AFC West: San Diego Chargers
Our AFC West chat will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. ET.
There is plenty to talk about as the Chargers and the Broncos try to continue their playoff pushes. I look forward to chatting with you.
There is plenty to talk about as the Chargers and the Broncos try to continue their playoff pushes. I look forward to chatting with you.
Our AFC West chat will be held Thursday at 2 p.m.
With the division coming off another impressive week and big games looming for San Diego and Denver, there will be plenty to discuss. I look forward to talking to you.
With the division coming off another impressive week and big games looming for San Diego and Denver, there will be plenty to discuss. I look forward to talking to you.
Jamie Squire/Getty Images
Matt Cassel struggled against his former mentor, Josh McDaniels, completing just 10 of 29 passes for 84 yards before being benched. He also threw two interceptions
In their first meeting as opponents, Cassel looked far from the breakout player he was in New England last year under McDaniels’ guidance. Cassel -- whose career will always be linked to McDaniels -- had perhaps his worst day as a professional Sunday, and spent more than a quarter of Denver’s 44-13 thrashing on the bench.
After the game, Chiefs coach Todd Haley said Cassel is still his quarterback. Haley answered with a simple “yes” when asked if Cassel will be behind center against Buffalo next week.
Still, Cassel’s departure had the feel of a benching. At the very least, his performance had something to do with his early departure and the insertion of Brodie Croyle at quarterback.
Cassel, who was awful in the third quarter as Denver outscored Kansas City 20-0, completed 10 of 29 passes for 84 yards. He threw both of his interceptions in the third quarter. Cassel had been improving steadily this season, but he had little to offer Sunday.
Still, it was startling to see Croyle replace Cassel in the third quarter, especially under the circumstances. Croyle -- the team’s former starter, who completed only 6 of 14 passes for 50 yards -- entered after the Chiefs recovered a fumble at the Broncos’ 3 late in the third quarter and Denver leading 34-6. You would think the starting quarterback would be kept in at the goal line.
“I always want to be out there with my team,” Cassel said. “I always want to fight. Part of the situation of us being where we were was my fault … Coach felt like it was time to put Brodie in the game and the game was out of hand at that point. And that was part of his decision-making.”
Haley made it clear that he still believes in Cassel.
“I’m very confident in Matt,” Haley said. “The game didn’t go the way he or we wanted it to go.”
While Cassel’s departure from the game wasn’t a classic benching, and he is still the team’s quarterback of the future, it was a remarkable downward turn for the player McDaniels wanted to be his quarterback in Denver.
Perhaps it served as a reminder to Denver that the dramatic turn of events in the offseason worked out best for them.
In one of his first moves as Denver’s coach, McDaniels looked into trading for Cassel, who shined for New England as Tom Brady’s injury replacement last season. Denver quarterback Jay Cutler, coming off a Pro Bowl year at the age of 25, was going to be part of a potential three-way deal. The trade never happened and Kansas City sneaked in and got Cassel instead.
But the damage was done in Denver. Cutler was eventually sent to Chicago in a deal in which the Bears tossed in quarterback Kyle Orton.
On Sunday, Orton continued his steady, game-managing ways for the Broncos, who improved to 8-4.
McDaniels threw praise at his beleaguered protégé Sunday. But it’s clear McDaniels is enjoying more success than Cassel after the botched trade that would have reunited them.
Other keys to the game:
Denver is back on track: The team of streaks continued its wild ride. Denver started the season with six straight wins before losing four straight and its hold on first place in the AFC West. Now, Denver has won two straight games and looks to be in good shape for the playoffs.
Denver trails San Diego (9-3) by one game in the division entering the final quarter of the season and would currently be the AFC's No. 5 seed.
If the Broncos win their final two home games (against Oakland and Kansas City) they will reach the 10-win mark, which should secure a playoff berth. The Broncos have a tough test at 12-0 Indianapolis next week.
Denver’s running game thrives: After struggling during its losing streak, the Denver running game was at its best Sunday.
Correll Buckhalter had 113 yards on 12 carries and rookie Knowshon Moreno had 86 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries.
Buckhalter set the pace with three runs totaling 56 yards on a touchdown drive during the second quarter that gave Denver a 14-3 lead and command of the game.
“Buck has done a great job all year,” Orton said. “He’s a guy that once he breaks through that line he’s really got a lot of home run potential.”
If Buckhalter and Moreno can sustain their 1-2 punch (as they did early in the season), Denver’s offense could be difficult to stop late in the season.
