Chat with Bill Williamson
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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.
Send your questions now and join Williamson in The Show on Thursday at 2 p.m. ET!
Williamson Archive: Columns | AFC West Blog | Fantasy Football Chats | Fantasy Home
Bill Williamson (2:00 PM)
Hi friends, let's get rolling.
Machine Gun Matt (The Bay)
I keep voting for Nnamdi Asomugha for the Pro Bowl (10x a day), but I fear he won't make it. After reading the comments from Shanahan, I believe he is All-Pro. Do you agree? And can you or ESPN, do a pro-bowl special where you pick who should be the starters (Before voting ends)?
Bill Williamson (2:02 PM)
Sorry Machine Gun, no magic pull here but yes I do think Asomugha is an All-Pro. He is a special player who needs to be in Hawaii.
Travis (Phoenix)
So I'm looking at the schedule and it seems as if the Broncos win their remaining home games against Oak, KC, and Buf and they'll win the division at 9-7. Agree?
Bill Williamson (2:03 PM)
Yeah, that's a way of looking at it, Sure. Denver is in good shape. If it loses the division it is Denver's own fault.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
Hey Bill, there's been a lot of talk on the radio this week addressing whether the Broncos-Raiders rivalry actually constitutes a real rivalry still? What do you think?
Bill Williamson (2:04 PM)
I think it will always be a heated rivalry. That will never change. What do you guys think?
Ryan (Denver)
Hey Bill, how was your week? Let's start off with a backfield question, do you think if Arizona released Edgerrin James would we make a push to get him?
Bill Williamson (2:05 PM)
Do you mean Denver? Yes, i think the Brocnos would make ar run at him.
Vijay (NYC)
How healthy is Darren McFadden? Do the Broncos have any chance to stop him from running free on Sunday?
Bill Williamson (2:07 PM)
I think he close to being completely healthy. I predict McFadden has a big game Sunday.
Scott
Williamson, why do you hate Brad Childress so much?
Bill Williamson (2:07 PM)
Wrong Williamson.
Mike
Just because the Broncos have dominated the series since Shanahan doesn't mean it's always been that way and will always be that way. These are two teams that are going to go at it and hate each other regardless of record or who's dominated the series lately.
Bill Williamson (2:08 PM)
Well said, Mike.
Will (Madison WI)
I am a huge chiefs fan and I'd say I hate losing to Denver more than an Oak or SD by a long shot. The chiefs-Raiders rivalry has also died down a bit.
Bill Williamson (2:09 PM)
When those two teams improve the rivalry will be hot again.
Jay (Tampa)
Bill why are you always so down on the Bucs in the power rankings? I mean come on they are at least a better team than Arizona. Try watching them play sometime, you might be impressed.
Bill Williamson (2:09 PM)
You got a deal, Jay.
Jay (Middletown, CT)
Will Oakland move Nnamdi Asomugha over to cover Royal considering his domination of Hall in week one or does he stay on Marshall?
Bill Williamson (2:10 PM)
I'm not sure. I'd say he is going to move aorund some. He has to, doesn't he?
Dan (San Diego)
Why does the Chargers pass D stink so much this year? Will Peyton go off this week?
Bill Williamson (2:11 PM)
No pass rush. Yes, I think Manning goes off Sunday night.
Mike (OH)
Rank these young LTs...Long, Thomas, Clady, Roos, Albert, Baker, and Gaither.
Bill Williamson (2:13 PM)
Good question. I Haven't seen everyone enough this season to make that call. But I'll say this: The NFL has some very good young left tackles these days. it is very strong. Every guy you mentioned gets it done, big time.
Travis, SLC
Speaking of rivalries who you got Utah or BYU this weekend?
Bill Williamson (2:13 PM)
Utah.
Ryan
AFC East or NFC East? Which division is better?
Bill Williamson (2:13 PM)
NFC East. Deeper.
Max (Denver)
Bill, I see great things in Denver's offensive unit, however we haven't really seen a dominating D out of them since the 2005 AFC Championship game. How can Denver fix its defensive woes?
Bill Williamson (2:15 PM)
It needs to build its defensive line first and then go from there. With Bailey and Williams, there's nice pieces but the line needs to get better.
Jim (Washington DC)
Your the worst chatter ever.
Bill Williamson (2:15 PM)
You're pretty good, though.
Brett (LA)
When DJ Williams comes back, what do they do with Wesley Woodyard?
Bill Williamson (2:16 PM)
Great question. They need to find a way to keep this kid on the field. He's a playmaker.
Bill (Pomona California)
Hey Bill, I've never really believed in Norv Turner as a HC, but he's a great OC and QB tutor. Do they keep him in SD when all is said and done at the end of the season? Thanks!
Bill Williamson (2:17 PM)
Ownership said Wednesday that he will stay. But if this team goes 6-10 or something silly like that, I can't see him staying.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
Do you see Tatum getting more carries this week? He looked pretty good closing the game out against Atlanta.
