Khan's Camp report 8/5 AM (possibly SoCal and Mediator later)

[Kaylore]

Hey guys. Just got back from running errands. We all had stuff to do right after camp. Mediator is spending time with his kids and SoCal is on an airplane so it'll just be me for now.

First news I'm sure you've already heard is that Gerrard Warren dislocated his toe. Al Wilson told me this right after practice. We saw him stuff a run and get buried under a pile and he started screaming. It wasn't his knee, thank goodness and if it is a dislocation he should be back in time for the season. Our run D was obviously worse without him in the game.

Rod and Hixon were the only guys out that I saw (including Nate Jackson), though Rod threw passes during route practices to the wide receivers. I tell you, Rod throws a nice ball. Very tight spiral. It was funny seeing him take snaps at QB.

It was a good practice and the last practice before the guys' day off tomorrow so they all went full steam and were really whacking each other around. I'm going to start with linebackers today because they really stood out and because I got a good look at them.

Oh, I did get to meet the real Coach Yoats (spelling?) from Remember the Titans. He coached Keith Burns in high school and was on the field today. It was crazy because he's a real down to earth funny guy and easy to talk to. He asked me "Who's that 87? He's pretty good!" So I told him about Kircus and how he worked at Subway. Anyway need little tidbit and there will likely be a story about it somewhere.

Up next - LB's

[Kaylore]

Linebackers - They all played very diciplined and were making plays all day long. They really filled their holes quickly and played mentally focused. People kept their assignments and hardly anyone had any runs today. A few fumbles and ints. The D is still doing a good job of trying to create turnovers and playing agressive.

DJ Williams: He made some nice plays and is starting to really catch on. Getting better at shedding blocks. He blew up a couple of runs in the backfield and isnt' getting lost in coverage. Needs to work on closing on the ball, but overall he played very aggresively.

Nate Webster: He blew some guys up today. The kid can play and they move him around quite a bit. He was getting some praise from his team. Really plays tough. He could start on another team.

Louis Green: Didn't see much from him today. It's not that he played poorly, he just didn't make any noise.

Al Wilson: Al dominated again. He was flying around the field and really blowing up the run. The run was not working like it usually does. Really impressed me. I usually ignore the pro-bowlers because I know they're good.

Ian Gold: Didn't see much of him though I did see Javon Walker do a great job of blocking him out of the play. That won't impress some of you, but I thought it was a great effort on Javon's part.

Next: RB's

[tnedator]

Al Wilson told me this right after practice.

That must be pretty cool to be so close that you are getting inside info from players. Do you know him, or does he just chat with the fans?

I read a quote in one of the CBS4 reports today, where Wilson made a crack about how nobody in Denver must work, because there were so many people at practice on Friday.

[Kaylore]

RB's

Cobbs: Cobbs was the surprise of the day. He was the only runner who really got anything done. He had some nice runs and made a few cutbacks. He completely obliterated Hamza Abdullah when he tried to tackle him straight on. Hamze fel backwards on his butt and Cobbs kept trucking. Part of it was they didn't play the first team D very much so the run defense wasn't as good against his unit (third team). Kenard Lang tackled him by his head with one arm flipped him over and after that he didn't run as hard.

Dayne: Dayne looked much better today. He seemed to play pretty hard and ran with some desire. I saw a couple runs where he gave a second effort that picked him up another yard. A little more burst through the whole too.

Tatum: Didn't have a great day. Repeatedly got owned behind the LOS and didn't move the pile. Again, the rush defense was phenominal today but he seemed to struggle against it more than any of the other backs. Kenard Lang absolutely destroyed him on one run and with only one arm (again), too.

Mike Bell: Looked very average. Still hit the hole the best, well there weren't any holes but he did run to the areas where the O-line got the deepest penetration. Was able to pound through but he didn't do much.

Nash: Played great. He's better than Marty Johnson was. Made some nifty moves and looked alright.

Next: D-line

[Kaylore]

That must be pretty cool to be so close that you are getting inside info from players. Do you know him, or does he just chat with the fans?

I read a quote in one of the CBS4 reports today, where Wilson made a crack about how nobody in Denver must work, because there were so many people at practice on Friday.
Yeah we got meet him and he talked to us right after practice for a few minutes. It was really cool. Said he was sore and looking forward to time off.

Practice was overflowing with people. I've never seen so many people there. They had to wrap them around one field there were so many. It was great to see that support.

[Kaylore]

D-Line: They played very well. This unit really made the backers look good but made some plays of their own.

Kenard Lang: Boy was he monster today. Not as great in the pass rush but really did some amazing things in the run game that I mentioned earlier. He's agressive and hard for people to stop when he's closing on the ball carrier. It was cool to see him come out.

Ekuban: Also made some nice tackles and got good preasure. More presure than I expected out of him.

Cory Jackson: This guy destroyed a play in the backfield. He did better in the run than I usually see him do. One of the most consistant guys when it comes to pass rush. I think he could be a good 6-8 sack guy for us. I'm amazed that he's so unexperienced and plays so well.

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Next: DB's

[-Slap-]

Nate Webster: He blew some guys up today. The kid can play and they move him around quite a bit. He was getting some praise from his team. Really plays tough. He could start on another team.
Webster was such a great signing. I'm glad to hear he's learning the outside spots, too. I wouldn't be surprised if he was the first LB off the bench if any of the starting trio went down to injury.

[Popps]

Cory Jackson: This good destroyed a play in the backfield. He did better in the run than I usually see him do. One of the most consistant guys when it comes to pass rush. I think he could be a good 6-8 sack guy for us. I'm amazed that he's so unexperienced and plays so well.

