Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
It seems Denver Broncos fans are a very forgiving bunch.
Just as I expected.
This week’s sound-off question was whether Denver fans forgive Brandon Marshall for his summer antics, which included a trade request and a suspension after he made a mockery of an August practice.
The question was posed after Marshall made a spectacular 51-yard catch and run for a touchdown to give Denver 17-10 win over Dallas. Marshall celebrated the touchdown with two hugs with Denver coach Josh McDaniels.
Most readers who responded said they feel much better about Marshall now.
I can see why. He is a special player. Marshall plays with passion and he clearly ran down the field Sunday with the intention of helping the Broncos win the game.
I wouldn’t be shocked if Marshall’s and Denver’s issues popped up again in the offseason, but it is clear (for the moment) that Marshall and Denver can happily co-exist.
Below are some of your responses. Thanks to everyone who participated:
Frank from Colorado: To be honest Bill, it wasn't the catch that made me feel better about Marshall, it was the hug with McDaniels. I've seen enough of Marshall to expect plays like that, but his emotion afterwards wasn't something I expected. It was nice to see him be in the game like that, and celebrate with the team.
Aaron from New Orleans: I always liked Marshall. It was a disappointing off season for him. I think he'll come around and be playing like the last two seasons which will help the pass attack get going. They need to get some big pass plays in the passing game, they missed a few that Marshall would have made the last couple of games. If they have a more balance on offense they'll start to score more which will take that much pressure off the already excellent defense.
Vernon Lucas from Oakland, Calif.: While his off the field behavior makes me scratch my head, it is hard to argue with his production on the field. Over 200 catches, and 2,500 receiving yards over the last two seasons Marshall is a difference maker, the latest evidence of this fact are his late game heroics vs. Dallas. Furthermore, I think Marshall's presence is good for Orton as he has a big rangy target to throw the ball to. If he continues to display not only his physical nature, but is enthusiasm for buying into McDaniels the sky is the limit for Marshall and I am glad he lines up for the Broncos.
Jesse from Wichita, Kan.: As a die-hard fan of the Broncos, I will sweep Brandon Marshall's off season antics under the rug if he continues to display his dedication to the team. Everyone is entitled to emotional fits (we're only human) so long as they right their wrong in the end. I hope that if he becomes a dominant force on our team again, that Mr. B will pay him what he is worth in order to keep him around for years to come.
J Johnson from Tesuque, N.M.: Brandon Marshall has always been a big time player, his ego just got in his way for a bit. After a suspension, long talks with former Broncos greats(Rod Smith) about his attitude and seeing his value plummit as the team went on without him in the line up, he seems to have re-evaluated his actions. This is a terrific thing for all concerned! Football is a team sport if you are going to win. Show up, strap up, shut up, work hard, stick a smile on your face and all good things will come in time. GO BRONCOS! (55)
Chris A. from Littleton, Colo.: Bill, I don't if the play makes me feel better about Marshall, but the way he prepared for it, and the way he reacted to the play, does. Marshall has the talent to make astonishing plays for the offense; we knew that. But it seems he has really been working hard the last few weeks to get back into the Broncos' gameplan, and that has clearly paid off. The way he reacted to the play (hugging McDaniels, calling it one of the most significant catches of his career) shows that he is excited to be here, or at least in the game plan. The catch and run were amazing, but his attitude, increased role in the gameplan, and enthusiasm are what make me more positive on Marshall.
Marty from Omaha, Neb.: As a lifelong Broncos fan, I was disappointed with Brandon Marshall's behavior at the beginning of the season. While his skills were not in question, his professionalism was. Broncos fans have grown accustomed to receivers that are professionals (ex: Tom Watson, Rod Smith) and play the game the right way. While his reception was impressive, it is the reports that he is working his tail off in practice and has worked to change his prima donna attitude that I find encouraging.
Steve from Denver: Fans are just like owners and coaches, minus the large checkbook. All Broncos fans want is production. When Marshall is making plays on the field, and not being a distraction off the field, he is a tremendous asset that deserves to be paid like a an elite wideout, because that is what he is. Unfortunately, up until now it has been a mixed bag with Brandon and you can't just measure him by his on the field production, especially when you take into account all of the off season drama. Selfishly, I want Bowlen to ante up and pay B-Marsh his money but if I had to be fair and look at it from a business perspective, it just isn't sound to pay someone that sort of money until they prove they can behave in a manner that will not jeapordize the team.
Ted from Denver, Clo.: Bronco fans have forgiven Brandon Marshall for punking out earlier in training camp. I think that Brandon realizes that there is something special about being a key piece to a team that has serious potential (in the face of media scrutiny). I have been to both Bronco home games this year and it is impossible not to notice that this team is playing for each other and the fans, a feeling that is totally different from what teams of recent history have brought to the field. McDaniels has proven to me that he learned from the Cutler debacle. He deserves a ton of credit for Marshall's 180.
Greg M. from Dallas, Texas: I've never been off the Marshall bandwagon. His beef was with ownership, not the team. Although his actions were a bit childish, I think under normal economic circumstances Bowlen would have already given him the fat contract he deserves. You'd be hard pressed to name a single player in the history of the NFL with his set of physical gifts at the WR position. They just don't make his size/speed/quickness combination very often. I see no reason why he couldn't put up Randy Moss (2007) numbers in this offense once things shake out. He'll get paid at season's end and be happy. And he'll keep making plays like that one and we'll all stay happy.
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AFC WEST SCOREBOARD
Sunday, 11/22
Final/OT Pittsburgh 24 Kansas City 27 Final San Diego 32 Denver 3 Final Cincinnati 17 Oakland 20