Bill Williamson (2:18 PM)
Maybe. I think he impressed Shanahanlast week. Bell was gutsy in that game.
ameer (irvington, nj)
is thigpen the qb. of the future in k.c.? how would you grade herms job so far?
Bill Williamson (2:20 PM)
I think Thigpen can be the quarterback of the future. I like him. As far as Edwards goes, his team is playing hard and that should count for something. There is a ton of young players on this team. I think he is doing a decent job.
BK (LA, CA)
Bill, Is SD's window of opportunity closed shut now? Not only for this year but potentially for the next few with Norv already assured of another year and Merriman likely leaving after 09?
Bill Williamson (2:21 PM)
I think San Diego can get it back. Keeping Rivers and Merriman are keys.
Vinnie (NYC)
Besides Asomugha, what is the bright spot for the Raiders?
Bill Williamson (2:22 PM)
Kirk Morrsion. McFadden will be when he's healthy.
Tim (Boise)
Bill, you dont ever seem to be very high on Denver. That said, can you admit that Shanahan has done a tremedous job with what he has to work with of late considering the starters who are injured and the rookies he has played? I mean come on, he has his team 2 games up in the AFC West with 6 to play, 5 RB's on IR and DJ williams injured and Champs been out a month. I think its time you give them credit and let the world know that Mike "The Mastermind" Shanahan is back!!!
Bill Williamson (2:24 PM)
See fans of Kansas City, Oakland and San Diego, who always say I am Denver biased because I live there. Broncos fans get on me, too. The big fella just can't catch a break.
TJ (KC)
Chiefs need to draft Andre Smith, move Albert to LG, and take the best center in the 2nd. Trade LJ for anything and put Jamaal Charles in the lineup.
Bill Williamson (2:24 PM)
I think Kansas City needs to get a pass rusher in the first round.
Bill Williamson (2:25 PM)
I think Kansas City needs to get a pass rusher in the first round.
Rob ( NYC)
I think Denver regrets letting Heyward, Pryce, and Berry go..... Denver seems to pick a position and strike out, it used to be CB, and now it seems like the D line... maybe they should start drafting the best players available ?
Bill Williamson (2:26 PM)
If not they should regret it.
Michael (Colorado Springs)
When does Brandon Marshall's contract run out? Will they have any contract talks with Marsh or Cutler this off season?
Bill Williamson (2:28 PM)
Marshall is a free agent after next season. I think they want to see him behave himself off the field for another offseason before paying him. I wouldn't be surprised if he is fanchised down the road.
chauncey (teaneck)
Is Jay Cutler your MVP?
Bill Williamson (2:29 PM)
Of the division, yes. Of the league, no.
Casey (Wilmington, NC)
if denver wins this week and sd loses would you say sd is done.
Bill Williamson (2:30 PM)
You would have to, right? Denver would have a three game lead with five to go.
ameer (irvington, nj)
hey bill, do you see the chiefs landing a top notch def. free agent? (suggs, j.peppers, a.haynes. ect.)
Bill Williamson (2:31 PM)
The Chiefs are going young but maybe they could add someone like Peppers.
Kev (NYC)
What AFC division does the NFC East get next year?
Bill Williamson (2:31 PM)
AFC West.
Ryan (San Diego)
When the Chargers beat the Colts this weekend they are going to go on a run. The Broncos will lose the tiebreaker once they lose to the chargers in week 17, so they better hope they are more than 1 game up at that point
Bill Williamson (2:32 PM)
Keep up the fight, Ryan.
Jay (Middletown, CT)
and Cutler? Does he get a long term deal done soon?
Bill Williamson (2:32 PM)
He has three more years on his deal.
Vinnie (NYC)
Cutler is MVP of the division over Rivers??
Bill Williamson (2:33 PM)
He has to be right now. His team has a two-game lead over Rivers.
Josh Denver
Does Larsen have a future at LB?
Bill Williamson (2:34 PM)
He'll likley play there this week so for the time being, he's getting his chance.
ray gordont reid mobile ala 36601
QUESTION TO BILL WILLIAMSON AT 2.35PM HI BILL JETS OR TITANS
Bill Williamson (2:35 PM)
Titans.
Vigo (Woburn, MA)
most ... boring ... chat ... ever ...
Bill Williamson (2:36 PM)
Help us nut then, brother, if you don't like it.
ameer (irvington, nj)
will larry johnson be a chief next year?
Bill Williamson (2:36 PM)
Just a guess, but I say no. I think both sides need to move on.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
Ok, so for the sake of argument say the Broncos win the division and get a home playoff game. Who do they match up the best with of the potential AFC playoff teams?
Bill Williamson (2:38 PM)
Maybe the Jets.
Cole (Kansas City)
The Chiefs are as bad a defense as they were the day Dick Vermeil left. How big of a problem is the front office (signing and retaining personnel)? Coaching? Player evaluation? Quality of players? Please shoot straight.