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Next: DB's


Keys to our season, right there.

PLEASE let this stuff translate to the regular season!!

[BossBruce]

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Next: DB's

With all the hype surrouding Cutler, Scheff and Marshall, Dumervil may prove to be our most impactful rookie this season - especially given our lack of depth at DT.

[Kaylore]

The DB's - Dare I say that our coverage is going to better this year than last year? Well in lieu of how we'd get beat sometimes, I suppose that's not a reach, but they are all starting to really play well together as a unit. They all looked good so here's the guys that stood out.

Bailey: Pick six. Shaded the inside of the receiver, read Plummer like a book and jumped the route taking it to the house. Great play. He had single coverage, but I still wouldn't throw to that man unless I absolutely had to. Played great in run support and Slowik never really talked to him about anything.

Lynch: Destroyed Darius Watts. He was running behind Darius on a slant and as soon as the pass hit Watts' hads Lynch laid him out and he dropped it. Played exceptional in the run game and was especially good in the redzone drills.

Hamza Abdullah: He was playing great, especially these last few practices and then he started getting blasted. He's 6-2 and 213 so it's not like he's small. Just seemed to struggle in some areas.

Cox: Palyed well in coverage and they rarely threw to his side. He did get beat for a TD when Jake Connected with Scheffler in the Red Zone.

Fox: He was playing left corner today and D-wil was the nickle back. Played great too. Broke up several plays and made some hard hits. I'm excited to see both these guys on the field with Champ this season.

D-Wil: Was relegated to nickle back for some of the snaps. Broke up a great pass and He made some nice plays in the rushing attack.

Paymah: He is great in man coverage. On one play he was running step-for-step down field on a go with Marshall. Marshall leaped into the air to try and snag it and Paymah went up with him and knocked it down. He was in the same situation later with Brian Clark except Clark made the catch. He's doing better in zone and had a sack on Plummer when they blitzed him.

Next: QB's

[tnedator]

the rush defense was phenominal today but he seemed to struggle against it more than any of the other backs. Kenard Lang absolutely destroyed him on one run and with only one arm (again), too.

...there weren't any holes but he did run to the areas where the O-line got the deepest penetration

Do you think this is a reflection on the O-line, or is the rush D just that good?

[cutman0122]

Just curious here, how does one dislocate a big toe in football and nothing else? What, was he wearing sandals out there?:ouwknow:

[Ballhawk]

D-Line: They played very well. This unit really made the backers look good but made some plays of their own.

Kenard Lang: Boy was he monster today. Not as great in the pass rush but really did some amazing things in the run game that I mentioned earlier. He's agressive and hard for people to stop when he's closing on the ball carrier. It was cool to see him come out.

Ekuban: Also made some nice tackles and got good preasure. More presure than I expected out of him.

Cory Jackson: This good destroyed a play in the backfield. He did better in the run than I usually see him do. One of the most consistant guys when it comes to pass rush. I think he could be a good 6-8 sack guy for us. I'm amazed that he's so unexperienced and plays so well.

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Next: DB's
Considering our Oline gave up only 15 sacks last year, this is very encouraging. Elvis may indeed be a steal and Cory, being very inexperienced, we really do not know this kids ceiling.

[Kaylore]

Webster was such a great signing. I'm glad to hear he's learning the outside spots, too. I wouldn't be surprised if he was the first LB off the bench if any of the starting trio went down to injury. I'm kind of surprised you like him. He's not a typical "Slap" linebacker. He's barely six feet tall. He is very thick, I think he weighs 237, but you always seem to favor enormous, man-beast linebackers.

Do you know him, or does he just chat with the fans? Ryan, a friend of Mediator's, knows him so he came and talked to us. The only guy I know personally on the squad is Gerrard Warren. He is good friends with my brother in-law.

[Steve Prefontaine]

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Where is Dumervil playing now? Is he still working on the 2nd team and on the 1st team nickel? Is he still primarily lining up at DT?

Thanks again for the great reports Kaylore!

[Donk]

The large turnout could be a by-product of our sideline reporters.
<FONT size=3><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comhttp://orangemane.com/BB/ /><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT> </P><P><FONT face=I know they have me excited and looking forward to the reports next week and the game Friday.
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Thanks you all.

[Kaylore]

QB's - Another so-so day. Guys were checking down a lot and they were having trouble finding guys open.

BVP: Looked so-so. He can't throw a fade route to save his life and he can't throw on the run very well. Not that terrific.

Cutler: He throws a beautiful fade. Did well overall but when his passes are off, they tend to be a little bit high. There were some where the receiver didn't make the effort but others were off kileter. He did run the ball in for a TD on a rollout when no one was open. Chukwurah was closing but got around the corner and scored. He's pretty fast.

Jake: Man, sometimes he is right on and other times his passes are off. I'm hoping it's the receivers on the intermediate stuff. He still doesn't really have any accuracy down field deep. I hope he'll keep working on that.

Parsons: He is a very solid Qb and has been IMO the most consistant of all four. Now he isn't that great, but he's been consistant and I hope he has a good preseason because he deserves to make a teams somewhere.

Rod Smith: Made some great passes. Throws a pretty ball and more accurate than you'd think. It was so funny seeing him out there but his motion is pretty good.

NEXT: Wideouts

[ro_50]

Thanks Kaylore for the great posts. We really appreciate them.

If Parsons does solid in the preseason games and BVP struggles, do you think he has a chance to stick over BVP?

[Ballhawk]

Thanks Kaylore for the great posts. We really appreciate them.

