Request: Can someone take a look at the OL?

[Odysseus]

Could someone rip apart the OL specifically?

Are they choking on passing downs? Is anyone missing his block, not coming off his block, making stupid penalties, making strong blocks or getting stuck on pulls.

How is House looking at guard?

Did Cooper improve or is he just the same?

How plain wrapper is the offense? Are they showing off anything?

I wish I could see the game guys. I love pre season just because you get to see your second tier guys actually try to show something.

[watermock]

All I know is the middle rusher went in clean a couple times. Now I think that's Leach's man I think.

Up the middle is the shortest path of course. I dunno. Someone will give a report I'm sure.

All I have heard is the middle broke down like some sort of cottage cheese.

mock is devolving from homer mode to something resembling Kizla if this continues.

[watermock]

I might have to pick up Khan from Ceta Alpha 5 and bring him back (with his alien worms), to finally listen to our suggestions.

I'm so tired of hearing about special team woes. If we have punts blocked or give up a rediculous return, I want Khan to string Bradford up by the tumbs. He's got more experience than I do.

[Odysseus]

What time is the game Denver time?

[watermock]

I would guess it about 6 central, but dunno for sure. If they block our punts I'm going postal take a convincing argument out of the closet and personally deal with Bradford.

I think Burnsie would be a good match. Just gut feeling.

Special teams is all about playing with intensity but each player taking his own responsibiliy.

[Blueflame]

What time is the game Denver time?

I think it comes on at 6 mountain time, QT. I'll be busy with "real-life" stuff tonight, but the VCR will be catching everything for posterity. I'll be glad to critique the O-line's performance for you after I get the chance to review the tape. :thumbs:

[Odysseus]

I think it comes on at 6 mountain time, QT. I'll be busy with "real-life" stuff tonight, but the VCR will be catching everything for posterity. I'll be glad to critique the O-line's performance for you after I get the chance to review the tape. :thumbs:

I wonder how much I would have to pay Taco to have a multi rep feature installed?

Woo Hoo! I guess there will be a thread going but I find game time most people are too busy going WTF is $*%& thinking...and stuff like that.

[Raiders Rock]

I think it comes on at 6 mountain time, QT. I'll be busy with "real-life" stuff tonight, but the VCR will be catching everything for posterity. I'll be glad to critique the O-line's performance for you after I get the chance to review the tape. :thumbs:


Yea, you better get in there and cook me some supper woman :wiggle:

[clint7]

What time is the game Denver time?

Anyone know of a free internet link for the game tonight? I tried posting a quesiton in a new thread but I can't seem to post new threads anymore?

[Blueflame]

I wonder how much I would have to pay Taco to have a multi rep feature installed?

Woo Hoo! I guess there will be a thread going but I find game time most people are too busy going WTF is $*%& thinking...and stuff like that.

;D

Being able to go back and look at individual plays and/or zero in on the performance of specific players (like the O-line in this instance) is one of the reasons I like to tape the games. As the game is actually going on, there is so much action to watch that little details can get overlooked.

[Blueflame]

Yea, you better get in there and cook me some supper woman :wiggle:

rofl Heck with that... I'm going out carousing tonight. :devil:

[Raiders Rock]

rofl Heck with that... I'm going out carousing tonight. :devil:


Ok forget dinner but you got to wear them blue pants in your avatar

[Raiders Rock]

Anyone know of a free internet link for the game tonight? I tried posting a quesiton in a new thread but I can't seem to post new threads anymore?

Well I gave them 3 bucks at streamtv.com for a months subscription, if they show the Raiders tonite for me it will be well spent

[Kaylore]

Everyone will get a big look at it tonight. I must apologize because that is the one unit I've seen the least during practices. I did get a good look at them one practice but it was all the right side since I was looking down the LOS at them, so I missed some of Nalen, and all of Lepsis and Hamilton. We'll get a look tonight, though. 8')

[Bob's your Information Minister]

Since the Donks are in Houston, I will be watching the game. Sure, I'll watch your line.

[Odysseus]

Ok forget dinner but you got to wear them blue pants in your avatar

Did you get rid of that goat or are you actually becoming a Broncos fan? You got to be careful messing around with Blue. She plays nice unlike that goat she isn't going let you get away much.

[Bob's your Information Minister]

Since the Donks are in Houston, I will be watching the game. Sure, I'll watch your line.

From what I saw, the pass blocking was pretty effective, run blocking not so much until late in the game.

C. Green seems to fire out a little early.

[Odysseus]

Since the Donks are in Houston, I will be watching the game. Sure, I'll watch your line.

I was kind of hoping for correct information. Think you are up for that?

[Tredici]

Could someone rip apart the OL specifically?

Are they choking on passing downs? Is anyone missing his block, not coming off his block, making stupid penalties, making strong blocks or getting stuck on pulls.

How is House looking at guard?

