Broncos to rely on coordinated effort

[DukeWoody]

Broncos to rely on coordinated effort
Slowik hopes not to fumble his shot in a position that is rife with turnovers
By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Monday, July 21, 2008

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/jul/21/broncos-relying-on-a-coordinated-effort/

Bob Slowik inherits a defense that allowed 25.6 points a game last season.

Slowik, is the Broncos' third defensive chief in three years and isn't lacking in confidence. "I've been in enough places and coordinated enough, for almost half my career."

Denver downturn
The Broncos' defensive rankings in several key categories during the past five years:

Year Rush Pass Total
2007 30th 7th 19th
2006 12th 21st 14th
2005 2nd 29th 15th
2004 4th 6th 4th
2003 7th 6th 4th

New beginningWith the Broncos, Bob Slowik will head his fourth NFL defense. How his units have ranked in total defense and scoring, and the teams' records at his three previous stops:

Year, Team Yards Points W-L
2004, Packers* 25th 23rd 10-6
1999, Browns 31st 29th 2-14
1998, Bears 14th 23rd 4-12
1997, Bears 12th 29th 4-12
1996, Bears 12th 12th 7-9
1995, Bears 19th 22nd 9-7
1994, Bears* 13th 10th 9-7
1993, Bears 4th 3rd 7-9

What is this?
The third time's supposed to be the charm.

But here's Bob Slowik, on chance No. 4 as a defensive coordinator with the Broncos, via Chicago, Cleveland and Green Bay.

What the heck do you call that?

Good fortune, for starters.

Perseverance. Hard work.

"It just points out to me that you know he's good," said Dave McGinnis, now the Tennessee Titans assistant head coach and a member of the Bears' coaching staff with Slowik in the mid-1990s. "A lot of times you have to see through things that happen, such as, 'What were the injuries?' and get the overall picture."

When the Broncos report to training camp Thursday, Slowik will face the challenge of strengthening a defense that allowed 25.6 points a game last season, 28th in the NFL.

"I certainly don't lack confidence in what I do," said Slowik, the Broncos' third defensive chief in three years. "I've been in enough places and coordinated enough, for almost half my career."

Slowik, 54, was named the Broncos defensive coordinator in January 2007 after Larry Coyer's exit, but the top responsibilities fell to Jim Bates, with Slowik concentrating on the defensive backfield, much to the chagrin of many players who felt he deserved the promotion.

It wasn't until Bates left seven months ago that Slowik got another opportunity for the role he has longed for since heading the Packers defense for one maddening season in 2004.

Before that, Slowik's Bears teams (1993-98) finished fourth, 13th, 19th, 12th, 12th and 14th in total defense. But the group also finished in the top five in rush defense three times in his final five seasons before he followed head coach Dave Wann- stedt out the door in 1998.

"Given where we were and the talent we had, I thought he did a very good job," said Rod Graves, vice president of football operations for the Arizona Cardinals and formerly a member of the Bears' front office during Slowik's six years in Chicago. "He utilized people very well and got the most out of them. . . . I think Bobby is recognized by most people in the league as being an outstanding defensive coach."

A mishmash of talent greeted Slowik during his one year heading the defense for the expansion Browns in 1999. The results were predictable: last-place league rankings in total yards, rushing yards and interceptions.

He spent several years working with defensive backs in Green Bay before becoming the coordinator. But playing three rookies at cornerback in '04, the Packers yielded a stunning 33 touchdown passes and forced a franchise-low 15 takeaways.

But more than time has passed since then.

"There's a lot to learn, and you keep learning and try to get better at what you do," Slowik said. "And I think I've grown since those jobs."

Computer whiz

That growth isn't limited to football concepts. Slowik also has tweaked his methodology.

He began to implement computer technology into his teaching during his brief stay in Cleveland. Mainly self-taught, he refined his skills with the Packers.

The past several years with the Broncos, Slowik has wowed his defensive backs with computer animation to add life to X's and O's.

"He believes if you see it, it registers a lot more with people," Broncos safety John Lynch said. "So he creates motions of the teams we play. It's like you're watching Madden football. It really helps. He goes to all lengths to be extremely detailed."

The thought behind the technology is that game tape, text and PowerPoint presentations don't have the same impact as making characters move, through computer modeling, like they would in a normal play.

"Right when he puts it up there, he knows exactly what he wants to do. And he never gets flustered about it," Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey said. "It's kind of weird, because none of the coaches do it. And other guys in the room will be like, 'Hey, why don't we have that?' It's just funny to see the guys' reaction when coach 'Slo' puts stuff up there."

Slowik's technological malleability is an offshoot of his overall personality. He's detail-oriented, but things aren't always black and white.

"He's got a brilliant mind. He really does," said Coyer, who worked alongside Slowik in Denver for two years. "He's got great ideas. He's inventive."

Slowik appears to have forged tight bonds with Broncos defensive backs, the position he coached in 2005-06, his first two seasons in Denver. Still, he has been known to be tough with players when needed while patting them on the back when warranted.

"The one thing I like about 'Slo' is that he takes input from his players, his veteran guys," cornerback Dre Bly said.

And when things don't work out, "He sticks behind his players," Bailey said.

Challenges await

The rebuilding job Slowik faces with the Broncos defense doesn't compare with the task he once had as a coordinator for an expansion franchise, but it will present its own challenges.

The Broncos finished 19th in yards allowed last season, 30th vs. the run. They also were in the bottom half in yards allowed per play (22nd), net passing yards per play (29th), interceptions per pass attempt (18th), first downs (22nd) and third-down efficiency (27th).

In the midst of compiling those numbers, Bates' seven- man front was scrapped after five games. Slowik took on more responsibility, implementing an eight-man alignment designed to shore up the run defense.