If Parsons does solid in the preseason games and BVP struggles, do you think he has a chance to stick over BVP?


I wouldn't mind. I do not think BVP has anyshot at the #2 spot, where the QB runs our offense. The #3 QB usually runs the opposing teams O to get ready for games. We do not need Cutler learning what other Os do but to learn ours. Parsons seems like a better guy to run opposition, more of a passer than BVP.

[RhymesayersDU]

Didn't Rod play QB a little bit in either HS or College? I coulda sworn I heard that or read that somewhere.

[Kaylore]

Wideouts: They played so-so. Coverage was good and most of them were hit at some point during the catch. The defense is still doing a great job of defending against the tight ends.

Kircus: He had another "Kircus: catch where he got flipped over when he was hit after the catch. Made some nice snags. He reminds me of Tim Dwight and could be a fun dynamic in our passing game.

Marshall: These last two days Marshall has made some mental errors. He'll make a couple of nice grabs and get some nice yards after the catch and then he'll drop one. He needs to focus. He is still running with the first team in Rod's absence.

Javon Walker: He is pro-bowl material for sure. Made a grab that Jake threw WAY behind him and he just reached bak and snagged it. He's hard to cover, too. Very physical and when he runs he wastes no motion. As I've said before he just makes it look effortless when he does it.

Terrell: Another solid, yet unremarkable day. I really think he'll be the number three. He doesn't make mental errors and catches the ball. Does he have any game breaking ability? No. He's unremarkable athletically, but reliable. Exactly the kind of guy Shanahan wants at number three.

Brian Clark: Get on the Brian Clark bandwagon (if you aren't already on the Kircus wagon). Made some tough grabs and is quite fast. He can catch the ball in traffic and not get killed. Playing his way up the chart. Played on the second team.

Watts: Drops. One was Lynch killing him, but the other was him not bringing it in and Roc tackled him enough to shake it loose. I don't have a lot of confidence in him being consistant enough to start.

Scheffler: Did better today. He made some very difficult catches and showed off his athleticism. He is a sacary threat in the Redzone. At 6'5", it's hard to out jump him - especially with his hads as good as they are.

Nate Jackson: He played ok. Would be a solid backup if he wasn't injured all year long.

Alexander: A drop and it wasn't one that you should drop. Alexander is hard-working, technically sound play that isn't very physically gifted.

Chad Mustard: Maybe the best blocking tight end we have. Really gets great push. You can see why the staff wanted to move him to tackle. He couldn't bring in a pass that he got killed on.

Next: Jason Elam

[ro_50]

Didn't Rod play QB a little bit in either HS or College? I coulda sworn I heard that or read that somewhere.

Yeah, Rod played QB at Missouri-Southern State (I think that's the name of the college he attended).

[RhymesayersDU]

Yeah, Rod played QB at Missouri-Southern State (I think that's the name of the college he attended).
Ah yes. Thanks.

[Ballhawk]

Chad Mustard: Maybe the best blocking tight end we have. Really gets great push. You can see why the staff wanted to move him to tackle. He couldn't bring in a pass that he got killed on.



We really could of used a guy like this in the AFCC. Needed a guy that could nuetralize a blitzing LB. If he can play STs at a high level Im all for keeping him over Nate, paticularly with our ability to run 3 wide this year.

[Kaylore]

Elam kicked some field goals and ran some trick plays where he lines up like he's going to kick it and then punts it. His punts weren't very good. Two touchbacks and two went out at the thirty-two yardline or so.

He made every field goal including one from 58 yards, though it didn't look like he was thrilled to be attempting it.

Overall stuff:

In move they ran two-minute drills at the end of practice and the defense stopped all three teams. BVP teams' got sacked, Jakes was stopped in the run game on fourth and Cutler completed a pass to Kircus but he was tackled two yards short of the first down marker on fourth down.

They are still working a ton of third down and redzone stuff. Hopefully it improves as well as the scoring and turnover work did last year.

Questions?

[Kaylore]

Thanks Kaylore for the great posts. We really appreciate them.

If Parsons does solid in the preseason games and BVP struggles, do you think he has a chance to stick over BVP? Well it would risk infuriating the entire population of Greely. Parsons doesn't have the fire that BVP does, but he is hands down a superior passer. We'll see, I guess.

[bpc]

That sucks about Warren. Being a 1 technique and playing like Warren and Sapp do, you need those little toes to burst out of your three point stance.

Don't they have another fat run stuffer on the wire right now? Grady Jackson, somebody? Maybe we can trade for Pat Williams. We'll give Ashley Lelie to Minnesota.

[DenverBrit]

Didn't Rod play QB a little bit in either HS or College? I coulda sworn I heard that or read that somewhere.

You are correct, and when the Broncos carry only two qbs, he is the third backup. Hopefully, that won't be happening this year.

[plummershelper]

We really could of used a guy like this in the AFCC. Needed a guy that could nuetralize a blitzing LB. If he can play STs at a high level Im all for keeping him over Nate, paticularly with our ability to run 3 wide this year.

I completely agree, seeing as how it doesn't sound like House is lighting it up on the OL. The White House needs to walk if he can't get healthy.

[MABroncoFan]

Thanks again for the reports!

Sounds as if there's enough talent that we might keep 6 WRs this year. Who would you say will have the hardest time making the team of the WRs?

[Kaylore]

Do you think this is a reflection on the O-line, or is the rush D just that good?
Our O-line and Jake's evasion ability had our sacks pretty low, but then we didn't get much preasure at all last year. Hopefully it's a result of a good pass rush, but we'll see. I'd feel more comfortable getting one killer defensive end, I think that would help the entire line play better.