Thomas would have been proud: On the day that Kansas City’s late legendary pass-rusher Derrick Thomas had his No. 58 jersey retired, Chiefs linebacker Tamba Hali had his best game as a pro. Hali had 10 tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles.
“Tamba played his [rear] off,” Kansas City linebacker Mike Vrabel said. “It’s too bad we couldn’t take advantage of it.”
While Hali was the pass-rushing story of the day, Denver linebacker Elvis Dumervil had a sack to raise his total to 15, which leads the NFL. Dumervil needs one sack to tie Denver’s single-season record and he is 7.5 sacks from tying the NFL record. He is on pace for 20 sacks.
Vrabel loses his cool: Vrabel reacted angrily after Denver scored its final touchdown to make it 41-13 with 12:05 to go. Moreno scored on an 18-yard run on fourth-and-1
He directed an obscene gesture toward Denver’s bench. Vrabel was with McDaniels in New England the past several seasons.
Vrabel attributed the gesture to frustration after another tough loss. He said he wouldn’t be surprised if he is fined by the NFL. Players have been fined for such gestures in the past.
Our AFC West chat is back on schedule for 2 p.m. ET Thursday.
There is plenty to discuss as both San Diego and Denver enter December on pace for a playoff berth. I look forward to chatting with you.
There is plenty to discuss as both San Diego and Denver enter December on pace for a playoff berth. I look forward to chatting with you.
Our sound-off question is to Denver Broncos fans: Do you like coach Josh McDaniels’ approach or are you bothered by it?
McDaniels, 33, has been a polarizing figure in his first year as a coach.
He feuded with the team’s quarterback and then traded him. He celebrated beating his former team, New England, with fans. He engaged in some trash talk with San Diego players prior to a game. He was caught on camera dressing down his offensive line complete with an expletive.
McDaniels is fiery and passionate. It has worked as his team is an unexpected 7-4. Do Broncos fans like their emotional coach, or do you want him to tone it down?
Hit my mailbag with your thoughts. I will post some of your responses later in the week.
McDaniels, 33, has been a polarizing figure in his first year as a coach.
He feuded with the team’s quarterback and then traded him. He celebrated beating his former team, New England, with fans. He engaged in some trash talk with San Diego players prior to a game. He was caught on camera dressing down his offensive line complete with an expletive.
McDaniels is fiery and passionate. It has worked as his team is an unexpected 7-4. Do Broncos fans like their emotional coach, or do you want him to tone it down?
Hit my mailbag with your thoughts. I will post some of your responses later in the week.
There’s no doubt, Josh McDaniels has made as much news for his brash ways as he has for making the Broncos a playoff contender. The latest chapter came Thursday night, in a Denver rout of the Giants, when the NFL network accidently aired McDaniels using an expletive when he was addressing his offense. The Broncos clarified that McDaniels was not wearing a microphone for the game. A sideline microphone caught his fiery words.
The network apologized. McDaniels deferred to the network, saying it was their “business.”
This came on the heels of McDaniels engaging in trash talk with San Diego players prior to the Chargers’ 32-3 win at Denver on Sunday. San Diego linebacker Shaun Phillips said McDaniels told some San Diego players that the Broncos “owned” the Chargers. McDaniels declined to elaborate on the exchange, only saying the Chargers players initiated the trash talk with him.
Many people around the league expressed surprise that a head coach would engage in trash talk. These two events surely show that the 33-year-old McDaniels is a new-school head coach.
But don’t misinterpret the comments. McDaniels is not some out-of-control clown. The guy has a purpose. These two incidents shouldn’t put him in a negative light.
Several Denver players were thrilled to see their head coach stick up for them and get into it with opposing players. The Thanksgiving "sweargate" was simply an unfortunate event.
If you took a poll of every NFL coach and asked them if they let loose with occasional salty language in the heat of the game, I don’t think you'd get any “nos,” if they were being honest.
McDaniels is emotional. That’s why he celebrated the win over New England with four fist pumps with Denver fans. That’s why he celebrated with Brandon Marshall after a big catch against the Giants.
McDaniels is a raw, uncut coach. There are going to be some unexpected moments. But don’t be mistaken, McDaniels is in control.
The network apologized. McDaniels deferred to the network, saying it was their “business.”
This came on the heels of McDaniels engaging in trash talk with San Diego players prior to the Chargers’ 32-3 win at Denver on Sunday. San Diego linebacker Shaun Phillips said McDaniels told some San Diego players that the Broncos “owned” the Chargers. McDaniels declined to elaborate on the exchange, only saying the Chargers players initiated the trash talk with him.
