Elway Mounts A New, Historical Comeback For The Broncos

[Bronco Rob]

Elway Mounts A New, Historical Comeback For The Broncos


By Rich Kurtzman December 26, 2012 6:00 AM

John Elway rides again!

The old gunslinger may have hung up his spurs 13 seasons ago—beaten and broken physically before riding off into the sunset—but he’s taken the reins of the Broncos once again.

(Credit, Harry How/Getty Images)

In December 2010, the Broncos were in the midst of their worst season in nearly 50 years. Josh McDaniels was fired from the head coaching spot he wasn’t qualified for and Eric Studesville was put in charge on an interim basis. Denver was down in the dumps, eventually finishing a dastardly 4-12. It may be no coincidence that this is the time Elway met with Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and expressed interest in getting involved with the team. On January 5, 2011, Elway was named the Vice President of Football Operations, knowing everything was on the line.

Where the Broncos sat two years ago, it was a mile high climb back to the top of the mountain—the team was in shambles. He would have to hire a new head coach and defensive coordinator, then try to piece together a football team through the draft and free agency. In short, Elway’s reputation — not only as a god-like figure in Denver, but as a football man in the NFL world — was on the line in a job he admitted he had little understanding of.

But he met the challenges head on, insisting the franchise wasn’t rebuilding, but putting together a competitor immediately.

Elway hired John Fox as the new head coach and allowed Fox to bring some of his familiar assistants to town, then hired Dennis Allen as the new defensive coordinator. That draft class may go down as one of the Broncos’ best; Von Miller, Rahim Moore and Orlando Franklin have been starters and impact players ever since. And in free agency he re-signed Matt Prater and Wesley Woodyard and found Willis McGahee, Chris Harris and Tony Carter. The Broncos doubled their win total from the year before, improving to 8-8, winning the AFC West and even beating the Steelers in the first round of the playoffs with some Mile High Magic.

Then, even with all the national spotlights shining on Denver and quarterback Tim Tebow — Fox was wily enough to throw him into the starting lineup after the team’s dreadful 1-4 start — Elway made the most difficult decision of all, cutting ties with Tebow. The “Tebowites” resented Elway and the Broncos, they thought Tim Terrific deserved another chance to lead the team.

The Duke had other ideas; championship aspirations.

When Allen left to be the Oakland Raiders new head coach, Elway found Jack Del Rio, who has given Denver their best defense in quite a long time. Through free agency and the draft he continued to build the depth that’s proven so valuable as the grueling season has worn on. The Broncos re-signed punter Britton Colquitt, kicker Matt Prater, Joe Mays, Manny Ramirez, Matt Willis, Wesley Woodyard and Lance Ball while they brought in newcomers Mike Adams, Keith Brooking, Joel Dreessen, Dan Koppen, Trindon Holliday, Jim Leonard, Tracy Porter, Brandon Stokley, Jacob Tamme and of course, Peyton Manning. Plus, first and third round draft picks Derek Wolfe and Ronnie Hillman have made an impact as well.

Of all the names Elway’s brought into Denver, Peyton Manning’s stands out. The more the NFL game evolves in favor of the offense, the more important having a truly elite quarterback is — Denver has theirs in Manning. But each and every one of the names listed above have left fingerprints on the amazing run the Broncos are currently on.

Two years after going 4-12, the Denver Broncos may finish this season 13-3 — it’s incredible. This is arguably the best Broncos team to ever take the field — they’ve run off 10 straight victories and in domineering fashion, possess Hall of Famers in Manning and Champ Bailey while Von Miller is playing for Defensive Player of the Year and all three phases of the team perform at a high level. They’re playing so well, a Super Bowl is within reach thanks to the likely home-field advantage and first round bye coming to the team to start the playoffs.


for the rest: http://denver.cbslocal.com/2012/12/2...enver-broncos/

[UltimateHoboW/Shotgun]

Thanks! Damn good article.

[orange crusher]

Elway insisted the frachise wasn't rebuilding? I thought I remembered him saying from day one that they were rebuilding and that he anticipated it would take 3 years.

[UltimateHoboW/Shotgun]

Originally Posted by orange crusher

Elway insisted the frachise wasn't rebuilding? I thought I remembered him saying from day one that they were rebuilding and that he anticipated it would take 3 years.

Well it helps that you get a Manning V8 with a limited 3 year warrant to help you rebuild.