[Ballhawk]

Khan, what in your opinion seems to be the top 2 area's of depth outside of LB (very strong it seems) and WR?

[Kaylore]

Where is Dumervil playing now? Is he still working on the 2nd team and on the 1st team nickel? Is he still primarily lining up at DT?

Thanks again for the great reports Kaylore!
Again, he has always been the second team defensive end and the first team nickle package defensive tackle. It's been that way all of camp.

[DenverBrit]

As always, thanks for the reports. Solid!!

[Kaylore]

Khan, what in your opinion seems to be the top 2 area's of depth outside of LB (very strong it seems) and WR?
Outside of linebacker and receiver? That's a tough one.

If you're just talking about number of players, it would be O-line, particulary the interior (center, guard) and maybe safety.

If you mean quality depth, they're all pretty average.

[BigPlayShay]

Didn't Rod play QB a little bit in either HS or College? I coulda sworn I heard that or read that somewhere.

He was a QB in High School, and then a couple of years at Missouri Southern before converting to a WR.

[tnedator]

Javon Walker: He is pro-bowl material for sure. Made a grab that Jake threw WAY behind him and he just reached bak and snagged it. He's hard to cover, too. Very physical and when he runs he wastes no motion. As I've said before he just makes it look effortless when he does it.


I didn't see much of Walker in Green Bay. How fast is he? Is he move of an over the middle/slant guy, or is he also a deep threat?

[freak6]

If Marshall is running with the 1st team, doesn't that make him #3 on the depth chart?

[Ballhawk]

Outside of linebacker and receiver? That's a tough one.

If you're just talking about number of players, it would be O-line, particulary the interior (center, guard) and maybe safety.

If you mean quality depth, they're all pretty average.

What about RB? You seem to like the new guy (seems Shanny could stash him on PS) and M Bell has been a nice surprise. Does it looks like Shanny would be happy going into the season with Dayne and Bells? It just seems that Denver has backed off pursuit of another RB, at least until live action possiblly exsposes someone.

[Sodak]

Thanks Kaylore!

[tnedator]

Our O-line and Jake's evasion ability had our sacks pretty low, but then we didn't get much preasure at all last year. Hopefully it's a result of a good pass rush, but we'll see. I'd feel more comfortable getting one killer defensive end, I think that would help the entire line play better.

How about the lack of running lanes/holes. It doesn't sound like our O-line is doing very well against our D-line. Do you think that our D-line is that good, or is our O-lline struggling in its own right?

[12th man]

Is Meadows starting to pick things up, or is he still pretty rusty?

[Kaylore]

How about the lack of running lanes/holes. It doesn't sound like our O-line is doing very well against our D-line. Do you think that our D-line is that good, or is our O-lline struggling in its own right?
The D-line and our linebackers played very diciplined today. The best way to explain it is that at the snap of the ball they flowed like water to their lane assignments and filled the holes. Coyer talked with them about it yesterday and it showed. They really played great. I know that it was just a great run defense today.

[Kaylore]

Is Meadows starting to pick things up, or is he still pretty rusty?
I didn't really see him today.

[elsid13]

I don't think it a good sign for BVP if Smith is taking snaps, like he did last year to be the emergency 3rd QB.

What line did M Bell run behind today?

[Kaylore]

I didn't see much of Walker in Green Bay. How fast is he? Is he move of an over the middle/slant guy, or is he also a deep threat?
Yes.

If Marshall is running with the 1st team, doesn't that make him #3 on the depth chart?
He and Watts took turns on the first team. Yes, I'd assume that means he's the number three, but last year it was between Watts and Rice all camp and then low and behold Charlie Adams was the guy. I don't doubt it will be more of the same.

I will say this though. Javon and Rod are the only receivers who weren't playing special teams. Every guy on the team is trying to earn a spot.

[Florida_Bronco]

Kaylore, which positions are you most and least comfortable with?

[Kaylore]

I don't think it a good sign for BVP if Smith is taking snaps, like he did last year to be the emergency 3rd QB.

What line did M Bell run behind today? I think Rod was helping out because his hammy was sore.

Mike Bell ran with the second team like normal.

Kaylore, which positions are you most and least comfortable with? Considering depth and whatnot...
In order of least to greatest comfort level -

D-line, Punter, offensive tackle, corner, safety, QB, offensive interior, kicker, receiver, running back, linebacker.

[freak6]

I hope Marshall is the # 3. The #3 recievers job is the move the chains on third and long. Marshall has good hands decent speed, and the body and atheticism to do exactly that. I think if he keeps his head he could be the steal of the draft. 2006 Draft was outstanding. And our best RB we picked up was undrafted! lol.

[tnedator]

Thanks for another great update. I have posted your report (along with a link back to this thread) over on Mania.

[elsid13]

Khan

The did you get the sense the fans out there today were the old school hard core group or are they jumping on the band wagon because of the success of last year's team. And you forgot Rascal turf report.

[Kaylore]

Khan

The did you get the sense the fans out there today were the old school hard core group or are they jumping on the band wagon because of the success of last year's team. And you forgot Rascal turf report. It's both. There is a mix. I didn't here any bandwagon comments looking for "Neil Smith" or "who is John Lents?" There is a mix. A lot of Cutler jerseys out there today.

Rascal's Turf Report:The sod was torn and bruised. A full week of two-a-days has taken it's toll. Sunflower seed shells litter the grass all around. Entire chunks of grass are missing in spots. Is there no end to the woe? Does Rascal spend his nights under his covers with pictures of the green from Augusta crying about what might have been? In the darkest of dark places hope emerges. The the team is off until Monday and a field crew will patch together the remaining emblems of the broken heart of a man named Rascal.

