Should Mike Bell be our starter over Tatum?

[Sassy]

Was on fire today...should he be our starting runningback over Tatum?

http://sports-att.espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=261029007

M. Bell 15 136 9.1 2 48

[2KBack]

the shocking part is that 135 yards came in the second half, Mike blew up.

I don't think he can be a workhorse though, at least not yet. He was huffing and puffing on the sidelines a lot and he only got 15 carries.

Of course that could be because he ran like 10-20 yards every touch.

[orange crusher]

He certainly made a strong case today. As much as a lot of people hate it, we might see more of a rotation once again.

[theAPAOps5]

No I don't think he gets the call after one stellar half. Albeit that was some darn good running, brought back some good memeories.

I think it just means that MBell is progressing and TBell had a bad day. TBell has earned the right to a bad game.

[SoCalBronco]

That was the Mike Bell from camp that I was waiting to see re-emerge. He's got power and great vision on the cutbacks. Can also make defenders miss and hits the holes very fast. He also had at least one absolutely outstanding block in pass protection. I really think the power and vision though really make him a better fit for this offense than Tatum. Tatum is very fast, but even this year when he has stepped up his game, he still dances too much at the line and finds a way to trip up or fall over too often. His vision, while improved, is still inferior to that of Mike Bell. I like Mike's consistency...you want that back who can be a jackhammer for you and get you 4-6 consistently, rather than the 2,2,20,3 type.

[Sassy]

Doesn't Tatum have a hurt toe???

[Jetmeck]

He best get some touchs next week, he was a bad ass mofo with an attitude today. The defense could have used some of his attitude today.

[spdirty]

I hope we go back to a RBBC. I think Tatum is better as a change of pace back, no matter how much he would deny it. Worked fine last year.

I know people hate it but it worked last year and it will work this year.

[Iowanian]

This isn't even up for debate. I've recently been told that Taintum fumBell is the most bestest back in the NFL.....and Larry Johnson sucks.

[55CrushEm]

That was the Mike Bell from camp that I was waiting to see re-emerge. He's got power and great vision on the cutbacks. Can also make defenders miss and hits the holes very fast. He also had at least one absolutely outstanding block in pass protection. I really think the power and vision though really make him a better fit for this offense than Tatum. Tatum is very fast, but even this year when he has stepped up his game, he still dances too much at the line and finds a way to trip up or fall over too often. His vision, while improved, is still inferior to that of Mike Bell. I like Mike's consistency...you want that back who can be a jackhammer for you and get you 4-6 consistently, rather than the 2,2,20,3 type.

GREAT post, SoCal.....every point in here is exactly right.

[2KBack]

it's important not to forget how good tatum has played so far this year. Something wasn't right with him today, it was painfully obvious. I don't know if he was banged up or what, but he certainly didn't seem to have it today. He wasn't himself.

Still, the rush offense sure looked explosive with Mike Bell in there. I started to get very comfortable with Mike in the backfield.

[Jetmeck]

This isn't even up for debate. I've recently been told that Taintum fumBell is the most bestest back in the NFL.....and Larry Johnson sucks.

You should listen better, what you misunderstood was:

IDIOT TROLLS who post crap like this on an opponents board because their jealous of that teams history and super bowl titles SUCK.

[Iowanian]

You're one of the guys with Taintum Glue on your mug, jet.

Don't try to claim its from a Krisply Kreme now.

You also have no idea what a Troll actually is.

[Jens1893]

its a bit of a shame the running game only started working in the 2nd half ... we ran all over them

[Jetmeck]

That was the Mike Bell from camp that I was waiting to see re-emerge. He's got power and great vision on the cutbacks. Can also make defenders miss and hits the holes very fast. He also had at least one absolutely outstanding block in pass protection. I really think the power and vision though really make him a better fit for this offense than Tatum. Tatum is very fast, but even this year when he has stepped up his game, he still dances too much at the line and finds a way to trip up or fall over too often. His vision, while improved, is still inferior to that of Mike Bell. I like Mike's consistency...you want that back who can be a jackhammer for you and get you 4-6 consistently, rather than the 2,2,20,3 type.

Exactly right. We haven't seen any of the long ones from TATUM although he has been much more consistent except today. Mike was a stud today.

[theAPAOps5]

Ok I like MBell and I like TBell but how much of this explosion was due to Indy's D vs. the run or lack there of. Put MBell in next week and see what he does to Polamalulalelus (I have no clue how to spell it so I will him hair lightning). Run agains Hair Lightning and that D and show his stuff and then maybe start the debate.

[Kaylore]

Doesn't Tatum have a hurt toe???

He does. His only problem has been that durability where he gets nicked up. I can definitely see SoCal's point except that Tatum has that home run element that Mike lacks. I think both are good because it lets us go with who has the hot hand.:)

Mike was great and we should thank him for putting the offense on his back and giving us a chance to win.

[2KBack]

oh yeah, and the move he put on the Safety during that 48 yarder was sick.

oh yeah, and after the penalty that put us in a 2 and 16 when he ran for 15.

oh yeah, and his first carry of the second half when he ran into nick harper so hard harper had to take himself out.

there was also one run that I swear he made 4 cuts during a medium run, his vision in that hole was uncanny.

I still think Tatum should start, but I also think Mike is a beast in training.

[theAPAOps5]

Has Tatum lost some of that Home Run threat? HE hasn't popped of a big one like last year and there were a few plays this year where the last LB or S caught him just as he was running towards daylight. Has bulking up and training for the grind taken away from his talent? Also I think MBell has homerun threat, just barely over the fence off the Center Fielders glove type but its still there. Heck he took a classic counter for 46.

[2KBack]

He does. His only problem has been that durability where he gets nicked up. I can definitely see SoCal's point except that Tatum has that home run element that Mike lacks. I think both are good because it lets us go with who has the hot hand.:)

Mike was great and we should thank him for putting the offense on his back and giving us a chance to win.

Tatum hasn't shown that homerun ability this season, I don't know if thats the side effect of him trying to get tougher in his runs, or the offensive make-up, but Mike Bell has been breaking more long ones and in far fewer carries.

[55CrushEm]

oh yeah, and the move he put on the Safety during that 48 yarder was sick.

oh yeah, and after the penalty that put us in a 2 and 16 when he ran for 15.

oh yeah, and his first carry of the second half when he ran into nick harper so hard harper had to take himself out.

there was also one run that I swear he made 4 cuts during a medium run, his vision in that hole was uncanny.

I still think Tatum should start, but I also think Mike is a beast in training.

You just laid out every reason that Mike should start....but you say you think Ain'tum should start.

Vision, vision, vision.....Mike's got it.....Tatum doesn't. Mike was so shifty it was beautiful.....Tatum continues to run into the backs of his O-line....

[Popps]

Don't know if he should be the starter, but he's sure showing more pop than Tatum after contact. (And I'm a Tatum fan.)

Great problem to have. Congrats on a phenomenal game, Mike!

[epicSocialism4tw]

My boy came up big today. Mike Bell runs with purpose.

He wants to be a Bronco. Badly.

Bell can lower his head and put a pop on the safeties, and he explodes through the hole.

A Bronco back needs to explode through the hole. 2nd and 4, 5, or 6 are the downs that make this offense click.

[Killericon]

No. Tatum has been pwning every other week.