Did Cooper improve or is he just the same?

How plain wrapper is the offense? Are they showing off anything?

I wish I could see the game guys. I love pre season just because you get to see your second tier guys actually try to show something.


A couple of stupid penalties. Cooper doesn't look like much. I didn't see much out of Carswell to applaud. He took a penalty, too. As did Foster. I know it's early, but those will have to stop.

The Texans have installed our run schemes and their first string line was handling the duties better for Dominick Davis than our first string line did for Mike Anderson.

The offense wasn't all that vanilla. The only runner who looked like he knew when to make the cut was Dayne. The 40 yard run by BVP was a designed play. He has some wheels.

The highlight of the game was the 4 down goal line stand from the one. It was a ticky tacky call on Darrent Williams anyway for interference. The defensive line flat established a new line of scrimmage on each attempt. One of them was Lynch cutting through and nailing the runner. It seemed after that series the defense - no matter which string, were solidified.

Another highlight was 185 pound Darrent Williams meeting 240 pound Jonathan Wells coming around the right side and just boom! Putting him backwards right on his ass. He's wearing number 27 and has a long way to go fill those shoes but even Wells gave Williams a pat on the head when he got up off the ground. It's obvious the kid loves to play.

I get the feeling people won't be laughing at those three young corner picks much longer. They all played lights out.

[Odysseus]

From what I saw, the pass blocking was pretty effective, run blocking not so much until late in the game.

C. Green seems to fire out a little early.

I really think the Broncos are going to struggle on offense because of the line. Run blocked sucked? Wow.

[baja]

remember lepis did not play

[footstepsfrom#27]

Don't worry...it always takes a couple of games for an offensive line to get into sync...the only worry I have is Carlyle. He's the achilies heel IMO.

[Odysseus]

Another highlight was 185 pound Darrent Williams meeting 240 pound Jonathan Wells coming around the right side and just boom! Putting him backwards right on his ass. He's wearing number 27 and has a long way to go fill those shoes but even Wells gave Williams a pat on the head when he got up off the ground. It's obvious the kid loves to play.

I get the feeling people won't be laughing at those three young corner picks much longer. They all played lights out.

The more I brag about Williams the worst I look. Let me stop.

[Odysseus]

I think we are way thin on OL IMHO. All my excitement about the corners is coming with a price tag. I was thinking some of the FA guys in camp would step up. It sounds like a wash at this point.

OL aside...is Devoe making an impact or is he just lucky?

[Bob's your Information Minister]

I really think the Broncos are going to struggle on offense because of the line. Run blocked sucked? Wow.

I don't. We're talking about the friggin' Broncos. They WILL run the ball.

[Odysseus]

NOTES

Williams became the first rookie cornerback to start a preseason opener in the Shanahan era.
Alexander caught his first touchdown pass as a Bronco with 13:21 remaining in the second quarter.
Rice made his first reception as a Bronco with 1:55 remaining in the second quarter. The six-yard completion set up third-and-two from the Texans 44-yard line.
The Broncos averaged 5.2 yards per carry in the first half, thanks in large part to a 40-yard scramble by Van Pelt. Van Pelt played in just one series last preseason. He surpassed that number in the first half against Houston.
Van Pelt led Denver's quarterbacks with 107 passing yards, completing 10 of 17 passes. Plummer and Mauck each threw touchdown passes. Plummer went 6-10 for 76 yards and Mauck went 2-3 for 96 yards.
Ron Dayne led Broncos rushers with 56 yards on 11 carries with a long of 23. Van Pelt also scrambled for 45 yards on three runs, one of which was a 40-yard effort.
Todd Devoe led the team's receivers with his 92 yards from his touchdown reception. charlie Adams also added 43 yards on three receptions.
Todd Sauerbrun punted six times for a 40.2 average and a long of 46.
Darrent Williams returned two kickoffs with a 25-yard average and a long of 26. He also brought back four punts for 10 yards with a long of 14 and one fair catch.

[Kaylore]

I don't. We're talking about the friggin' Broncos. They WILL run the ball.
Wow! Bob's being nice and correct today! He's right. If there is one area you should trust Mike Shanahan on, its his run game. I wouldn't worry at all.

[Cito Pelon]

The OL and DL basically looked just like last year. Which isn't a horrible thing. I'm sure they are not happy at all with how things went. There's room for improvement, cerrtainly.

Was it Green that filled in for Lepsis? He didn't look bad. Carlisle, well, he looked like Dan Neil. Got blown off the ball sometimes. Foster didn't look great. There was no cutback holes to be blowing horns about. Mostly, on running plays there was a solid wall of Texans for the RB's to run into. There was a lot of take it outside and hope for 1-2 yds. In fact, Bell's best run had to come that way. He had zero holes to work with, I mean ZERO. Dayne had a few holes to work with, and made the most of them. Where Dayne shines is in the passing game - not on blitz pickup though. With Dayne and KJ in the backfield, that gives the team lots of options in the passing game. KJ, BTW, looked pretty darn solid.