[watermock]

thanks for the report...how does Lelie look?

[Florida_Bronco]

thanks for the report...how does Lelie look?

I don't believe he's come to camp yet.

[baja]

I got a cab in Hilo (my bike broke) and the driver played DE for U of H and knows Ashlie and has followed his career closely. This guy says Lelie and the Broncos are a bad fit and some day lelie will be all pro. He went on and on about this kid. He says June Jones feels the same way too.

[cabronco]

Thanks for the reporting Khan. You do a great job, and so do the others from the Mane.
Lelie who ? ??? He looks..well invisible.

[Rascal]

Rascal's Turf Report:The sod was torn and bruised. A full week of two-a-days has taken it's toll. Sunflower seed shells litter the grass all around. Entire chunks of grass are missing in spots. Is there no end to the woe? Does Rascal spend his nights under his covers with pictures of the green from Augusta crying about what might have been? In the darkest of dark places hope emerges. The the team is off until Monday and a field crew will patch together the remaining emblems of the broken heart of a man named Rascal.

I haven't sleeped since camp started.

[Mediator12]

I wish the word "drop" would not be used so much. It is very misleading around here. Drops are plays where the WR had no interference, the ball was there, he got two hands on it, and it hits the ground. It is very different from pass breakups, making great catches on poorly thrown balls, or has to make the catch in heavy traffic. IMHO the term "Drops" is really abused on the mane.

Case in point: The play where Darius got leveled by Lynch was NOT a drop. Lynch destroyed him as the ball arrived and Darius never had the ball under control. It would have been a spectacular catch, not a drop. That ball should never have been thrown as it had Deflected TO written all over it.


Another Camp Point that is missed if you do not know what you are looking for: Some of these Red Zone completions are really sacks, but the QB's are not allowed to be touched and must finish the play. Case in point: Cutler's two red Zone Scramble TD's the last two days were REALLY sacks. He had so much space because the DL had already done their work.

The same thing happens on some of the long runs. The RB has to finish the play and occasionally has been spared getting blown up at the LOS and POA. Not today though! Nate Webster layed the wood three times this morning ;D

[bcbronc]

how many LBs do you think shanny will keep? it sounds like every one of them is having a good camp. with webster playing so well, and apparently getting time at all spots, do you think we'll keep less backers to maybe keep an extra OL, CB, or WR? and how big a difference would you expect if webster was filling in for an injured starter?

also, from what you have seen so far, are you expecting the same starting 5 at oline as last year? if someone told you there will definately be one change, who would you think it would be?

[Florida_Bronco]

I wish the word "drop" would not be used so much. It is very misleading around here. Drops are plays where the WR had no interference, the ball was there, he got two hands on it, and it hits the ground. It is very different from pass breakups, making great catches on poorly thrown balls, or has to make the catch in heavy traffic. IMHO the term "Drops" is really abused on the mane.

Case in point: The play where Darius got leveled by Lynch was NOT a drop. Lynch destroyed him as the ball arrived and Darius never had the ball under control. It would have been a spectacular catch, not a drop. That ball should never have been thrown as it had Deflected TO written all over it.


Another Camp Point that is missed if you do not know what you are looking for: Some of these Red Zone completions are really sacks, but the QB's are not allowed to be touched and must finish the play. Case in point: Cutler's two red Zone Scramble TD's the last two days were REALLY sacks. He had so much space because the DL had already done their work.

The same thing happens on some of the long runs. The RB has to finish the play and occasionally has been spared getting blown up at the LOS and POA. Not today though! Nate Webster layed the wood three times this morning ;D

Thanks for clearing that up Med!

[Kaylore]

I wish the word "drop" would not be used so much. It is very misleading around here. Drops are plays where the WR had no interference, the ball was there, he got two hands on it, and it hits the ground. It is very different from pass breakups, making great catches on poorly thrown balls, or has to make the catch in heavy traffic. IMHO the term "Drops" is really abused on the mane.

Case in point: The play where Darius got leveled by Lynch was NOT a drop. Lynch destroyed him as the ball arrived and Darius never had the ball under control. It would have been a spectacular catch, not a drop. That ball should never have been thrown as it had Deflected TO written all over it.


Another Camp Point that is missed if you do not know what you are looking for: Some of these Red Zone completions are really sacks, but the QB's are not allowed to be touched and must finish the play. Case in point: Cutler's two red Zone Scramble TD's the last two days were REALLY sacks. He had so much space because the DL had already done their work.

The same thing happens on some of the long runs. The RB has to finish the play and occasionally has been spared getting blown up at the LOS and POA. Not today though! Nate Webster layed the wood three times this morning ;D Yes this is true. A lot of times people see the QB throw a great pass to someone but don't realize that he was already sacked. The sack Paymah got off the edge I think was a completed pass but only after Paymah jogged past the QB.

However, while I can't speak for yesterday, the two scrambles Cutler had today were legit TDs. SoCal and I saw Kuper Blow up Ekuban right before he got to Cutler on that Redzone drill and Cutler sauntered in. The other was that roll out where he snuck around the edge past predator into the corner. Zeebras even agreed. ;D

[Hulamau]

Elam kicked some field goals and ran some trick plays where he lines up like he's going to kick it and then punts it. His punts weren't very good. Two touchbacks and two went out at the thirty-two yardline or so.

He made every field goal including one from 58 yards, though it didn't look like he was thrilled to be attempting it.

