wilson grabbing an errant football that skipped off Domonique Foxworth's hands during the first practice of the day.

"We missed out on some of those opportunities last year," Ferguson said. "We're trying to capitalize on them this year."

Ferguson had a particularly active evening. One play before intercepting Carr, he sacked him for an 8-yard loss -- although a sack was merely a tag. The teams practiced in shorts and shells on Wednesday night, limiting contact.

Ferguson would have liked the chance to actually tackle the fourth-year quarterback.

"I don't like playing frickin' two-hand touch," Ferguson said. "That's why I play this contact sport here."

TRAINER'S ROOM: Wide receiver Jerry Rice returned Wednesday night after missing morning practices Monday and Tuesday. Rice worked through the entire evening practice and "looked good," Head Coach Mike Shanahan said ...

... Cornerbacks Champ Bailey and Jeff Shoate, running back Maurice Clarett and defensive linemen Mario Fatafehi and Courtney Brown did not practice Wednesday evening.

... Defensive tackle Gerard Warren also sat out Wednesday night as he continued to grapple with a hamstring problem.

"The hamstring was a little bit tight," Shanahan said. "He tried to practice earlier in the day; he went for about 10 or 15 minutes."

PUNTED: Denver's punt-protection team yielded two blocks Wednesday night, something 2004 special-teams captain Ferguson attributed to two causes.

The first was inexperience.

"We've got a couple of young guys on some of our units, so they have to get familiar with seeing different things from other teams," Ferguson said. "It's the first time we've seen another team opposed to ourselves in practice, so we have to get accustomed to that. But I'm sure that they'll be ready for game time."

In Ferguson's eyes, the second was miscommunication.

"All it was (was) some guys mixing up the count," Ferguson said. "Maybe they saw something different that they didn't see in practice, and that just threw them off. On the third unit, (special teams coach) Ronnie (Bradford took someone out and put Tick (Keith Burns) back in, who's a veteran guy, and things were going better after that."

When the Broncos did get punts off, speedy rookie Jerome Mathis was ready. The fourth-round pick of the Texans blazed up the right sideline for two lengthy returns after two long-distance punts off the foot of Broncos rookie Paul Ernster.

CAMP BYTES: While Denver's defense shut down the Texans in "move-the-ball" work by forcing two interceptions, the offense found mixed success. The first-team offense drove into field-goal range as Jake Plummer completed passes to Rod Smith, Ashley Lelie and Jake Plummer to set up a 45-yard field goal by Jason Elam.

The No. 2 offense was not as successful against Houston's second defense; its drive petered out at the Texans 30-yard-line when a fourth-down pass from Bradlee Van Pelt for tight end Jeb Putzier went through the tight end's hands ...

... Earlier in the practice, Van Pelt found Putzier with a pass that was just behind the Boise State product. Putzier reached backwards for the football at the 5-yard-line, then lunged for the end zone, holding the ball over the plane of the end zone to assure a touchdown ...

... Charlie Adams had arguably the most unlikely reception of the evening, bobbling a pass in tight coverage near the goal line before hauling it in as several Texans defenders bore down upon him ...

... Van Pelt displayed nice touch on a fade route to Smith in the back left corner of the end zone ...

... Wide receiver Ashley Lelie went sky-high to grab a pass in the back of the end zone. Lelie managed to expertly touch both feet down inbounds for a touchdown ...

... The Broncos practice on Thursday afternoon. There is no morning practice on Thursday.

Ferguson with the quote of the day!

Plus the defense handled each unit of the Offense for the texans. :woowoo:

[Rock Chalk]

Very cool.

[Hotrod]

The first-team offense drove into field-goal range as Jake Plummer completed passes to Rod Smith, Ashley Lelie and Jake Plummer to set up a 45-yard field goal by Jason Elam.

Jakes the man completing passes to not only Smith and Lelie but to himself as well Ha!

[Mediator12]

The first-team offense drove into field-goal range as Jake Plummer completed passes to Rod Smith, Ashley Lelie and Jake Plummer to set up a 45-yard field goal by Jason Elam.

Jakes the man completing passes to not only Smith and Lelie but to himself as well Ha!

Dude, that is his other brother Jake!

[Crushaholic]

As I said in the thread that was lost in the time warp, I like how the defense stepped up, but I don't like that that offense stalled. :cuss:

[Traveler]

Read on the Broncs website that ST had it's problems. 2 punts blocked! C'mon guys, let's get it together!

[Hotrod]

Read on the Broncs website that ST had it's problems. 2 punts blocked! C'mon guys, let's get it together!

Thats why they have training camp and preseason games. It will all come togather. That being said I really REALLY want to see some redzone production during the next 4 preseason games that would go along way towards helping me sleep better at night.