The DL, Myers, Davis, Pope, all the interior guys looked good. The DE's I didn't think looked that good.

[baja]

Wow! Bob's being nice and correct today! He's right. If there is one area you should trust Mike Shanahan on, its his run game. I wouldn't worry at all.

BTW What happened to all the negative mike Shanahan posts that used to find their way into every thread. Not you Khan but generally speaking.

[Cito Pelon]

BTW What happened to all the negative mike Shanahan posts that used to find their way into every thread. Not you Khan but generally speaking.

Myself, I've been less and less critical of Shanahan as I've come to realize what enormous impact the rest of the staff has on how crisp and efficient the team looks as a whole. The assistant staff is who I really want to see shine this year. Part of how the staff works together is up to the HC, certainly, but the Coordinators and unit coaches have a huge responsibility to make sure the players meet their individual responsibilities, and to make sure the team plays as a team.

[Old Dude]

...

OL aside...is Devoe making an impact or is he just lucky?

He dropped a catchable ball early on.

But he earned the TD late in the game. Nice route, broke a tackle and turned on the burners.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

He dropped a catchable ball early on.

But he earned the TD late in the game. Nice route, broke a tackle and turned on the burners.

He deserves a rep, but I wouldn't call it the burners. I could have outrun that safety. He was SLOW.

Hard to really see Ol on TV and you don't know what blocking schemes are called. Carlisle was slow and had a critical penalty. Watton really fired out on the LBs a couple of times. Spikes seemed to always be in teh middle of things in the second half.

[Blueflame]

In the process of watching the game tape as I type this... ;D

Certainly there is room for improvement on the O-line... stupid penalties such as the one on Carlisle and there was a holding penalty on Carswell. I do think they'll "gel" as the preseason progresses.

[Odysseus]

Broncos pre season games are always kind of sloppy but there are some things that you can't hide in the pre season. The trick is knowing where to look.

It's impossible to rip a game without tape.

[Blueflame]

Broncos pre season games are always kind of sloppy but there are some things that you can't hide in the pre season. The trick is knowing where to look.

It's impossible to rip a game without tape.

I kinda expected the first preseason game to be sloppy... and I'm sure Lepsis' absence was a factor with the performance of the first string. There were too many avoidable penalties, I thought. I'd like to see that number pared down before the regular season starts.

[Cito Pelon]

Broncos pre season games are always kind of sloppy but there are some things that you can't hide in the pre season. The trick is knowing where to look.

The first team has to look crisp and efficient and productive in the first drive, and certainly the second. Otherwise that means you have a lot of work to do still.

If a team has to extend the first-teamers beyond the "expected one or two series", especially in the first preseaon game, then that means the staff didn't see what they wanted to see.

Having said that, the first-teamers didn't look horrible. They looked just like last year. But that won't do. Maybe people don't realize the Broncos haven't had a playoff win in six consecutive seasons. That hasn't happened since the 60's I believe. That's not good. People can talk all they want about how "this is a new League, FA has made it harder to stay competitive", but six consecutive years without even providing decent competition in a playoff game is a long enough drought in the "new NFL" for the Broncs.

As a fan, I expect a playoof berth and a playoff win this year. And that starts in the preseason with crisp, efficient productivity from the first-teamers.

[Blueflame]

The first team has to look crisp and efficient and productive in the first drive, and certainly the second. Otherwise that means you have a lot of work to do still.

If a team has to extend the first-teamers beyond the "expected one or two series", especially in the first preseaon game, then that means the staff didn't see what they wanted to see.

Having said that, the first-teamers didn't look horrible. They looked just like last year. But that won't do. Maybe people don't realize the Broncos haven't had a playoff win in six consecutive seasons. That hasn't happened since the 60's I believe. That's not good. People can talk all they want about how "this is a new League, FA has made it harder to stay competitive", but six consecutive years without even providing decent competition in a playoff game is a long enough drought in the "new NFL" for the Broncs.

As a fan, I expect a playoof berth and a playoff win this year. And that starts in the preseason with crisp, efficient productivity from the first-teamers.

The odds of a playoff win dramatically increase with HFA (well... unless we're talking about the Chefs... :P) so winning the division (as opposed to taking the wildcard route) would appear to be of paramount importance. I'd say any of the defending AFC division champions (Pats, Steelers, or Colts) would be formidable indeed in the hospitable home environment. And we have to stay relatively healthy as well... the two recent wildcard losses involved inexperienced starters due to an injury-depleted secondary.

[Kaylore]

The first team has to look crisp and efficient and productive in the first drive, and certainly the second. Otherwise that means you have a lot of work to do still.

If a team has to extend the first-teamers beyond the "expected one or two series", especially in the first preseaon game, then that means the staff didn't see what they wanted to see.