"Contrary to what was said, my role was virtually the same role throughout the season," Slowik insisted. "Did I know maybe the scheme we evolved to a little bit more so than Jim did? Yeah, because I've been around it. That didn't change my role in any way, shape or form other than having a greater familiarity with what we're doing. There was no play-calling, no installing, no anything of that nature."

That all changed in January with the announcement Bates had declined a demotion to linebackers coach and Slowik would be given full oversight.

"We've got a philosophy on defense that I'd like to get back to a little bit," coach Mike Shanahan said in announcing Slowik's promotion. "Bob knows that philosophy and we've had some success with it. That's why I think he'll do a great job."

Slowik's top task is keeping the eight-man front to stop the run and pare points off the 409 allowed last season, a total that was fourth worst in team history.

" 'Slo' knows how important it is to get the run stopped and get it stopped in a way that you can still protect yourself versus the pass," McGinnis said. "I was really impressed with how bright he was with how everything tied together between the front and back end during our time together."

The Broncos relied heavily on the blitz under Coyer but dialed it back under Bates.

"Bobby will be aggressive," Graves predicted. "He's about attacking and trying to make things happen."

Slowik promises only a "good mix," while adding, "I don't think you can have blitzmania."

Implementing his vision

Some of the free-agent pickups the Broncos added this offseason, including linebackers Niko Koutouvides and Boss Bailey, safety Marlon McCree and defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson, should provide options.

"One of Bob's great talents is, he believes in certain principles of football but also believes in and utilizes his players well," Lynch said. "So it's not a set scheme. It's, 'Here's my collection of players and what they do best. Let's create a scheme.' I think that's what you'll see with Bob."

It's a delicate balance, though, in implementing that vision.

Some Broncos admitted to being confused about their roles last season. But in the offseason, Slowik got rave reviews from several veterans regarding the implementation of his vision.

"I know we'll be prepared and do what we're supposed to, because he's not only an X's and O's guy but a great teacher," Bly said. "And he's a guy the players want to perform for. We want people to talk about what 'Slo' has been able to come in and do this year."



Hoh hum....Oh how i yern for the day when the Broncos have a defence that can be mediocre to average...One can dream i guess...good luck to you Slo...

[Broncojef]

The article doesn't instill confidence or show a great deal of success in his past ventures. I still don't think he's the right guy.

[2KBack]

The article doesn't instill confidence or show a great deal of success in his past ventures. I still don't think he's the right guy.

Then you are reading the wrong parts...

"He's got a brilliant mind. He really does," said Coyer, who worked alongside Slowik in Denver for two years. "He's got great ideas. He's inventive."

" 'Slo' knows how important it is to get the run stopped and get it stopped in a way that you can still protect yourself versus the pass," McGinnis said. "I was really impressed with how bright he was with how everything tied together between the front and back end during our time together."

and my personal favorite:

"One of Bob's great talents is, he believes in certain principles of football but also believes in and utilizes his players well," Lynch said. "So it's not a set scheme. It's, 'Here's my collection of players and what they do best. Let's create a scheme.' I think that's what you'll see with Bob."

what I've really wanted to see is a coach who fits the scheme to the players, not the players to the scheme. Slowik is building a defense as a compliment to the offense, best utilizing what his players do best. His defense are known for aggressiveness and run stopping. I for one look forward to seeing how this plays.

[Dukes]

"One of Bob's great talents is, he believes in certain principles of football but also believes in and utilizes his players well," Lynch said. "So it's not a set scheme. It's, 'Here's my collection of players and what they do best. Let's create a scheme.' I think that's what you'll see with Bob."

Never to late to criticize Jim Bates

[theAPAOps5]

I wonder is someone can get on the phone to Coyer and get him to call Shanny and come back?

I actually think Slowik will be good. The problem is he loves to blitz, if the line doesn't get pressure then we will be in trouble. If the line performs then it will be great.

[2KBack]

I wonder is someone can get on the phone to Coyer and get him to call Shanny and come back?

I actually think Slowik will be good. The problem is he loves to blitz, if the line doesn't get pressure then we will be in trouble. If the line performs then it will be great.

that's a little oxymoronic isn't it? Wanting Coyer back because you're worried that Slowik will blitz too much?

Seriously though, high pressure aggression is the type of defense that works well if you have a good offense. I think that's what Shanahan is going for. This defense is going to give up some big plays, but it will also get more turnovers.

[bronco militia]

just say no to coyer and slowik

[Man-Goblin]

Let the D-line loose!

[theAPAOps5]

that's a little oxymoronic isn't it? Wanting Coyer back because you're worried that Slowik will blitz too much?

Seriously though, high pressure aggression is the type of defense that works well if you have a good offense. I think that's what Shanahan is going for. This defense is going to give up some big plays, but it will also get more turnovers.

Oxymoronic for a reason. We essentially re-hired Coyer in Slowik. The defense will either be great or exposed. Depends on the line.

[vancejohnson82]

the Broncos have been cursed when it comes to turnovers...

seems like they go through stretches of 3 or 4 games every year where the defense can't manage to take the ball away

[ludo21]

As long as I dont see too much zone blitz I will be happy.

I hate seeing the DE covering a RB down the field..

[2KBack]

Oxymoronic for a reason. We essentially re-hired Coyer in Slowik. The defense will either be great or exposed. Depends on the line.

That's probably accurate. Coyer probably would have done pretty well after the influx of younger talent on the Dline.

[Mediator12]

As long as I dont see too much zone blitz I will be happy.

I hate seeing the DE covering a RB down the field..

The only problem with that is players that can not execute the Zone blitz. Read Pathetic blitzing LB's, No individual elite rushers outside Dumervil, and DE's that do not try when they can not do what they want. Sometimes, you have to give the other team a look they have to account for pre-snap. That means you have to run zone blitzes so the OL protections stay honest.