[SoCalBronco]

These were wiped out by the server change so i will repost them. These were observations of the night practice from Texan fans:

Just got back from practice, and here are my takes:

*Jerome Mathis took one to the house (or would have) on a punt return. Very impressive and got to see his full speed.
*Morlon Greenwood was trailing in coverage during the two minuite drills on consecutive passes.
*Phillip Buchanan was beat by Steve Smith a couple times on quick 15 yard outs.
*The Texans lost 3-0 on the two minuite drills. 1st team offense vs. 1st team defense, then 2nd team offense vs. 2nd team defense. Broncos 1st team offense marched down the field to score on a 50+ yard field goal. Texans first team offense didn't look like they were clicking very well, and Carr was sacked puting them in a 3rd and 20 position. Next play, Carr throws an interception under pressure again. 2nd team defense held Broncos 2nd team defense on 3rd and short. 2nd team offense (Texans), Banks throws an interception on the 5th play of the drive.

*Kevin Kasper almost started world war III with the Broncos after pushing a cornerback down after a (somewhat) late hit on Domanick Davis on the goalline. It was about to hit Jets/Giants if the Broncos coaches weren't in the way.

*Ragone threw multiple interceptions from near goalline situations.

*Andre Johnson took a 15 yard hook pass to the house on what was the best play (offensively).

*Andre Johnson was used in slot plays almost throughout the entire practice.

*Ramon Walker blocked two consecutive punts against the Broncos special teams, reminding me of the Pats game two years ago. He looks to be in full form again.

*Victor Riley was 1st team Left Tackle throughout the practice, and did not hold up very well at all. Wand looked decent in 2nd team protection.

Thats all for now, I may remember something later.

[SoCalBronco]

Regarding a post by another as to what "trailing" meant in relation to Morlon Greenwood, the poster added:

Greenwood-yes, it wasn't what I expected. But I may be being a bit too harsh right now. I'll wait until they are in full pads this weekend to comment further.

Pressure on the QB was fairly little to none during the two minuite drills. Unfortunatley I was on the Texans offensive side of the field for the duration of the camp.

No interceptions during the two minuite drills, I never heard any cheers on the other side of the field where the defense was. Broncos defense had at least 6-7 by the end of the evening.

Davis looks great as usual. Morency is so amazingly similar to him, its fun to watch him run.

[SoCalBronco]

And from another poster who attended in response to a question from our very own BMan:

It was Sauerbrun getting blocked. Not his fault, the Texans were just all over him by the time he made his step. At one point, the Broncos special teams coach screamed "This isn't a walkthrough. Did you think this was a walkthrough?"

Kickoffs weren't practiced during the evening session open to the public.

Darrent Williams looked great. I don't care about his height, the guy can make plays. Carr took advantage of Williams once by making Armstrong climb the ladder to make a catch in the endzone. Otherwise, Darrent was handling his stuff. If I were Lenny Walls, I'd be worried about my starting job. Didn't notice Williams on punt returns.

Other Broncos I noticed:
Chris Young - broke up a lot of passes during red zone drills.
DJ Williams - was all over the field causing havoc (what's new?).
Nick Ferguson - somebody put out an APB on this guy, 'cause he was killing us.
Trevor Pryce - is right. He's all the way back from his back troubles.
Stephen Alexander - can beat a LB and get open. Fantasy sleeper.
Bradlee Van Pelt - better hope the Broncos won't need him to QB for an extended period. Kubiak was reading Van Pelt the riot act after the 2nd team 2 minute drill.

Things I noticed about the Broncos in general:

The secondary is fearless in jumping routes. Worked out for them during a practice, we'll see about the games.

Plummer looks more in sync with his receivers. He did a good job of hitting them in stride.

The Broncos will blitz any down, any player, any situation. Safety blitz a 2 minute offense? I'd like to see that chutzpah when the games count.

[Hotrod]

"Texans first team offense didn't look like they were clicking very well, and Carr was sacked puting them in a 3rd and 20 position. Next play, Carr throws an interception under pressure again."

Thats what I wanted to hear. Go Browncos

[SoCalBronco]

Looks like we did pretty damn well. Damn Kaspar trying to be a biatch.

[scorpio]

Damn Kaspar trying to a biatch.

Kill whitey

[SoCalBronco]

here's a report from a Broncos fan in attendance via the kffl boards:

Okay, here’s the deal ladies and gents… as many of you know I am usually pretty optimistic about the Broncos from week to week, from season to season so this next comment may be taken with a grain of salt… THIS DEFENSE LOOKS AWESOME!!! Yes, I know, it was against the Texans but they have some talent and the Broncos made them look like they were in their first year again. I’ll come back to that shortly…
My general observations of the Texans practice from a fans perspective; not very much room. There was not a lot whole heck of a lot of folks there last night but those who were there were crammed into two set of bleachers or standing along the end zone fence line. I was in the later group to start off. I’m not going to go drill by drill I am just going to point out those things that I saw that caught my attention and right off the bat, the punting team was HORRIBLE. Out of maybe 15 punts, three were flat out blocked and 2 were tipped. Most of the mayhem was caused by a number 22 (I don’t know who he was). It was painful to watch and the coverage wasn’t much better than the protection. Well, that’s about the only really bad thing I saw last night.
On to the defense. I watched them a lot as my vantage was in the back of the end zone they were running drills into. Lenny was all over the joint. He was very physical with Bradford, Armstrong and Johnson. Armstrong did catch a short pass and made Walls look very silly but all in all Lenny had a great night. He had interceptions in pretty much all drills and one thing that I saw happen when Carr or Banks threw to Lenny’s side was that they attempted to throw the ball higher than they ordinarily would to get it over Lenny. The results were passes landing 10 yards OOB. In other words, his stature makes QB’s change the way the attempt to deliver the ball. He is not only skilled and physical, his presence on the field is disruptive. Another of the D backs that had a real good practice was Cox. He had a couple defended passes during drills and an INT in full squad scrimmage in which he made a real nice read and break on a slant and took it to the house. Ferguson had a pretty nice night as well with an INT on Carr. Gold, Wilson and DJ were everywhere. Al got into it with Dom Davis at one point and they were jawing at each other. The defense as a whole was very fast to the ball, excellent in pursuit and there was good pressure on Carr and Banks all night. Again, I hate to sound like a homer here but this is a very, very good squad from top to bottom.
Offensively I didn’t get to see most of the early drills as the Bronco O was on another field but in the 7 on 7 and the full squad they looked pretty good. Jake threw the ball well I thought. On a scramble he tossed a deep one down the sideline to Rod that went off his finger tips. Rod also dropped another one that hit him in the chest and I guess he was pretty upset with him self when he came over after practice and signed autographs. I shook his hand and took a couple pictures. Anyway, back to the practice. Ash caught everything thrown his way and while Darius didn’t have a lot of passes, I watched him run his routes and on one play he simply left the defender looking brain dead with one of the sweetest routes I’ve seen in a long time. I didn’t see a single ball thrown Rice’s way during the full team but he had a couple of grabs during goal line and red zone work and over all he looked, well, like the best WR to ever play the game. He may not be fast but he still has really good quicks and his route running gets him the separation he needs. During the two minute drill they ran with Smith, Rice, Watts and Ash and moved the ball pretty much at will but the drive ended with Elam kicking a FG. RB wise, Mike was Mike. He runs hard, reads the blocking perfectly and when he sees the hole he is through it with authority. Tatum danced and unless the hole was big and obvious he usually got caught up behind the LOS. Dude is quick though and on a swing pass he just simply owned the CB coming up to make the play and was in the end zone in a flash. The second team didn’t look so good. BVP was not throwing the ball well last night. A couple he threw at the feet of his targets and some of his sideline routes were high and wide, which is a bad thing on an out route. If your gonna throw that pass bad, it better be low and away. He is very athletic and ran a couple times including a nice 15 yard or so scramble that got a first down and another he ran in for a score. QG looked like QG although I don’t think he’s as quick and explosive as he was before. Ron Dayne… physically the dude looks great. He looks like he has his head in the game and is ready to take that step. He runs hard and makes some good choices and catches the ball very fluidly. I always knew he had real nifty feet but its really apparent when you see him live.
For the most part the offense looked like they were able to move the ball. Unfortunately there were no big plays but I think that was by design. I think the Broncos have one of the best young group of WR’s that no one has ever heard of. Besides Ash and Darius, Devoe and Romar both are really quick, get off the line well and run nice patterns. Ive seen both of them bobble a lot of balls prior to bringing them in but they were smooth last night. Both catch the ball with their hands, which to me is a big deal. Triandos is being passed up by these two and BJ is, in my opinion a non entity.

My overall assessment of the Broncos is that they are a very solid squad. I think they have not just depth but competent players two or three deep at WR and RB and the defense is choked full of terrific athletes and playmakers.

A couple of other notes…the basketball player, Wesley Duke wont make it past the first cut. He was the major culprit in the punting fiasco, was thrown off the field at one point by the coach and he also got an earful a couple of times during other drills.

Like I said, the youngins in the secondary are all players. There is some terrific internal competition going on with that group that can only result in making them better as a unit. Browner is the real deal.

Well, take it for what its worth ya’ll. I had a real nice night, took some great pics of Dunta Robinson, Rod Smith, Romar and Carswell. Like I said, Rod seemed to be in a real bad mood because he wasn’t friendly at all and only signed a few autos. But then again, he and Sapp were the only Broncos to come over and sign. Carswell and Ellis Johnson came over but they were just chatting with some friends. David Carr was of course way too busy fixing his hair and being pretty to worry about the fans.

Im sure there are a lot of things that I missed but this is already long winded enough.

[DB-Freak]

Takeaways After Dark
By Andrew Mason
DenverBroncos.com

HOUSTON -- It was another step forward for a defense looking to fix the one single thing that ailed it in two seasons of ranking in the league's top five.