Many people around the league expressed surprise that a head coach would engage in trash talk. These two events surely show that the 33-year-old McDaniels is a new-school head coach.
But don’t misinterpret the comments. McDaniels is not some out-of-control clown. The guy has a purpose. These two incidents shouldn’t put him in a negative light.
Several Denver players were thrilled to see their head coach stick up for them and get into it with opposing players. The Thanksgiving "sweargate" was simply an unfortunate event.
If you took a poll of every NFL coach and asked them if they let loose with occasional salty language in the heat of the game, I don’t think you'd get any “nos,” if they were being honest.
McDaniels is emotional. That’s why he celebrated the win over New England with four fist pumps with Denver fans. That’s why he celebrated with Brandon Marshall after a big catch against the Giants.
McDaniels is a raw, uncut coach. There are going to be some unexpected moments. But don’t be mistaken, McDaniels is in control.
DENVER -- Denver right tackle Ryan Harris will miss his fourth straight game with a toe injury.
Denver rookie linebacker Robert Ayers is active after being a surprise healthy scratch Sunday.
It is a beautiful, clear night in Denver with the temperature expected to be around 50 degrees.
Josh McDaniels’ pregame jawing with San Diego linebackers has garnered a lot of attention. The one thing that stands out to me in this story is the reaction from Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher. He indicated that McDaniels may have trouble attracting players in free agency because of his antics.
I respect Fisher as much as any coach in the league, but he’s off the mark on this one. First, players are going to go where the money is and I don’t think many players would mind playing for a coach who sticks up for them.
In other AFC West news, the Chargers received a 24-hour extension to avoid a television blackout for their home game against Kansas City on Sunday. If the team doesn’t sell 3,500 tickets by Friday afternoon, the game will not be shown on local television in San Diego.
San Diego defensive lineman Luis Castillo (calf) and linebacker Shawne Merriman (foot) both didn’t practice Thursday.
Denver rookie linebacker Robert Ayers is active after being a surprise healthy scratch Sunday.
It is a beautiful, clear night in Denver with the temperature expected to be around 50 degrees.
Josh McDaniels’ pregame jawing with San Diego linebackers has garnered a lot of attention. The one thing that stands out to me in this story is the reaction from Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher. He indicated that McDaniels may have trouble attracting players in free agency because of his antics.
I respect Fisher as much as any coach in the league, but he’s off the mark on this one. First, players are going to go where the money is and I don’t think many players would mind playing for a coach who sticks up for them.
In other AFC West news, the Chargers received a 24-hour extension to avoid a television blackout for their home game against Kansas City on Sunday. If the team doesn’t sell 3,500 tickets by Friday afternoon, the game will not be shown on local television in San Diego.
San Diego defensive lineman Luis Castillo (calf) and linebacker Shawne Merriman (foot) both didn’t practice Thursday.
Mid-week mail call:
Brandon from Austin wants to know what I think about Brandon Marshall getting in the face of rookie running back Knowshon Moreno after he fumbled at the goal line Sunday against San Diego.
Bill Williamson: I really don’t put too much into sideline squabbles as long as they don’t become a habit or create a major issue. But seeing Moreno shove Marshall on the sideline isn’t exactly what a team wants. But this is another example of Marshall’s passion. If people don’t think he cares, all they have to do is watch the tape of him berating Moreno. But Marshall has to realize that he has made mistakes on the field as well and he needs to support his teammates better. Overall, this isn’t that big of a deal as long as it doesn’t happen again anytime soon.
Brian from San Diego wants to know what young players in Oakland I like.
BW: There are some interesting young guys in Oakland. I like receivers Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy. I think they can both develop into solid players and be a good receiving pair. I like defensive ends Matt Shaughnessy and Trevor Scott. I really like third-year tight end Zach Miller. I think he can be an elite tight end in a year or so.
Justin from Kabul, Afghanistan wants to know why the Broncos have stopped blitzing.
BW: Thanks for your service, Justin. I’m not sure that Denver has completely shelved their blitz packages but they are doing it less and they barely blitzed against San Diego on Sunday. Last month, in a win over San Diego, Denver blitzed often and sacked Philip Rivers five times. Sunday, Denver barely even touched Rivers and it had no sacks. The Broncos need to incorporate the blitz more as they try to find its early-season magic on defense.
Brandon from Austin wants to know what I think about Brandon Marshall getting in the face of rookie running back Knowshon Moreno after he fumbled at the goal line Sunday against San Diego.
