SB Nation - Marcus Thomas

Broncos Thoughts and Musings 1.0

Emmett Smith — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:07:22 -0000

by Charlie Riedel - AP

8 days ago: Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton (8) passes while offensive tackle Ryan Clady, right, blocks Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tamba Hali (91) during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

View full size photo »

This week brought some colder, wetter autumnal weather to southern California. It put me in the perfect mood to watch a lot of film and to take in all of the facets of a massive, overwhelming Broncos beatdown of the Kansas City Chiefs, right on their own turf. Despite all the press about the past, this is a new team and they took the opportunity to prove that to KC and anyone else who was willing to watch. It was close right up to the end of the first quarter, and quickly turned into a rout during quarter 3. I enjoyed every minute of it. While I wanted to have the Broncos put a headlock on the Chiefs I didn't expect Ryan Clady (photo) to take it quite so literally.

I also continued to look at past film, spending a little extra time on special teams. I'll talk more about them on Thursday, but this was plenty to get us started. Hats on? Goggles in place? Let's do it. In fact, let's start in Indianapolis.

Defense Wins Game

Did anyone catch the way that Indianapolis won over Tennessee? Tennessee was a hot as any team in gootball, but they fell short when they came up against the Indy defense. The Colts had not one but two goal line stands in a game that brought about a 27-17 win over the Titans.

As usual, they had help. Vince Young fumbled at the one on first and goal. A Titans guard, Eugene Amano (another of the great football names, being mano Amano) committed a holding penalty, but Indy held on all tries and a perfect fade route in the corner of the endzone one fourth down was foiled when rookie Jerraud Powers pushed fellow rookie Kenny Britt out of bounds before he could get both feet down. Clint Session had 12 tackles to lead the Colts and he was joined by a crew that just didn't let up.

I bring this up for a simple reason. When Kansas City was sitting at the one yard line on 1st and goal at the end of the 1st quarter, I wasn't even phased. No chemicals were involved in my level of calm - for once, finally, for the first time in years, I awaited not how KC would score but how Denver would beat them back. Despite the ease with which the Chiefs moved the ball to the one, I knew that they were 17 plays into their drive and that the more opportunities you give Mike Nolan up in the booth, the more likely it is that he'll solve what's happening and that one or more of the Broncos will make a play. That went strangely errant during the losing streak, but that feeling was back again on Sunday, as it had been against NY. The Broncos held KC to a FG. My only surprise was that they didn't just take it away entirely.

The Post said:

"Perhaps Elvis Dumervil, Bailey and the Broncos' fifth-ranked pass defense can negate the Colts' strength. Dumervil ran down Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel in the second quarter for his NFL-best 15th sack of the season. Unlike the Broncos' teams that took trips to Indy earlier this decade, Dumervil offers the chance to apply pocket pressure on Manning, and Bailey appears to have considerably improved secondary mates.

Ty Law has provided us with a veteran's skills at the cornerback blitz. He hits like a particle accelerator, giving us the Denver version of the Big Bang. H was a great pickup. I don't know the issues of contracts that well, so I'll assume that he was let go due to excessive dollars for expected performance, but here's his contract with us:

1/6/2009: Signed a one-year, $800,000 contract. The deal included a $200,000 signing bonus. Another $400,000 is available through incentives based on performance and playing time. 2009: $600,000

That's cheap for what he's bringing to us. He'll be a free agent in 2010, if the Broncos don't sign him to another 1 year contract. Based on what I've seen so far, they should.

Goodman and safety Renaldo Hill each picked off Cassel passes in the third quarter to set up scores. Brian Dawkins blew up a Kansas City first-and-goal-from-the-1 chance in the second quarter by tackling Jamaal Charles for a 3-yard loss and then delivering a blindside blitz to disrupt Cassel's third-down pass attempt. The Chiefs didn't have an answer.

"It's not for one guy," Dawkins said. "Champ does not have to be all over the place. Elvis doesn't have to make five sacks. There's always going to be somebody to make the play. To me, that's a telltale sign of a good defense.""

It is, and that's what I loved about watching the KC game. in every quarter, someone else stepped up. Orton had a 'bad' game but ended up with a 90+ QB rating for his efforts by making two nice TD passes, moving above 60% on his passing completions and by the team going 4 of 6 in the Red zone and nailing those other two as FGs. This is a team that can put together a whole game. Indy is as tough as there is in the NFL, but every team can be beaten. It will take a near perfect effort, though. Are the Broncos up to it?

There's another side to our preparation this week: Denver will be going up against Larry Coyer, who was fired as the defensive coordinator in Denver. While most such individuals claim that it's just a game, theey understand the business and that there is nothing personal in their feelings few of us believe taht and for good reason. It's the nature of the competitive individual to compete, to assert oneself and to repay old slights. Coyer had trouble making the adjustments that kept the Broncos competitive during some of the games and over the course of the season. He will be looking to show Denver that he's learned those lessons and put them to good use.

Two side notes -- Bobby Wade was the best Denver player to wear a Chiefs uniform on Sunday, contributing drops and misses to keep drives from scoring. Ti's always appreciated, but don't expect Indianapolis to be as accommodating. And if you didn't enjoy watching Peyton Hillis show folks that he's not done with Denver, you just aren't a fan. I don't know where they keep the 'yards after contact' stats for RBs, but I'd love to see how his stack up. Great power running against an exhausted KC defense.

Special Teams Fun

A most of you know, I've been tearing apart film recently in an attempt to get a better idea of why the losing streak was happening. Today is the start of some discussion of special teams. Much of today's info came from the KC game. I've got some more coming on Thursday. Theser are some qustions that I wrote down before hitting the film:

Who is blocking on the KO and punts, who stands out? Give me some names

I'll go with 4 - on KOs, Spenser Larsen and Peyton Hillis. I can add Robert Ayers - the more film I watch, the more he's in on the blocking. Quinn? You bet. He's been in on the blocking frequently, on the ST. Against the fake punt play in KC, which could have been another TD if complete, he made a veteran read and play. By the way, calling that play at your own 28? Wow. It seemed that Darcel McBath was caught out of position, following where he thought that play was going, which left the receiver, a center who lined up as an eligible receiver, wide open. Quinn made a totally heads-up play. Nice work, rookie. Quinn also blocked well, not letting up on his man, on the drive following Andre' Goodman's perfect INT on Cassel later that quarter.

For what it's worth, that seemed to be a badly thought-out play. It's a huge gamble, your offense is failing to make any yardage but you're still only down 14-6. Aren't you throwing in the towel when you do that? It lead to a FG that made it 17-6 and would later prove to put the game out of reach.

Who is standing out as a gunner?