An offseason and summer of work on finding ways to become more opportunistic showed another sign of bearing regular-season fruit on Wednesday night, as Denver's defense scuttled two Houston Texans drives with interceptions to close out the teams' joint prime-time practice at Reliant Park.

On the first of the practice-closing drives -- which saw Houston's No. 1 offense face Denver's first-team defense (which was still minus Champ Bailey nursing a hamstring injury) -- safety Nick Ferguson closed out matters by intercepting a David Carr pass that was intended for Andre Johnson.

When the second-teamers took the field, Broncos cornerback Curome Cox picked off Tony Banks to close the Texans' five-play march.

"Even though it was in practice, the whole thing is to carry it over to the game and actually turn it over into the season as far as turnovers," Ferguson said. "Most of the time, we don't get those picks and overthrows. Hopefully we can turn that over into the game."

It's not so much being aggressive to force the turnovers at it is being receptive to them and finding the ball when it springs loose. Denver did just that Wednesday, with Darrent Williams intercepting a pass in the evening session and Al Wilson grabbing an errant football that skipped off Domonique Foxworth's hands during the first practice of the day.

"We missed out on some of those opportunities last year," Ferguson said. "We're trying to capitalize on them this year."

Ferguson had a particularly active evening. One play before intercepting Carr, he sacked him for an 8-yard loss -- although a sack was merely a tag. The teams practiced in shorts and shells on Wednesday night, limiting contact.

Ferguson would have liked the chance to actually tackle the fourth-year quarterback.

"I don't like playing frickin' two-hand touch," Ferguson said. "That's why I play this contact sport here."

TRAINER'S ROOM: Wide receiver Jerry Rice returned Wednesday night after missing morning practices Monday and Tuesday. Rice worked through the entire evening practice and "looked good," Head Coach Mike Shanahan said ...

... Cornerbacks Champ Bailey and Jeff Shoate, running back Maurice Clarett and defensive linemen Mario Fatafehi and Courtney Brown did not practice Wednesday evening.

... Defensive tackle Gerard Warren also sat out Wednesday night as he continued to grapple with a hamstring problem.

"The hamstring was a little bit tight," Shanahan said. "He tried to practice earlier in the day; he went for about 10 or 15 minutes."

PUNTED: Denver's punt-protection team yielded two blocks Wednesday night, something 2004 special-teams captain Ferguson attributed to two causes.

The first was inexperience.

"We've got a couple of young guys on some of our units, so they have to get familiar with seeing different things from other teams," Ferguson said. "It's the first time we've seen another team opposed to ourselves in practice, so we have to get accustomed to that. But I'm sure that they'll be ready for game time."

In Ferguson's eyes, the second was miscommunication.

"All it was (was) some guys mixing up the count," Ferguson said. "Maybe they saw something different that they didn't see in practice, and that just threw them off. On the third unit, (special teams coach) Ronnie (Bradford took someone out and put Tick (Keith Burns) back in, who's a veteran guy, and things were going better after that."

When the Broncos did get punts off, speedy rookie Jerome Mathis was ready. The fourth-round pick of the Texans blazed up the right sideline for two lengthy returns after two long-distance punts off the foot of Broncos rookie Paul Ernster.

CAMP BYTES: While Denver's defense shut down the Texans in "move-the-ball" work by forcing two interceptions, the offense found mixed success. The first-team offense drove into field-goal range as Jake Plummer completed passes to Rod Smith, Ashley Lelie and Jake Plummer to set up a 45-yard field goal by Jason Elam.

The No. 2 offense was not as successful against Houston's second defense; its drive petered out at the Texans 30-yard-line when a fourth-down pass from Bradlee Van Pelt for tight end Jeb Putzier went through the tight end's hands ...

... Earlier in the practice, Van Pelt found Putzier with a pass that was just behind the Boise State product. Putzier reached backwards for the football at the 5-yard-line, then lunged for the end zone, holding the ball over the plane of the end zone to assure a touchdown ...

... Charlie Adams had arguably the most unlikely reception of the evening, bobbling a pass in tight coverage near the goal line before hauling it in as several Texans defenders bore down upon him ...

... Van Pelt displayed nice touch on a fade route to Smith in the back left corner of the end zone ...

... Wide receiver Ashley Lelie went sky-high to grab a pass in the back of the end zone. Lelie managed to expertly touch both feet down inbounds for a touchdown ...

... The Broncos practice on Thursday afternoon. There is no morning practice on Thursday.

Ferguson with the quote of the day!

Plus the defense handled each unit of the Offense for the texans. :woowoo:

Mediator do you still have old films intact?

such as 2003 season games? Do you still watch them at times.

I would like your opinion on Ferguson. I thought the guy was awesome. Unlike Kenoy, he showed awareness and seem to have the ability to track the ball or ball carrier down. Not only that he was great tackler and hitter too.