[elsid13]

Mike Bell had a great game. Two things happen with today- 1 he was relaxed and caught to speed of the NFL. 2 he playing like he did at AU.

I really think that he will be the NEXT health OG for team.

[No1BroncoFan]

You're one of the guys with Taintum Glue on your mug, jet.

Don't try to claim its from a Krisply Kreme now.
Personall attack. Quite a typical showing from you.


You also have no idea what a Troll actually is.
He got you pegged!

Ben

[Man-Goblin]

Chalk one up for Dong.

[youcandoit1687]

"I can't take any credit for it," Bell said of his performance. "The offensive line did a great job and Jake (Plummer) did a great job with the play-action. It was really exciting. I came in with a chip on my shoulder and was thankful for the opportunity. This is a team effort on offense, though; we work as a unit."

hes a great guy no doubt. as for the RBBC talk, i think that is sort of waht we will do but i think it will be whoever emerges with the hot hand. they both can run through people and both can burst long ones. theyre just a little different in how they do it, tatum gets people on their heels and then runs over em, mike bulls through. tatum breaks long runs with extremely fast cuts in the open field followed by extreme outside speed while mike has great vision and finds his blockers downfield.

just go with the hot hand and dont forget about cecil sapp and plummer on the naked boot.

[2KBack]

plummer showed some nifty cuts on that designed run himself

[epicSocialism4tw]

plummer showed some nifty cuts on that designed run himself

Jake had an excellent game.

[Jetmeck]

You're one of the guys with Taintum Glue on your mug, jet.

Don't try to claim its from a Krisply Kreme now.

You also have no idea what a Troll actually is.

I read somewhere that people who bring up the gay thing out of the blue are the ones who are INSECURE in the manhood. :welcome:

[shakenbake]

I'm not a big fan of Tatum. I just don't think his style fits Denver's system. M-Bell's running opened up everything on Offense. He should start from here on out. Tatum is a good change of pace, M-Bell is an everydown back.

[theAPAOps5]

I'm not a big fan of Tatum. I just don't think his style fits Denver's system. M-Bell's running opened up everything on Offense. He should start from here on out. Tatum is a good change of pace, M-Bell is an everydown back.

Whoa there! Tatum had a bad game, Mike exploited a horrid run defense. Mike got the confidence back. Build on it and if he is consistent then pull the trigger on a switch. Until then keep Tatum and let him have the respect he has earned this year.

[Wes Mantooth]

Mike needs to start here on out. No way he should be kept on the bench in favor of Tatum. That guy was the only reason why we were in the game today.

[SprintRightOption]

Mike Bell looked great today, but he didn't exactly look great in limited action the last week (10 for 25) or in Week 2 (13 for 44). I'd like to see him against a better rush D before giving him the starting job. We saw how tatum looked against good ones in NE and Balt.

[SprintRightOption]

Short Attention Span. Last week everyone was huge on Tatum. One game later, and Mike should be starting and Bell can't do it as an everydown back. If Kircus has a good game next week, Rod should be benched, right? :giggle:

[theAPAOps5]

What was weird was we also saw how Tatum was against a horrid one as well. Today he missed holes, he slipped, he fell after the first hit. He just didn't run with a purpose. I was really excited to see Tater today and he looked off.

[2KBack]

Short Attention Span. Last week everyone was huge on Tatum. One game later, and Mike should be starting and Bell can't do it as an everydown back. If Kircus has a good game next week, Rod should be benched, right? :giggle:

I still think Tatum chould start next week, but don't trivialize what Mike did today. Mike had 135 yards and 2 TD's in one half, that would make a great game, when was the last time we had a guy do that in 2 quarters. It's not like indy thought Jake was the threat either. This was a special performance, it's too bad we didn't get the win out of it.

[WABronco]

Mike looked great today, no doubt.

Cecil Sapp looked like a freakin' bowling ball though...perhaps he should be considered for some extra carries?

[Florida_Bronco]

I don't want to go and get too excited about Mike's performance, even with as good as he did. We've been riding Tatum pretty much all season, and Mike got to come in there fresh against a not so great defense. He played great, but I don't think that alone will (or should) allow him to take the starting spot yet.

[BroncoSoja]

Doesn't Tatum have a hurt toe???

If not I'm sure we could all chip in and pay to get someone to drop a hammer on it or something...

Mike Bell ran hard as hell today, he powered over people, ran through others, ran around some, and danced the rest of the way... He looked like a baby TD out there.

Start that kid!

[Florida_Bronco]

If not I'm sure we could all chip in and pay to get someone to drop a hammer on it or something...

Mike Bell ran hard as hell today, he powered over people, ran through others, ran around some, and danced the rest of the way... He looked like a baby TD out there.

Start that kid!

This post isn't even worth ripping apart. :notthissh

[BroncoSoja]

Short Attention Span. Last week everyone was huge on Tatum. One game later, and Mike should be starting and Bell can't do it as an everydown back. If Kircus has a good game next week, Rod should be benched, right? :giggle:

Yup no doubt and hell if Champ lets another reciever catch one more ball this season he should be BENCHED!.....

[Florida_Bronco]

Short Attention Span. Last week everyone was huge on Tatum. One game later, and Mike should be starting and Bell can't do it as an everydown back. If Kircus has a good game next week, Rod should be benched, right? :giggle:

Such is the way around here with alot people. That "grass is greener on the other side" is usually in full effect.

[Sassy]

Who changed my thread title? I never said Mike should be the starter...change it back.!!! That sucks. I hate when people try to put words in my mouth.

[Vegas_Bronco]

I think any back could have done well today, the Oline did a great job and deserves some accalades - just tell me why we can't get a first down when we need it soooooooooo badly? What is it? Who is it? and why didn't we just keep running the ball when Bell was soooo productive?

[Florida_Bronco]

I think any back could have done well today, the Oline did a great job and deserves some accalades - just tell me why we can't get a first down when we need it soooooooooo badly? What is it? Who is it? and why didn't we just keep running the ball when Bell was soooo productive?

I would like to know why both Bell's fell down at the line on consecutive plays.

[Play2win]

It is amazing what an actual cut-back runner can do in our system.

[theAPAOps5]

I was watching the Bronco Shows after the 10 o'clock news. It was reported that TBell told coaches he couldn't go 100% at the half. Thats why we saw MBell. I wonder of those toes are hurting TBell, which unfortunately is par for the course b/c he gets dinged somehow every season. It was also reported that Bobby Turner unleashed on MBell last week and that is why he was running with a chip. Bobby T needs to light him all the time the results are amazing.

[shakenbake]

Unlike many on here, I have never been a big fan of Tatum and feel he hasn't proven anything or lived up to his 2nd round draft status. He may be a fine running back and has tons of speed, I just dont think his style fits the Broncos very well. But then again what do I know, probably not a whole lot. To me he is a softer version of Clinton Portis. I feel like our offense needs a Ruben Droughns type back, not a soft clinton portis.

[ColoradoDarin]

I really liked what I saw out of Mike Bell today. There were a few runs where I could swear that he was wearing #30 instead (one was a high-step 360-move that TD was the master at). He was finding the holes, running the cut-back perfectly, holding on to the ball, and breaking off big chunks of yards.

All that praise said, I don't quite think he's ready for the starting job just yet. Tater has been a great back this season. I think we'll see a modified RBBC for a little while - start Tater, bring in Mike when he needs some rest, 2nd half go with the hot hand.