Overall stuff:

In move they ran two-minute drills at the end of practice and the defense stopped all three teams. BVP teams' got sacked, Jakes was stopped in the run game on fourth and Cutler completed a pass to Kircus but he was tackled two yards short of the first down marker on fourth down.

They are still working a ton of third down and redzone stuff. Hopefully it improves as well as the scoring and turnover work did last year.

Questions?


Great report Kaylore, but don't be telling the world about Elam trick plays! We dont want the Queefs or Fade to be looking for a punt everytime he lines up for a FG... although perhaps on second thought that might not be a bad outcome either ! :-)

[Mediator12]

D-Line: They played very well. This unit really made the backers look good but made some plays of their own.

Kenard Lang: Boy was he monster today. Not as great in the pass rush but really did some amazing things in the run game that I mentioned earlier. He's agressive and hard for people to stop when he's closing on the ball carrier. It was cool to see him come out.

Ekuban: Also made some nice tackles and got good preasure. More presure than I expected out of him.

Cory Jackson: This guy destroyed a play in the backfield. He did better in the run than I usually see him do. One of the most consistant guys when it comes to pass rush. I think he could be a good 6-8 sack guy for us. I'm amazed that he's so unexperienced and plays so well.

Dumervil: Was in the backfield most of the time. The kid has skills and is quick. Really was key to the run D being so dominat and forced some sacks.

Next: DB's

More things I saw from the DL:

Kenard was the man today. BTW, he was playing LDE as well.

Demetrin Veal- looked real good replacing Warren in pass rush and the running game. He is getting better at reading the OL and making plays inside.

Mike Myers-Good on running plays, but gets stuffed in pass rush.

Ekuban-playing DT in the nickel and tore it up today! Had a few sacks in the two minute drills.

Engleberger- not a great Talent, but works real hard. Now playing LDE with Courtney Brown sitting out and is much better stopping the run and sealing the edge than I expected.

Amon Gordon-is going to get extended reps with Warren and Burton out with Injuries. Burton was showing the ability to plug the Middle befoe he got hurt. Most of the blown inside plays were him and Brian Save.

Chukwurah-RDE pass rush Specialist. Had a few sacks in the red zone and one that was mysteriously not called in the two minute drills ;) He is definitely giving the LT's a speed rush as I have yet to see him perform any other move. I think he is getting better and we may actually see an improved Base Nickel rush from our DL with Him, Jackson, Ekuban, and Dumervil.

Dumervil-Just has that innate ability to make the OL not be able to lock him up. Whether he comes from DT or DE, he gets penetration way more often than not. He has shown the rare ability to make plays in the backfield on running plays too. I really like what I have sen from the kid. He has the ability to become a contributor right now.

[Killericon]

Terrell: Another solid, yet unremarkable day. I really think he'll be the number three.

That's what I like to hear.

[Kaylore]

Hoping SoCal shows up soon...

[plummershelper]

Great report Med, good to hear some stuff about guys that aren't always big in the reports. Hopefully Gordon can make some noise, we need that DT depth.

[16-JakE-16]

I haven't had much of a chance to keep up with all the training camps but since when is Cecil Sapp taking Kyle Johnson's reps with the first team??? Could it be possible for Sapp to take the starting spot?

[Kaylore]

I haven't had much of a chance to keep up with all the training camps but since when is Cecil Sapp taking Kyle Johnson's reps with the first team??? Could it be possible for Sapp to take the starting spot?
Sapp has been the first team fullback since OTA's.

[Al Wilson]

Sapp has been the first team fullback since OTA's.
I like Sapp. He plays hard and great on ST. However, I feel bad for KJ; dude definitely has great hands for a FB.

[SoCalBronco]

Just got back home from the airport. Will be posting my report in a half hour or so to supplement Khan and Med's great reports.

[Kaylore]

Just got back home from the airport. Will be posting my report in a half hour or so to supplement Khan's great report.
Excellent. Man, it's going to suck without you and Med.

[SoCalBronco]

Excellent. Man, it's going to suck without you and Med.

Yeah I am going to miss it. I really enjoyed meeting with you and Med.

[wabbit]

I know everyone here seems to dismiss him, but I'm really rooting for John Engleberger.

He does have a motor & if they could somehow work into a Simon Fletcher-type role, I think his playmaking ability would improve exponentially.

Then again, that's not going to happen & it looks like he may struggle to make the team.

Rats.

[Man-Goblin]

I know everyone here seems to dismiss him, but I'm really rooting for John Engleberger.

He does have a motor & if they could somehow work into a Simon Fletcher-type role, I think his playmaking ability would improve exponentially.

Then again, that's not going to happen & it looks like he may struggle to make the team.

Rats.

Loved Fletcher and I like Engleberger's game as well. Like Fletcher (who played in a 3-4 for much of his career if I remember right; I was young) he seems more suited for a 3-4 linebacker. Makes me wonder why the Niners traded him since that is their scheme. My opinion, at least.

[Crushaholic]

Dumervil-Just has that innate ability to make the OL not be able to lock him up. Whether he comes from DT or DE, he gets penetration way more often than not. He has shown the rare ability to make plays in the backfield on running plays too. I really like what I have sen from the kid. He has the ability to become a contributor right now.

That's great to read. I was disappointed we didn't go after D-line early, but we MAY have found a gem in Dumervil...:thumbs:

[wabbit]

Loved Fletcher and I like Engleberger's game as well. Like Fletcher (who played in a 3-4 for much of his career if I remember right; I was young) he seems more suited for a 3-4 linebacker. Makes me wonder why the Niners traded him since that is their scheme. My opinion, at least.