[DBroncos4life]

Cox has great size but its a up hill battle for him to make the team. Cool to here that our D is looking so good. I hope that it does that well during the games.

[Mediator12]

Mediator do you still have old films intact?

such as 2003 season games? Do you still watch them at times.

I would like your opinion on Ferguson. I thought the guy was awesome. Unlike Kenoy, he showed awareness and seem to have the ability to track the ball or ball carrier down. Not only that he was great tackler and hitter too.

Yeah. To break up the boredom I watch old Games. And Yes, I have always thought Ferguson did a better overall job than Kennoy.

[DBroncos4life]

I will eat alot of crow if Ferg ends up with more then 3 picks. I will be oh so happy to eat it as well. I just didn't think he was much of a ball hawk. Thad doesn't mean I think he is bad just he isn't known for picking off passes.

[watermock]

The east coast media is going to get it up their colon when our team romps. It's funny tho, these nimrods have the attention span of Bronco Billy on a Slap cartoon. I swear, I have seen Steven A. Smith, and Skip Bayless, and the Swami, and so many others miss so bad, it's funny.

I'm close to 80 percent with my mock's locks, better than any of these clowns, and that is against the spread, not straight up.

We have great reporters right here.

[watermock]

I will be giving Mock's Locks every week as an imaginaryr contract with OM.com, and as such, will continue to provide ways to piss off your bookie.

[Kaylore]

Carswell and Ellis Johnson came over Ellis Johnson? Did he mean Luther Ellis? :kiddingme

[SoCalBronco]

I think the best thing about all those reports is that we were able to defend them very well without Champ, Courtney or Big Money on the field.

[Mediator12]

I think the best thing about all those reports is that we were able to defend them very well without Champ, Courtney or Big Money on the field.

Yep. The Depth at those positions is starting to look promising, instead of crippling this year. Five guys injured each of the last two years on defense had a lot to do with those Indy Losses.

[Broncoman13]

I posted this on the "old board" I guess??? Anyhow, this is a Texan fan's perspective of a few things from last night. We're going to be good!!!

It was Sauerbrun getting blocked. Not his fault, the Texans were just all over him by the time he made his step. At one point, the Broncos special teams coach screamed "This isn't a walkthrough. Did you think this was a walkthrough?"

Quote:
Originally Posted by BroncoMan13
Did any of you guys happen to notice how Denver's kicker was doing on kickoffs?

Kickoffs weren't practiced during the evening session open to the public.

Quote:
Originally Posted by BroncoMan13
One last question on the Broncos. We drafted Darrent Williams (Okst.) with our first pick in the draft. He is a burner in the return games and a ballhawk at CB. He's small to be a starting caliber CB (5'8) and takes a lot of chances, but he's playing with the first team right now since Champ is nursing a hammy... the question is, did anybody notice a midget in the secondary making some plays and how did this guy look on Punt/kick returns.

Darrent Williams looked great. I don't care about his height, the guy can make plays. Carr took advantage of Williams once by making Armstrong climb the ladder to make a catch in the endzone. Otherwise, Darrent was handling his stuff. If I were Lenny Walls, I'd be worried about my starting job. Didn't notice Williams on punt returns.

Other Broncos I noticed:
Chris Young - broke up a lot of passes during red zone drills.
DJ Williams - was all over the field causing havoc (what's new?).
Nick Ferguson - somebody put out an APB on this guy, 'cause he was killing us.
Trevor Pryce - is right. He's all the way back from his back troubles.
Stephen Alexander - can beat a LB and get open. Fantasy sleeper.
Bradlee Van Pelt - better hope the Broncos won't need him to QB for an extended period. Kubiak was reading Van Pelt the riot act after the 2nd team 2 minute drill.

Things I noticed about the Broncos in general:

The secondary is fearless in jumping routes. Worked out for them during a practice, we'll see about the games.

Plummer looks more in sync with his receivers. He did a good job of hitting them in stride.

The Broncos will blitz any down, any player, any situation. Safety blitz a 2 minute offense? I'd like to see that chutzpah when the games count.

[Hogan11]

I will eat alot of crow if Ferg ends up with more then 3 picks. I will be oh so happy to eat it as well. I just didn't think he was much of a ball hawk. Thad doesn't mean I think he is bad just he isn't known for picking off passes.

So will I. I don't have much love for this Jets castoff....I never have....but if he performs, what more can one ask for? It's always team first.

Still, it's gonna take a bit more than one scrimmage against the Texans to make a believer out of me. I hope he keeps it going and proves me wrong.

[Kaylore]

http://www.denverbroncos.com/

[elsid13]

It nice when the opposing fans single out players on your team and say how good they look. Looking thru posts it looks like the d has chance to be special, and the O will continue be rock solid and improve a little on last year performance. While the Special Teams STILL needs to get its S$$$ together. Let hope everyone stay healthy.