[Sassy]

Mike's greatest move was when he went underneath for the TD and the Colts were expecting him to fly over the top!

[2KBack]

Mike's greatest move was went he went underneath for the TD and the Colts were expecting him to fly over the top!


I laughed my ass off watching two Colt defenders jumping through the air at nothing.

[ColoradoDarin]

Mike's greatest move was went he went underneath for the TD and the Colts were expecting him to fly over the top!

That was sweet, I think they barely put one hand on him on that play.

[theAPAOps5]

Mike's greatest move was went he went underneath for the TD and the Colts were expecting him to fly over the top!

That was awesome I just saw that again on ESPN that colt flying threw the air while he just walked in was classic. Also on that 46 yard run those moves he made to break some ankles really reminded me of the great #30. Hopefully he continues this and builds himself into something special. Or better yet Tater and him keep pushing eachother and all of a sudden the Broncos have a stellar 1,2 punch! :thumbs:

[BroncoSoja]

I feel like our offense needs a Ruben Droughns type back.

To this day I still regret letting him go..I remeber arguing with people here about the fact that he should be starting and he should be our RB instead of Plying FB and when he finally got his chance boy did he do well.

[Sassy]

Although, I thought Mike played great...I'm not sure he should be the STARTER...please change the thread title back...that's not what I wanted there or meant at all. TJ??? Or at least put "SHOULD HE BE OUR STARTER"...I'm in a pissy mood and that irritated me to no end.

[dragondawg]

indy will now probably be last in the league for allowing the most yards, peyton can only carry the team for so long

[ScottXray]

If not I'm sure we could all chip in and pay to get someone to drop a hammer on it or something...

Mike Bell ran hard as hell today, he powered over people, ran through others, ran around some, and danced the rest of the way... He looked like a baby TD out there.

Start that kid!

Tatum has BOTH feet with turf toes...
He is not able to run well now. Its to his credit that he played at all (Warren?), but its not to the coaches credit that they didn't put Mike Bell in sooner.

If you have an injured player that is having trouble you make the switch...

It's not a loyalty thing..its SURVIVAL.

Tatum should get his start back when he is healthy...till then start Mike!
:thumbsup:

[BigPlayShay]

I love what Mike Bell did today, but there is one thing that he did that pissed me off. He has been warned about going out of bounds before by Rod Smith. He did it tonight and I felt it had a huge impact.

On the long run with 3:35 remaining he busts it for 48 yards but as he is going down the side line, rather then taking on the defender he steps out of bounds. This stops the clock with 3:24 remaining. If he stays in bounds Denver still has 2 timeouts, they could have let the clock run down to 2:36 and taken one of their timeouts themselves, or forced Indy to burn one of their 3. With this timeout the O could have caught their breath, MBell could have caught his too, meaning TBell who was hurting would not have to come in to spell him. Then on 2nd down you really only have to run one play before the 2 minute warning. Hopefully this play nets more than 0 yards We could have been in a much better position than 3 and 9. Had this happened I think we score and they have less timeouts, I think we win the game.

Hindsight is 20/20, and I LOVE what MBell did today, but that was one thing that pissed me off.

[2KBack]

yeah, If tatum is hampered at all, I say Mike needs to start. I think it's is obvious that Mike is better than an injured tatum. I'll feel bad for Tatum if Mike Bell goes on a tear though, that's how Anderson first lost out to Portis.

[orange crusher]

I love what Mike Bell did today, but there is one thing that he did that pissed me off. He has been warned about going out of bounds before by Rod Smith. He did it tonight and I felt it had a huge impact.

On the long run with 3:35 remaining he busts it for 48 yards but as he is going down the side line, rather then taking on the defender he steps out of bounds. This stops the clock with 3:24 remaining. If he stays in bounds Denver still has 2 timeouts, they could have let the clock run down to 2:36 and taken one of their timeouts themselves, or forced Indy to burn one of their 3. With this timeout the O could have caught their breath, MBell could have caught his too, meaning TBell who was hurting would not have to come in to spell him. Then on 2nd down you really only have to run one play before the 2 minute warning. Hopefully this play nets more than 0 yards We could have been in a much better position than 3 and 9. Had this happened I think we score and they have less timeouts, I think we win the game.

Hindsight is 20/20, and I LOVE what MBell did today, but that was one thing that pissed me off.

Are you sure he ran out of bounds? I was at the game so I didn't see it on TV, but it looked to me like he was hit low and knocked out of bounds.

[BigPlayShay]

Are you sure he ran out of bounds? I was at the game so I didn't see it on TV, but it looked to me like he was hit low and knocked out of bounds.

Ran out. I was at the game too, but I have watched that play/series 3 times tonight :hitself:

[2KBack]

Ran out. I was at the game too, but I have watched that play/series 3 times tonight :hitself:

he was angling towards the sideline in an effort to gain more yards, I suppose at the end you could have just fallen on the sideline. I just think it's kinda funny to be pissed at a guy after running for 50 yards.

[BigPlayShay]

he was angling towards the sideline in an effort to gain more yards, I suppose at the end you could have just fallen on the sideline. I just think it's kinda funny to be pissed at a guy after running for 50 yards.

Like I tried to stress in my post, I am not pissed at his performance, just that one little detail, that's all. In essence, I could be mad at Shanny for not taking one of his 2 timeouts at that time anyway, even with the clock already stopped. Just to re-group. Let MBell who is being effective catch his breath and not send an injured guy out there to spell him. You know that tieing it up in that situation with that much time is futile against Manning with 3 timeouts.

[~Crash~]

You should listen better, what you misunderstood was:

IDIOT TROLLS who post crap like this on an opponents board because their jealous of that teams history and super bowl titles SUCK.

This message is hidden because Iowanian is on your ignore list.

Jetmeck try this then I will not have to see this **** heads post when you replie his troll ass

[~Crash~]

indy will now probably be last in the league for allowing the most yards, peyton can only carry the team for so long

a weather game will kill indy

[~Crash~]

Like I tried to stress in my post, I am not pissed at his performance, just that one little detail, that's all. In essence, I could be mad at Shanny for not taking one of his 2 timeouts at that time anyway, even with the clock already stopped. Just to re-group. Let MBell who is being effective catch his breath and not send an injured guy out there to spell him. You know that tieing it up in that situation with that much time is futile against Manning with 3 timeouts.

hell we should ofjust hand it to FB ceicl !!!

[TheChamp24]

Tatum looked lost out there, running into linemen or tripping and falling down. Mike looked loads better, quick and making cuts for good yardage.
I do wish that Mike would've cut back to the middle of the field and not go out of bounds, but the dude just did run for 50 yards.
I think we should've done another PA bootleg and if nothing was open, have Jake run it on 1st down. Then run it and go from there.

[CBF1]

Mike looked great !!! He was running with attitude and purpose, unlike his counterpart. Even Cecil Sapp looked better than Tatum. Something has to be wrong with Tatum to show so poorly today.

[OrangeShadow]

the thing about mike is he makes guys miss like on the scamper where he juked 2 or 3 colts defenders out of their jock straps. tatum seems to take bad angles in the open field causing him to go down a tad early. But no i dont think 1 game warants a switch in backs.

[Florida_Bronco]

Mike looked great !!! He was running with attitude and purpose, unlike his counterpart. Even Cecil Sapp looked better than Tatum. Something has to be wrong with Tatum to show so poorly today.