Bill Williamson: I really don’t put too much into sideline squabbles as long as they don’t become a habit or create a major issue. But seeing Moreno shove Marshall on the sideline isn’t exactly what a team wants. But this is another example of Marshall’s passion. If people don’t think he cares, all they have to do is watch the tape of him berating Moreno. But Marshall has to realize that he has made mistakes on the field as well and he needs to support his teammates better. Overall, this isn’t that big of a deal as long as it doesn’t happen again anytime soon.
Brian from San Diego wants to know what young players in Oakland I like.
BW: There are some interesting young guys in Oakland. I like receivers Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy. I think they can both develop into solid players and be a good receiving pair. I like defensive ends Matt Shaughnessy and Trevor Scott. I really like third-year tight end Zach Miller. I think he can be an elite tight end in a year or so.
Justin from Kabul, Afghanistan wants to know why the Broncos have stopped blitzing.
BW: Thanks for your service, Justin. I’m not sure that Denver has completely shelved their blitz packages but they are doing it less and they barely blitzed against San Diego on Sunday. Last month, in a win over San Diego, Denver blitzed often and sacked Philip Rivers five times. Sunday, Denver barely even touched Rivers and it had no sacks. The Broncos need to incorporate the blitz more as they try to find its early-season magic on defense.
Chargers are running away with the division lead
November, 22, 2009
Nov 22
6:32
PM ET
DENVER -- The Chargers have taken a 23-3 lead with 14:07 remaining.
Unless the sloppy Broncos make a miraculous comeback, the Chargers are going to lead the AFC West. Denver led the Chargers by 3.5 games a month ago. But this would be San Diego’s fifth straight win and it would be Denver’s fourth straight loss after a 6-0 start.
The Broncos look outclassed.
Unless the sloppy Broncos make a miraculous comeback, the Chargers are going to lead the AFC West. Denver led the Chargers by 3.5 games a month ago. But this would be San Diego’s fifth straight win and it would be Denver’s fourth straight loss after a 6-0 start.
The Broncos look outclassed.
DENVER -- San Diego has a 13-0 halftime lead over the sloppy Broncos who have lost two fumbles in San Diego territory.
Keeping up with recent tradition, this game has been chippy. There have been three 15-yard penalties in the game. Yes, folks, these two teams do not like each other.
Denver has been called for five penalties.
San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers, a noted Bronco killer, has completed 13 of 14 passes for 108 yards.
San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson has had some success against Champ Bailey in the first half. He has four catches for 56 yards.
Denver safety Brian Dawkins left the game in the second quarter with a neck injury. He is questionable to return.
San Diego defensive lineman Luis Castillo left the game with a calf injury.
Keeping up with recent tradition, this game has been chippy. There have been three 15-yard penalties in the game. Yes, folks, these two teams do not like each other.
Denver has been called for five penalties.
San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers, a noted Bronco killer, has completed 13 of 14 passes for 108 yards.
San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson has had some success against Champ Bailey in the first half. He has four catches for 56 yards.
Denver safety Brian Dawkins left the game in the second quarter with a neck injury. He is questionable to return.
San Diego defensive lineman Luis Castillo left the game with a calf injury.
Random notes from Kansas City’s 27-24 overtime win:
Kansas City linebacker Andy Studebaker likely earned himself future playing time with two interceptions and four tackles in his NFL start. He was playing for the injured Mike Vrabel.
The Chiefs have won back-to-back games for the first time since September, 2007.
- Chris Chambers continued to be a bright light for the Chiefs in his third game with the team. He had four catches for 119 yards. He has been a major sparkplug for the Chiefs since they claimed him off waivers from San Diego.
- Lance Long had two catches for 37 yards. He has looked good since being promoted from the practice squad last month.
- New Kansas City starting tight end Leonard Pope caught a 21-yard touchdown pass.
- Matt Cassel wasn’t fancy for the Chiefs, but the quarterback played his typical smart game. He completed 15 of 30 passes for 248 yards. He threw two touchdown passes and he wasn’t intercepted.
- Kansas City running back Jamaal Charles had 58 yards on 17 carries. But he set the tone early with a 97-yard kickoff return to open the game.
Kansas City linebacker Andy Studebaker likely earned himself future playing time with two interceptions and four tackles in his NFL start. He was playing for the injured Mike Vrabel.
The Chiefs have won back-to-back games for the first time since September, 2007.
It looks like Denver quarterback Kyle Orton will not play because of an ankle injury after he missed every practice day leading up to Sunday’s titanic AFC West battle with visiting San Diego.
Still, Denver coach Josh McDaniels said Friday that Orton is questionable to play and that he will be tested prior to the game Sunday. The winner of the game between the two 6-3 teams will earn sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
While Orton will be a game-time decision, the odds are against him of playing. Unless he improves dramatically, it appears Chris Simms will quarterback Denver in the critical game.