[Broncoman13]

ST's is taking a hit right now b/c they haven't practiced like this before. New guys along the line trying to earn their keep. When the 53 man roster is set you won't see the same problems. Sauerbrun has never had a punt blocked in a game I doubt he's going to start this year!

[SoCalBronco]

Here is some highlights from the Texans site of last evenings practice. Thanks to Candy Cigarrettes.

http://play.rbn.com/?url=nfl/nfl/op...twomin081005.rm

[Candy Cigarettes]

Here is some highlights from the Texans site of last evenings practice. Thanks to Candy Cigarrettes.

http://play.rbn.com/?url=nfl/nfl/op...twomin081005.rm

SoCal, thanks for the help but that link doesn't seem to be working now - let me try this again -

2 Minute Drill (http://play.rbn.com/?url=nfl/nfl/open/2003/texans/demand/twomin081005.rm)

*Yes, the above link is currently working.....now if someone can tell me why I am no longer able to start new threads? I can reply to existing ones, but can't start a new thread. Anyone else out there having trouble. This just started today.

[elsid13]

Just had a chance to look Mason's video over on the main site. Looks like Ashley is getting comfortable on the short and intermitted routes. Plus Bell had very sweet open field move on one of the Texan's defenders.

[listopencil]

I will be giving Mock's Locks every week as an imaginaryr contract with OM.com, and as such, will continue to provide ways to piss off your bookie.


While pretending to be your imaginary agent I highly recommend a holdout. You aren't even getting paid as one of the top five make believe prognosticators on the intra-web.

[JCMElway]

I am SO picking up Denver's D in my fantasy league. I try not to be a homer in FF, but I can see the writing on the wall!!

[Broncoman13]

Tried to start a new thread but couldn't... anyhow, here is the latest news. Look at what the Rook is doing on Kickoffs. Kicking the ball through the uprights in the thick Houston air is impressive!

Day 13 Notebook: Stage Set for First Game
By Andrew Mason
DenverBroncos.com

HOUSTON -- Different year, same plan.

Head Coach Mike Shanahan announced following Thursday's practice that the procedure for using the team's starters in the preseason games will "probably" remain the same as it has in recent years.

"Anywhere from 10-12 plays first game, 20 plays the second game, into the third quarter one series or two in the third game and then in the fourth game a lot of the starters don't play,' Shanahan said. "Obviously they've earned a position and have been starters for a while. Guys that are competing for a position usually play and it will be based on competition at certain positions."

Some of the key competition will take place outside of the starting lineup. At backup quarterback, Bradlee Van Pelt heads into the game as the team's No. 2 signal-caller. The action he will receive Saturday is his first since a one-possession, one-touchdown stint in the preseason-closing game against the Arizona Cardinals last September.

But as of Thursday afternoon, Van Pelt did not know how long his on-field time would last.

"I expect to go a couple of series, at least, and when they tell me to go in, I go in," he said. "When they tell me to get out, I get out."

Van Pelt was elevated to the second team during the first full week of training camp, a status that was confirmed by the team's first depth chart, issued Monday. Danny Kanell is listed on the third team, followed by Matt Mauck, who was a 2004 seventh-round pick like Van Pelt.

TRAINER'S ROOM: Cornerback Champ Bailey was back in uniform Thursday for the first time in a week, but Shanahan did not know whether the hamstring injury the Pro Bowler has battled would keep him from playing Saturday night.

"I'll have to take a look at film on Champ," Shanahan said. "I haven't talked to any of the coaches yet."

Bailey might play Saturday night, but left tackle Matt Lepsis will not; a strained right hamstring kept him out Thursday and Shanahan plans to hold him out for the preseason opener.

"He got nicked (Wednesday) right at the end of practice in the red zone," Shanahan said. "He won't play Saturday, but I don't think it's too serious. We'll just wait and see."

Other Broncos to sit out Thursday included Jeff Shoate (left knee), Gerard Warren (left hamstring), Courtney Brown (elbow) and Mario Fatafehi (knee).

CAMP BYTES: Unlike the last time the Broncos and Texans held joint practices two years ago, the teams did not take practice inside for the Thursday afternoon work, instead remaining on the field ...

... Domonique Foxworth nearly kept the Broncos' takeaway trend of Wednesday evening going, coming just shy of an interception off a tipped pass during team work early in practice ...

... Both teams got in extensive work on kickoffs. The Broncos were up first, with Todd Sauerbrun and Paul Ernster each kicking three times. Sauerbrun averaged 74.3 yards per kickoff, while Ernster averaged 79.3 yards per kickoff, including one that he clobbered through the uprights behind the end zone ...

... Kickoff returns were not as kind to Denver. The Broncos were called for infractions by the observing officials on four of their six returns. Darrent Williams, Triandos Luke, Roc Alexander and Romar Crenshaw each fielded kicks ...

... John Lynch delivered a solid hit by knocking Texans starting running back Domanick Davis off his feet during team work ...