He had something wrong with his toe.

[55CrushEm]

Whoa there! Tatum had a bad game, Mike exploited a horrid run defense. Mike got the confidence back. Build on it and if he is consistent then pull the trigger on a switch. Until then keep Tatum and let him have the respect he has earned this year.

Yes, and Tatum COULDN'T exploit a horrid run defense because his vision SUCKS. He continually runs into the backs of his o-lineman.

You Tatum nut swingers keep saying that we need to stay with him because he's got the "home run" speed. Well, here we are half way through the season, and we've yet to see him hit one.

[BroncoFiend]

Mike Bell is a better runner, at the very least I think the RBBC is back. How can you let a guy sit that played that well when given the opportunity.

Mike's vision is fantastic, but he needs to work on his wind.

[DarkHorse]

Umm - yeah, no question.

Why does Tatum fall down so much on cuts? He does know that he's allowed to wear cleats right?

Mike Bell runs our style of game - he's perfect for our system in that he actually makes that 1 cut and runs extremely hard downfield yet he's still able to have complete control over his body and feet that he can make people miss in the open field.

Start him and don't look back.

[BlaK-Argentina]

This forum is very funny sometimes.

Tatum has played GREAT all year and after he has a bad game (injured too) you want to give the starting job to Mike. (not you, Sassy :) )

Look, Mike Bell had an AWESOME 2nd half performance, and I can't help but be happy for him. I was one of the people who said he didn't show burst, or vision, or anything when he ran in games. (Training camp aside) He proved me wrong big time, and I love it, but NO WAY he should be the starter over Tatum who has had a great season so far and has EARNED the right to be the starting back.

Start Tatum (if healthy) and give some more carries to Mike, he deserves them too. Then, whoever is doing the best job, gets to run more plays. It's that simple.

Still, what a great problem to have. :D

[defenseman]

It was obvious to me Tatum Bell was hurting. M. Bell picked up the slack, no problem there. It'll work out fine. then again, against the steelers both had better be ready, the steelers will be stoked for this game...dman

[55CrushEm]

This forum is very funny sometimes.

Tatum has played GREAT all year and after he has a bad game (injured too) you want to give the starting job to Mike. (not you, Sassy :) )

Look, Mike Bell had an AWESOME 2nd half performance, and I can't help but be happy for him. I was one of the people who said he didn't show burst, or vision, or anything when he ran in games. (Training camp aside) He proved me wrong big time, and I love it, but NO WAY he should be the starter over Tatum who has had a great season so far and has EARNED the right to be the starting back.

Start Tatum (if healthy) and give some more carries to Mike, he deserves them too. Then, whoever is doing the best job, gets to run more plays. It's that simple.

Still, what a great problem to have. :D

Sorry, maybe your definition of "great year" is different from mine.

I believe it was SoCal who pointed out that the reason Tater-tot has his 5 ypc average is this.....he runs for 2,2,1,0,2,20,2,1,2,3,20........

Sorry, but I want a guy who's more consistent. Only when Mike came in yesterday, did we consistently get more than 5 or 6 yards on first down.....do you realize how refreshing it is to have a 2nd down and 3 to go.....rather than a 2nd down and 9 to go ?

Absolutely no question.....Mike should be our starter. Besides, he's more hungry. Ever since Tater has been here, it seems like he's had this slight attitude that he SHOULD be the starter, just because he was a 2nd round pick.

[BlaK-Argentina]

Sorry, maybe your definition of "great year" is different from mine.

I believe it was SoCal who pointed out that the reason Tater-tot has his 5 ypc average is this.....he runs for 2,2,1,0,2,20,2,1,2,3,20........

Sorry, but I want a guy who's more consistent. Only when Mike came in yesterday, did we consistently get more than 5 or 6 yards on first down.....do you realize how refreshing it is to have a 2nd down and 3 to go.....rather than a 2nd down and 9 to go ?

Absolutely no question.....Mike should be our starter. Besides, he's more hungry. Ever since Tater has been here, it seems like he's had this slight attitude that he SHOULD be the starter, just because he was a 2nd round pick.


That's your opinion, and I respect it, but what has Mike Bell done prior to this game? Not much, in fact, a LOT worse than Tatum. The other times he has been in games he consistently got stopped at the line, for a loss, or he gained, 1, 2 or 3 yards tops. Hopefully he gets better and better, but right now... I don't think he should be the starter over Tatum. (who has played very well in every game but this one)

[55CrushEm]

Maybe Mike "hasn't done much" because he hasn't been the starter for the last 5 games?

[Play2win]

Tatum is NOT a cut-back runner. Mike Bell IS a cut-back runner. Our running game is a cut-back running system. Do the math.

[BlaK-Argentina]

Maybe Mike "hasn't done much" because he hasn't been the starter for the last 5 games?

And why was that again? He was in preseason, and they both splitted carries for the first few games. That should tell you something.

I don't care, anyway, as long as it's the best for the team.

[55CrushEm]

And why was that again? He was in preseason, and they both splitted carries for the first few games. That should tell you something.

I don't care, anyway, as long as it's the best for the team.

Agreed....I'm always for what's best for the team.....

Call me crazy, but even though Tater led the AFC in rushing before this game....his running hasn't overly impressed me this year.

I guess I just keep going back to the frustration of seeing him crack an 18 yard run......only to follow it up with 4 or 5 runs for less than 2 yards each.

It still comes back to lack of consistency.....

[BlaK-Argentina]

Agreed....I'm always for what's best for the team.....

Call me crazy, but even though Tater led the AFC in rushing before this game....his running hasn't overly impressed me this year.

I guess I just keep going back to the frustration of seeing him crack an 18 yard run......only to follow it up with 4 or 5 runs for less than 2 yards each.

It still comes back to lack of consistency.....

Like I said, I respect your opinion. Tatum has looked very good in my eyes this year, but if Mike playing means we will win more games... well, I'm all for that! :)

[Dedhed]

Mike Bell gave a flawless demonstration of what happens in this blocking scheme when a back has the vision to see where the lanes will be. It's like the defense unzips.

I was for Mike Bell starting in the pre-season because I could see that Mike has the vision that the zone blocking scheme thrives on. The first couple of weeks Mike wasn't ready. He was hurrying every run, tripping over himself, worried more about protecting the ball than finding holes, and Tatum looked better.

People have been saying how improved Tatum has been this year, and I have agreed that he steeped up in all areas; except for vision. Tatum has great tools, but vision is not one of them. Mike displayed how being able to see makes this running game look easy, and dominant. Tatum has been productive, but the running game has not felt dominant to me at any point before the 2nd half on Sunday.

I also think that Tatum is a much more dangerous weapon in a 10 carry role than a 25 carry role. Tatum has done a great job in getting us to this point, but Mike's performance highlights Tatum's shortcomings. Tatum can see holes and get through them, but he can't see where the lanes are going to develop that will make a defense totally collapse. Mike Bell did that consistently yesterday, and that's when this blocking scheme is the best in the biz.

[55CrushEm]

Mike Bell gave a flawless demonstration of what happens in this blocking scheme when a back has the vision to see where the lanes will be. It's like the defense unzips.

I was for Mike Bell starting in the pre-season because I could see that Mike has the vision that the zone blocking scheme thrives on. The first couple of weeks Mike wasn't ready. He was hurrying every run, tripping over himself, worried more about protecting the ball than finding holes, and Tatum looked better.