Orton was hurt in the first half against Washington last week. Orton played well in the game, snapping a two-game slump. However, Simms was horrible in the game in the second half as Washington came back to pull off the upset. If Simms starts on Sunday, it will be his first NFL start since Sept. 24, 2006. He had to have his spleen removed after the game.
Simms clearly will benefit from a week of practice with the first-team offense this week. Still, the Broncos will have their work cut out for them if they have to play with their backup quarterback.
The key for Denver to win with Simms will be his strong arm. He is not as accurate as Orton, but Simms has a gun for an arm. He needs to get the ball to receivers Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal. Denver’s receivers have had success against San Diego in the past. Simms has to give his receivers a chance to take over.
The Broncos are also going to have to run the ball well. Rookie Knowshon Moreno had a nice bounce-back game at Washington with 97 rushing yards. He was struggling going into the game. Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, who looks like he will play despite a knee injury, need to take pressure off of Simms.
Another issue for Simms is his blindside pass protection. Simms is left handed so it nullifies superstar left tackle Ryan Clady as his blindside protector. That role will likely be taken by second-year player Tyler Polumbus, who is set to make his third NFL start. Denver’s standout right tackle Ryan Harris looks like he will miss his third straight game with a toe injury. Polumbus has been decent, but he is nowhere near the player Harris is. So, Simms could be on the run often against San Diego’s pass rush, which has improved dramatically in recent weeks.
There’s no doubt Denver would have a better chance to win with Orton, but that seems unlikely. Don’t be surprised, though, if Orton gives it his best chance to play.
He is a tough guy and he’s a gamer. He is an excellent teammate who will try to be there for his teammates in the biggest game of the year. But Orton is going to be gimpy at best and the ankle injury could hurt his accuracy.
In the end, it looks like Simms may be Denver’s most likely option against the surging Chargers.
Still, Denver coach Josh McDaniels said Friday that Orton is questionable to play and that he will be tested prior to the game Sunday. The winner of the game between the two 6-3 teams will earn sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
While Orton will be a game-time decision, the odds are against him of playing. Unless he improves dramatically, it appears Chris Simms will quarterback Denver in the critical game.
Orton was hurt in the first half against Washington last week. Orton played well in the game, snapping a two-game slump. However, Simms was horrible in the game in the second half as Washington came back to pull off the upset. If Simms starts on Sunday, it will be his first NFL start since Sept. 24, 2006. He had to have his spleen removed after the game.
Simms clearly will benefit from a week of practice with the first-team offense this week. Still, the Broncos will have their work cut out for them if they have to play with their backup quarterback.
The key for Denver to win with Simms will be his strong arm. He is not as accurate as Orton, but Simms has a gun for an arm. He needs to get the ball to receivers Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal. Denver’s receivers have had success against San Diego in the past. Simms has to give his receivers a chance to take over.
The Broncos are also going to have to run the ball well. Rookie Knowshon Moreno had a nice bounce-back game at Washington with 97 rushing yards. He was struggling going into the game. Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, who looks like he will play despite a knee injury, need to take pressure off of Simms.
Another issue for Simms is his blindside pass protection. Simms is left handed so it nullifies superstar left tackle Ryan Clady as his blindside protector. That role will likely be taken by second-year player Tyler Polumbus, who is set to make his third NFL start. Denver’s standout right tackle Ryan Harris looks like he will miss his third straight game with a toe injury. Polumbus has been decent, but he is nowhere near the player Harris is. So, Simms could be on the run often against San Diego’s pass rush, which has improved dramatically in recent weeks.
There’s no doubt Denver would have a better chance to win with Orton, but that seems unlikely. Don’t be surprised, though, if Orton gives it his best chance to play.
He is a tough guy and he’s a gamer. He is an excellent teammate who will try to be there for his teammates in the biggest game of the year. But Orton is going to be gimpy at best and the ankle injury could hurt his accuracy.
In the end, it looks like Simms may be Denver’s most likely option against the surging Chargers.
Kyle Orton's chances of playing in a huge AFC West game against visiting San Diego on Sunday dropped Thursday when he was not on the field during the portion of practice that was open to the media.
It is possible that Orton does some work later in the practice Thursday. But if he was improved, he’d likely be on the field to start practice.
Orton did not practice Wednesday. He suffered a left ankle sprain Sunday the first half in an eventual loss to Washington. Chris Simms spelled Orton and played poorly, leading to the loss. Simms is set to start Sunday against San Diego if Orton can’t play.