David Bruton, Darcel McBath and now Spencer Larsen stand out, as does Richard Quinn, but Darrell Reid (who had 3 ST tackles on Sunday at KC) was also a factor in many plays. It's a nice thing when you need to list 5 good players. Josh Barrett also seems to always be around the ball - not yet making the tackle but fillig the right lanes and keeping the runbacks contained. Champ Bailey had a nice play on the kickoff following Prater's FG at 13:30 of the 3rd Q. He was there along with Spencer Larsen, who didn't get credit for that tackle but who was in on it. Wes Woodyard had two ST tackles of his own. There was a lot of praise to go around, and all of it deserved.

Did anyone notice that when Eddie Royal had some space to move in and come blocking that he was repeatedly able to gain significant yardage? The pattern of not stopping the offense until they are in the area of the 40s and then having Royal backed up to the goal line was broken by our defensive play and the difference was obvious.

He may not have caught a lot of passes but they had to account for him all day and his combined yardage was a thing of joy. The man can block, too. You might also want to go back and rewatch the Marshall TD from the 10 yard line - Marshall started on the right side of the formation, went in motion to the left and received the pass on the right. If Eddie Royal doesn't seal off #39, Brandon Carr, on that play, Marshall maybe gains 2. Instead, Royal drove his man out of the play for just long enough to let the Broncos start celebrating.

On the following KO, Alphonso Smith, Robert Ayers, Josh Barrett and Andra Davis were ready to tackle if Wesley Woodyard hasn't made a perfect takedown on the ball carrier. The Broncos were swarming on STs, and that's nice to see. They need to continue that level of play. They didn't, for 4 games, but have stepped up for the late season run.

Royal's runback at 13:00 of the 4th Q was a thing of beauty. I thought that he was going to waste another return by running vertically, but he faked that and turned upfield into a seam, pounding across into Chiefs territory and nearly breaking a final tackle at the end before being brought down by the kicker. Such a great job...getting the kicks with room to run makes it all work.

By the way, on the 44 yard FG kick following the fake punt, I loved hearing Dick Enberg say of Prater, "Oh, he's got a big leg.." Yes, he sure does. Both of our kickers seem to be gaining in strength as the season is moving along. That's always a nice feeling. By the way, just how the heck did Berger manage to get that punt off with Jovan Belcher in his face? Picked up a penalty, but managed to roll the ball along the sideline for long enough to make that punt a keeper. When you're on, you're on...

Team Game

Renaldo Hill made a great catch on a Matt Cassel throw for an INT but the real hero of the play was none other than Elvis Dumervil. Doom hit Cassel just as he released, driving him slightly backward and causing the pass to sail on him, leading to the INT. Great pressure creates great plays.

Buckhalter takes the rock for 12 to start the Denver drive after that play, but the heroes of that play were Ryan Clady and Spencer Larsen. Clady sealed off his man and Larsen free-lanced to the outside, taking the RDE (91, Tamba Hali) out of the play. Buck ran on past them and picked up 12, the last 3 by sheer force of will. On the next play, it was Larsen, Daniel Graham and Clady. Buck put on an amazing show. 113 yards on 10 carries? I don't recall seeing a performance like that recently , off the top of my head.

Talk about team - did you see Kyle Orton, blocking downfield for Marshall on the reverse? Sure, Marshall didn't make it to that second level, but you have to chuckle when your QB is finishing his blocks. I loved it.

If you blinked, you might have missed it so I'll pass it along. On the fumble forced by Mario Haggan and picked up by Andre' Goodman, in the background you could see Vonnie Holliday hammering his man into the turf so that he couldn't have a shot at getting to the ball or to Goodman. In a single heartbeat, Holliday went from fighting with his man to get to the ball carrier to fighting to drive him into the ground. Great job, heads up play. And, on the following KO, the Broncos filled their lanes to perfection, not permitting any chance of a good runback. The STs stepped way up last Sunday.

Rotating players - Darcel McBath and Marcus Thomas seem to make their presence known every time they step into the rotation. Kudos to both of them.

I'm embarrassed to admit that by the time Cassel completed a nice pass to Bobby Wade over the middle at the end of the third quarter, I found myself actually rooting for him to get one. It was that much of a beating - I knew that he couldn't beat us. I just didn't want to see the Broncos keep slaughtering him. In a few moments, the feeling passed, but it gives an idea of the kind of game it was. Vonnie Holliday sacked him on the next play anyway. The final play of that abortive drive was a hot route out of the shotgun, incomplete to Chambers. If Cassel had put it on the money it would have been intercepted by Renaldo Hill. The overage was as compete as the snow on the Divide. By the end of the 3rd Q, it was time for the mercy rule to kick in.

Variety is the Spice...

On the following series for Denver, backed up to their own 6 yard line. The Broncs came out with a nice little formation that should look familiar to those who read last year's Magic 3 article by Steve Nichols or my own followup to it. Denver brought Spencer Larsen up to just behind the LOS, to the right, with Daniel graham on the line to Polumbus' right and Tony Scheffler outside both of them, towards the right sideline. Moreno was in the backfield, Orton under center and Marshall split out wide to the left. It was essentially a Magic 3 formation, and Denver played with several variations of Multiple TE formations over the course of the game. I saw Quinn in for one of the other Magic 3's. They seem to be running out of it so far, which is fine. I await them using it to throw more - it will give the defensive coordinators fits. It's hard enough to step as a power running option.

Back to the Future

Does it seem familiar that Brandon Marshall is doing so well that teams are obligated to try and stop him, leaving the running game more room to maneuver and Royal a Chance to catch more balls? It should. The more that Marshall catches, the more that other players come open and the more big plays we will see. It was true las year and it is this year as well.

Speaking of the future - I loved that the Broncos when for the big play on 4th and inches at the start of the 4th Q. Moreno could have had 80 yards as easily as 18. Both Graham and Larsen handled their men perfectly. They caught KC in the perfect defensive formation for the playcall and the blocking was once again perfect. Complementary football is a beautiful thing, and watching Moreno make TDs is likely to become something of a habit.

On the following KO, Champ Bailey filled the middle, forcing the returner to pause and giving Mario Haggan (who wasn't credited) and Larsen (who was credited with the tackle) a chance to pounce. That's the kind of thing that only a film review really permits you to enjoy. Quite often, the player who makes the play possible isn't the player who makes the play. That's Broncos football in a nutshell.

Reader Mail

I heard back from Joel Griffin after last BT&N. Nice fellow. He had this to say:

I really enjoyed reading your film breakdown of the Denver Broncos. Without even reviewing the film I could have pointed fingers at Hochstein & Polumbus - but you did an excellent job of highlighting their ridiculous errors. Graham was called for 2 more holding calls on Thanksgiving that resulted in 38 rushing yards coming back for Moreno so I wouldn't go letting him off the hook for his inconsistency yet...