Moss was very good in the Colts game playing a joker role and stunting along the DL out of a 3-4 set. Every time Ekuban tried to do something similar he just disappeared in 2005 and 2006.

That is still the reason I think Ekuban is a marginal player. He only plays when he wants, not to the benefit of the team or scheme. Guy just thinks he is that good, when in fact he has made many major mistakes that led to Big play TD's in 2005 and 2006. I can think of 4 off the top of my head, where he screwed up including 2 major ones against MIA in 2005.

[theAPAOps5]

That's probably accurate. Coyer probably would have done pretty well after the influx of younger talent on the Dline.

I actually liked Coyers scheme. I prefer an aggressive defense. Problem was that the line was just pathetic. So they got picked apart. It would be interesting to see how Coyer would have done with the youth brought in now that some of the dead weight has been trimmed. As always it will boil down to the line.

[PRBronco]

Let the D-line loose!

First train them on Tuten's sleds! :)

[SleepingTiger]

Never to late to criticize Jim Bates

What is their to criticize when you cut/trade players that fit your scheme and put scrubs in there place.

[Mediator12]

I actually liked Coyers scheme. I prefer an aggressive defense. Problem was that the line was just pathetic. So they got picked apart. It would be interesting to see how Coyer would have done with the youth brought in now that some of the dead weight has been trimmed. As always it will boil down to the line.

Slowik will be aggressive, and from what I have heard his scheme will resemble the 2006 scheme with a lot more talent on the DL. That should make for more pressure on the QB and better penetration at the POA. Combine that with Dre Bly and Paymah and I really think his defense will be back towards top 10 if not top ten. The LB's are all quick and if Koutivides is more consistent than I think he will be they could be very good. Plus, they play a weak schedule against offenses. They just need to show up versus SD this year.

The thing that really scares me is the offense. They scored the least amount of points to yards last year of any good team. They have got to score more to win, but thye have not shown very good execution since Kubes left. That has got to be tighter this year, and the Run Blocking has got to be improved as they were 27th in adjusted line yards last year, easily the worst of the Shanahan era.

[broncofan2438]

Man, I really hope that we can put together something good on defense this year

[*WARHORSE*]

This line will pressure opposing QBs alot better than last years.

[CHANGSTER]

The thing that really scares me is the offense. They scored the least amount of points to yards last year of any good team. They have got to score more to win, but thye have not shown very good execution since Kubes left. That has got to be tighter this year, and the Run Blocking has got to be improved as they were 27th in adjusted line yards last year, easily the worst of the Shanahan era.

I really think getting out of the gutter in terms of starting field position will go a long way to helping that issue. Heres hoping the rooks are up to it.

[Mediator12]

This line will pressure opposing QBs alot better than last years.

IF they stay healthy. Lots of injuries to the DL last year and not a lot of precedent from the medical staff to keep them there either.

[Mediator12]

I really think getting out of the gutter in terms of starting field position will go a long way to helping that issue. Heres hoping the rooks are up to it.

Yeah, but if you adjust for that they still were bottom 10. They just have got to improve FP and then efficiency as well.

[2KBack]

Yeah, but if you adjust for that they still were bottom 10. They just have got to improve FP and then efficiency as well.

I'm curious about the new fellow overseeing the Passing game. Bates? Will a new fresh faced guy bring some innovation, will he even be listed to? I think it's something to keep an eye on. Might help the scoring offense a little.

so will having a good power back I think

[Cito Pelon]

The article doesn't instill confidence or show a great deal of success in his past ventures. I still don't think he's the right guy.

I don't know what the deal is with Slowik. He's a team guy, that's for sure. Coyer gets fired, Slowik a former DC for years with three teams, been with the Broncs for two years, Shanny still doesn't make him the D boss, Shanny hires Bates as D boss. It had to be tough for Slowik to accept that, but he still did the best job he could last year. This is his year, I hope he does well.

[Kaylore]

I have very little faith in Slowik. He has a track record of mediocrity. I think his peak will be a 12th ranked defense or thereabouts. I hope I'm wrong.

[orinjkrush]

Collier > Coyer > Robinson > Slowik > Rhodes > Bates > Waters

???

[Cito Pelon]

Slowik will be aggressive, and from what I have heard his scheme will resemble the 2006 scheme with a lot more talent on the DL. That should make for more pressure on the QB and better penetration at the POA. Combine that with Dre Bly and Paymah and I really think his defense will be back towards top 10 if not top ten. The LB's are all quick and if Koutivides is more consistent than I think he will be they could be very good. Plus, they play a weak schedule against offenses. They just need to show up versus SD this year.

The thing that really scares me is the offense. They scored the least amount of points to yards last year of any good team. They have got to score more to win, but thye have not shown very good execution since Kubes left. That has got to be tighter this year, and the Run Blocking has got to be improved as they were 27th in adjusted line yards last year, easily the worst of the Shanahan era.

I don't worry about the O too much this year. I think it will be fine. The O last year had so many long drives to score. Denver faces two of the best punters in the League in Oak and SD. They were nailing the punts last year and Denver was constantly losing the field position battle.

The NFL is a 3-phase game, Denver had only one phase last year, and that was the O. This year I think the O will be better, but god help us if the other two phases are bunk.

I don't think you should be worrying about the O, I think that phase will be fine. You have kind of a rosy outlook about the D IMO. Plus there's the ST's, that's a big part of gameday.

[Eldorado]

My wife never worries about the O. Its pretty much a given.

[Mediator12]

You realize the last 2 years the offense has been well below average? Not just average, WELL BELOW average. Since Kubiak left, the offense has gone into a major remission especially in the red Zone and scoring zone (inside the 35).

One year is an anomaly, two is a trend. I just did not see anything positive happen to the offense in the offseason except for OL possibly being better with a lot of ? marks from lack of continuity.