Having said that, the first-teamers didn't look horrible. They looked just like last year. But that won't do.

That's funny because I see the opposite. They looked better than last year in the pre-season. I agree that they looked a little like they did last year - at the end of the season, but that's acutally a good thing considering how rusty every team is their first pre-season game. Don't forget we didn't score any touchdowns until our last pre-season games last year. We scored points on almost all our drives this time with all three teams, and minimal help from the run game. That right there is huge. Where you see problems I see us ahead of plan. Were we clicking on all cyliders? No. But the two areas of biggest concern, Redzone offense and defense, look markedly improved. I have to respectfuly disagree that the way they played last night "just won't do." It can only get better from here.

[Garcia Bronco]

I don't know about that Cito....how many plays where the startes in for...15-20 I suspect....which is how many Mike scripts

[Cito Pelon]

That's funny because I see the opposite. They looked better than last year in the pre-season. I agree that they looked a little like they did last year - at the end of the season, but that's acutally a good thing considering how rusty every team is their first pre-season game. Don't forget we didn't score any touchdowns until our last pre-season games last year. We scored points on almost all our drives this time with all three teams, and minimal help from the run game. That right there is huge. Where you see problems I see us ahead of plan. Were we clicking on all cyliders? No. But the two areas of biggest concern, Redzone offense and defense, look markedly improved. I have to respectfuly disagree that the way they played last night "just won't do." It can only get better from here.

Good counter-argument. I can't disagree too much.

But I want to see more crispness, more efficiency, more productivity from the first-teamers. Ideally in the first preseason game, the first teamers are in there for one drive on both sides of the ball. Didn't see that. Two series at most in the first preseaon game, ideally. Didn't see that last night.

[Cito Pelon]

I don't know about that Cito....how many plays where the startes in for...15-20 I suspect....which is how many Mike scripts

Ideally, those 15-20 plays in the first preseason game result in two TD's. I won't pretend like the first-teamers were awful. The O took what one penalty only? I pretty much don't want to get into a love-fest right now with the team. There were HUGE holes for the Texan RB's to run through. HUGE holes. And the Broncs went to blitzes early to get pressure on Carr. And even then they didn't get pressure. Did Gold make a tackle? Was he even close to the ball-carrier on any play? Did the Broncs force a fumble? Did the LB's overpursue, and get neutralized?

DJ again looked solid. He has a knack for fighting through blocks and getting some part of his body on the ball-carrier. Gold I never heard his name. He was always neutralized by one Texan.

Overerall, I'm not displeased. It looks like right now the team is better than last year, mostly because of Sauer and Darrent.

[Odysseus]

That's funny because I see the opposite. They looked better than last year in the pre-season.

Last year the Broncos SUCKED in pre season. They were still searching and finding their way. It sounds like they actually have an idea what they want to do this year but want to check things.

In a good fight you let the guy throw a few punchs just to see if he's hitting with anything. Let him build his confidence up and show you something. When it's on you cash that joker in and it's next fight.

I don't care if the Broncos only put one guy out there named Olaf Line. I want to know what O Line did?

[Rascal]

Could someone rip apart the OL specifically?

Are they choking on passing downs? Is anyone missing his block, not coming off his block, making stupid penalties, making strong blocks or getting stuck on pulls.

How is House looking at guard?

Did Cooper improve or is he just the same?

How plain wrapper is the offense? Are they showing off anything?

I wish I could see the game guys. I love pre season just because you get to see your second tier guys actually try to show something.

When they show the game tomorrow and I watch it with Shack after work I'll give my response to this.

The fact that we had 85 yards rushing (excluding BVP scamper) does not indicate good things given we had 26 rushes.

[DB-Freak]

When they show the game tomorrow and I watch it with Shack after work I'll give my response to this.

The fact that we had 85 yards rushing (excluding BVP scamper) does not indicate good things given we had 26 rushes.
Espn?

[Rascal]

direct TV nfl package.

[Rascal]

1 pm eastern I think but I'm not entirely sure about that.

[Odysseus]

When they show the game tomorrow and I watch it with Shack after work I'll give my response to this.

The fact that we had 85 yards rushing (excluding BVP scamper) does not indicate good things given we had 26 rushes.

It averages out to 3.2 yards per attempt which on paper looks good but that is the problem. EVERYTHING the Broncos do looks good (preseason) on paper but they are missing that spark.

If the OL isn't giving our RB's a peek at the secondary our only running game this year is going to be Jake. (Jake rolls left, Jake rolls right, Jake runs for his life,...etc.) Sure we'll have our 1,000 yard RB...junk yards without any strikes.

I think our OL is becoming a consistent issue. I think they will get better when the season starts to such an extent that the fans will be happy but I'm betting money this isn't the last of this issue during this season. This makes the top of my list for next year's draft.