Good points, Joel. Daniel Graham is a huge player, a game-changer when he's on. When he takes a play off by committing a foolish penalty I want to growl at him but he always rebounds for us. That's been a pattern with him for a long time, and he's worth the aggravation of a few plays, although I still hope the grows out of it. I loved his TD play at KC and that's typical of his abilities. Scheffler had a big drop, but also got a PI call that moved the chains and he added a 19 yard reception. I loved seeing Peyton Hillis taking people apart in garbage time. I still think that there's a place for that man in the RB rotation, but time will tell. Buck seems to be chewing up the field again - a 9.4 YPC AVERAGE? Ok, he was a prescient pickup by McD and Co. Nice work by Knowshon Moreno, too. A team ypc of 5.1 really does help the game along...

A Final Thought

One of the things that is being lost in all the perspectives of the last couple of weeks is this: Denver is finally getting to the point where they can be more of a 'big strike' team. No, that doesn't mean that they will change from the short yardage offense that they began with, but it does mean that they have other options when they need them. Marshall's 47 yard run is one example, the increase in longer plays is another. This is a team that is still finding out how good it is. The players needed to get used to the schemes and to each other, but that's happening much as I and many others predicted early in the season. It's great to see.

I'll be back for the usual Thursday Broncos Thoughts and Musings, but too much happened this week to summarize quickly. Let's hope that the injuries are minor, that Denver realizes that they can compete with anyone if they play at their best and that a surprise awaits Indianapolis when we travel there next weekend.

Go Broncos!

All Ready! Your 2009 Denver Broncos 53-man Roster(Official)

John Bena — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 01:14:31 -0000

Quarterback (3)	Kyle Orton	Defensive Ends (5)	Vonnie Holliday
	Chris Simms		Kenny Peterson
	Tom Brandstater		Ryan McBean
			Marcus Thomas
Running back (4)	Knowshon Moreno		Le Kevin Smith
	Peyton Hillis
	Correll Buckhalter	Defensive Tackles (2)	Ronald Fields
	LaMont Jordan		Chris Baker

		Linebackers (9)	D.J. Williams
			Elvis Dumervil
Tight End (3)	Daniel Graham		Mario Haggan
	Tony Scheffler		Darrell Reid
	Richard Quinn		Jarvis Moss
			Wesley Woodyard
Wide Receivers (7)	Brandon Marshall		Andra Davis
	Eddie Royal		Spencer Larsen
	Brandon Stokley		Robert Ayers
	Jabar Gaffney	Cornerbacks (4)	Andre Goodman
	Kenny McKinley		Jack Williams
	Brandon Lloyd		Alphonso Smith
	Chad Jackson		Champ Bailey

Offensive Line (9)	Casey Wiegmann
	Chris Kuper	Safeties (5)	Brian Dawkins
	Russ Hochstein		Darcel McBath
	Seth Olsen		Renaldo Hill
	Ryan Harris		David Bruton
	Ryan Clady		Josh Barrett
	Ben Hamilton
	Brandon Gorin	Special (3)	Matt Prater
	Tyler Polumbus		Brett Kern
			Lonnie Paxton

Immediate Reaction and Notes

There is one too-many because Brandon Marshall is still on the Reserved-Suspended list. One more move will have to be made when he is activated, but this allows the Broncos to get the lay of the Free agent landscape.
On offense, I had predicted that Darius Walker would make it over LaMont Jordan. I was wrong. There are reasons why, more than Jordan's New England past, why this could have happened. Pass protection is one of them. In the end, however, Jordan is the 4th RB behind KnowMo, Buckhalter and Hillis. I can live with it even though I don't agree with it.
I had though the Broncos would go with 6 WR's, IF Jabar Gaffney's thumb was progressing well. The fact the Broncos went with 7 doesn't necessarily mean it is not, but that the coaches value depth at WR more than RB or some other areas.
The addition of Vonnie Holliday mean alot momre than just what the guy can do on the football field. It is another veteran voice in the locker room, a coach on the field. He has alot of experience in all defenses and will help the young guys learn the nuances of the 3-4
Don't get too comfortable with this roster. I fully expect it to change between now and mid-week after the team has the chance to scoru the waiver-wire.

Broncos Release Nine Players; Place G McChesney On Injured Reserve

Tim Lynch — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:00:22 -0000

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos on Friday released nine players and placed guard Matt McChesney on their reserve/injured list, it was announced.
The following nine players were released by Denver on Friday:

Released September 4, 2009
Player	NFL Exp.	College
DL Matthias Askew	3	Michigan State
G Kory Lichtensteiger	2	Bowling Green State
QB Ingle Martin	3	Furman
CB Rashod Moulton	1	Fort Valley State
T Clint Oldenburg	2	Colorado State
DL Carlton Powell	2	Virginia Tech
ILB Lee Robinson	R	Alcorn State
WR Nate Swift	R	Nebraska
RB Marcus Thomas	2	Texas-El Paso

Horse Tracks 8/19/09 - LK Smith practices with Broncos; Favre shows again why Elway is The Greatest Ever

Douglas A. Lee — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:48:02 -0000

DB - Day 19: McDaniels - Broncos TV
McD talks about Le Kevin Smith; plus, he says BMarsh and BDawk may play this week in Seattle.

DB - Day 19: Report - Broncos TV
First words from Le Kevin Smith as a Bronco, who didn't find many surprises in his initial practice with the team.

DB - Setting Foot on New Turf - Zach Eisendrath
More on Smith, who was welcomed yesterday by several familiar faces.

DB - Day 19 Blog - Gray Caldwell

DP - Alphonso Smith bringing ballhawk style - Jeff Legwold
Alphonso has been active in practice - returning punts and kicks, working as the top nickelback and stepping in for Champ at times. McDaniels says what makes a cornerback is not his size or hands; it's his vision and anticipation.

DN - Jets looking to make trade for wide receiver with Brandon Marshall, Dwayne Bowe on radar
Hmm. Start by offering your first-rounder; then, we'll talk...

TJ - Brandstater didn’t get to play but he understands the process
Tom Brandstater's hometown paper checks in on him.

SI - Minnesota Vikings are making mistake with Brett Favre - Peter King
Just when everyone at MHR is ready to boycott him, PK comes through with some non-regurgitated writing. He allows that Orton's INTs may have been the result of him not being used to having so much pass protection, that Alphonso Smith might make everyone forget the 1st-rounder Denver traded, and that no team wants the 1st, 2nd or 3rd pick in the draft.

IDT - NFL analyst’s promise of ‘bombshell out of Denver’ fizzles
Well, how about this...John's story on Jamie Dukes got picked up by INDenver Times...nicely done, Guru!