ST's is about 1/7th of the game, not a third, but you are right in principle. Field position has been a major bane of DEN, and they have no proven kicker on the team. That makes them worse in that category IMHO. Returns remains to be seen as well as coverage. I do think having Scoot O'brien back should pay dividends in the second year, but the roster is going to turn over another 25% and that means lack of ST's continuity from year to year overall. Injuries also can help make ST's less effective.

I seriously think this is an 8 win team that could deviate 2 games either way based on circumstances and luck.

[theAPAOps5]

8-8 is my expectation. If all the ?'s are answered with positives then 10 is attainable.

[Cito Pelon]

This line will pressure opposing QBs alot better than last years.

I'm a bit skeptical about that.

[Cito Pelon]

Yeah, but if you adjust for that they still were bottom 10. They just have got to improve FP and then efficiency as well.

In the redzone last year the O playcalling was very conservative. That had a lot to do with lack of scoring. The O plodded after they crossed the 50, very slow pace on O. In retrospect, it was obvious Cutler didn't have energy to complete long drives. Dude lost his energy in early-October. Add in the long drives needed to score points to begin with.

So I'm thinking the O this year will score a lot more points than last year. How that will translate into wins, I don't know.

[Cito Pelon]

I'm curious about the new fellow overseeing the Passing game. Bates? Will a new fresh faced guy bring some innovation, will he even be listed to? I think it's something to keep an eye on. Might help the scoring offense a little.

so will having a good power back I think

It's Shanny's O, any O coach just has to make sure everybody understands what Shanny wants. Kubiak may have made that happen better than those since, but that's the bottom line. Innovation is Shanny's deal, not his subordinates.

[BroncoInferno]

You realize the last 2 years the offense has been well below average? Not just average, WELL BELOW average. Since Kubiak left, the offense has gone into a major remission especially in the red Zone and scoring zone (inside the 35).

One year is an anomaly, two is a trend. I just did not see anything positive happen to the offense in the offseason except for OL possibly being better with a lot of ? marks from lack of continuity.

ST's is about 1/7th of the game, not a third, but you are right in principle. Field position has been a major bane of DEN, and they have no proven kicker on the team. That makes them worse in that category IMHO. Returns remains to be seen as well as coverage. I do think having Scoot O'brien back should pay dividends in the second year, but the roster is going to turn over another 25% and that means lack of ST's continuity from year to year overall. Injuries also can help make ST's less effective.

I seriously think this is an 8 win team that could deviate 2 games either way based on circumstances and luck.

I think you are underestimating the maturation of the youngsters and also the effect of the OL injuries last season. I was saying before 2006 that the offesnive talent was thinning out, and Shanny obviously agreed as that draft was heavy on offense (full disclosure: I didn't have the QB position in mind but about getting Plummer help). The problem is that when you put your eggs in a youth basket you have to wait for returns. The bottom fell out in '06 as Rod Smith was finished and the youngsters weren't ready to be effective. Then, in '07 the youngsters really began to improve but the OL was in shambles with two starters out for most the season (Hamilton and Nails) and a third playing on shot knees (Lepsis). i don't see how anyone couldn't have optimism this season. Cutler played pretty solid football overall despite the OL woes and playing with undiagnosed diabetes. Scheffler had the foot trouble early but was really starting to establish himself as a premier pass-catching TE by seasons end. Marshall had a big sophmore campain, but there are concerns there obviously. With the OL you have Hamilton and Nails back plus the addition of Clady who should be approvement over the 2007 completely shot version of Lepsis. I'd also say we are deeper overall at WR. Jackson had 10 TDs two seasons ago, and now everyone is writing him off after playing on one of the leagues worst offenses. He is still only 29 and I think will be a key addition. In any case, I think there is very good reason to expect the offense to step it up this season. In fact, with a little luck with injuries, it wouldn't stun me to see this group back among the top 5 to 10 groups in the league. The talent is definitely in place.

[Cito Pelon]

You realize the last 2 years the offense has been well below average? Not just average, WELL BELOW average. Since Kubiak left, the offense has gone into a major remission especially in the red Zone and scoring zone (inside the 35).

One year is an anomaly, two is a trend. I just did not see anything positive happen to the offense in the offseason except for OL possibly being better with a lot of ? marks from lack of continuity.

ST's is about 1/7th of the game, not a third, but you are right in principle. Field position has been a major bane of DEN, and they have no proven kicker on the team. That makes them worse in that category IMHO. Returns remains to be seen as well as coverage. I do think having Scoot O'brien back should pay dividends in the second year, but the roster is going to turn over another 25% and that means lack of ST's continuity from year to year overall. Injuries also can help make ST's less effective.

I seriously think this is an 8 win team that could deviate 2 games either way based on circumstances and luck.

I think this is potentially a top five O in scoring, even after the poor last couple of years. One thing Shanny knows, and that's how to score. He didn't f around too much this past offseason getting himself an O. Clady, Royal, Torain, Kory, Colbert, Jackson, Hillis, Pittman, Gandy after grabbing Graham and Stokley last year and trying with Henry. He already had Marshall and Scheffler as potent O weapons, Young, Hall.

[Mediator12]

I think this is potentially a top five O in scoring, even after the poor last couple of years. One thing Shanny knows, and that's how to score. He didn't f around too much this past offseason getting himself an O. Clady, Royal, Torain, Kory, Colbert, Jackson, Hillis, Pittman, Gandy after grabbing Graham and Stokley last year and trying with Henry. He already had Marshall and Scheffler as potent O weapons, Young, Hall.