Both Denver and San Diego are 6-3 and the game is for sole possession of first place in the division.
Orton said Wednesday he was hoping to play. But if he missed the first two days of the practice week, the odds of him playing Sunday will lessen considerably. If Orton can’t practice Friday, it would likely all but end his chances of playing Sunday. Denver coach Josh McDaniels will likely want to get Orton at least some practice time before the game.
It seems the clock is ticking on Orton’s chances of facing the Chargers.
It is possible that Orton does some work later in the practice Thursday. But if he was improved, he’d likely be on the field to start practice.
Orton did not practice Wednesday. He suffered a left ankle sprain Sunday the first half in an eventual loss to Washington. Chris Simms spelled Orton and played poorly, leading to the loss. Simms is set to start Sunday against San Diego if Orton can’t play.
Both Denver and San Diego are 6-3 and the game is for sole possession of first place in the division.
Orton said Wednesday he was hoping to play. But if he missed the first two days of the practice week, the odds of him playing Sunday will lessen considerably. If Orton can’t practice Friday, it would likely all but end his chances of playing Sunday. Denver coach Josh McDaniels will likely want to get Orton at least some practice time before the game.
It seems the clock is ticking on Orton’s chances of facing the Chargers.
This week’s sound-off question was directed toward Denver Broncos fans. The question: Are Denver fans worried after the team has lost three straight games after a 6-0 start?
It is obvious that most Denver fans are concerned after the last three weeks as the team heads to a home game against San Diego on Sunday for sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
Fans aren’t necessarily of the belief that the season is in jeopardy, but are wondering if the team can regain its groove of the early season.
I think these are natural concerns and questions. Three weeks ago, Denver looked like it couldn’t loss. Now, it looks like it can’t win.
Below are some of your responses. Thanks to everyone who responded:
Sean Britt from Harrisonburg, VA: I am worried about the Broncos right now. When I was watching them earlier in the year they didn't look like the paper tigers that they were last year and I remember saying to myself during the Dallas game that there was no way they would fade again this year. They looked like a completely different team than they do right now. Our O-line hasn't been playing up to its normal status, we haven't run the ball effectively, and our defense hasn't been able to get any pressure even remotely close to what we were at the beginning of the season. I think other teams realize that we don't have a true nose tackle to stop the run up the middle and they are taking advantage of it. Most of all they need to play with some confidence and if Simms is under center Sunday with his extremely shaky play, it could all spiral even further out of control.
Trevor from Saratoga, NY: Bill, I think the Broncos should be just fine. The only games I think they ACTUALLY lost, are against the Ravens and Steelers, who are both very good teams. The Redskins game was a fluke. Before Kyle Orton went down, Denver was tearing up Washington's secondary, throwing 2 deep touchdown passes to Marshall. Then Chris Simms came in and lost the game. I think everyone would agree that if Orton had not gotten injured, Denver would have one that game. Nobody seems to be mentioning that. Also now that Orton has shown he can throw deep, opposing defenses will be weary of just protecting against the shorter passes. That will help out our offense tremendously.
Shaun Cooney from Grand Junction, CO: The Broncos are reaping the results of hiring a demanding, perfectionistic coach. They are in trouble. McDaniels has demonstrated that once a player makes a mistake, they're out of the lineup unless they're a hand-picked star. That lack of confidence in role players and backups creates a nervous (not competitive) team. CONFIDENCE is everything in sports, and too many players know they don't have it from McD for Denver to really accomplish anything. Add to that the fact that Kyle Orton's limitations in throwing accuracy and arm strength have been magnificently exposed for opposing defenses to game-plan against, and you have the makings of a long fall. Give Simms a full week of practice and Hillis the ball in short yardage, and watch the Broncos come back to life. Of course, that's just wishful thinking. Here's hoping Kyle's ankle needs a few weeks of TLC...
Alan Deegan from Aurora, CO: As a long time Broncos fan it is hard not to think that this is the typical midseason slide. But I do not believe that the last three games are indicative of the Broncos of 2009. We played two good defenses that are buzzsaws, and we played the Steelers well in the first half of that game. We were poised to beat the Skins, finally going down field in the passing game and Moreno's best rushing day of the year. I think next week decides the Broncos season, and with Orton definitely playing I think there is a very good chance of it being positive.
Vic from Madera, CA: Broncos fans SHOULD be worried. As of right now, they have not won a game coming off a loss. Realistically, Denver should be 5-4 because of the Bengal victory. The Broncos are now coming into games looking to rebound and not carrying the aura of invincibility. The Chargers have already picked themselves up from a horrible 2-3 to tie Denver in the division. Getting exposed and fixing the problem is one factor to a rebound and success, not fixing the problem is on a road to failure and another late season collapse.