[Blueflame]

Last year the Broncos SUCKED in pre season. They were still searching and finding their way. It sounds like they actually have an idea what they want to do this year but want to check things.

In a good fight you let the guy throw a few punchs just to see if he's hitting with anything. Let him build his confidence up and show you something. When it's on you cash that joker in and it's next fight.

I don't care if the Broncos only put one guy out there named Olaf Line. I want to know what O Line did?

It's getting a bit late to do it tonight, but in the morning I'll review the tape play by play, breaking it down and describing what is visible of the O-line on the television feed. :)

[Odysseus]

It's getting a bit late to do it tonight, but in the morning I'll review the tape play by play, breaking it down and describing what is visible of the O-line on the television feed. :)

I'm easy. I ain't cheap but I am easy. :)

If you want to sand bag and do a comparison between the first game and the the second game that would be great.

I owe you bigtime Blue just for the suggestion. Thanks to Taco and all the posters here at the Mane.

[Blueflame]

I'm easy. I ain't cheap but I am easy. :)

If you want to sand bag and do a comparison between the first game and the the second game that would be great.

I owe you bigtime Blue just for the suggestion. Thanks to Taco and all the posters here at the Mane.

It's all good. I have the time this morning and it's not like I don't enjoy re-watching the Broncos. :D

OK, the first offensive play was a rush by Mike Anderson, and the result was a one-yard loss. The starting lineup is Foster at RT, Carlisle at RG, Nalen at center, Hamilton at LG and Cornell Green at LT. Taking the tape frame-by-frame, it looked to me like #74 could possibly have been more involved in blocking for Anderson but was hanging back to protect Plummer (who had handed off the ball and was moving to his right in the backfield perhaps 5 yards behind the play). Backs and receivers on the field were MA, Kyle Johnson, Smith, Lelie, and Stephen Alexander. #96 for the Texans looks to be the defender who got to Anderson first, but #99 and #56 were right there, too.

Offensive play #2... faked handoff to Anderson, Plummer rolls right and throws an incomplete pass intended for Lelie, who was wide open and had his man (looked like Buchanon) beaten by a good five yards. Plummer was under pressure from Texans #93, who came into the backfield as Anderson went by him. Anderson was also wide open on the short route on this play... but there was nothing but green between Lelie and the endzone if the pass had been on the money. :(

3rd and 11... incomplete pass that bounced off Watts' hands. The O-line gave Plummer good protection on this play...and Watts should have had the ball. It was very lucky not to have been intercepted by Texans #42 after bouncing off Watts' hands.

[DBroncos4life]

I still think it had to do with teh 3-4 D then the Oline itself. I just don't think we can block it that well.

[Blueflame]

Second offensive series.... Broncos take over from the one-yard line after the goalline stand.

First play is a pass to Rod Smith for a first down. Plummer faked a handoff to Anderson in the endzone... the O-line formed a solid pocket for Plummer, as did Anderson who stayed behind the line to block. There were no defenders even close to Jake, who did a pretty easy pitch-and-catch with Rod to the 11. Texans #23 on Rod had no chance of stopping the play.

First down... a short run by Anderson. Texans' #96 was through the O-line and into the backfield, but Anderson powered his way to the 15. I'm seeing two TEs on the field.... Alexander and Putz.

From the 15... Jake drops back all the way to the 5, with defenders coming past both O-linemen on his right side. Under heavy pressure, the pass falls incomplete... the closest player on the field looks to be a Texan... the WR came to the inside when it looks like Jake expected him to cut to the outside.

3rd down... the O-line held the defenders, but Jake threw into double-coverage for Rod at the 20, just shy of the first-down marker. The pass falls incomplete, but Memorex says the defender's hands (Texans #23) were on Rod before the ball got there.

[Blueflame]

I still think it had to do with teh 3-4 D then the Oline itself. I just don't think we can block it that well.

You're probably right... from what I'm seeing, the O-line looks pretty solid.

Third offensive series. First play is a toss to Anderson who takes it to the 29. The O-line does a good job and it's a LB (#56) who makes the first contact.

2nd and 5...Plummer drops back and completes the pass to Rod for a first down past the 45. There are no defenders anywhere near Jake and it's another easy pitch-and-catch, despite the two defenders on Rod (#23 and #98).

1st down... false start penalty on Carlisle. :gripe:

From the 41... pass is complete to Anderson to the 46. Two defenders were in Plummer's face from his right side on this play. The catch was at the LOS so the yards were gained after the catch.

Handoff to Anderson... he gets five more yards.

3rd and 5... Plummer, unhurried, tosses the ball to Lelie, who makes a great catch with Buchanon draped all over him.

1st down from the 21... Anderson for a couple more. The O-line isn't giving up much ground. And that's the end of the first quarter. From what I've seen, Plummer has only been hurried a couple of times and I think he was only tackled once.

