The hype surrounding the Chicago Bears-Denver Broncos preseason game in Denver this Sunday has been mounting for weeks. Jay Cutler says he expects to get booed by the fans who used to support him. Kyle Orton surely will be if he throws a couple more interceptions. Either way, all the drama should make for an entertaining night.

I wanted to know what the psyche of the Broncos fans was like as we roll into Sunday, so I e-mailed John Bena, the editor of the popular Broncos blog, Mile High Report. The following is our exchange &

What is the general reaction you've noticed from Broncos fans on the blogosphere in regards to Cutler? Do they still hate him? Do they hate Orton more?

John Bena: Hate is a strong word. I think people still miss the "potential" of Cutler. There is no questioning the arm and I think people can get mesmerized by the physical ability. I will say that as time has gone on that sentiment about what happened in Denver has shifted to be more anti-Cutler, which was to be expected.

As for Orton, there is no doubt there is a lot of pressure on the guy to produce. Broncos fans want to see Orton win ballgames and be efficient with the football. Wining has a way of making everything OK and if Orton can play well, and the Broncos win some games, the fans will come around.

Is this Bears/Broncos game the most hyped preseason contest that you've seen?

JB: The media is certainly trying! From a fan perspective I am trying to keep the focus where it needs to be. This is a preseason game. Sure, the Broncos want to play well being that it is their first home game of the year, but both teams are at different places in their preparation. My goals for Sunday night are to see the Broncos get out of there healthy, especially now that Chris Simms is hurt. So far I think both sides have done a solid job minimizing the hype surrounding the game.

To that point, is this game on Sunday night still a preseason game in the minds of fans or does it somehow mean more?

JB: To me it really is just a preseason game. Yes, there are fans that will be watching to see how Cutler fares and there are fans that want the Broncos to really go after him. It isn't Josh McDaniels' style, however, to let all that get in the way of what the bigger picture is. The Bears are a non-conference opponent that the Broncos won't face this season. Other than being the third preseason game, the first at home, this game has little meaning in terms of win/loss or opponent.

Is there a faction of the Denver fanbase that still supports Cutler and wishes him the best?

JB: Definitely. I hold no ill will towards Jay Cutler. It has always been my belief that once Mike Shanahan was fired, Cutler wanted out. I could write a book on the way I think it all went down but perhaps that is for another time. For now I wish success for Cutler, except when he plays the Broncos, of course.

Do Broncos fans dislike Chicago that much more now? Did they even care about the Bears before the deal?

JB: I don't think so. If anything, Broncos fans are now more interested in the Bears. It is going to be message-board fodder for this week, but in a few weeks no one will remember what happens. There are always fanatics on both sides, but I am staying focused on the regular season and Cincinnati, Week 1.

If Cutler throws two TDs in the preseason game and Orton throws two picks, will the entire Denver fanbase turn on Josh McDaniels?

JB: I think Kyle Orton could be in trouble, that's for sure. Fans are slowly coming around to Josh McDaniels because his message, and the way he is going about his business, has been consistent. His confidence and passion are contagious and fans are being drawn to that. Are there fans that hope to see him fail? Sure, but I have a hard time calling them real fans. The guy is going to be a great head coach, there is no doubt in my mind.

As for Orton, I think it is important for him to play well. I think McDaniels knows this and will put him in a position to succeed. Orton can make all the throws and he has never had so many weapons around him. I expect big things Sunday night, but not because the game means more or Jay Cutler is on the opposing sidelines. I think this is the week everything comes together for the offense.

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