... Ashley Lelie had the longest catch of the day for Denver, beating cornerback Philip Buchanon downfield on a post route for a deep connection from Plummmer.

WEATHER REPORT: Denver and the Texans practiced outside Thursday afternoon for a two-hour session that began at approximately 3 p.m. CDT. The practice took place in 95-degree heat with 49 percent humidity, driving the heat index up to 105 degrees.

[DBroncos4life]

wow! keep the kid!. Almost 80 yards huh? If he can do that and Todd can punt 75 yards we will see long drives all year.

[IHaveALight]

Great news on Ernster. I've been wanting to go back to the Dan Reeves days of 3 kickers so we could have a kick off ace for some time now. I'm really pulling for this kid, and hopefully he makes the team.

[Clockwork Orange]

... Ashley Lelie had the longest catch of the day for Denver, beating cornerback Philip Buchanon downfield on a post route for a deep connection from Plummmer.

Just like old times. :~ohyah!:

[SoCalBronco]

Now comes the decisions Shanny wanted to avoid. Is booming it an extra 5 yards worth an extra roster spot when its going to be very competitive for those 53 spots this year and your talking about going thinner at LB, CB or OL. Lets see what happens in the game. If Ernster continues to consistently outkick Sauerbrun by 5 yards and amasses substantially more touchbacks, keep him. His value as a bargaining chip against Todd acting like an ass is important as well.

Thanks for the update, BMan.

[Kaylore]

Now comes the decisions Shanny wanted to avoid. Is booming it an extra 5 yards worth an extra roster spot when its going to be very competitive for those 53 spots this year and your talking about going thinner at LB, CB or OL. Lets see what happens in the game. If Ernster continues to consistently outkick Sauerbrun by 5 yards and amasses substantially more touchbacks, keep him. His value as a bargaining chip against Todd acting like an ass is important as well.

Thanks for the update, BMan.
With the coverage performing as poorly as it has been, I don't think we have any other choice.

[Broncoman13]

Keep in mind they're likely using "scrub" fodder type players for coverage units right now. Again, when the 53 man roster is more defined I think you'll see better coverage.

NFL kickers kick off from the 25 right? Don't know why but I'm drawing a blank. Seems like College is the 30 or 35 but I just can't remember... too tired I guess!

Anyhow, if he can kick it 4 yards deep into the endzone on a consistent basis he's got to stay. I'll be 29 kinds of pissed off if this kid plays for somebody else this year. He's got the goods and like SoCal said, he's good Sourbunz insurance!

[ludo21]

Keep in mind they're likely using "scrub" fodder type players for coverage units right now. Again, when the 53 man roster is more defined I think you'll see better coverage.

NFL kickers kick off from the 25 right? Don't know why but I'm drawing a blank. Seems like College is the 30 or 35 but I just can't remember... too tired I guess!

Anyhow, if he can kick it 4 yards deep into the endzone on a consistent basis he's got to stay. I'll be 29 kinds of pissed off if this kid plays for somebody else this year. He's got the goods and like SoCal said, he's good Sourbunz insurance!


I agree, who knows how long TOdd will keep his head clear. Paul is a great back up, we need to keep him on this team, whether on the IR or active roster, somehow we must!!

[footstepsfrom#27]

I'm being dragged kicking and screaming around to the idea of keeping 3 kickers, but I'm really hoping Ernster just plain wins the job. I can see the value of keeping him around just to prevent Saurbrum from screwing up too. What's wrong with our kickoff return team though...they've stunk it up for the last several years? There's something wrong if we have to keep a 3rd kicker to make up for the fact these guys can't get downfield and make the tackle.

[SoCalBronco]

I'm being dragged kicking and screaming around to the idea of keeping 3 kickers, but I'm really hoping Ernster just plain wins the job. I can see the value of keeping him around just to prevent Saurbrum from screwing up too. What's wrong with our kickoff return team though...they've stunk it up for the last several years? There's something wrong if we have to keep a 3rd kicker to make up for the fact these guys can't get downfield and make the tackle.

27,
unless Sauerbrun starts acting up again I dont see how he isnt going to be part of the team whether we keep Ernster or not. Even if Paul has a good preseason doing punts, Shanny knows that Sauerbrun has proven in real games over several years that he is Pro Bowl caliber in this area. I think Sauerbrun would have to look just flat out awful not to make it if he is being "good". Regarding the kickoff coverage team thats a good point. We have tried to remedy the situation somewhat bringing back some special teams demons like Burns, gold and the three young corners who are all very fast will hopefully help in terms of getting down to the other side of the field quicker. But having a guy who can consistently put it in the back of the end zone is good insurance just in case those kickoff coverage teams still arent quite up to snuff.