Its better than having Orton 50cc two stroke. Or the mule driven Tebow wagon.

[orange crusher]

Originally Posted by UltimateHoboW/Shotgun

Well it helps that you get a Manning V8 with a limited 3 year warrant to help you rebuild.

Its better than having Orton 50cc two stroke. Or the mule driven Tebow wagon.

I don't disagree. I'd just like to know where the author came up with the Elway insisted the franchise wasn't rebuilding part. Elway was very clear from the beginning that they were rebuilding.

[Paladin]

So, he rebuilt it.

Manning was the key on O, Del Rio on D.

[Bacchus]

Check out the other Broncos' articles this guy has written.

http://www.examiner.com/denver-bronc.../rich-kurtzman

He has written 8 in the last 9 days!!

[Lestat]

Fox,Manning,Del Rio, greatest 3 moves ever.

now we just need to axe Joe Mays and get a stud MLB.

[UltimateHoboW/Shotgun]

Originally Posted by orange crusher

I don't disagree. I'd just like to know where the author came up with the Elway insisted the franchise wasn't rebuilding part. Elway was very clear from the beginning that they were rebuilding.

If you think about it, you're rebuilding all the time. I mean you're always looking to get better. This team is good, but I bet there isn't anybody here that wouldn't like a better SS or MLB or DT or C or LG or a 3rdWR. But durning a rebiulding process hopefully you'll have a defensive and offensive cornerstones to build around. I'm just glad I've never had to live through a complete strip down and rebuild.

[baja]

Originally Posted by Bronco Rob

Elway Mounts A New, Historical Comeback For The Broncos


By Rich Kurtzman December 26, 2012 6:00 AM

John Elway rides again!

The old gunslinger may have hung up his spurs 13 seasons ago—beaten and broken physically before riding off into the sunset—but he’s taken the reins of the Broncos once again.

(Credit, Harry How/Getty Images)

In December 2010, the Broncos were in the midst of their worst season in nearly 50 years. Josh McDaniels was fired from the head coaching spot he wasn’t qualified for and Eric Studesville was put in charge on an interim basis. Denver was down in the dumps, eventually finishing a dastardly 4-12. It may be no coincidence that this is the time Elway met with Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and expressed interest in getting involved with the team. On January 5, 2011, Elway was named the Vice President of Football Operations, knowing everything was on the line.

Where the Broncos sat two years ago, it was a mile high climb back to the top of the mountain—the team was in shambles. He would have to hire a new head coach and defensive coordinator, then try to piece together a football team through the draft and free agency. In short, Elway’s reputation — not only as a god-like figure in Denver, but as a football man in the NFL world — was on the line in a job he admitted he had little understanding of.

But he met the challenges head on, insisting the franchise wasn’t rebuilding, but putting together a competitor immediately.

Elway hired John Fox as the new head coach and allowed Fox to bring some of his familiar assistants to town, then hired Dennis Allen as the new defensive coordinator. That draft class may go down as one of the Broncos’ best; Von Miller, Rahim Moore and Orlando Franklin have been starters and impact players ever since. And in free agency he re-signed Matt Prater and Wesley Woodyard and found Willis McGahee, Chris Harris and Tony Carter. The Broncos doubled their win total from the year before, improving to 8-8, winning the AFC West and even beating the Steelers in the first round of the playoffs with some Mile High Magic.

Then, even with all the national spotlights shining on Denver and quarterback Tim Tebow — Fox was wily enough to throw him into the starting lineup after the team’s dreadful 1-4 start — Elway made the most difficult decision of all, cutting ties with Tebow. The “Tebowites” resented Elway and the Broncos, they thought Tim Terrific deserved another chance to lead the team.

The Duke had other ideas; championship aspirations.

When Allen left to be the Oakland Raiders new head coach, Elway found Jack Del Rio, who has given Denver their best defense in quite a long time. Through free agency and the draft he continued to build the depth that’s proven so valuable as the grueling season has worn on. The Broncos re-signed punter Britton Colquitt, kicker Matt Prater, Joe Mays, Manny Ramirez, Matt Willis, Wesley Woodyard and Lance Ball while they brought in newcomers Mike Adams, Keith Brooking, Joel Dreessen, Dan Koppen, Trindon Holliday, Jim Leonard, Tracy Porter, Brandon Stokley, Jacob Tamme and of course, Peyton Manning. Plus, first and third round draft picks Derek Wolfe and Ronnie Hillman have made an impact as well.