DP - Disgruntled Marshall back at Broncos' camp - Lindsay Jones

DP - Le Kevin Smith finds Broncos not all strangers - Lindsay Jones

DP - Paige: AFC West looking like land of the lost
Woody isn't impressed by the Broncos' division mates.

CSG - Running backs happy for even a long shot - Frank Schwab
Marcus Thomas and Marcus Thigpen are fighting for a spot that may not even be there...

CSG - Tuesday's Broncos camp at a glance - Frank Schwab

CSG - Broncos notes: Marshall not slacking - Frank Schwab

AP - Smith shipped to Denver for draft pick - Arnie Stapleton

BDC - Woelk: True fullbacks a disappearing football species

AFC West News

SFC - Raiders: NFL investigating Cable-Hanson altercation
Stay Classy, Jokeland...

SFG - Raiders Silver and Black Blog : Schilens breaks foot

SFG - Schilens' injury a bigger blow

SFG - Raiders Silver and Black Blog : Tuesday practice notes

SI - Tom Cable assaulting a fellow coach would be par for the course with Raiders - Joe Posnanski
It's hard to argue with that notion...

FOX - What did you expect from the Silver and Black? - Kevin Hench

SDUT - Shaun Phillips ready to start chase

SDUT - Rookie Vasquez is back on the practice field

SDUT - Burnett gets 'Mo' action

SDUT - Defensive end Bingham out for now with torn triceps

KCS - Chiefs camp buzz: Haley not talking about Cassel’s play

NFL News/Analysis

NFL - Colts CB Hayden out 3 to 4 weeks with bad hamstring; Jackson also hurt

NFL - Bucs' Jackson suspended four games for violating substance-abuse policy

NFL - Jets' Ryan clarifies remarks on Belichick but likely provides more fodder

Y! - CBA negotiations described as 'PR show' - Jason Cole

SI - Preseason Week 1, Winners/Losers - Don Banks

SI - Mike Singletary has 49ers going in right direction at camp - George Dohrmann

SI - Falcons out to make history with back-to-back winning seasons - Andrew Lawrence

SI - Tom Brady, veteran Patriots have sights on another Super Bowl - Ben Reiter

CBS - Dolphins camp report: Left tackle Long fortifies Fins' future - Pete Prisco

Y! - Rodgers making fast progression to elite QB - Charles Robinson

NFP - Diner morning news: The Reid-Vick connection - Mike Lombardi

PFW - Colts' captain spreads message of hope

NFP - 2009 NFP scouting series: Iowa - Wes Bunting

Brett Favre - Well, at least we don't have to read anymore "Will he? Won't he?" articles for ohh, another 4 months...

NFL - Despite rotator cuff injury, Favre decides he's ready to return

NFL - Favre returns (again): QB signs with Vikings, hopes for Super Bowl

NFL - Packers react to Favre's signing with Vikings

SI - Favre's a Viking, but is he a villain? - Don Banks

FOX - Favre takes self-centered behavior to new extreme - Alex Marvez

CBS - Selfish Favre returns to feed ego, not help Vikings win - Pete Prisco

NFP - Favre completes the Vikings - Matt Bowen

CBS - Favre will do more to hurt Vikings than help them - Clark Judge

Y! - Favre officially vilified in Green Bay - Charles Robinson

SI - Brett Favre return to Minnesota Vikings makes him Benedict Arnold - Jeff Pearlman

SI - Brett Favre brings new level of excitement, expectations to Vikes - Steve Aschburner

PFW - Favre’s arrival has dramatic effect on Vikings - Eric Edholm

NFL - Favre's presence turns vanilla Vikings into a spicy, dangerous mix

NYT - Why This Comeback Is a Mistake for Vikings and Favre - KC Joyner

ESPN - The difference between winning and not losing - Kevin Seifert

ESPN - With Favre, nothing's for certain - Len Pasequarelli

ESPN - Brett Favre has left the Green Bay Packers behind, for good - Gene Wojciechowski

Horse Tracks 8/17/09 - Dawkins, Marshall practice; Broncos sign RB Marcus Thigpen, release OG Pat Murray

Douglas A. Lee — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:56:23 -0000

DB - Recovering and Ready
Sunday brought the welcome sight of Brian Dawkins and Brandon Marshall practicing. BMarsh admitted to feeling rusty, while BDawk was frustrated watching Friday's game from home. By the way, Marshall is back to referring to the Broncos as "we" - a wonderful development.

DB - Day 17: McDaniels - Broncos TV

DB - Day 17: Dawkins - Broncos TV

DB - Day 17: Marshall - Broncos TV
BMarsh says it's been all about his hamstring recently; not his hip. He says he's not in game shape. Someone needs to tell Brandon that Roddy White has a year on him...

DP - Broncos WR Marshall hoping comparison pays
Klis focuses on the BMarsh/Roddy White comparison

DP - Anxious Dawkins hopes for fast return - Lindsay Jones

DB - Day 17 Blog - Kyle Sonneman
Yesterday's practiced featured a lot of work on kickoffs and returns. Plus, plenty of work in the red zone (Hi, Ted). New RB Marcus Thomas got a bunch of reps, while Tom Brandstater finally shaved his head.

DB - Swinging Through Seattle
Press release for the upcoming game; lots of interesting (some of them obscure) statistics

DP - Rookie Thigpen latest to join running backs - Jeff Legwold
The Broncos added another RB named Marcus - this time Thigpen, who spent some time with the Eagles this summer as a WR. To make room on the roster, Denver released OG Pat Murray.

DP - Dove Valley Days: Orton remains in charge
Alphonso Smith worked yesterday as the first nickelback

CSG - A look at Sunday's Broncos camp - Frank Schwab

CSG - Broncos' Marshall returns to practice still longing for a different contract - Frank Schwab

CSG - Broncos notes: Dawkins returns to practice with a cast - Frank Schwab

AP - Marshall, Dawkins Back At Practice

DP - Cutler's debut made for must-see TV - Dusty Saunders

GFT - Bronco fan braces for transition - Pat Douglas

MDH - NFL preview: Denver Broncos
This is what happens when you write about a topic you know little about - you write things like, "The offensive line...is a far cry from the undersized but extremely effective units that Broncos trotted out a few years back."