[footstepsfrom#27]

27,
unless Sauerbrun starts acting up again I dont see how he isnt going to be part of the team whether we keep Ernster or not. Even if Paul has a good preseason doing punts, Shanny knows that Sauerbrun has proven in real games over several years that he is Pro Bowl caliber in this area. I think Sauerbrun would have to look just flat out awful not to make it if he is being "good".
I realize that...I just don't like to admit it! Yikes! 3 kickers...I hate losing a good young prospect over adding another kicker.

[Kaylore]

I realize that...I just don't like to admit it! Yikes! 3 kickers...I hate losing a good young prospect over adding another kicker.
But what if the "good young prospect" is the other kicker?

[Antilles]

I haven't seen this one posted yet. Here is a little blurb by another Texans fan who was at the evening scrimmage. It's mostly Houston-specific, but there is some nice info about the DBs in here. Anyway, he is responding to the article in which Fergy discusses the ST breakdowns:

I'm not sure what there ST guy Ferguson was looking at - but there were more than 2 blocked punts in the ST drills last night. I counted 3 myself and 2 tips. After the 2 blocks in a row - the next series Sauerbraun [sp] tried to punt and stopped because he couldnt even get the ball off as one of our defenders was allready standing in the backfield next to him and they called the play. The very next series it was almost blocked again only this time the blocker tipped the punt and Saur came down on him and a flag was thrown. Funny because it was a penalty on the blocker who pushed our guy into the punter. Broncos punting unit looked bad for the most part until they subbed in the second teamers.

Hulk75 - Actually I didnt see their corners blitz that often at all. What I saw most of the time was them playing man to man robber coverage on the backside with the Safety playing QB spy over the top.

What I saw was their CB's key on the eyes of the QB several times and their rookie Darrent Williams pick off 2 passes in a row. Our receivers looked very lack-adaisical in their route running last night outside of Dre, Mathis and Kasper. I saw Bradford drop 4 balls. One he dropped right at the goal line in his hands as he tried to one hand catch it. He got the raspberry from the fans after that one. He did it again a few plays later in the back of the endzone and dropped the ball again. IMO Our Pass offense looked really out of sync last night - timing was off most of the night in the passing game. Carr looked rushed and flustered at times - never making his second read and threw 2 picks. Banks was overthrowing everything and everybody even in drills and threw 2 picks in the 7 on 7's and then a third in the 2 minute drills. Ragone was average out of the 4 QB's on the night only throwing 2 pics and one bad overthrow. All 3 QB's threw pics to the same route and same spot. I would have figured Palmer would have realized the play wasnt workign and would quit running it, but no they just kep on going. IMO Simmons will be cut after this TC - he showed little to no progress at all - He had No zip on his balls at all and looked very shaky - still very much lookign like a college QB. He got 4th team reps and yet didnt do anything with those reps when he got em. One series he rolled right out of the pocket because of pressure from the backside and threw the ball into the turf 5 yards in front of the receiver. Then turned around and walked back to the end of the Offense line and just kind of moped around not talkign to anyone. Overall the Houston receivers did not run crisp routes and the QB's did not make 3 and 5 step reads and passes. The offense looked sloppy and slow. The times they did have some success were when they got rid of the ball out of the backfield and into the hands of a receiver before the defense could react and read the play. The initial 5 seconds. Almost everytime a play went past 10 seconds or more the Denver Db's were knocking the passes down or picking them off.

[TotallyScrewed]

But what if the "good young prospect" is the other kicker?

If the special teams doesn't shore up the protection, they may NEED two punters.

Was Thursdays practise closed??

I think the pros kick-off from the 30. They moved it backfrom the 35 to get more action, i.e. fewer touchbacks.

Special teams is a huge component of the game. I hope that "scrubs" aren't the only players on those packages. We need to find a few more ST standouts like Keith Burns would probably wouldn't make it as O or D regulars but kick azz on ST.

[fdf]

Almost everytime a play went past 10 seconds or more the Denver Db's were knocking the passes down or picking them off.


Hmmmm--NFL passing plays almost never go ten seconds so I figure that the Houston poster's internal clock is off. However, at a minimum, he is saying that plays that went longer were not as successful. This either means that our db's are playing a lot better than last year or Carr is having problems or both. Last year, when the QB had time (most of the time), we got toasted.

[elsid13]

Try starting new thread on this but no joy

Fox Sports has some local fox video on the Texan/Denver practices:

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/team?statsId=7


In the video section, Houston one is pretty dumb, but it does show some good on the field action.

[ozomulsion]

What I saw was their CB's key on the eyes of the QB several times and their rookie Darrent Williams pick off 2 passes in a row.

I believe he was covering Andre Johnson a lot too. After missing his final 8 games in his senior this is unbelievable. If he's this good, this early, he might even pass my expectations. That would be quite a feat. BTW Darrent measured 5'9" 176lbs in the 2005 combine results. Pacman measured in a 5'10" 187lbs. Darrent's size isn't as big of an issue as some reporters make it out to be. These combine stats are dead on the money! They talk about him like he is Q's height or something. We got a steal folks!