People have been saying how improved Tatum has been this year, and I have agreed that he steeped up in all areas; except for vision. Tatum has great tools, but vision is not one of them. Mike displayed how being able to see makes this running game look easy, and dominant. Tatum has been productive, but the running game has not felt dominant to me at any point before the 2nd half on Sunday.

I also think that Tatum is a much more dangerous weapon in a 10 carry role than a 25 carry role. Tatum has done a great job in getting us to this point, but Mike's performance highlights Tatum's shortcomings. Tatum can see holes and get through them, but he can't see where the lanes are going to develop that will make a defense totally collapse. Mike Bell did that consistently yesterday, and that's when this blocking scheme is the best in the biz.

Agreed on all points. Very well said.

[footstepsfrom#27]

I think it's ironic that we find our selves in the odd position of questioning the wisdom of starting the AFC's leading rusher, yet I also understand the argument. Mike Bell looks like a better fit in this offense and the guy does indeed remind me a bit of TD with the way he runs. I can't help but wonder if he's doing this as a rookie what he might be doing by next season. What a great problem to have...trying to figure out which productive back to start. Somebody mentioned Cecil...let's remember that Droughns and TD were both NOT feature backs in college and shined in this system. How weird would it be if while we were watching the Bells batttle it out Cecil the Deisel turned into the next big thing here?

[epicSocialism4tw]

Mike Bell looked like TD out there yesterday.

When he got the ball, you knew that we were sure for 3-7 yards.

When he got the ball on the goal line, it was a certain TD.

20+ carries for Mike please.

[Garcia Bronco]

I think Mike Bell made a key mistake that made it harder for us to win. He should have stayed in bounds on that last deep gash. But all in all his blocking was better...and he hit the holes...and he hit the other team. It was enjoyable despite the outcome

[DBroncos4life]

Mike Bell looked like a healthy RB playing the COLTS D!!! Hell Sapp had some huge runs I guess he should be the starting back. The Colts D is last in the NFL in rushing D people. Tatum ran very well against Balt the NUMBER ONE RUSHING D.

[Dedhed]

Mike Bell looked like a healthy RB playing the COLTS D!!! Hell Sapp had some huge runs I guess he should be the starting back. The Colts D is last in the NFL in rushing D people. Tatum ran very well against Balt the NUMBER ONE RUSHING D.

I don't think anyone is arguing that Tatum has run poorly, but its clear that Mike sees things that Tatum doesn't.

[BigPlayShay]

I think Mike Bell made a key mistake that made it harder for us to win. He should have stayed in bounds on that last deep gash. But all in all his blocking was better...and he hit the holes...and he hit the other team. It was enjoyable despite the outcome

I agree completely: http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?p=1334875#post1334875

I love what Mike Bell did today, but there is one thing that he did that pissed me off. He has been warned about going out of bounds before by Rod Smith. He did it tonight and I felt it had a huge impact.

On the long run with 3:35 remaining he busts it for 48 yards but as he is going down the side line, rather then taking on the defender he steps out of bounds. This stops the clock with 3:24 remaining. If he stays in bounds Denver still has 2 timeouts, they could have let the clock run down to 2:36 and taken one of their timeouts themselves, or forced Indy to burn one of their 3. With this timeout the O could have caught their breath, MBell could have caught his too, meaning TBell who was hurting would not have to come in to spell him. Then on 2nd down you really only have to run one play before the 2 minute warning. Hopefully this play nets more than 0 yards We could have been in a much better position than 3 and 9. Had this happened I think we score and they have less timeouts, I think we win the game.

Hindsight is 20/20, and I LOVE what MBell did today, but that was one thing that pissed me off.

[Barry Ramey]

Tatum is having some toe problems at the moment, maybe that explains him falling down on himself all game yesterday. But it seems it's always something with Tatum. I see why Shanahan has had doubts about him being an every down back. If Mike Bell was also having difficulties running, then that would be different. But hard not to notice Tatum going nowhere every time he got the ball and Mike Bell finding the holes and running for big gains many times.

[Sassy]

Tatum is having some toe problems at the moment, maybe that explains him falling down on himself all game yesterday. But it seems it's always something with Tatum. I see why Shanahan has had doubts about him being an every down back. If Mike Bell was also having difficulties running, then that would be different. But hard not to notice Tatum going nowhere every time he got the ball and Mike Bell finding the holes and running for big gains many times.

I'm pretty sure it was Mike that slipped on a third down, also.

[DBroncos4life]

I don't think anyone is arguing that Tatum has run poorly, but its clear that Mike sees things that Tatum doesn't.

Ill tell you what he saw, the 32 run D.

[Iowanian]

Personall attack. Quite a typical showing from you.
Ben

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa aaaah
http://a.parsons.edu/~steck/img/tissue.jpg

[Rock Chalk]

Sorry, maybe your definition of "great year" is different from mine.

I believe it was SoCal who pointed out that the reason Tater-tot has his 5 ypc average is this.....he runs for 2,2,1,0,2,20,2,1,2,3,20........

Sorry, but I want a guy who's more consistent. Only when Mike came in yesterday, did we consistently get more than 5 or 6 yards on first down.....do you realize how refreshing it is to have a 2nd down and 3 to go.....rather than a 2nd down and 9 to go ?

Absolutely no question.....Mike should be our starter. Besides, he's more hungry. Ever since Tater has been here, it seems like he's had this slight attitude that he SHOULD be the starter, just because he was a 2nd round pick.

Idiot. Thats last year. Tatum bell this year has few runs more than 10 yards and for him to have a YPC of near 5.0 and few runs of over 10 yards, that means that its more like 3,3,6,7,4,3,2,4,6

You have hated on Tatum from the beginning, you rarely make any sense, generally have your head stuck so far up your ass its alarming.

Tatum played poorly today because of turf toe and took himself out of the game at the half because he knew it. Mike Bell came in and played great in relief and thats where he will likely stay unless Tatum doesnt recover.

[freak6]

I'm just gonna relax and enjoy our 5-2 record. Why stress? Same record as last year. Cept last year it was Eli Manning that beat us in the last seconds.

We all knew how it was going to end yesterday. I wasn't even mad about it because I already knew. Just like I won't be mad when Jake and the D play like crap and lose in the playoffs. If you already know, why be mad? Accept it already.

[55CrushEm]

Idiot. Thats last year. Tatum bell this year has few runs more than 10 yards and for him to have a YPC of near 5.0 and few runs of over 10 yards, that means that its more like 3,3,6,7,4,3,2,4,6

You have hated on Tatum from the beginning, you rarely make any sense, generally have your head stuck so far up your ass its alarming.

Tatum played poorly today because of turf toe and took himself out of the game at the half because he knew it. Mike Bell came in and played great in relief and thats where he will likely stay unless Tatum doesnt recover.

Alec, it really is easy for you to be a putz, isn't it? Always the apologist for underperformers, aren't you?

If you don't like my posts, Butterbean, don't bother replying to them.....

You're such an a$$.....but everyone else knew that long before me. Go on thinking you're the internet toughguy.....doesn't make your lame opinions right.

[Dedhed]

Ill tell you what he saw, the 32 run D.

You missed some great running then.