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SDUT - LT to go in preseason again

SDUT - Davis out to prove that he's not a bust

KCS - Top pick Jackson, Chiefs defense have some catching up to do

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CBS - Saints kicker Hartley expects drug suspension, Carney returns

PFW - Jets' Faneca out with broken finger

NFL - Rookie QB Sanchez will start Jets' next preseason game

NFL - Cowboys WR Williams day-to-day after spraining wrist in practice

NFL - Texans' Grossman expected to miss 4-5 weeks with hamstring injury

NFL - Childress in no rush to name starter after Vikings' preseason opener

NFL - Cardinals' Wells returns to practice, but only in limited duty

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ESPN - Camp Confidential: Falcons ready for next step - Pat Yasinskas

ESPN - Harbaugh keeps Flacco, Ngata on edge - Chris Mortensen

ESPN - Camp Confidential: Dolphins still eager to prove - Tim Graham

FOX - Schaub's health is key to Houston's hopes - Alex Marvez

SI - Houston Texans ready to make first-ever playoff appearance - John P. Lopez

SI - Postcard from camp: Bengals - Ben Reiter

CBS - Eagles camp report: Fittingly, pressure's on Johnson's successor - Clark Judge

NYT - N.F.L. Sellouts Have Become Easier, but Not for Bills - KC Joyner

CT - Jay Cutler's candor may come back to bite Bears QB someday
JC still isn't accepting the blame for his mistakes; he's already dumping it on his WRs after a single preseason game.

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NFL - Vick admits to crying in prison during '60 Minutes' interview

SI - The Vick-signing scoop, my training camp tour, 10 Things and more - Peter King
According to Andy Reid, Donovan McNabb texted him saying the Iggles should sign Michael Vick.

NYT - Did You Believe Vick on ‘60 Minutes’? - Toni Monkovic

CBS - The con is still on: 'Mike Slick' has fooled us before - Mike Freeman
Some folks within the Falcons organization think Michael Vick is a con man after hearing his lies for years on end.

CBS - Like Mike? Can't hate Vick after contrite interview - Gregg Doyel

Horse Tracks 8/13/09 - Torain Waived, another Marcus Thomas added; BMarsh on trial today

Douglas A. Lee — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:10:25 -0000

Update 10:07am EST. I knew I was forgetting something this morning as I put Tracks together...today is Broncobear's birthday. Happy Birthday, Doc! Hope it's a great one, my friend!

DB - Taking a Long Look - Chris Gentilviso
Josh McDaniels reminded the rookies that tomorrow's game is time for them to prove they belong.

DB - Day 13: McDaniels - Broncos TV

DB - Day 13: Orton - Broncos TV
I wonder if this guy gets excited about anything. Certainly doesn't matter, but Kyle doesn't seem to like talking to the press - like it's quite a chore...

DB - Day 13 Blog - Zach Eisendrath
LaMont Jordan returned to practice yesterday, while some of the rookies got to shave off their awful hairdos.

DP - Marshall takes in alma mater's practice before trial
BMarsh dropped in on UCF's football practice on his way to Atlanta for trial today and possibly tomorrow.

SI - Postcard from camp: Broncos - Ross Tucker
Tucker thinks Kyle Orton's cerebral persona and supporting cast make him a good fit for the Broncos. He likes Josh McDaniels' thick skin but isn't sold on the front seven. Andre' Goodman apparently thinks Alphonso Smith will be one of the five-best nickel corners by season's end. Tucker expects a big year out of Knowshon and was impressed by Richard Quinn and Chris Baker.

LTC - Salivating for sacks - Brian Howell
Although Elvis Dumervil won't predict how many sacks he'll tally in '09, he says he may have more opportunities this year thanks to his move back to OLB.

AP - McDaniels taking preseason stuff very seriously - Arnie Stapleton

LTC - Broncos’ Williams vying for more playing time
Brian Howell profiles Jack Williams

DP - Davis part of veteran look at LB - Jeff Legwold
McDaniels says 3-4 inside linebackers are a difficult commodity to find, with college programs looking for faster players at LB.

9NEWS - The only Shanahan on the sidelines
Kyle Shanahan is proud to be the only Shanahan working this year, and he says his allegiance is still with the Broncos as far as being a fan goes, and that after Texans games he rushes home to watch Denver.

DP - Broncos' schedule: Potential woes with tough foes
Klis reminds us that Denver has a tough schedule looming (had you heard?). Apparently the over/under has dropped to 7 wins as the under bets have poured in.

ESPN - Camp Confidential: McDaniels is in control - Pork Chop

DP - Fans, 49ers can expect to see plenty of top selection Moreno - Jeff Legwold
Torain apparently has a strained LCL and was expected to miss 3-4 weeks. Meanwhile, Darcel McBath will reportedly start in BDawk's free safety position.

DP - Dove Valley Days: Smith bolstering Broncos' secondary - Jeff Legwold

LTC - Buck's tops here - Brad Cochi
McDaniels praises Correll Buckhalter's versatility and work ethic.

DP - Mailbag: Practice picks a concern?
Woody thinks we should worry about Orton's practice INTs. Plus, somehow it matters that the Broncos' opponents have better QBs.

AP - Broncos Cut Oft-Injured Ryan Torain - Arnie Stapleton
Peyton Hillis points out that he's now the only remaining RB from '08 on the roster.

CSG - Broncos camp glance for Wednesday - Frank Schwab

CSG - Broncos notes: Team waives Torain - Frank Schwab

CSG - Broncos' Simms continues comeback after spleen injury - Frank Schwab

DB - Day 13: Transcripts - McDaniels and Orton

*********************************

SDUT - Forney appears to be set at RG

SDUT - Rookie's goal: Make Chargers say, 'We've got to keep this guy'

KCS - Chiefs safeties are ready to take it up a notch

KCS - Chiefs Buzz: Hali making progress

SFC - RAIDERS / Exhibition opener offers mini QB controversy

SFG - Raiders Silver and Black Blog : Mike Mitchell a scratch

*********************************

NFL - Texans LB Cushing suffers knee injury, could miss two preseason games

NFL - Colts safety Bethea misses practices with broken right hand

SI - Assessing season-ending injuries and their lasting effects on teams - Ross Tucker

NFP - Tavern talk: blue-chip players, part 3
Lombardi counts Marshall and Clady as Denver's blue chips, with Champ falling a bit below. He thinks McDaniels will be successful in Denver if he's given enough time.

SI - Postcard from camp: Colts - Peter King

SI - Titans look confident and poised to keep Super Bowl hopes alive - Don Banks

NFL - Deep, confident Bears team eager to kick off season - Thomas George

CBS - Falcons camp tour: Grimes, Houston face big challenge - Pete Prisco

FOX - These teams will challenge Lions for futility in '09
Peter Schrager is expecting horrid seasons from the Rams, Bucs and Browns.