Yeah, I agree. That's why I used the Fletcher example.

Denver sometimes drops these behemoth linemen into coverage...I'm betting he'd perform especially well in that role.

..but that's just me I guess.

[Dos Rios]

Considering depth and whatnot...
In order of least to greatest comfort level -

D-line, Punter, offensive tackle, corner, safety, QB, offensive interior, kicker, receiver, running back, linebacker.

This is really interesting, Kaylore. A couple surprises in your list:

1. Why so low on CB? Our best player is there and we've got two blossoming young players. Are you worried about depth with the history of injuries here? Paymah and Alexander don't seem to have progressed enough in zone from your reports. I'm actually surprised to hear how poorly Middlebrooks has done. I thought he might be good cb/safety depth with strong special teams play.

2. Why so high on WR and RB? Smith and Walker should be tremendous starters, but do you feel confident that the emergence of a #3 and #4 is more than the typical Bronco training camp mirage? RB scares me more, even though recent history proves otherwise. Is it the emergence of Mike Bell that has you excited or the development of Tatum?

3. Not a question, but just want to say I'm very excited about the future of interior OL. Great to hear Kuper's level right now and Myer's development. A little more concerned about the tackles. I think the Meadows signing speaks not only of concerns about Foster, but also lack of faith in Green and the young prospects (Pears, et al, whom I don't remember showing up in your reports at all).

Thanks for the tremendous reports.

[Kaylore]

This is really interesting, Kaylore. A couple surprises in your list:

1. Why so low on CB? Our best player is there and we've got two blossoming young players. Are you worried about depth with the history of injuries here? Paymah and Alexander don't seem to have progressed enough in zone from your reports. I'm actually surprised to hear how poorly Middlebrooks has done. I thought he might be good cb/safety depth with strong special teams play.

2. Why so high on WR and RB? Smith and Walker should be tremendous starters, but do you feel confident that the emergence of a #3 and #4 is more than the typical Bronco training camp mirage? RB scares me more, even though recent history proves otherwise. Is it the emergence of Mike Bell that has you excited or the development of Tatum?

3. Not a question, but just want to say I'm very excited about the future of interior OL. Great to hear Kuper's level right now and Myer's development. A little more concerned about the tackles. I think the Meadows signing speaks not only of concerns about Foster, but also lack of faith in Green and the young prospects (Pears, et al, whom I don't remember showing up in your reports at all).

Thanks for the tremendous reports.
1. My list includes depth. After the nickle spot, the quality drops off significantly. Also, while Fox and nique are coming along very well, they still make some mistakes. If this was their third year I'd feel better but it would be nice if we had a veteran number two guy.

2. We are so deep at wideout, and this is without Ashley Lelie. A lot of young guys are stepping up and the vets we have in are playing well too. Much better group than last year. As for RB, Mike Bell is a factor but the fact is they are all starting to play very well. Even Cobbs had a decent day yesterday. They are also young and fresh. Couple that with the our history of finding guys at the position and it is the least of my worries.

3. Yes, I too am excited about our O-line prospects. We need some help at tackle, but it's nice to know that by the time someone like Nalen retires we're going to have someone we can plug in that is groomed and ready to play.

[Requiem]

Marshall: These last two days Marshall has made some mental errors. He'll make a couple of nice grabs and get some nice yards after the catch and then he'll drop one. He needs to focus. He is still running with the first team in Rod's absence.

Brian Clark: Get on the Brian Clark bandwagon (if you aren't already on the Kircus wagon). Made some tough grabs and is quite fast. He can catch the ball in traffic and not get killed. Playing his way up the chart. Played on the second team.

Nice to hear that Marshall is getting reps with the first team with Rod being out, that's always good experience. Also, it's nice to know that Clark (who I started talking about after we signed him) is doing well. I don't think he makes the active roster though, PS probably. If he made the active roster, that'd be sweet though.

[azbroncfan]

Any word on Pears NFLE stud???

[bpc]

Socal, did you post your thoughts yet? I'm just wondering...

[SoCalBronco]

Socal, did you post your thoughts yet? I'm just wondering...

Not yet. I was going to post them last night but I was a little tired. I will be posting them pretty soon.

[Mediator12]

Any word on Pears NFLE stud???

Pears had some cleanup surgery earlier this week and will not be back until late next week I believe.

[Kaylore]

Not yet. I was going to post them last night but I was a little tired. I will be posting them pretty soon.
"Pretty soon" means tomorrow.:~ohyah!:

[SoCalBronco]

Socal, did you post your thoughts yet? I'm just wondering...

Ok, here you go. It is pretty late, but here you go. Instead of just summarizing and pointing out generally how each position/player did with some play examples, I will just give you the straight up notes exactly how it is in the book this time, from the start of the practice till the end. I usually jotted down about a line or two for each play.