[SportinOne]

[QUOTE=55CrushEm;1335193]Sorry, maybe your definition of "great year" is different from mine.

I believe it was SoCal who pointed out that the reason Tater-tot has his 5 ypc average is this.....he runs for 2,2,1,0,2,20,2,1,2,3,20........

QUOTE]

Have you been watching the games this year???

The reason everyone has been behind Tatum is because he has drastically improved in that category over last year.

He hasn't had very many 20 yard runs this year at all.

This running offense just needs to produce...And honestly, i don't care who does it, as long as someone does. Mike looked great against the Colts... whoever looks good next game should get the carries. We don't need homeruns and we shouldn't have to depend on the big play to score a touchdown. Whoever gives us those consistant yards should play..

We saw this offense wake up for 2 quarters in Cleveland.. and then we saw it full throttle yesterday. It was damn good yesterday. The only reason we didn't score 40 was because we slowed the game down so that the Colts couldn't get 40 either. The Colts D is not the greatest but it's nice to know that we can still put up some points.

No hangovers, on to Pittsburgh for some revenge..

[azbroncfan]

That was the Mike Bell from camp that I was waiting to see re-emerge. He's got power and great vision on the cutbacks. Can also make defenders miss and hits the holes very fast. He also had at least one absolutely outstanding block in pass protection. I really think the power and vision though really make him a better fit for this offense than Tatum. Tatum is very fast, but even this year when he has stepped up his game, he still dances too much at the line and finds a way to trip up or fall over too often. His vision, while improved, is still inferior to that of Mike Bell. I like Mike's consistency...you want that back who can be a jackhammer for you and get you 4-6 consistently, rather than the 2,2,20,3 type.


Couldn't of been said better. While Tatum has great 40 speed, he doesnt look explosive to me and takes a couple of steps to get going. Mike Bells vision is clearly better. Tatum would have some 50 yard td runs if he had better vision.

[elsid13]

Look I one of the guys who constantly defended Mike Bell and unlike some thought it would take a year for him to become a dangerous weapon for this team. After he learn what it meant to be a pro and adjusted to system. He has great feet in the hole and vision, something that more important then speed at times. But he needs the experience to be successful. I think when he went out of bounds (after he hammer the safety) he was trying to keep time on the clock for Denver to run more plays, rookie move.

What has impressed me the most this year has been the fact the staff has sent him in to be back on pass blocking plays. I still don't think he ready to lead back, but hopefully he build on this experience and become better.

[WABronco]

Listen, Mike Bell is a better interior runner. Tatum Bell is one of the best outside runners in the league.

Indy's interior D is quite possibly the softest in recorded history. Mike Bell was not being touched until he reached the secondary.

Tatum, considering the fact that he had TWO turf toe injuries and his production before-hand, should retain the no. 1 spot, for now.

At least we know we have two capable backs...

[elsid13]

Just wondering where all the Cobbs lovers are now

[Northman]

So hard to say. Early on in the year Mike didnt look all that impressive but yesterday clearly outplayed Tatum. I thought this would be a game where Tatum shined but he seemed reluctant to hit the holes like he did against B-more. Maybe the RBBC should be put back into effect so that we can see who has the juice that particular day. Dunno.

[Dedhed]

So hard to say. Early on in the year Mike didnt look all that impressive but yesterday clearly outplayed Tatum. I thought this would be a game where Tatum shined but he seemed reluctant to hit the holes like he did against B-more. Maybe the RBBC should be put back into effect so that we can see who has the juice that particular day. Dunno.
I think early in the year Mike was way too excited, and couldn't get a handle on things. Half of his runs ended in him tripping on the ground. But you could see it pre-season, and you saw it clearly yesterday, that mike has teh vision to expoit the defense the way the zone blocking scheme is meant to exploit a defense. Huge Chunks of yardage come when you do that. That's why TD was so good despite 4.6 speed, and that's why Tatum isn't dominant despite 4.3 speed.

[Popps]

The unpopular answer here is that we probably don't have a true every down back, at least that can meet our lofty expectations coming on the heels of runners like TD and Portis.

Bottom line is, we're probably best using both of these guys in some kind of RBBC, as much as I hate to say it. Yesterday was more proof.

[TheDave]

Listen, Mike Bell is a better interior runner. Tatum Bell is one of the best outside runners in the league.

Indy's interior D is quite possibly the softest in recorded history. Mike Bell was not being touched until he reached the secondary.

Tatum, considering the fact that he had TWO turf toe injuries and his production before-hand, should retain the no. 1 spot, for now.

At least we know we have two capable backs...

If Tatum really has "Turf Toe" on both feet, he might as well sit for the next month. That is a messed up injury for anyone, but especially for a Running back who already has trouble seeing and getting to the hole

[Northman]

I think early in the year Mike was way too excited, and couldn't get a handle on things. Half of his runs ended in him tripping on the ground. But you could see it pre-season, and you saw it clearly yesterday, that mike has teh vision to expoit the defense the way the zone blocking scheme is meant to exploit a defense. Huge Chunks of yardage come when you do that. That's why TD was so good despite 4.6 speed, and that's why Tatum isn't dominant despite 4.3 speed.

Yea, Mike just seems more aggressive in there and i like that. He still scares me with those jumps in the air but as long as he holds onto the ball im ok with it. 8')

[WABronco]

Just wondering where all the Cobbs lovers are now

A little early to be writing him off IMO. He's obviously not a good practice player (given his "struggles in TC compared to his play in games), and his recent string of "inactives" is the result of an ankle injury.

[TheDave]

The unpopular answer here is that we probably don't have a true every down back, at least that can meet our lofty expectations coming on the heels of runners like TD and Portis.

Bottom line is, we're probably best using both of these guys in some kind of RBBC, as much as I hate to say it. Yesterday was more proof.

Actually i think M. Bells vision is excellent. In addion his cut-back ability and burst is also very good. That's all you need in this offense. Some time ago i got to see a highlight video of Terrel Davis. Those were exactly his strengths he had a great burst and amazing vision. Put a few more LB's on Mike Bell give him some time in this offense and we could see a great workhorse back for the future.

[WABronco]

If Tatum really has "Turf Toe" on both feet, he might as well sit for the next month. That is a messed up injury for anyone, but especially for a Running back who already has trouble seeing and getting to the hole

Starting tailback Tatum Bell was limited in practice this week because of turf toe injuries on both of his feet. All of the Broncos' running backs got significant practice time, but Mike Bell's time was cut. The undrafted rookie even took scout team repetitions as Cedric Cobbs, coming off an ankle injury that has sidelined for him for six weeks, got into the mix.

http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_4572179


...reported by Bill Williamson.

As soon as I read this, I wondered why he was even dressed. If that's accurate...I don't get why he was starting.

[Dedhed]

Tatum played poorly today because of turf toe and took himself out of the game at the half because he knew it. Mike Bell came in and played great in relief and thats where he will likely stay unless Tatum doesnt recover.
If turf toe explained the disparity between 2.08 YPC nd 9.07 TPC, Tatum would be scheduled for surgery tomarrow and would have been on crutches and inactive yesterday.

[TheDave]

...reported by Bill Williamson.

As soon as I read this, I wondered why he was even dressed. If that's accurate...I don't get why he was starting.

Good Lord... we can officially sit him for awhile

[elsid13]

Listen, Mike Bell is a better interior runner. Tatum Bell is one of the best outside runners in the league.