[Blueflame]

2nd down... Plummer fakes a handoff to Anderson, drops back and tosses the ball to Kyle Johnson who catches it at the 18 and takes it to the 9. Pressure was on Plummer on this play from a LB (#52, it looks like)

1st and goal...play action... Plummer runs it inside the five. The O-line takes the defenders to the left side of the field as Plummer runs to the right and the closest defender is between Plummer and the endzone at about the one-yardline. #52 and #93 force Plummer oob at the 3.

2nd and goal... Anderson for little or no gain.

3rd and goal... fake to Anderson... but #93 isn't fooled and is in Plummer's face. Under heavy pressure, Plummer throws to Alexander, who catches it at the one and falls into the endzone. It looks like Plummer hits the turf on the play and it's his last one of the game.

[Odysseus]

Hmmm.

It sounds like they are pretty much the same as last year. They are deeply a very inconsistent team. Plummer misses, WR misses, running back stalls, and guys sleepwalking out there are all pretty bad in my view. I am sure they are going to get it amped up and tighter as pre season progresses but it seems they are taking the same player friendly "who gives a crap it's pre season" tenor.

If you are an experienced coach you aren't too worried about having your guys on edge this early in the season. There is a certain factor of burnout to consider. I just wish they would stay focused on execution instead of just playing when they had to.

I think the reason I am worried about the OL and the running game is that every year the Broncos start the season with a lack of urgency and end the season with a panic. It would be nice to see them going about their business with a quiet confidence instead of talking it up in the media as if talk were the most important thing.

[DBroncos4life]

I don't care what we do in preseason just so long as we find away not to go into a funk during the middle of the year. Those 4 or 5 games is the reason we have to travel come playoff time.

[Blueflame]

Hmmm.

It sounds like they are pretty much the same as last year. They are deeply a very inconsistent team. Plummer misses, WR misses, running back stalls, and guys sleepwalking out there are all pretty bad in my view. I am sure they are going to get it amped up and tighter as pre season progresses but it seems they are taking the same player friendly "who gives a crap it's pre season" tenor.

If you are an experienced coach you aren't too worried about having your guys on edge this early in the season. There is a certain factor of burnout to consider. I just wish they would stay focused on execution instead of just playing when they had to.

I think the reason I am worried about the OL and the running game is that every year the Broncos start the season with a lack of urgency and end the season with a panic. It would be nice to see them going about their business with a quiet confidence instead of talking it up in the media as if talk were the most important thing.

Having Lepsis in there might have made a difference, too... but I did like it that throughout three series, the defense really didn't get much pressure on Plummer. Again, I'd like to see penalties (such as the false start on Carlisle) addressed... but as far as the O-line, I really didn't see much cause for complaint, particularly since it was the first preseason game. Now that we've had a taste of Broncos football, though, I'm very eager for more. Ha!

[Odysseus]

I don't care what we do in preseason just so long as we find away not to go into a funk during the middle of the year. Those 4 or 5 games is the reason we have to travel come playoff time.

Broncos always look good in the pre season. It doesn't matter who they play. They win about .500 or better and focus on timing issues, clean up and taking an inventory of what they like and don't like. This is why being critical of them is never recieved well. "It's just pre season" is the annual sigh of relief. They don't have to run, block and tackle for two more weeks!

The first four games the Broncos normally come out looking like they can beat the world and most fans buy into it and life seems good. All the fans who were saying "it's just pre season" suddenly break into full homer mode. All the fans who were saying "um. They are missing tackes" are brushed to the side. All is well in the kingdom of orange.

The next four games is where the Broncos show their true colors and either drop games because they get sloppy (unlike pre season when they are the absolute barometer of discipline) or get game planned because they haven't adjusted, tried anything new or somebody they really need is hurt. This is when everyone starts making up silly crap about what they should have done had they been psychic.

The next four games is the ugly season. This is when it always falls apart. The Broncos offense gets good, the Broncos defense gets bad, special teams which has been sucking the whole time gets worst and suddenly you get the long list of excuses with the caveat always that "we are still in it." This is when our best players make their best excuses. This is when posters start dishing out the threats and pointing out all the flaws that were probably clearly seen in games one through four if anyone ever bothered to look at the tape.

The next four games the Broncos act like they actually care about winning again and they start whupping on teams they are supposed whup on. This is also the time of year that they start getting their butts handed to them by teams who they have beaten before or a team that is getting it's second wind. This is the time of the year when the Broncos are talking about having a home field advantage but never do.

This is also the time of the year when the Chargers are either in it or digging their own grave. This is when the Chief's oozing wound defense saps them of the strength and the fall over all bloodied and done. This is when the Raiders gag on their own indecision and are quickly whisked away with a sudden self imploding poof into silver dust. This is when every Broncos fan suddenly thinks THIS team is going to the Superbowl because we are going to get into the playoffs. This is normally the time of year when I don't post and just sit back and enjoy the ride.