Saturday A.M.- Scrimmage

- Dayne ran right into the back of a lineman.
- D-Will blew up a Tatum run.
- Dayne ran right into Warren who got good penetration, gain of nothing.
- M. Bell gain of about 3, Fox with tackle, nice run support coming down from secondary.
- Cobbs, nice cut and reak, broke through whole defense for large gain. Coaches whistled it dead after he got through the front seven.
- Cameron Vaughn exploded through line, TFL on M. Bell. Backup OL sucks.
- Tatum good job of finding creases got through front seven, coachese whistled it dead.
- Nice cutback by Dayne, Hamilton makes good hole for him (Khan's observation).
- Nice run by Bell, gain of 4.
- Good job Corey Jackson of crashing down line, stopping M. Bell, gain of around 1.
- Good job Cobbs on outside run, gain of 5.
- Dayne on outside run, Lynch filled alley quickly, delivered nice pop.
-Gold got Tatum for gain of 2.
- Dayne nice job of getting to corner, gain of 10.
- All 3 LBs got to Dayne in backfield.
- M. Bell gain of 4,5, nice hole.
- Counter Pull, minimal gain by M. Bell. By time blockers got there, D did as well.
- Cobbs gain of 6, tackle by Veal.
- Cobbs nice speed to flat, 10-12 gain.
- Overpursuit by backers, Dayne cutback for big play.
- Decent run by Tatum.
- M.Myers TFL on Dayne.
- Tatum gets 2.
- M. Bell stuffed. Veal there again.
- Cobbs stuffed.
-Cobbs nice run, Mustard owned someone.
- Everett blew Nash up.

Team moved to work on FIELD GOALS

- Elam- 40 yds- 2i na row good.
- Elam talking to Cutler about his hold.
- FG of 58 is good.

[SoCalBronco]

SHORT YARDAGE WORK, coaches used cones to create confined area in middle of field.

- BVP rollout, chased by Ekuban, got it to KJ in flat.
- DJ blew up run in backfield, TFL on M. Bell.
- Burns playing real physical, nice stuff.
- Warren injured, looks like ankle.
- Run stuffed.
- M. Bell stuffed by Lynch, Engelberger.
- Tatum stuffed, holding call.
- Inside run stuffed, didnt see the back.
- Nate huge TFL, forced fumble too. Destroyed Tatum.
- L. Green stuffed dayne.
- Cobbs forced his way through the line.

Regular Field Zone Drills

- Toss to Bell, nice job getting to corner, good block by Watts.
- Jake Deep In to Terrell over Roc.
- BVP threw behind Watts, Roc hit him and dislodged the ball.
- Scheffler catches flat route.
- KP broke up deep ball to Marshall.
- Deep comeback to Kircus over CC.
- Cutler nice throw to Scheffler on hot, covered well by Hamza.
- M. Bell nice outside run, 7,8 yds.

[Bronco Billy]

As always, thanks for the notes. Sounds like you guys had a blast.

[SureShot]

Cutler holding? Hmmmm, interesting. Sounds like he could actually use his helmet this year.

[SoCalBronco]

- Powers-Neal nice block, ok run for Cobbs vs. 3rd team.
- L. Green good speed to flat to stop Nash for gain of 3.
- Cutler nice slant perfect to Kircus in between defenders, good accuracy and hard throw.
- Cobbs sweet run, ran over Hamza, kocked him to the ground. Hamza looks a little shaken.
- Stick route to Devoe, Burns FF.
- Kircus on drag from Parsons.
- Real nice run by Nash vs. 1st team, darting back and forth.

RED ZONE

- DJ nice speed to flat to stop Sapp.
- Jake nice seam to Scheffler in endzone.
- Jake throws curl to Walker, Champ INT.
- BVP inaccurate fade.
- Marshall with a drop.
- Jake nice Dig to Walker on Drag/Square In stretch of LBs.
- Cutler- short pass to Cobbs.
- Marshall dropped nice quick out from Cutler.
- Jake waited too long, thre late ball to Watts, who got smacked by Lynch. Incomplete.
- Jake nice corner route to SA.
- Walker nice catch.
- Nice tackle and coverage by Willie, didnt see WR.
- Sack by lang on BVP, got in there too easy.
- Al knocked it away from Walker in endzone.
- Nice drag to Walker, nice blocking Hamilton.
- Another drop by Marshall.
- Nice catch on sideline by Terrell with defender on him.
- Cutler complete to Scheffler on drag.
- Nice scrambling by Cutler from 20 to the 5. Chris Kuper nailed M. Myers before he was able to tag Cutler.
- Dayne nice run through hole.
- Jake short to Walker, slant.
- KP nice burst on corner blitz.
- Hamza breakup of pass on sideline after pocket breaks down and QB scrambles.
- M. Bell good acceleration through alley.
- Jake very inaccurate, ball out of bounds on sideline route.
- Sack by Predator, play continued, nice catch by Walker.
- Cutler nice deep ball, Clark leapt over KP for catch.
- Lang brought down Cobbs with one arm.
- OK run by M. Bell.
- Body catch by Watts.
- Lang gets through knocks down M. Bell.
- Nice cutback M. Bell.
- Nate blew up Charlie Adams.
- Elvis good penetration vs. run.
- Fox defelcted slant away from Kircus.
- Nice catch on Deep in by Kircus.
- Nice pressure on blitz by Lynch.
- Nice catch by Scheff in traffic, on four verticals combination.
- Nice close KP on walker hitch.
- Jake to Walker on slant, pass a little behind.
- Cutler very inaccurate on seam.
- CC nice breakup.
- CC another breakup on sideline, almost INT on Cutler throw.
- Falling catch by Clark.
- Cutler too high on slant.

[Dagmar]

Cheers for that SoCal.

[daniel80111]

Hey guys,

I'm new to this board and I appreciate the in-depth training camp reports that you guys post so that people that can't be there can still be in the thick of what's going on. I'm an assistant college football coach but the Broncos are my favorite pro team and I've been following them for quite a while now. Anyways, fall camp and 2 a days will keep me busy for the next month or so. It's nice having a couple minutes at night to keep up with the Broncos' progress. Just wanted to say hi and introduce myself. Take care.

Daniel

[SureShot]

Welcome