Top 5 :rofl:

Are you kidding me? INDY, NE, SD, DAL, GB, JAX, CLE, PIT, NO, and CIN are all going to score more points than DEN next year. And, there are a lot more teams closer to breaking the top 10 than DEN. HOU, SEA, and ARI come to mind. Yes, Cutler is going to be better. Yes, Marshall was great in his soph season, but he is injured. Scheffler is injured and going to miss most of TC if not all for the second year in a row with the same foot injury. What do you have behind that? Selvin Young and Torain? OK, decent players that need to be standouts in order to even have a chance offensively. Where are the rest of the points going to be generated?

[Inkana7]

Scheffler is injured? News to me.

[Kaylore]

I agree with Cito, Med. The Denver offense is going to be explosive this year and it will largely be based on Cutler's improvement and better play at the tackle position. You can laugh all you want, and I know you have a sore spot with Shanahan, but I really think things are finally coming together and you're going to see that manifest itself this year.

[watermock]

I agree with Cito, Med. The Denver offense is going to be explosive this year and it will largely be based on Cutler's improvement and better play at the tackle position. You can laugh all you want, and I know you have a sore spot with Shanahan, but I really think things are finally coming together and you're going to see that manifest itself this year.

We also play a very weak schedule..SD twice and NE who we kinda own?? Nobody else scares me particuliarly.
Robinson and Powell are going to be big additions inside as well as moving DJ to will. Of course, Niko has to deliver...

1 Mon Sep. 8 at Oakland McAfee Coliseum 7:15 PM PDT ESPN
2 Sun Sep.14 VS. SAN DIEGO INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 PM MDT CBS
3 Sun Sep.21 VS. NEW ORLEANS INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MDT FOX
4 Sun Sep.28 at Kansas City Arrowhead Stadium 12:00 PM CDT CBS
5 Sun Oct. 5 VS. TAMPA BAY INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MDT FOX
6 Sun Oct.12 VS. JACKSONVILLE INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MDT CBS
7 Mon Oct.20 at New England Gillette Stadium 8:30 PM EDT ESPN
8 BYE WEEK
9 Sun Nov. 2 VS. MIAMI INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MST CBS
10 Thu Nov. 6 at Cleveland Cleveland Browns Stadium 8:15 PM EST NFLN
11 Sun Nov.16 at Atlanta Georgia Dome 1:00 PM EST CBS
12 Sun Nov.23 VS. OAKLAND INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MST CBS
13 Sun Nov.30 at New York Jets Giants Stadium 1:00 PM EST CBS
14 Sun Dec. 7 VS. KANSAS CITY INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MST CBS
15 Sun Dec.14 at Carolina Bank of America Stadium 1:00 PM EST CBS
16 Sun Dec.21 VS. BUFFALO INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:05 PM MST CBS
17 Sun Dec.28 at San Diego Qualcomm Stadium 1:15 PM PST CBS

[Mediator12]

I agree with Cito, Med. The Denver offense is going to be explosive this year and it will largely be based on Cutler's improvement and better play at the tackle position. You can laugh all you want, and I know you have a sore spot with Shanahan, but I really think things are finally coming together and you're going to see that manifest itself this year.

Chris, its not personal dude!

I seriously do not see where the offense will get better with so much Change. One year OK, 2 years and I am waiting to see any depth at skill positions on offense. The Offense is one injury away from real bad. Cutler or Marshall get hurt and is NOT going to be pretty. Plus the OL is going to have to improve dramatically from last years unit. It looks better on paper, but so did last years DL..... And we know how that turned out.

I was real worried about the run defense before the first TC snap last year. The rushing offense was subpar last year and you have 2 new OT's, Selvin young and Torain at HB. There is a lot to be concerned about until they go out there and move the ball against SD or any other real defense.

[Rohirrim]

I figure it's an 8 and 8 season.

[OABB]

this thread is wonderful. actual football talk....ahhhh.

with that said, our scoring offense will be much improved imo, solely based on cutler's health and progression. I think Shanny was being very smart last year, although it was unbearable to watch, by protecting his young qb in the redzone with vanilla calls. a few times when he let cutler gunsling it inside the 20 it usually turned out well.

this year I expect more variety in the redzone and that will lead to more scores. Shanahan knows that when a defense respects the pass, the running lanes open up near the goaline.

I hope I am right, because i won't miss the three straight runs up the gut after a long drive.

[orinjkrush]

at some point zimmerman, schlereth and nalen were all new too.
davis? 6th rounder. sharpe? sterling's lil brother.

lots of questions exist no doubt. but greatness has to start somewhere.

i'm hoping this year is the beginning.

[Kaylore]

Chris, its not personal dude!

I seriously do not see where the offense will get better with so much Change. One year OK, 2 years and I am waiting to see any depth at skill positions on offense. The Offense is one injury away from real bad. Cutler or Marshall get hurt and is NOT going to be pretty. Plus the OL is going to have to improve dramatically from last years unit. It looks better on paper, but so did last years DL..... And we know how that turned out.

I was real worried about the run defense before the first TC snap last year. The rushing offense was subpar last year and you have 2 new OT's, Selvin young and Torain at HB. There is a lot to be concerned about until they go out there and move the ball against SD or any other real defense.
Honestly I do. Jay played very well with a debilitating disease that was completely untreated and I have way more confidence in Clady/Kuper than Done-Lepsis/Pears. Also consider the return of Nalen and Hamilton and Graham and Selvin on more year in the system. There are question marks, like at receiver (Marshall's arm and idiocy, will the new guys work out) but I think Royal will surprise and one of the new guys, probably Colbert, will fill in nicely. And Scheffler's foot wasn't re-broken. He practiced the last part of mini-camp. I don't know where you got he was going to miss most of Training camp.

Probably the biggest reason I think they'll be good is my gut. I just have a feeling that Cutler is going to come out this year and a good QB makes everything else look better than it is. I really believe this. Hopefully I'm right and you're wrong.Ha!

[ScottXray]

I also am looking for a better year, but basically on gut, and the hope that we don't have so many injuries this year.