NFP - Three teams Vick should be calling - Matt Bowen

Y! - Shockey Q&A: Full speed at all times - Jason Cole

Y! - Jarrett finally grasping Panthers' tough love - Charles Robinson

NFP - Diner morning news: Injuries happen - Mike Lombardi

NFP - Wednesday whys: Dealing with White’s contract - Andrew Brandt

NFP - Jets’ Jones: a good fit in Seattle - Matt Bowen

FOX - CAMP SIGHTS: Wrestling dad shaped Laurinaitis - Alex Marvez

NYT - Greatest Quarterback by the Numbers: Peyton Manning? - Toni Monkovic

NYT - The Pinpoint Accuracy of Drew Brees - Toni Monkovic

NFP - 2009 NFP scouting series: Hawaii - Wes Bunting

Ryan Torain released after knee injury

John Bena — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:37:21 -0000

More photos » by Ed Andrieski - AP

4 months ago: Denver Broncos running back Ryan Torain flips the ball back to a coach during the NFL football team's training camp in Englewood, Colo., on Monday, July 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Browse more photos »

The Denver Broncos released RB Ryan Torain after he was diagnosed with a PCL sprain in his knee, Head Coach Josh McDaniels said after today's practice. Torain, who has battled injuries throughout his college and pro career, was attempting to make the team despite the crowded backfield.

This is a sad situation, to be sure. Torain has talent but his upright running style leaves his legs especially susceptible. Mike Shanahan stuck with Torain last season after he dislocated his elbow, essentially leaving a roster spot open for him for 7 weeks. Josh McDaniels isn't as forgiving, nor should he be. The Broncos need 53 healthy bodies when the season opens.

Here's hoping Torain finally gets healthy and can reach his potential. It appears that won't happen in Denver, however.

One side-note. The Broncos could bring Torain back should he clear waivers. If that happens, the Broncos could place him on IR.

The team reportedly signed RB Marcus Thomas to take Torain's spot on the roster.

2009 Denver Broncos Training Camp - 7/31 PM Breakdown

John Bena — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 03:28:16 -0000

The seed of a high school football coach doesn't venture far from the tree. Josh McDaniels is no exception. Coming to a team that has finished 24-24 the past 3 seasons, McDaniels knew that fundamentals were going to be a key component to turning the franchise around. For the first time, we are getting a look at what the young coach plans to do about it. Daddy would be proud.

Before I get too deep into what I am speaking about above, let me just say this. After a full day, and I mean a FULL day, there is definitely a change in Denver. Gone are the 75-minute practices. Gone, at least for today, is an afternoon practice that focused only on special teams. Gone are the practices off for veterans. All of this will hopefully lead to a team that isn't soft. Today's workout was fast-paced, crisp, and efficient - and lasted 2 full hours each time.

Now, back to the high school comment. As I was watching the Broncos work on drill after drill - drills I never saw last season (all the blocking sleds look new, which makes sense), I couldn't help but think I had seen all these drills before.

But where?

High School, that's where.

Now, don't get me wrong; to say that these practices reminded me of high school workouts is not a derogatory term, at least not in this context. Josh McDaniels took over a team that couldn't get out of its own way at times. The only way to fix it is to get back to the basics.

The Broncos spent a lot of time working in small groups, working on stripping the football, or hitting a sled. Defensive linemen worked on slapping the hands of O-linemen off of them so they could 'stay clean'.

Quarterbacks ran drills that included dropping back to pass with coaches slapping at the ball, trying to break it free.

Linebackers worked on dropping into coverage, then going and trying to intercept a pass.

Everything you would go out and teach a 13-year-old is what the Broncos were working. It was a welcome sight.

One thing I did not see was a Red-Zone or Two-Minute drill. That might shock some. Both were a staple of the Shanahan practice, as if everything else was quickly completed to get to the real show. What we learned, however, is that it means little in the Red-Zone or Two-Minute drill if your team is not fundamentally sound. The Broncos were not, and all the little inefficiencies add up during a football game.

I know; it was only one day, but it was refreshing to see the team working on things it has struggled with in the past -- rookies, vets, young and old, working on the same thing, with the same goal in mind - to become a better football team.

Now, some random thoughts -

Brandon Marshall was held out of the afternoon workout, spending time rehabilitating instead.

Alphonso Smith is a special football player. He is, however, a rookie getting his first taste of camp. Tonight's workout was a bit of a struggle at times, specifically in 1-on-1 passing drills against the likes of Brandon Stokley and Eddie Royal. Stokley could be the league's best route runner, and Royal isn't far behind. Going against that kind of competition will get you good in a hurry.

That said, Smith is a naturally-gifted return man. With gazelle-like strides, Smith seems to eat 2-3 yards per stride on a return. His moves are quick and decisive and his 190-lb. frame is better suited to take the pounding.

One injury to report - DB Vernon Fox left the field with an apparent right ankle injury. He was able to walk off, but carried a noticeable limp.

Ryan Torain and Peyton Hillis look to be close to 100%. I saw Hillis used in numerous looks - in the backfield, split wide, H-Back. It was good to see the burst. especially after the type of hamstring injury he suffered.

Something I saw tonight that I never would have seen last year #1 -- Tyler Polumbus, guilty of some kind of infraction, was sent to run laps around the field - just like in high school.

Something I saw tonight that I never would have seen last year #2 -- Right before the final drill of the day, the team ran three sprints across the width of the field - 53.5 yards each way. It came at a time when I was writing in my notebook that the evening workout was a bit sloppy. I guess McDaniels agreed. Just like high school.

After the practice ended, the three PUP players - Champ Bailey, Renaldo Hill and Marcus Thomas - were running 50-yard sprints.

That ends Day 1. For those of you that were in the crowd, thanks for taking the time to report what you saw. If you are going tomorrow, let me know.

Denver Broncos Training Camp Quotes - 7/31 AM -- Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton, Brian Dawkins

John Bena — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:52:02 -0000

Each day I'll supply you with the transcript from the coaches and players that talk to the media. Today's edition includes Josh McDaniels, QB Kyle Orton and S Brian Dawkins -

Head Coach Josh McDaniels

On how the team looked in its first full practice
"It looked like the first day. Everybody had great effort, good tempo, a lot of sloppy mistakes and a lot of things to correct and fix. A long way to go, but it was good to get off to a start."

On if he was able to sleep last night in anticipation of the first practice
"(I fell asleep) about 1 (a.m.), it ended about 5 (a.m.) and then just back to work—full training camp mode and excited for today."

On the first thing to come to mind walking onto the field today as a head coach
"It is exciting. I grew up as the son of a coach, so it is an exciting feeling to be able to come out and run your first organized training camp practice and just coach the players that are here. (I am) excited about what may lie ahead for us and trying to get us better every single day. It was a good feeling."