Joel from Denver: Let's get this straight: Josh McDaniels and Mike Nolan have STILL done twice as much with the Broncos, despite the three wins, when one reviews their talent. Yes, we have a lot of offensive weapons that could be used better, especially as regards our down-field passing. Nonetheless, I have confidence that we will still be competitive in the AFC West and the search for the AFC wild card spot. The Broncos out-performed any expectations in the first six weeks, and have come down to Earth a bit. This does not mean it is time to press the panic button, just as 6-0 did not give people a good enough reason to drink the koolaid. The media loves black and white storylines, but the Broncos are not such a case. They are a good team at 6-3, and they are simply catching their breath. At worst, they will have had a better season than ANYONE predicted, which is something every Broncos fan can be thankful for in looking to the future.
Broncohowie from Columbus, OH: Broncos HAVE to get better or kiss the season goodbye !!! Orton must continue to start because Sims must not have been paying any attention since he came to Denver. With possible wins against Oakland at home & K.C. home and away that's 9 wins. They have to beat S.D. and maybe even the Eagles. Does not look good for the playoffs. Maybe they should give Branstater a shot. He looke decent during the pre-season.
Cory from Denver, Colorado: The Broncos are in trouble. They are reeling because the league has "the book" on both the offense and defense now. When the Broncos are on O, pack the line and stuff the short pass. When the Broncos are on D, hit the corners despite the vaunted reputations that play there. Champ has not been playing up to his name.The Broncos simply must establish some sort of running game or they are done. The lack of running means that the aging D is spending way too much time on the field and getting pooped out when the 2nd half comes.
Vijay from New York, NY: As a Broncos fan I am extremely worried. The big shift in the last three games is that the Broncos are now losing along the offensive and defensive lines, where they were winning during the first 6 weeks. On offense this has meant inconsistent running and poor pass protection. On defense this has meant an inability to stop the run, which leads to the defense not getting off the field. Worst of all is it is hard to identify the source of these problems, unless Ryan Harris and Ryan McBean were more important than we thought.The bigger picture problem is that the Broncos have turned late season fades into an art. The 2006 team started 7-2, ended 9-7 and missed the playoffs. Last year's team started 4-1 and 8-5, ended 8-8 and missed the playoffs. We fired Shanahan, got rid of Cutler, and the same thing is happening again. Broncos need leaders in the locker room with more heart.
It is obvious that most Denver fans are concerned after the last three weeks as the team heads to a home game against San Diego on Sunday for sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
Fans aren’t necessarily of the belief that the season is in jeopardy, but are wondering if the team can regain its groove of the early season.
I think these are natural concerns and questions. Three weeks ago, Denver looked like it couldn’t loss. Now, it looks like it can’t win.
Below are some of your responses. Thanks to everyone who responded:
Sean Britt from Harrisonburg, VA: I am worried about the Broncos right now. When I was watching them earlier in the year they didn't look like the paper tigers that they were last year and I remember saying to myself during the Dallas game that there was no way they would fade again this year. They looked like a completely different team than they do right now. Our O-line hasn't been playing up to its normal status, we haven't run the ball effectively, and our defense hasn't been able to get any pressure even remotely close to what we were at the beginning of the season. I think other teams realize that we don't have a true nose tackle to stop the run up the middle and they are taking advantage of it. Most of all they need to play with some confidence and if Simms is under center Sunday with his extremely shaky play, it could all spiral even further out of control.
Trevor from Saratoga, NY: Bill, I think the Broncos should be just fine. The only games I think they ACTUALLY lost, are against the Ravens and Steelers, who are both very good teams. The Redskins game was a fluke. Before Kyle Orton went down, Denver was tearing up Washington's secondary, throwing 2 deep touchdown passes to Marshall. Then Chris Simms came in and lost the game. I think everyone would agree that if Orton had not gotten injured, Denver would have one that game. Nobody seems to be mentioning that. Also now that Orton has shown he can throw deep, opposing defenses will be weary of just protecting against the shorter passes. That will help out our offense tremendously.