Indy's interior D is quite possibly the softest in recorded history. Mike Bell was not being touched until he reached the secondary.

Tatum, considering the fact that he had TWO turf toe injuries and his production before-hand, should retain the no. 1 spot, for now.

At least we know we have two capable backs...

How many runs to the outside in the NFL are success? And denver strength is inside runs and to the edge.

[Inkana7]

Know who needs more touches? Sapp. We gave it to him twice on 3rd and 1 and each time he got, what? 30+ Yards? That's unreal for a fullback.

[Beantown Bronco]

Know who needs more touches? Sapp. We gave it to him twice on 3rd and 1 and each time he got, what? 30+ Yards? That's unreal for a fullback.

Which is EXACTLY why people need to view what Mike Bell did yesterday in context. Indy's run defense so far this year is quite possibly the worst the NFL has ever seen. Let's see Mike perform like this against Pittsburgh and I'll start taking him a little more seriously.

[No1BroncoFan]

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa aaaah
http://a.parsons.edu/~steck/img/tissue.jpg
Duke of Donkeyville? More like court jester of Bronco Country.

Piss off little troll.

Ben

[SoCalBronco]

...reported by Bill Williamson.

As soon as I read this, I wondered why he was even dressed. If that's accurate...I don't get why he was starting.

It was reported by Burger Bill.

So Tatum's probably (more or less) fine. :)

[Jetmeck]

I would like to know why both Bell's fell down at the line on consecutive plays.

Yes ME TOO

[SureShot]

Mike Bell gave a flawless demonstration of what happens in this blocking scheme when a back has the vision to see where the lanes will be. It's like the defense unzips.

I was for Mike Bell starting in the pre-season because I could see that Mike has the vision that the zone blocking scheme thrives on. The first couple of weeks Mike wasn't ready. He was hurrying every run, tripping over himself, worried more about protecting the ball than finding holes, and Tatum looked better.

People have been saying how improved Tatum has been this year, and I have agreed that he steeped up in all areas; except for vision. Tatum has great tools, but vision is not one of them. Mike displayed how being able to see makes this running game look easy, and dominant. Tatum has been productive, but the running game has not felt dominant to me at any point before the 2nd half on Sunday.

I also think that Tatum is a much more dangerous weapon in a 10 carry role than a 25 carry role. Tatum has done a great job in getting us to this point, but Mike's performance highlights Tatum's shortcomings. Tatum can see holes and get through them, but he can't see where the lanes are going to develop that will make a defense totally collapse. Mike Bell did that consistently yesterday, and that's when this blocking scheme is the best in the biz.


Good post. Mike and appeares to explode through the line, because he anticipates the opening of the hole. Which is the key to being truely great in this system.

[theAPAOps5]

Well it was Indy, not saying much except Tatum sure wasn't lighting it up against them. I think it is the injury. It was great to see cutbacks reemerge though as that was missing. I want to see mike duplicate this effort against the Steelers then maybe Tatum loses the job.

I agree with a lot of what people have said. Tatum has seemed to lost the home run. He has come close but just doesn't have that final burst. I also am seeing him run into the line rather than cutting back where there is a pretty good sized hole. I have seen that a few times this year.

[ludo21]

If tAtum is healthy, give him the rock.

If he isnt, give Mike the nod.

Mike definitely earned 5-10 carries a game with his performance for sure tho. He seemed to slip a lot his frist games, but he had vision, patience, and power yesterday, very exciting to see!

[DBroncos4life]

You missed some great running then.

yeah against the 32 D in the NFL. Real impressive.

[2KBack]

yeah against the 32 D in the NFL. Real impressive.

that's pretty weak dude, 9 yards per carry in the NFL is unheard of.

[ton80]

Even when Tatum sees the cutback lane, he lacks the balance to cut at full speed. Healthy or not, he has a knack for tripping over paint or running into the back of his o-lineman. Granted, Tatum is an improved player and all, but Mike Bell is a better fit for our system. Sooner or later he'll be our starter. Right now he only lacks knowledge and experience. It sure was a treat to witness a back that sees the cutback lane and can cut at full speed ala the great Terrell Davis. Like other have stated, we witnessed a truly devastating running game for the first time since perhaps TD during the 98-99 season.

On a side note, I wasn't pissed about Sunday's game until Today. I was really proud of the offense, especially Jake. The defense had their first bad game all year. $hit happens. Whatever. What pissed me off was having to hear all the media knobslobbers blow that a$$wipe Manning at our expense. Manning can only win big games against us. Thank god for Pittsburgh and thank god or New England. If it weren't for those two teams, just imagine the wave after wave of praise heaped on that fkwad. Anyway, I feel better now.

[DBroncos4life]

that's pretty weak dude, 9 yards per carry in the NFL is unheard of.

Sapp avg 19.5 yards per carry vs the Colts should there be a thread about him starting now?

The Colts are giving up 5.4 yards per carry. That is the worst in the NFL. Now Tatum had a 4.8 ypc avg against Balt, who lead the NFL with a scary 2.7 ypc avg. Against NE Bell had a 4.5 ypc avg. They are 5th in the NFL with a 3.5 ypc avg. Thats a full yard more then they give up a game. KC gives up 3.9 ypc a game Tatum had 4.3 ypc. What I see from this is a healthy Tatum can move the ball against some pretty good teams vs the run. All I got from Mike Bell that game is that while he ran the ball very well it was against the worst rushing D in the NFL. He shouldnt start over a healthy Tatum period.

[theAPAOps5]

They make their money talking about the hot players. Manning is a hot player thats why we see almost as much Manning commercials as we do political ads. I just ignored the sports news today as I new it would frustrate me. The NFL is very near sighted as in who is the popular guy this hour. Heck Mike could emerge as a power back in our system and being undrafted and all he will get attention. Let Manning have his day b/c this time next week it will be that team just got brought down to earth by the Darling Pats and the boy wonder himself Brady.

[2KBack]

Sapp avg 19.5 yards per carry vs the Colts should there be a thread about him starting now?

The Colts are giving up 5.4 yards per carry. That is the worst in the NFL. Now Tatum had a 4.8 ypc avg against Balt, who lead the NFL with a scary 2.7 ypc avg. Against NE Bell had a 4.5 ypc avg. They are 5th in the NFL with a 3.5 ypc avg. Thats a full yard more then they give up a game. KC gives up 3.9 ypc a game Tatum had 4.3 ypc. What I see from this is a healthy Tatum can move the ball against some pretty good teams vs the run. All I got from Mike Bell that game is that while he ran the ball very well it was against the worst rushing D in the NFL. He shouldnt start over a healthy Tatum period.

Sapp didn't have 15 carries.

Also please note, I have said several times that tatum should start still. Also note that I have praised Tatums play all year.

now note that I am not one of the polarizing posters (you, and some others) that refuse to awknowledge when a player, that may not be my favorite, does something good. I'm willing to bet good money that if it was tatum that ran for all those yards yesterday, that you would be one of the first in line kiss his ass. Yet since it is the other bell, an undrafted rookie backup no less, you refuse to awknowledge the accomplishment.

[DBroncos4life]

Sapp didn't have 15 carries.