Bill Williamson (2:39 PM)
You have to blame the front office anytime a team takes a dive. I think the blame has to be shared in Kansas City for sure.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
Seems like you think even if the Broncos get in, they're one and done...
Bill Williamson (2:41 PM)
If they get healthy on defense and if they get a running game and if Cutler can stay away from throwing picks, they have a shot but that's a lot of ifs.
john (cincinnati)
bill, will hines ward get slammed in the ear hole by bengals lb getting some revenge for the hit ward put on rivers??? it may be the only reason to watch this game tonight.
Bill Williamson (2:41 PM)
He said he has his head on a swivel and that's probably a good idea.
Jared (wadena ia)
Who do you believe to have the bigger game on sunday in royal or marshall. Thanks and always enjoy the chat.
Bill Williamson (2:44 PM)
Good question. Marshall didn't play against Oakland on opening day. Royal had a huge game, nine catches for 146 yards. You have to think Oakland will key on Royal. So maybe Marshall has a big game.
Rob (RI)
Bill, who do you think will have the bigger game this weekend Peyton or Warner?
Bill Williamson (2:45 PM)
Let's go with Manning.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
You staying in Denver for the game this week, or going out west? Prediction?
Bill Williamson (2:46 PM)
I'll be at San Diego-Indy. Should be a good time.
Chad Ocho Cinco (Cincinnati)
Where do I do my TD celebrations next year? I aint playin tonight cuz they mad at a brotha so I tell them I aint gonna be around next year neither.
Bill Williamson (2:46 PM)
Oakland?
Al Davis
You Suck!
Bill Williamson (2:47 PM)
That means a lot coming from you, Al.
AR (Denver)
Bill, do you think they would move the denver-jets game to NBC prime time next week
Bill Williamson (2:47 PM)
No, but it has been moved to 4:15 Eastern.
MP (Charlotte NC)
Bill, where do you see Matt Cassel playing next year? Should the Pats trade him, or hold onto him to ensure Brady is healthy next season?
Bill Williamson (2:49 PM)
That's a tough one. He'll want to play but the Patriots will want to keep him as insurance in case Brady has a setback. It will be interesting to see what happens there.
Ryan (denver)
Will the NFL do a better job picking more intriguing match-ups for Thanksgiving? This year one real quality game (PHI vs. ARI)
Bill Williamson (2:50 PM)
I'm with you. I've long said the Thanksgiving Day games are usually lackluster.
Don (NJ)
Big Man, do you feel that Chris Chambers finnally gets back to early season form Sunday night against the colts?
Bill Williamson (2:51 PM)
He's been hurt. I think he's getting close. That will really help that offense. Chambers can play.
Will (Madison WI)
What do think of Bill Cowher coming to KC next year and reuniting with his old OC chan gailey. would make for a decent transition!
Bill Williamson (2:52 PM)
I've said this before: I could see Cowher going to Kansas City to run the whole show.
Andy (Montgomery, AL)
So do you really think the Titans can run the table?
Bill Williamson (2:53 PM)
I don't. They are winning a lot of close games. Don't get me wrong. They are very good but I see a stumble at some point.
Stuart (Brooklyn, NY)
Always enjoy your chats, Bill. With Indy's run defense not being stellar, how well will LT do? Is 150 yds and 2 TDs too much to look for?
Bill Williamson (2:54 PM)
He hasn't bee that good this season so those numbers would be a huge game for him. Maybe this is the week Tomlinson breaks out.
Bruce (CT)
who wins the afc east?
Bill Williamson (2:55 PM)
Jets.
Ryan (denver)
Texas Tech or OU this weekend?
Bill Williamson (2:55 PM)
OU.
Jonathan, (Aurora,CO)
Chargers essentially have owned the Colts the last couple of seasons... Do you see that changing this week?
Bill Williamson (2:56 PM)
I expect a good one. San Diego won two close games last season against the Colts. I expect another close game
Donovan (PA)
Hey did you know the OT rule?!
Bill Williamson (2:57 PM)
Yes. Who doesn't?
Andy (Montgomery, AL)
Ok u said you think the Titans will stumble against who do you think the will fall too? The Jets this week?
Bill Williamson (2:58 PM)
I knew that was coming. Their last two games are tough. Pittsburgh at home and at Indy. Those will be the tests along with the Jets.
Jay (Middletown, CT)
I want to see the Broncos vs. Colts at Mile High in the snow for a playoff game! They own us at the Dome, now its time to come a mile up!
Bill Williamson (2:59 PM)
That would be a lot of fun.
Andy (Montgomery, AL)
Which divsion do you think is tougher the NFC East or the NFC South?
Bill Williamson (3:00 PM)
East.
Bill Williamson (3:00 PM)
Quick hour, folks. As usual, lots of fun. Thanks and enjoy this weekend's games.
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