On the fear of injury due to physical practices
"I don’t think you can play this game afraid of that because every time we go out and play a game, there is the fear of injury or the possibility of an injury. In order to play the way that we want to play, you have to practice the way you want to play. We will have to take our chances. We will be smart with our football team and our players. If there is anything that we need to rest or pull back from them, then we will, but I don’t think you can play physical unless you practice that way."

On evaluating the quarterbacks
"(There) will be a better evaluation after we watch all the film, but I thought there are a couple things that I wish we would have hit. But I think they threw the ball well. The command of the offense and the understanding of what we are doing is great. I don’t mean that they are all the way where we want them to be ultimately, but I think when they get in the huddle, they know exactly what I am asking them to do and they are giving the information to the other 10 (players) that are with them. Right now, I think they are getting off to a good start, and we have just got to continue to push them to get better."

On his impression of RB Ryan Torain
"Ryan made some good runs today and he is a physical guy, big guy. (He is) the kind of back that we are looking for. All of our backs are 215 (pounds) or more, so that is the style that we have and we want. He fits in well with the group that we have, and it will be exciting to see him progress. This is really the start, for Ryan, of this year because he wasn’t there all spring. (We are) looking forward to seeing what he can do."

On the effects of OLB/DE Robert Ayers’ and RB Knowshon Moreno’s absence from training camp
"I think every day that they miss hurts their opportunity to create or a role on our team or a bigger role on our team. Obviously, they will have a role, but they are missing meetings, installations, walk-throughs, practice time, film study and all that stuff.

"We are eager to have them here. We are trying as hard as we possibly can to have both of them here as fast as we can. Hopefully, that happens sooner rather than later."

On if the delay signing Ayers and Moreno adds more pressure to complete the deal
"We are going to work with who is here and they will join us eventually. Hopefully it will be soon."

On if the team is close to finalizing Ayers’ and Moreno’s contracts
"To me, the only thing left is ‘done.’ Whether we are close or not doesn’t really matter. As soon as it is done, we will be excited to have them here."

On CB Champ Bailey’s absence at practice
"Champ, (S) Renaldo (Hill) and (DL) Marcus Thomas, as soon as they are ready to practice physically, they will be out here. It is the same with all three of them, just making sure that we take the right precautions with those three players."

On WR Brandon Marshall’s performance
"He definitely showed up, made some good plays. He is an explosive guy, and it is a good sign to see him out there running. We’ll see how his body reacts to it. This is really the first full practice. The couple (practices) that we had earlier in the week weren’t really that long, and this one was a little bit more taxing on everybody. It was great to have him out there, (he) definitely fit in and made some big plays and we will look forward to more of that as we go."

On if today’s session felt different with the team because it was the first training camp practice
"I think it feels different for everybody because you are in pads. There is an actual uncertainty of what kind of period we are running, because before, you are not in pads, you can’t run plays and all the rest of it. Now there is a run-pass conflict on every play; nobody knows what is coming. You can use play-actions. The whole entire practice is a little different. There are so many things that we are responsible for, both as coaches and players, once you get into this kind of an atmosphere. You always make little minor mistakes on the first day, and hopefully we will clean those up. (It’s) the same with our coaches and players."

On evaluating players’ transition from the defensive line to outside linebacker
"Today is a big step for those guys because a big part of playing outside linebacker is being able to be physical and play downhill. When you are a former defensive lineman, that is what you are used to doing anyway. We are going to try to ask them to do things they can do. I know being physical and hitting people is one thing that all of them are capable of, and we are going to ask them to do a lot of that. When we ask them to drop back in pass coverage, we are going to try to make sure that we are smart with what we ask them to do. We are not going to put them on (San Diego TE) Antonio Gates and tell them to flag him all over the field.

"All of them have a lot of room to improve. Obviously, this is the first padded practice, so they are going to see some things that they are going to be able to correct this afternoon and hopefully get better every day."

QB Kyle Orton -

On if there is a different between the atmosphere of opening training camp compared OTAs
"Yeah, no question. You put the pads on and now you’re not so much teaching—now, you’re going out there and you’re playing for jobs and, you know, showing the coaches everything you can do. So it’s a much more competitive atmosphere, and it’s for real."

On if he enjoys training camp
"It’s tough being away from your families and everything, obviously, but I think everybody is excited about this camp starting and what we can do this season. I know, personally, I’m very excited."

On the importance of having WR Brandon Marshall out on the field
"No question. It’s great to have him out there. He looked good today. Just expect a lot of things out of him."

On what he thinks of the Broncos’ running backs
"That’s a great position for us, and we can do a lot of things with them. (RB) Peyton Hillis and all those guys—they create matchup problems, whether in the running game or in the passing game obviously."

On if he knows the names of all his receivers
"I do. I’ve been working on it. I can’t say maybe on the defensive side of the ball, but I think on offense I’ve got that down pretty good."

On who has stood out offensively
"It’s early, you know. It’s early and trying to knock some rust off with the pads and everything. But I thought, as an offense, we had a sharp practice. Not a whole lot of presnap penalties or anything like that. The ball wasn’t on the ground a whole lot, so it was a good start for us."

On having fans out at practice
"It was great. Had a lot of fans out and making a lot of noise for ‘B-Marsh’ (WR Brandon Marshall) when he was making those great catches, so it was fun."

On if he likes seeing Marshall make one-handed catches
"Certainly. Sometimes it makes you look bad, you know. When he catches that ball with one hand, I’m like ‘it wasn’t that bad of a pass.’"

On how his approach changes being the starting quarterback at the start of camp
"Not really. Obviously leadership-wise it sets you in the forefront a little bit more and just making sure as a unit that we know we’re running smoothly and everything. But I just go about my business and try to work hard every day and just improve. Really, that’s the goal every day."

S Brian Dawkins -

On the first day of training camp
"Just trying to learn the ropes a little bit, the tempos that are requested of us and trying to jell."

On the anticipation taking the field
"Yeah, I mean I was real anxious to get some live bullets going. Sorry for the pun, but to really get some live contact. I didn’t get as much as I thought I was going to get, but it was a good start."

On whether DT Ronald Fields is the critical guy in the 3-4 defense
"Well you know, it starts with those guys up front. It starts when those guys up front do their job and they dominate their gaps and their guy, that makes everybody else’s job behind them that much easier. So, it definitely starts with him and those guys up front."

On what he would tell the average fan in terms of how the defense will improve
"I’ll say just have a good time with it because we’re going to have a good time with it. We’ve got some jelling to do. We’ve got some things to work out, some mental mistakes to get out of the way. But I’m excited about it."

On whether it was tough to come to training camp with the passing of former Eagles Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson "It is. It was and it is. He was a dear, dear friend of mine. He taught me a lot. Both of our careers kind of intertwined. He was there for so long having success, and I had so much success with him. So, it was definitely a tough loss for me."