Go Broncos!

[Blueflame]

Broncos always look good in the pre season. It doesn't matter who they play. They win about .500 or better and focus on timing issues, clean up and taking an inventory of what they like and don't like. This is why being critical of them is never recieved well. "It's just pre season" is the annual sigh of relief. They don't have to run, block and tackle for two more weeks!

The first four games the Broncos normally come out looking like they can beat the world and most fans buy into it and life seems good. All the fans who were saying "it's just pre season" suddenly break into full homer mode. All the fans who were saying "um. They are missing tackes" are brushed to the side. All is well in the kingdom of orange.

The next four games is where the Broncos show their true colors and either drop games because they get sloppy (unlike pre season when they are the absolute barometer of discipline) or get game planned because they haven't adjusted, tried anything new or somebody they really need is hurt. This is when everyone starts making up silly crap about what they should have done had they been psychic.

The next four games is the ugly season. This is when it always falls apart. The Broncos offense gets good, the Broncos defense gets bad, special teams which has been sucking the whole time gets worst and suddenly you get the long list of excuses with the caveat always that "we are still in it." This is when our best players make their best excuses. This is when posters start dishing out the threats and pointing out all the flaws that were probably clearly seen in games one through four if anyone ever bothered to look at the tape.

The next four games the Broncos act like they actually care about winning again and they start whupping on teams they are supposed whup on. This is also the time of year that they start getting their butts handed to them by teams who they have beaten before or a team that is getting it's second wind. This is the time of the year when the Broncos are talking about having a home field advantage but never do.

This is also the time of the year when the Chargers are either in it or digging their own grave. This is when the Chief's oozing wound defense saps them of the strength and the fall over all bloodied and done. This is when the Raiders gag on their own indecision and are quickly whisked away with a sudden self imploding poof into silver dust. This is when every Broncos fan suddenly thinks THIS team is going to the Superbowl because we are going to get into the playoffs. This is normally the time of year when I don't post and just sit back and enjoy the ride.

Go Broncos!

Things could be much worse at this point, though, QT... I mean, I'd be much more concerned if we'd... say... lost to the 49ers after signing a high-priced flavor clown... ;D

Ours was the only AFC West team to win their first preseason game.

[Tredici]

Let's not forget the Texans are employing the Denver running blocking schemes. Therefore the Bronco plays may look a bit familiar to them. If anyone should be able to defend against the run, it should be the Texans.

[Cito Pelon]

The Texans first-teamers took it to us pretty good, but the Den first-teamers didn't look horrible. So this week I guess I look to see the first-teamers execute and score on the first series, and the D first teamers get a three and out. Then the first teamers can rest and let the coaches evaluate the rest of the roster.

The third preseason game is always the important one for the first teamers, which is why I was a little torqued because the first teamers had to play longer than you would want to see in the first presiason game. They shouldn't have had to stay out there that long in the first or second preseaon game. Those games are for the 2nd and 3rd stringers, their chance to improve or make their mark.

I'm looking forward to seeing how the first teamers do against the 49'rs, then the big one the third game is at the Colts. That should be a game where everybody should expect the Den first teamers to play like its a reg season game.

[Tredici]

The Texans first-teamers took it to us pretty good, but the Den first-teamers didn't look horrible. So this week I guess I look to see the first-teamers execute and score on the first series, and the D first teamers get a three and out. Then the first teamers can rest and let the coaches evaluate the rest of the roster.

The third preseason game is always the important one for the first teamers, which is why I was a little torqued because the first teamers had to play longer than you would want to see in the first presiason game. They shouldn't have had to stay out there that long in the first or second preseaon game. Those games are for the 2nd and 3rd stringers, their chance to improve or make their mark.

I'm looking forward to seeing how the first teamers do against the 49'rs, then the big one the third game is at the Colts. That should be a game where everybody should expect the Den first teamers to play like its a reg season game.

What do you mean by playing longer than they should have? It was the scripted 15 plays. What ate up the clock was the Houston drives. Denver O's 3 and outs didn't wear them out too much. If they would've had one long, 12 or 13 play drive, it would've equaled the same number of snaps. Do you think if Jake could've managed to hit Lelie for the long gainer the offense sits down sooner? Maybe. Or maybe the staff still has them do the 15 plays.

[Rascal]

Alright here is my response to our o-line and TE's:

Foster...nothing spectacular but did get beat on that sack (coverage or not it was his guy).

Carlisle...ugh. I saw at least 4 instances where his guy was the major disruptive force or actually made the play and then of course there was that penalty.

Nalen...the end is near. Slow on stretch plays.

Hamilton...good technique and solid all around

Green...there is a reason he is second string

Alexander...the guy can block

Putzier...got owned several times and is still a liability

Jackson...saw several good blocks

KJ...I like this kid a lot...he did a good job.