Also please note, I have said several times that tatum should start still. Also note that I have praised Tatums play all year.

now note that I am not one of the polarizing posters (you, and some others) that refuse to awknowledge when a player, that may not be my favorite, does something good. I'm willing to bet good money that if it was tatum that ran for all those yards yesterday, that you would be one of the first in line kiss his ass. Yet since it is the other bell, an undrafted rookie backup no less, you refuse to awknowledge the accomplishment.

I said he ran the ball very well, but it was against a POOR D. I don't start many threads so I doubt I would be one of the first to kiss Tatum's ass but I can tell you I would point out that it did come against the Colts D just like I am with Mike. Sorry if I don't get all warm and fuzzy when players have great games against poor teams (you, and some others). I do agree with a few posters that Mike Bell needs to not run out of bounce like he did this game. Also I think if Tatum was 100% that run is a TD and not a 43 yard run. JMO There is nothing wrong with loving the undrafted player that works his ass off, not one damn thing but this game alone shouldnt be enough to give him the starting job.

[ton80]

Agreed, it's definately not time to give MBell the job. But you have to admit that you liked what you saw with the vision for the cutback lane and the cutting ability.

[Broncos4Life]

Unlike many on here, I have never been a big fan of Tatum and feel he hasn't proven anything or lived up to his 2nd round draft status. He may be a fine running back and has tons of speed, I just dont think his style fits the Broncos very well. But then again what do I know, probably not a whole lot. To me he is a softer version of Clinton Portis. I feel like our offense needs a Ruben Droughns type back, not a soft clinton portis.

So what are you saying? You like Mike Bell right? I totally agree with you on Tatum.I know both guys fall down a lot. I have seen TB run into blockers and defenders way too much though. Dude has speed but he doesn't make a lot of guys miss. There was a few plays this season where he was 1 on 1 with a safety and he would straight run into the guy. I mean, did he think he was gonna run through the guy? Tatum is the cat who shouldn't be initiating contact. He just isn't that type of runner. I know he dragged Ray Lewis for a few in the Baltimore game, but it was toward the end of the game. Seriously. How many times has TB done that? MB just fits our offense so well that if he doesn't take over this season, he damn sure will next. Like most everyone has been saying. Hes got power and vision. I like his goal line leaps too. Even though they kinda make me nervous.

[55CrushEm]

Have you been watching the games this year???

The reason everyone has been behind Tatum is because he has drastically improved in that category over last year.


Yes....I've watched every single game (thank God for Sunday Ticket)......

....and way too often I still see Tatum running into the backs of his linemen. It's frustrating to watch.

And I never said that Tatum hasn't improved.....clearly he has. But I still think he was better as a change of pace back. I also think that Mike is tougher and has better VISION.

That was the main point of my argument......and I totally agree with Dedhed's post (post #85).....Tatum's vision is lacking compared to "Dong".....

Look, we disagree.....no biggie. I think Mike is better suited to start, you may think Tater-tot is.....so what? We aren't the coaches.

[Dedhed]

Sapp avg 19.5 yards per carry vs the Colts should there be a thread about him starting now?

The Colts are giving up 5.4 yards per carry. That is the worst in the NFL. Now Tatum had a 4.8 ypc avg against Balt, who lead the NFL with a scary 2.7 ypc avg. Against NE Bell had a 4.5 ypc avg. They are 5th in the NFL with a 3.5 ypc avg. Thats a full yard more then they give up a game. KC gives up 3.9 ypc a game Tatum had 4.3 ypc. What I see from this is a healthy Tatum can move the ball against some pretty good teams vs the run. All I got from Mike Bell that game is that while he ran the ball very well it was against the worst rushing D in the NFL. He shouldnt start over a healthy Tatum period.

So Tatum was a yard per carry better than the average back against NE, Mike was twice as good as the average back against the Colts. There aren't many people on here that are saying "give the starting spot to Mike immediately". There are a number of people who can see that Mike has the vision and strength to be a better every down back in this system than Tatum, eventually.

You refuse to admit that Mike sees things better than Tatum, and say things like "if Tatum had the ball on that carry, he probably takes that 48 yarder to the house." Well, if that's the case, why is his longest run 39 yards? Because he doesn't have the vision to get into the open field very often. It's just as likely that instead of taking that 48 yarder to the house Tatum would have gotten 4 yards after jamming it into an OL. Tatum had less than 3 yards per carry against the same Colts D. If you think that sore toes accounts for that large a difference, you're kidding yourself. Tatum's longest run didn't equal Mike's average.

If you can't see the way things open up for Mike because of the way he sees the field, then you just can't see it. You don't understand how the zone blocking scheme works.

Mike wasn't ready at the beginning of the season, but if Sunday is any indication, he's ready now. Tatum has been fine, and he doesn't deserve to lose the starting spot yet. But he's already starting to break down, and has been less productive than he ever was in spot duty. From where I sit Mike sees the field better and runs harder. That's a much better combination for our offense than speed. The only thing that Tatum has on him is speed. But speed is useless if you can't see your way through the line.

[fontaine]

As long as Tatum is suffering from Turf Toe we should give Mike more than his token 2/3 carries a game, a lot more.

It makes no sense to force the workload on Tatum. I'd rather have him heal up/stay fresh.

[Dedhed]

If Mike continues to run like he's capable, I think Tatum will have plenty of time to heal up and be plenty fresh the rest of the way. And we'll have him back as the threat he was last year for us.

[bpc]

Difference between Mike Bell and Tatum? Instincts as a runner. Mike has some that are still far less developed than Tatum who has been in the league for 3 seasons now and he still looks superior. He'll have some rough games but the difference on the field is evident. Tatum is fast enough in this offensive system to pick up 1400yds easily. Mike Bell will make us a more efficient unit though. He could be a very good player.

[Tw0mey]

I missed most of the game yesturday, why did Mike get more carries tahn Tatum, he tweak something? Or just Shanny wanted something different?

[jonny1]

I missed most of the game yesturday, why did Mike get more carries tahn Tatum, he tweak something? Or just Shanny wanted something different?

Both of TBs big toes are hurting.

[55CrushEm]

Personally, I think Tatum should continue to be our starter. The reason is his incredible upper body strength. This helps him to bowl over people.

[elsid13]

Personally, I think Tatum should continue to be our starter. The reason is his incredible upper body strength. This helps him to bowl over people.

I think that upper body strength is from carrying that over sized helmet he wears.

[youcandoit1687]

look its simple, just start off with whoever practices best/appears to matchup best with the defense, get the other guy in, whoever has the hot hand keeps going. its what we did against indy, its basically what we have done all season. they are two different runners, tatum has size mixed with speed but doesnt have the vision that mike does. mike has great vision from playing in the system and also is quick in short burts with very good hips. tatum is more of a long strider

[ton80]

It's not just that MBell has better vision, he has better balance that allows him to cut at full speed. Anytime TBell tries to cut at full speed, he falls on his a$$ untouched.

[yerner]

They are both good. Be happy we have 2 guys.

[Popps]

They are both good. Be happy we have 2 guys.

That doesn't play well around here.

[Dedhed]

That doesn't play well around here.

I'm all for QBBC, but it would last all of 1 week.

[youcandoit1687]

They are both good. Be happy we have 2 guys.

be happy with two guys. NO, we needed decisive action. black and white, cross the line, no iffys, NO. cut bell, we only need bell. i dont see how RBBC could ever work. STFU and get over it, we basically ahd a 2,000 yard rusher last year. our team is good about sharing, dont be jealous