On the other hand there are a LOT of questionmarks for the team....and if Cutler goes down were in a BAD situation, as I have NO confidence in Ramsey.

Also , last year I was one of the few that had reservations about Lepsis coming back full strength. Now its Nalen and Hamilton everyone is counting on.

Nalens injury is not as severe but he is older and we old folks just don't heal as well or fast. Hamilton is one head shot from retirement, and its just luck if he does'nt get it rung again. So our line may have two starters out again along the way.

Klady is a rookie, no matter how good he is, and the other tackle and guard spot is a questionmark.

IF all the changes gel well and IF we can get our lineup set early enough we may get started early enough to make a run. But I think 9-7 is realistic , + - 2 games either way.

I never liked the offensive calls since Kubes left ( or even the year before). thats when the RZ problems started.

I'm glad Heimnerdinger is gone, as well as Bates, but aint sure about Slowik.

If the offensive production in the scoring zone doesn't go up this year (assuming we have healthy receivers and running backs and a more or less stable O line) it will be an indictment of no one but Shanahan. Hopefully we'll see some innovation and capability down there.

[Mediator12]

Honestly I do. Jay played very well with a debilitating disease that was completely untreated and I have way more confidence in Clady/Kuper than Done-Lepsis/Pears. Also consider the return of Nalen and Hamilton and Graham and Selvin on more year in the system. There are question marks, like at receiver (Marshall's arm and idiocy, will the new guys work out) but I think Royal will surprise and one of the new guys, probably Colbert, will fill in nicely. And Scheffler's foot wasn't re-broken. He practiced the last part of mini-camp. I don't know where you got he was going to miss most of Training camp.

Probably the biggest reason I think they'll be good is my gut. I just have a feeling that Cutler is going to come out this year and a good QB makes everything else look better than it is. I really believe this. Hopefully I'm right and you're wrong.Ha!

I expect the OL to get better, but they have no chemistry right now. You know how hard it is for the Zone scheme to work, and it takes understanding, trust, and knowledge. There is a lot of inexperience and youth to incorporate into that. Nalen and Hamilton are stalwarts, but are coming back from injury like Lepsis was last year. I think Kuper will be fine eventually, but he has not had a lot of reps at OT. I HOPE Clady will be better than Lepsis last year, but that means they are going to have to roll a lot of protection his way early as he gets acclimated. That leaves Kuper out to dry or are they finally going to try some more heavy protection schemes? In short, you can be optimistic, but how much?

I also think outside of Cutler and Marshall, the skill positions are joe average. The RB's can be that way, but the WR's can not be. Scheffler injured the same foot that hindered him last year. That means he has a recurring injury on his wheel. That is not good. I have seen reports that he broke it again and others that just say injured. He was in a protective boot during OTA's. Now, he could be recovered and ready for TC, but how does your faith in the medical staff think he will be? Nate Jackson ring a bell?

As for being right and wrong, I hope You are right! The analytical side of me just does not buy it, like I did not buy the Defensive scheme with the personnel last year. Add to that, Crowder and Moss got injured. It just does not add up right now. I believe Cutler will be much better, i just hope he has someone to throw the ball who is open! Marshall, well, I just hope he understands how good he is and he is playing for Big money!

[TheReverend]

I expect the OL to get better, but they have no chemistry right now. You know how hard it is for the Zone scheme to work, and it takes understanding, trust, and knowledge. There is a lot of inexperience and youth to incorporate into that. Nalen and Hamilton are stalwarts, but are coming back from injury like Lepsis was last year. I think Kuper will be fine eventually, but he has not had a lot of reps at OT. I HOPE Clady will be better than Lepsis last year, but that means they are going to have to roll a lot of protection his way early as he gets acclimated. That leaves Kuper out to dry or are they finally going to try some more heavy protection schemes? In short, you can be optimistic, but how much?

I also think outside of Cutler and Marshall, the skill positions are joe average. The RB's can be that way, but the WR's can not be. Scheffler injured the same foot that hindered him last year. That means he has a recurring injury on his wheel. That is not good. I have seen reports that he broke it again and others that just say injured. He was in a protective boot during OTA's. Now, he could be recovered and ready for TC, but how does your faith in the medical staff think he will be? Nate Jackson ring a bell?

As for being right and wrong, I hope You are right! The analytical side of me just does not buy it, like I did not buy the Defensive scheme with the personnel last year. Add to that, Crowder and Moss got injured. It just does not add up right now. I believe Cutler will be much better, i just hope he has someone to throw the ball who is open! Marshall, well, I just hope he understands how good he is and he is playing for Big money!

Come on Med, the added aggression to red-zone play calling with a third year rising star QB as opposed to a first year starter alone will leap-frog up the rankings.

And depth at the skill positions? RB is a who cares wash in this town, WR is the deepest its been as long as I can remember and if the OL can block without Graham training wheels, then our 2 TE sets will be scary versatile.

[bowtown]

I have seen reports that he broke it again and others that just say injured. He was in a protective boot during OTA's. Now, he could be recovered and ready for TC, but how does your faith in the medical staff think he will be? Nate Jackson ring a bell?


Again, I don't know where you have been but you are inacurrately reporting this. Scheffler will be ready for TC. That is a sure thing. He didn't miss all of OTAs. He practiced full speed the last week of them. He may reinjure it at some point, but right now he is going into TC with no boot and healthy.

[BroncoInferno]

I expect the OL to get better, but they have no chemistry right now. You know how hard it is for the Zone scheme to work, and it takes understanding, trust, and knowledge. There is a lot of inexperience and youth to incorporate into that. Nalen and Hamilton are stalwarts, but are coming back from injury like Lepsis was last year. I think Kuper will be fine eventually, but he has not had a lot of reps at OT. I HOPE Clady will be better than Lepsis last year, but that means they are going to have to roll a lot of protection his way early as he gets acclimated. That leaves Kuper out to dry or are they finally going to try some more heavy protection schemes? In short, you can be optimistic, but how much?