2nd string...I was not impressed with Watson nor was I impressed with House. Everybody else looked okay but nothing really stood out.

[Odysseus]

Let's not forget the Texans are employing the Denver running blocking schemes. Therefore the Bronco plays may look a bit familiar to them. If anyone should be able to defend against the run, it should be the Texans.

My main concern was execution. They know it's a draw play. I know it's a draw play. Everybody in the stadium knows it's a draw play. How did my guys react?

It's way to early to get a solid fix on the entire season. It's too early to predict and it's not too late to fix. Overall I am happy the Broncos got a win especially since the rest of the AFCW crumbled.

[Cito Pelon]

The team looks a little better this year. Just a little more smooth on O, a lot faster on D.

[Odysseus]

I am very happy with the developments on defense but the Broncos left their pants down on two critical facets connected with that. Turnovers and Special Teams. These are both momentum killers which help make a defense harder to beat.

I am happy that the Broncos are doing some very smart things on offense but I think they are selling the running game short early. They have some very huge weaks spots in the OL that if a DC had the mind he could pick them apart. A tiny hole in a wall is where the damn bursts.

I'm glad Plummer is a mobile QB and that our offense has a wide range of attacks but I want to start winning these games and leaving no doubt. I realize that is an impossible order in the age of parity but New England really sticks in my craw. They figured it out based on what WE ALREADY KNOW how come we can't dominate?

[Odysseus]

Good counter-argument. I can't disagree too much.

But I want to see more crispness, more efficiency, more productivity from the first-teamers. Ideally in the first preseason game, the first teamers are in there for one drive on both sides of the ball. Didn't see that. Two series at most in the first preseaon game, ideally. Didn't see that last night.

The next time when someone says the Broncos look like crap during the pre season can we all agree that there might be something to that?

[Odysseus]

I am very happy with the developments on defense but the Broncos left their pants down on two critical facets connected with that. Turnovers and Special Teams. These are both momentum killers which help make a defense harder to beat.

I am happy that the Broncos are doing some very smart things on offense but I think they are selling the running game short early. They have some very huge weaks spots in the OL that if a DC had the mind he could pick them apart. A tiny hole in a wall is where the damn bursts.

I'm glad Plummer is a mobile QB and that our offense has a wide range of attacks but I want to start winning these games and leaving no doubt. I realize that is an impossible order in the age of parity but New England really sticks in my craw. They figured it out based on what WE ALREADY KNOW how come we can't dominate?

Q: Why can't Jake or Jay run the ball anymore for first down?
Q: Why can't our Special Teams stop anyone until they run 20 - 30 yards?
Q: Where did our run defense go?
Q: Why can't we have a defensive front as good as half the NFL?
Q: Now that our OL is game planned what now?

[Kaylore]

The next time when someone says the Broncos look like crap during the pre season can we all agree that there might be something to that?

I will say that more than any other team, the Broncos give you a taste of things to come based on their pre-season play...for better or for worse.

[Atlas]

Could someone rip apart the OL specifically?

Are they choking on passing downs? Is anyone missing his block, not coming off his block, making stupid penalties, making strong blocks or getting stuck on pulls.

How is House looking at guard?

Did Cooper improve or is he just the same?

How plain wrapper is the offense? Are they showing off anything?

I wish I could see the game guys. I love pre season just because you get to see your second tier guys actually try to show something.

This was th OLs worst performance I can remember. They looked old and over powered. Nalen, Carlise, and Foster could all be gone.

Personally I think Nalen will be back for one final season for the sole reason that 3 depatures fromt he OL would be too much of a cohesion problem.

T Lepsis
G Halmilton
C Nalen
G Kuper
T Pears

BKUP Meyers

Another one will need to be drafted for the practice squad next season.

[Kaylore]

This was th OLs worst performance I can remember. They looked old and over powered. Nalen, Carlise, and Foster could all be gone.

Personally I think Nalen will be back for one final season for the sole reason that 3 depatures fromt he OL would be too much of a cohesion problem.

T Lepsis
G Halmilton
C Nalen
G Kuper
T Pears

BKUP Meyers

Another one will need to be drafted for the practice squad next season.
That's probably it, though I wouldn't mind seeing...

T Lepsis
G Carlisle
C Hamilton
G Kuper
T Pears, Meadows, so rookie and or free agent.

[Atlas]

That's probably it, though I wouldn't mind seeing...

T Lepsis
G Carlisle
C Hamilton
G Kuper
T Pears, Meadows, so rookie and or free agent.

That would be the lineup if Nalen retires.

[dsmoot]

That's probably it, though I wouldn't mind seeing...

T Lepsis
G Carlisle
C Hamilton
G Kuper
T Pears, Meadows, so rookie and or free agent.

Thanks for resurrecting this thread. There were some ominous bad news come true statements made. The lineup above is scary for Jay and Mike Bell. We will be no better with this contingent!!!