Of all the names Elway’s brought into Denver, Peyton Manning’s stands out. The more the NFL game evolves in favor of the offense, the more important having a truly elite quarterback is — Denver has theirs in Manning. But each and every one of the names listed above have left fingerprints on the amazing run the Broncos are currently on.

Two years after going 4-12, the Denver Broncos may finish this season 13-3 — it’s incredible. This is arguably the best Broncos team to ever take the field — they’ve run off 10 straight victories and in domineering fashion, possess Hall of Famers in Manning and Champ Bailey while Von Miller is playing for Defensive Player of the Year and all three phases of the team perform at a high level. They’re playing so well, a Super Bowl is within reach thanks to the likely home-field advantage and first round bye coming to the team to start the playoffs.


for the rest: http://denver.cbslocal.com/2012/12/2...enver-broncos/

It's one thing to build a team and acquire good FAs but quite another to do it is a cost effective manner.

Elway did it with out causing cap hell down the road insuring the opportunity the Broncos can be good for many years to come.

I remember so many calling for this name free agent and that name free agent. but Elway just brought in players to help this team. Many were disappointed that Saturday was not more heavily pursued and saying BFD when Koppen was signed.

[tesnyde]

Originally Posted by UltimateHoboW/Shotgun

Well it helps that you get a Manning V8 with a limited 3 year warrant to help you rebuild.

Its better than having Orton 50cc two stroke. Or the mule driven Tebow wagon.

Nice analogies.

[UberBroncoMan]

Originally Posted by Bronco Rob

This is arguably the best Broncos team to ever take the field

Probably the best team since 98'...but that team was special. Don't think anyone could argue this one is better, except on defense.

[Bronco Rob]

Originally Posted by UberBroncoMan

Probably the best team since 98'...but that team was special. Don't think anyone could argue this one is better, except on defense.

Took exception to that one. Don't have the offensive line and definitely don't have a back like TD.

[BroncoBuff]

Almost impossible to fully appreciate what he's done ... went from a franchise record 12 losses in 2010 (despite the fact we were caught cheating) .... to back-to-back Division titles, playoff win in 2011, elite team in 2012.

[dsmoot]

Originally Posted by Bronco Rob

Took exception to that one. Don't have the offensive line and definitely don't have a back like TD.

Agreed. That team won two Superbowls, this team hasn't played a playoff game.

[dsmoot]

Originally Posted by BroncoBuff

Almost impossible to fully appreciate what he's done ... went from a franchise record 12 losses in 2010 (despite the fact we were caught cheating) .... to back-to-back Division titles, playoff win in 2011, elite team in 2012.

Elite teams go deep in the playoffs. TBD.

[baja]

Originally Posted by dsmoot

Elite teams go deep in the playoffs. TBD.

In your opinion what makes up an elite team? The atrabutes.

[Bronco Rob]

Originally Posted by BroncoBuff

Almost impossible to fully appreciate what he's done ... went from a franchise record 12 losses in 2010 (despite the fact we were caught cheating) .... to back-to-back Division titles, playoff win in 2011, elite team in 2012.

Originally Posted by dsmoot

Agreed. That team won two Superbowls, this team hasn't played a playoff game.

[dsmoot]

Originally Posted by baja

In your opinion what makes up an elite team? The atrabutes.

Now this opens me up for some criticism. I really think the word "elite" like the word "awesome" should be given out sparingly after there has been a high level of accomplishment over some length of time. I think the 1996 -1998 Broncos were elite. Accomplishments include numerous playoff victories and even a championship (criticism coming). Teams that consistently get to the playoffs but fail at the next level are not elite. The Atlanta Falcons are very, very good and are on the cusp of being elite but they haven't quite earned the title of "elite". The 1969 - 1971 Baltimore Orioles were elite but were the 1969 - 1971 Minnesota Twins, maybe, maybe not.

This isn't a perfect definition. Certainly because it is my opinion.

[UltimateHoboW/Shotgun]

Originally Posted by BroncoBuff

Almost impossible to fully appreciate what he's done ... went from a franchise record 12 losses in 2010 (despite the fact we were caught cheating) .... to back-to-back Division titles, playoff win in 2011, elite team in 2012.

^This!