On the No. 1 thing he learned from Johnson
"I think with Jim, the thing he wanted was, I called it the controlled chaos. He wanted you to be all out, but at the same time know what you’re doing. He was just someone that I believed in tremendously and he believed in me tremendously. That’s why he allowed me to do the things that I did at safety. I’m very, very grateful for the things that he taught me and the things he allowed me to do."

On practicing in pads to start camp
"I’m used to pads. As a matter of fact, I was looking for some live periods because that’s what I’m used to. I’m used to, as they call it, tackle them to the ground. That’s what I’m used to. To have contact, to have pads is no big deal for me."

On whether wearing pads in practice will make the defense tougher
"You have to get used to the pads. You have to break them in so to speak, you know, be able to know what kind of leverage you are going to have to use against different guys when you’re taking them on. And you know what? Just get the, I’ll say get the liking for the contact."

On S Darcel McBath
"(He has) potential. Still learning, as we all are. But I think he definitely has a lot of potential to add some big plays for us."

On the defense having a physical identity
"I believe so. I believe so. It starts with a mindset, first of all. You know, not everybody wants to play defense. It’s a want-to thing to play defense. You’ve got to be a little crazy to play defense and run into somebody full-speed and like it. So that’s the mentality we have to develop—that everybody likes to run into guys full-speed and sacrifice yourself for your teammate."

On CBs Champ Bailey and Renaldo Hill being held out of practice
"We just go out and we just play. We know those guys are going to be there. We’ve already practiced with them and developed some chemistry. When they get back out there, we’ll keep that thing rolling."

On wearing a visor on his helmet
"I’ve been wearing it since my rookie (year), well actually since college. I’m a guy that I will hit and throw myself in there. [There is] light sensitivity a little bit and [I] get migraines. Those things kind of help me in that respect."

On whether the visor is intimidating
"I would hope that even if I just wore one bar, the old kicker bar, that my film, the things that I’m blessed to do on the football field as far as bringing the wood, would speak more than just my visor."

On WR Brandon Marshall
"He looked great to me. He knows what his limits are, but he looked great to me."

On having two unsigned rookies (RB Knowshon Moreno and OLB/DE Robert Ayers)
"This is my 14th year. I’ve seen a little bit of everything in those 14 years. That’s the business side of football. We love to play this game. We love to go out there and come to practice and hit and catch balls but there is a business side of football. So when they handle that business, they’ll come out and do what they’re supposed to do."

On whether he gets butterflies for the start of training camp
"Today I did. I’m usually jacked up for training camp because that means training camp is almost over when we start it, so that it’s closer to the football season. But you know, new place, new surrounding, I was definitely jacked up for this."

On being motivated by the fans
"It helps. It adds. I’m used to a little more—I don’t want to say, how do I say that—a little more voices, let’s just say voices about our play or lack thereof on the football field. I’m used to a little bit of everything, so whatever they bring, I welcome."

On whether Denver fans are more polite than Philadelphia fans
"They’re going to give their opinions, but it’s not as many and at the same time as in Philadelphia."

On hitting teammates on the practice field
"I’ve gotten to the point now that I know how to take care of the guys, my guys. I know that I’m going to need these guys down the road. If it’s a period and they let us loose, kind of take the reins off and say, ‘This is live, go get em.’ That’s different. But if it’s just a thud, then you’re smart with your teammates because they are your teammates."

On laying a hit to wake up the defense
"Yeah, but you still have to be smart at the same time. If I have a receiver that’s laying out for the ball, and I can give it to him, I’ll hit him but I won’t deliver the full funk to him, if you understand what I’m saying."

Denver Broncos Training Camp Report - 7/31 AM Practice

John Bena — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:54:06 -0000

The first full team workout is in the books and if I wasn't excited before - which I was - I am definitely excited now. Yes, it is only one practice. What can you learn in a couple of hours?? Everything and nothing.

There will be some video of Kyle Orton to come, as well as a bevy of photos I took. Until then, here are my thoughts as I wrote them down during the morning's workouts.

The first thing to get out of the way - who was here and who wasn't. We know 5 players weren't on the field for various reasons. Knowshon Moreno and Robert Ayers are still working on their contracts. Champ Bailey, Renaldo Hill and Marcus Thomas are on the PUP list. I did see Champ and Thomas coming from the workout facility, so they are here and accounted for. As for everyone else, all were dressed and all practiced, including Brandon Marshall, who looked great. More on that later.

Here are some general observations to get out of the way. I was curious to see if the country club mentality would be gone along with Mike Shanahan. Let me say, the entire feel of the practice session has changed. Right from the beginning there was a sense of urgency. There was intensity, and more importantly, it was focused. You get the sense that Josh McDaniels has sold his team on the fact that every position is up for grabs, every job available.

Another observation was the type of drills the team was working on. A lot more fundamentals than I remember last year. Shanahan's workouts seemed to be geared towards the fans and media. McDaniels, however, seems to be getting his team ready to play football. That is a welcome change, even if I couldn't get as close to the action as last year.

Now, the tidbits --

Ryan Torain is back and better than ever. Again, it is early and Torain needs to prove he can stay healthy, but the quickness and moves he showed last year have returned. David Bruton is still looking for his jock after one particular move by Torain in 11-on-11 drills.

The defensive line is easily the biggest concern this team has, and at one point during sled work they were no more than 5 feet from me. Unfortunately I wasn't impressed. There just isn't anyone who scares me in that group. Not yet anyway. No imposing figure.

I watched Kyle Orton throw....a lot. Let me put it to you as precisely as I can. There is nothing wrong with Kyle Orton's arm. He can make ALL the throws. Repeat. He can make ALL THE THROWS. Today he was on time and on target which was great to see. He won't throw for 4600 yards, but in this offense he won't have to.

A quick note on Tom Brandstater - He looks like an NFL quarterback. Great size for the position and a solid release and spiral.

Alphonso Smith is a football player. He has great instincts for the ball, and has the wheels to get to it. He was returning punts along with Eddie Royal, and even blocked a FG attempt at the end of practice.

The Brian Dawkins Effect is already evident. Numerous times I saw Dawkins 'coaching' David Bruton and Darcel McBath. Quick tidbits here and there, where to be, what to look for, etc. Who better to teach the two rookies? Both seem to have great instincts at safety as well.

Back to Brandon Marshall. He was dressed, he was dancing to the music, and he looked happy to be on the football field. I get the feeling that everything can turn out okay, now that the fans are cheering every time he touches the football (which they are), and that the focus can be between the lines, not outside them. Marshall made several great catches and looked to have no lasting effects from the hip surgery. The Beast looks ready.

There you have it. More to come this evening when the team returns to the field. Stay tuned for some Kyle Orton comments and pictures.