It was pretty bad last season. I think we will be a much more talented group with the return of Hamilton and Nalen plus the addition of Clady and Pears being ousted at RT. There very well may be chemistry problems early on, but I still think it will be an improvement from last season and that barring injury set backs they will be a solid group by seasons end.

I also think outside of Cutler and Marshall, the skill positions are joe average.

Disagree. If Scheffler can stay healthy, I think our TE situation is one of the best in the league. Graham is one of the games top blockers at the position and a decent receiver, and Scheffler really was starting to emerge as a premier pass catching TE in the last half of the season. Even with getting little action for the first six or so games he still ended up in the top 10 among TEs in several key statistical categories. At WR, I think we have one of the deeper groups we've had in a while. People are quick to write off Jackson, but it was only two seasons ago that he had 10 TDs. Then he goes to a team with one of the worst starting QBs in the league and the numbers drop off, but he is still only 29. I think the drop in the production was more to do with situation than anything else. And, even with the drop off, he still had 47 catches, which is about what we'd need from our #2 WR. Then you've got a top notch slot guy in Stokley, a protypical Broncos receiver in Colbert, and a youngster to develop in Royal...even Parker isn't bad at all as a your 4th or 5th guy. That's pretty solid depth provided Marshall is OK (granted, that is worrisome). At RB, I never really worry too much. We always seem to make that work.


Add to that, Crowder and Moss got injured.

I missed this. What did they injure and to what extent? We need at least one of those two to step it up this season if DL is going to improve.

[Mediator12]

It was pretty bad last season. I think we will be a much more talented group with the return of Hamilton and Nalen plus the addition of Clady and Pears being ousted at RT. There very well may be chemistry problems early on, but I still think it will be an improvement from last season and that barring injury set backs they will be a solid group by seasons end.



Disagree. If Scheffler can stay healthy, I think our TE situation is one of the best in the league. Graham is one of the games top blockers at the position and a decent receiver, and Scheffler really was starting to emerge as a premier pass catching TE in the last half of the season. Even with getting little action for the first six or so games he still ended up in the top 10 among TEs in several key statistical categories. At WR, I think we have one of the deeper groups we've had in a while. People are quick to write off Jackson, but it was only two seasons ago that he had 10 TDs. Then he goes to a team with one of the worst starting QBs in the league and the numbers drop off, but he is still only 29. I think the drop in the production was more to do with situation than anything else. And, even with the drop off, he still had 47 catches, which is about what we'd need from our #2 WR. Then you've got a top notch slot guy in Stokley, a protypical Broncos receiver in Colbert, and a youngster to develop in Royal...even Parker isn't bad at all as a your 4th or 5th guy. That's pretty solid depth provided Marshall is OK (granted, that is worrisome). At RB, I never really worry too much. We always seem to make that work.




I missed this. What did they injure and to what extent? We need at least one of those two to step it up this season if DL is going to improve.

I used the past tense with Moss and Crowder, they were injured last year!

Scheffler is a Wild Card. The recurring injuries are not encouraging over a whole season, especially with a foot. I like Graham a lot and we were repeatedly told he would get MORE opportunities to catch Balls in DEN, yet he was no where better than in NE.

The WR's are average. Stokley is a fine WR who misses 3-4 games every year consistently, but he is best in the slot. I like Darrell Jackson a lot, but he has regressed and is a major injury missing guy as well. And When they are both out at some point this year, who will play behind them? Keary Colbert? He has struggled mightily to get seperation at this level, even when he had so much solo coverage with Steve Smith on the other side! And then, he struggled to make a play. In short, the WR's are not top guys outside of Marshall's potential. That does not mean someone will finally step up and play well for Jay, but it is not highly likely.

[TheReverend]

I used the past tense with Moss and Crowder, they were injured last year!

Scheffler is a Wild Card. The recurring injuries are not encouraging over a whole season, especially with a foot. I like Graham a lot and we were repeatedly told he would get MORE opportunities to catch Balls in DEN, yet he was no where better than in NE.

You know as well as anyone that Graham was kept in to block due to rolling protections for a DECIMATED offensive line.

The WR's are average. Stokley is a fine WR who misses 3-4 games every year consistently, but he is best in the slot. I like Darrell Jackson a lot, but he has regressed and is a major injury missing guy as well. Can you name a receiving option that wouldn't "regress" in San Francisco? And When they are both out at some point this year, who will play behind them? You're playing on "ifs" Keary Colbert? He has struggled mightily to get seperation at this level, even when he had so much solo coverage with Steve Smith on the other side! And then, he struggled to make a play. In short, the WR's are not top guys outside of Marshall's potential. That does not mean someone will finally step up and play well for Jay, but it is not highly likely.

The QB play is AT LEAST 60% of making the receiver look good. Glen Martinez caught balls last year. Stressing over Jackson, Stokley and Colbert to COMBINE for a valid #2 option is really pushing football discussion to downright pessism.

If camp rolls around, and somehow Marshall has a serious set-back, then we can definitely revisit this discussion, but for right now... seriously?

[Mediator12]

The QB play is AT LEAST 60% of making the receiver look good. Glen Martinez caught balls last year. Stressing over Jackson, Stokley and Colbert to COMBINE for a valid #2 option is really pushing football discussion to downright pessism.

If camp rolls around, and somehow Marshall has a serious set-back, then we can definitely revisit this discussion, but for right now... seriously?

I said they are average. Just plain average, If they are healthy. When Scheffler has a recurring foot injury and Stokley and Jackson are injury prone I do NOT think that is pessimism, its guarded reality. Cutler could run out of targets real quick. Plus, the rosters have shrunk in TC and Vets are NOT going to be able to take off as much time and will get more wear and tear. Vets are going to get more nicks and little nagging stuff by playing more.