Shaun Cooney from Grand Junction, CO: The Broncos are reaping the results of hiring a demanding, perfectionistic coach. They are in trouble. McDaniels has demonstrated that once a player makes a mistake, they're out of the lineup unless they're a hand-picked star. That lack of confidence in role players and backups creates a nervous (not competitive) team. CONFIDENCE is everything in sports, and too many players know they don't have it from McD for Denver to really accomplish anything. Add to that the fact that Kyle Orton's limitations in throwing accuracy and arm strength have been magnificently exposed for opposing defenses to game-plan against, and you have the makings of a long fall. Give Simms a full week of practice and Hillis the ball in short yardage, and watch the Broncos come back to life. Of course, that's just wishful thinking. Here's hoping Kyle's ankle needs a few weeks of TLC...
Alan Deegan from Aurora, CO: As a long time Broncos fan it is hard not to think that this is the typical midseason slide. But I do not believe that the last three games are indicative of the Broncos of 2009. We played two good defenses that are buzzsaws, and we played the Steelers well in the first half of that game. We were poised to beat the Skins, finally going down field in the passing game and Moreno's best rushing day of the year. I think next week decides the Broncos season, and with Orton definitely playing I think there is a very good chance of it being positive.
Vic from Madera, CA: Broncos fans SHOULD be worried. As of right now, they have not won a game coming off a loss. Realistically, Denver should be 5-4 because of the Bengal victory. The Broncos are now coming into games looking to rebound and not carrying the aura of invincibility. The Chargers have already picked themselves up from a horrible 2-3 to tie Denver in the division. Getting exposed and fixing the problem is one factor to a rebound and success, not fixing the problem is on a road to failure and another late season collapse.
Joel from Denver: Let's get this straight: Josh McDaniels and Mike Nolan have STILL done twice as much with the Broncos, despite the three wins, when one reviews their talent. Yes, we have a lot of offensive weapons that could be used better, especially as regards our down-field passing. Nonetheless, I have confidence that we will still be competitive in the AFC West and the search for the AFC wild card spot. The Broncos out-performed any expectations in the first six weeks, and have come down to Earth a bit. This does not mean it is time to press the panic button, just as 6-0 did not give people a good enough reason to drink the koolaid. The media loves black and white storylines, but the Broncos are not such a case. They are a good team at 6-3, and they are simply catching their breath. At worst, they will have had a better season than ANYONE predicted, which is something every Broncos fan can be thankful for in looking to the future.
Broncohowie from Columbus, OH: Broncos HAVE to get better or kiss the season goodbye !!! Orton must continue to start because Sims must not have been paying any attention since he came to Denver. With possible wins against Oakland at home & K.C. home and away that's 9 wins. They have to beat S.D. and maybe even the Eagles. Does not look good for the playoffs. Maybe they should give Branstater a shot. He looke decent during the pre-season.
Cory from Denver, Colorado: The Broncos are in trouble. They are reeling because the league has "the book" on both the offense and defense now. When the Broncos are on O, pack the line and stuff the short pass. When the Broncos are on D, hit the corners despite the vaunted reputations that play there. Champ has not been playing up to his name.The Broncos simply must establish some sort of running game or they are done. The lack of running means that the aging D is spending way too much time on the field and getting pooped out when the 2nd half comes.
Vijay from New York, NY: As a Broncos fan I am extremely worried. The big shift in the last three games is that the Broncos are now losing along the offensive and defensive lines, where they were winning during the first 6 weeks. On offense this has meant inconsistent running and poor pass protection. On defense this has meant an inability to stop the run, which leads to the defense not getting off the field. Worst of all is it is hard to identify the source of these problems, unless Ryan Harris and Ryan McBean were more important than we thought.The bigger picture problem is that the Broncos have turned late season fades into an art. The 2006 team started 7-2, ended 9-7 and missed the playoffs. Last year's team started 4-1 and 8-5, ended 8-8 and missed the playoffs. We fired Shanahan, got rid of Cutler, and the same thing is happening again. Broncos need leaders in the locker room with more heart.
Denver quarterback Kyle Orton was not on the field during the portion of the practice that was open to the media Wednesday, according to the Denver Post.
It is conceivable that Orton could hit the field after the media departed. We will update his status late Wednesday.
Earlier in the day, Orton said he will try to play in a pivotal game against San Diego on Sunday. The winner of the game in Denver will take sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
Orton was injured in the first half of Sunday’s loss at Washington. Orton was playing well when he was injured. Backup this Simms did not play well after taking over for Orton in the second half when Washington took control of the game.
It is conceivable that Orton could hit the field after the media departed. We will update his status late Wednesday.
Earlier in the day, Orton said he will try to play in a pivotal game against San Diego on Sunday. The winner of the game in Denver will take sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
Orton was injured in the first half of Sunday’s loss at Washington. Orton was playing well when he was injured. Backup this Simms did not play well after taking over for Orton in the second half when Washington took control of the game.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