[broncocalijohn]

Originally Posted by dsmoot

Now this opens me up for some criticism. I really think the word "elite" like the word "awesome" should be given out sparingly after there has been a high level of accomplishment over some length of time. I think the 1996 -1998 Broncos were elite. Accomplishments include numerous playoff victories and even a championship (criticism coming). Teams that consistently get to the playoffs but fail at the next level are not elite. The Atlanta Falcons are very, very good and are on the cusp of being elite but they haven't quite earned the title of "elite". The 1969 - 1971 Baltimore Orioles were elite but were the 1969 - 1971 Minnesota Twins, maybe, maybe not.

This isn't a perfect definition. Certainly because it is my opinion.

What about 1989-92 Bills with 4 Super Bowl appearances? They were an Elite AFC team but can they just be an Elite team? That team was stacked with studs.

[BroncoBuff]

They're an elite team NOW is all I meant, were never that last year.

Always surprises me people think the 1998 team was best. In fact, the 1997 was my favorite, and I think the best hands-down. Yes, 97 team lost 4 games and the 98 just 2, but the 97 team was better mentally, had better personnel, and its raw numbers were better than the 98 team:

1) 1997 offense led league in both yards and points
2) 1997 team had a Hall-of-Fame LT. Hello?
3) Previous year ended with a brutal loss, one of the worst playoff upsets in years. That loss, and blowout losses in 3 of the previous 10 Super Bowls pushed the conclusion that Denver would never win the big one. And the team's visual identity - always so wrapped up in orange - had given way to strange new uniforms of mostly navy blue and white.

1998 was far less of a mental challenge. Finally been there, finally done that, confidence was high all year. Tony Jones was playing great in Zimmerman's LT slot, and TD made his 2000 run. One fewer playoff games, far less talented SB opponent.

[BroncoBuff]

They're an elite team NOW is what I meant, we were never that last year.

Always surprises me people think the 1998 team was best. In fact, the 1997 was my favorite, and I think the best hands-down. Yes, 97 team lost 4 games and the 98 just 2, but the 97 team was better mentally, had better personnel, and its raw numbers were better than the 98 team:

1. 1997 offense led league in both yards and points
2. 1997 team had a Hall-of-Fame LT. Hello?
3. Previous year ended with a brutal loss, one of the worst playoff upsets in years. That loss, and blowout losses in 3 of the previous 10 Super Bowls pushed the conclusion that Denver would never win the big one.
4. The team's visual identity - always so wrapped up in the color orange - had just given way to strange new uniforms of mostly navy blue and white.

1998 was far less a mental challenge. Finally been there, finally done that, confidence was high all year. Tony Jones was playing great in Zimmerman's LT slot, and TD made his 2000 run. One fewer playoff games, far less talented SB opponent.

[spdirty]

Originally Posted by BroncoBuff

They're an elite team NOW is all I meant, were never that last year.

Always surprises me people think the 1998 team was best. In fact, the 1997 was my favorite, and I think the best hands-down. Yes, 97 team lost 4 games and the 98 just 2, but the 97 team was better mentally, had better personnel, and its raw numbers were better than the 98 team:

1) 1997 offense led league in both yards and points
2) 1997 team had a Hall-of-Fame LT. Hello?
3) Previous year ended with a brutal loss, one of the worst playoff upsets in years. That loss, and blowout losses in 3 of the previous 10 Super Bowls pushed the conclusion that Denver would never win the big one. And the team's visual identity - always so wrapped up in orange - had given way to strange new uniforms of mostly navy blue and white.

1998 was far less of a mental challenge. Finally been there, finally done that, confidence was high all year. Tony Jones was playing great in Zimmerman's LT slot, and TD made his 2000 run. One fewer playoff games, far less talented SB opponent.

The 1997 season was so much more stressful. That December was just hell. But that Super Bowl win was so much more enjoyable. The 1998 season as a whole I think was more enjoyable than any of them. Don't discount a team that just dominated everyone that year. We could have led the league in scoring and yards if we wanted to.

[Kaylore]

Originally Posted by spdirty

The 1997 season was so much more stressful. That December was just hell. But that Super Bowl win was so much more enjoyable. The 1998 season as a whole I think was more enjoyable than any of them. Don't discount a team that just dominated everyone that year. We could have led the league in scoring and yards if we wanted to.

I agree. There were a lot of tough losses during the 97 season. I remember my Dad slamming the TV when KC kicked the field goal and that stupid fat rat thing they have as a mascot punching the air. The Steelers loss, the Niners loss. It felt like we were barely hanging on to the playoffs.

'98 we straight balled.