Remember, the premise is this is going to be an elite offense, top 5 by some peoples thoughts. I think they can return to above average at the top end of the scale. Top 10, no way with the average players at the skill positions.

[BroncoInferno]

Top 10, no way with the average players at the skill positions.

Well, I think you're just plain wrong with the "average" assessment. Obviously it could become average with injuries, but it is ridiculous to factor that in at this point. Every team is going to have injuries to some extent. If we can avoid the injury bug, the key for the season will be OL chemistry IMO.

[Cito Pelon]

Top 5 :rofl:

Are you kidding me? INDY, NE, SD, DAL, GB, JAX, CLE, PIT, NO, and CIN are all going to score more points than DEN next year. And, there are a lot more teams closer to breaking the top 10 than DEN. HOU, SEA, and ARI come to mind. Yes, Cutler is going to be better. Yes, Marshall was great in his soph season, but he is injured. Scheffler is injured and going to miss most of TC if not all for the second year in a row with the same foot injury. What do you have behind that? Selvin Young and Torain? OK, decent players that need to be standouts in order to even have a chance offensively. Where are the rest of the points going to be generated?

Potentially top 5 in the AFC. That's all I care about, not League rankings. The AFC is the big deal, how to make the playoffs. This O has the potential to score 400 points. I'm counting on better ST and D play. We'll see.

[wolf754life]

6 wins

we have no depth, injuries will cripple this team

shannahan can't gameplan anymore, slowik will be exposed, our special teams are horrendous

how come no one is talking about matt prater? weird? special teams are not going to be better!

wake up!
ugh

[Cito Pelon]

this thread is wonderful. actual football talk....ahhhh.

with that said, our scoring offense will be much improved imo, solely based on cutler's health and progression. I think Shanny was being very smart last year, although it was unbearable to watch, by protecting his young qb in the redzone with vanilla calls. a few times when he let cutler gunsling it inside the 20 it usually turned out well.

this year I expect more variety in the redzone and that will lead to more scores. Shanahan knows that when a defense respects the pass, the running lanes open up near the goaline.

I hope I am right, because i won't miss the three straight runs up the gut after a long drive.

Agreed. I guess Shanny was trying to protect the D last year as well as Cutler. I don't know, but I don't want to see that again. I thought the team would have been better served by a faster O pace last year. It was driving me nuts they ran the O at such a slow pace.

[Cito Pelon]

I also am looking for a better year, but basically on gut, and the hope that we don't have so many injuries this year.

On the other hand there are a LOT of questionmarks for the team....and if Cutler goes down were in a BAD situation, as I have NO confidence in Ramsey.

Also , last year I was one of the few that had reservations about Lepsis coming back full strength. Now its Nalen and Hamilton everyone is counting on.

Nalens injury is not as severe but he is older and we old folks just don't heal as well or fast. Hamilton is one head shot from retirement, and its just luck if he does'nt get it rung again. So our line may have two starters out again along the way.

Klady is a rookie, no matter how good he is, and the other tackle and guard spot is a questionmark.

IF all the changes gel well and IF we can get our lineup set early enough we may get started early enough to make a run. But I think 9-7 is realistic , + - 2 games either way.

I never liked the offensive calls since Kubes left ( or even the year before). thats when the RZ problems started.

I'm glad Heimnerdinger is gone, as well as Bates, but aint sure about Slowik.

If the offensive production in the scoring zone doesn't go up this year (assuming we have healthy receivers and running backs and a more or less stable O line) it will be an indictment of no one but Shanahan. Hopefully we'll see some innovation and capability down there.

Yeah, well, there's some questions. I really didn't like to see Myers let go. I'm thinking Kory and Gandy better be ready to start some games.

[TheReverend]

I said they are average. Just plain average, If they are healthy. When Scheffler has a recurring foot injury and Stokley and Jackson are injury prone I do NOT think that is pessimism, its guarded reality. Cutler could run out of targets real quick. Plus, the rosters have shrunk in TC and Vets are NOT going to be able to take off as much time and will get more wear and tear. Vets are going to get more nicks and little nagging stuff by playing more.

Remember, the premise is this is going to be an elite offense, top 5 by some peoples thoughts. I think they can return to above average at the top end of the scale. Top 10, no way with the average players at the skill positions.

I don't see why not. Their optimism is more guarded in reality than anything else.

You call the receiving options average, which is mildly pessimistic but more realistic than anything... but you fail to mention that Denver spent a decade in the top 1-10 with BELOW average skill position players and average, at best, QB play.

[summerdenver]

I don't see why not. Their optimism is more guarded in reality than anything else.

You call the receiving options average, which is mildly pessimistic but more realistic than anything... but you fail to mention that Denver spent a decade in the top 1-10 with BELOW average skill position players and average, at best, QB play.

Even with all the injuries, tougher schedule and Henry, walker distractions we were 9th rated offense per FO stats. It is not too far fethced to think that we can make it to top 5 with better injury luck and easier schedule. I am not that optimistic about def and ST though. BTW, FO expects us to be one of the wildcard teams from afc in 2008.

http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/teamoff.php

[fontaine]

I can't see how the Broncos will have a top five offense.

I'm looking forward to watching Selvin Young/Cutler/Marshall develop but even the best set of skill position players can be out matched if the engine of your offense is sputtering (OL).

With two new guys at tackle, Hamilton still iffy and an aging Nalen I don't see chemistry or the kind of synchronicity required to have a standout OL which is what we need. I think we're going to see a lot of max protect with Mustard/Graham and short pitches to D-Jack with Marshall stretching the field. Not a horrible offense but a far cry from a top flite one.

Because we're going to have to commit more bodies at the line of scrimmage for blocking, it's going to limit what we can do offensively.