SB Nation User Blog: Mike Clark

A Funny Feeling

Mike Clark — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 23:07:32 -0000

Having lived in Boise, mid-60s to mid-70s, during BSC's change to BSU, I somehow find myself emotionally drawn to the Broncos. It was an easy draw as I have been a Denver Bronco fan since '61. Its made my life simple for years. When people ask my favorite football team, the answer for years has been simple, "Broncos." Funny how that works...this funny Bronco fan...both teams born in the Rockies, as I was. Its been fun following both Broncos over the years, two great teams with great fans. Two great teams with great fans and the support behind the players to keep them great...thus keep us fans happy, and then some.

I love this SB Nation format, what a fun way to keep in touch with fans that love similar teams.

Anyway,

I better get to my thoughts before its tomorrow and the comparison no longer works. Both my teams are looking at very important games: Denver playing New England, a team Denver needs to, 'take-out,' not just to gain respect (in fact that's not important) 'take-out' for the player's sake...to know they can march forward thinking Super Bowl.

You Broncos in Boise need to 'take-out' Tulsa and the results if you don't are so much worse. I hope like heck this Boise State team doesn't underestimate Tulsa...this is one good team. Denver could rebound from a loss and still go Super Bowl. Boise loses to Tulsa and BCS is out.

Here's the funny feeling:

I've been a Denver Bronco fan since 1961 and a Boise Bronco fan since 1967. For the first time I see a strange chance. For the first time, in almost fifty years, the two football teams that I somehow became emotionally attached to have a chance to do something special....something I never thought possible. If Denver loses to New England tomorrow we still have a chance. If Boise loses to Tulsa you don't.

Keep winning you guys.

Imagine the press: Bronco's Champions Again...first Boise now Denver !

just imagine...Broncos total rule

Raider Week

Mike Clark — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:39:40 -0000

Raider week has been special for many years, a phenom that is only enhanced with the internet and the inevitable interaction with Raider fans. As I plan to post this at both the Broncos' and Raiders' SB sites I would like to ask one favor:

Be kind with your remarks....

I know MHR members will be kind, they're on my side, I hope you at Silver and Black Pride will do the same. Don't hold anything back you 'faider fans'--but keep it clean--and by the way, you surely, as faider fans, could come up with something more creative than "Donkeys"....that is so uncreative.

Anyway--on with my thoughts....as why the Broncos will win.

One of the best moves this off season was McDaniels bringing Mike Nolan in to be the Broncos' defensive coordinator. I didn't follow what happened to Mike in San Fransico--but he is a great DC.

Last year a few of us noticed a trend in the first four games. Game one Oakland is held scoreless for three quarters, game two San Diego for almost two quarters, game three New Orleans for one quarter, and game four KC is handed a long TD run as soon as they get the ball. This trend leads to one conclusion: we had one defensive scheme last year that we threw at every team. I felt last year that our defensive woes had less to do with lack of talent than with an obvious scheme that our 'then' coaches were unable to adapt or change--especially during games.
I know its only been two games, but this years defense, and Nolan's scheme, is so unobvious that I'm not really sure what they're doing. I know they are advertising a 3-4 defense, but what I'm seeing is more of a 5-2 front seven like we used to see when Karl Mecklenburg was called a linebacker but you never knew where he was going to be. We now have a player that is a lot like Mecklenberg, his name is Elvis. The faider nation, not to mention their front line, is going to have a hard time containing 'Dooms Rush'. Russell is going down at least twice by Elvis....and maybe a couple more. You Raiders have a great secondary, and I've read many articles of how ours is either nearing 30 years old or over (may be losing a step) but I could put BDawk and Bailey on any defense in the NFL and make it a better defense. Russell seems, at best, to only mildly understand a short pass with touch. I will not contened the fact that he has the strongest arm, maybe ever, (and that is what Al loves) but expect at least two picks from our 'aging' secondary. What's going to hurt all Raiders most this game is the different looks they will get from this strange 'aged' defense. What will hurt the Raiders again is when a very young Alphonso takes a pick to the bank. The Broncos' defense will be a big part in our victory--but our offense will score some points.

Why our offense will score;

Denvers' first and second quarter production has really frustrated me. In fact, it had me calling for Orton's head and bringing on Brandstater. But there is something quite positive to what happened against Cleveland in the second half, it shows that not only our defense is showing the ability to adapt--but maybe even our offense will also. The funny thing is, none of our 'known' weapons have yet to be unleashed. We have seen little from Royal, Marshall, or Scheffler--but we know they're there--and so does McDaniels. Last year we had Cutler, Marshall, Royal and occasionally Scheff and Stoke. We also had a bunch of RB's that tried...but didn't...or got hurt. This year The Broncos have a very weird thing....a bunch of guys that seem to be part of this 'one desire' ... "Win."

Unlike last year, when our defense did great for three quarters, then two quarters, then one quarter, then none. Expect The Broncos offense to do the opposite, better with each week that passes--better than they were the last week--and even better the next week.

What I want to see:

A hard fought game where our defense continues to meld into something special. I would like to see a better start for Orton--it seems he has to watch half-time films before he knows what to do.

I'd like Russell to have a good game--I hate to see any team's woes blamed on one player. Not only that, we were a better team when Oak and KC were better teams. I liked it when the entire NFL feared the AFC west. I'd like Denver, Oakland, and KC to be feared again.

What I expect: Broncos 24 Raiders 6

I don't think 'faiders' have a chance this week.

But that's just me...

Keep comments clean.....

The End of La La Land............Season...........Let Reality Begin!!

Mike Clark — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 17:44:11 -0000

Well here we go again, just five days and a hand-full of hours away from another official closing of "La-La-Land-of-Pre-Season-Feel-Goods" and the opening of a brand new season. Fear not, you that have taken up residence in the Land, the gate to The Land will remain open--but, I'll just warn you, the 'Pre-Season-Feel-Goods' can end rather suddenly. Should that happen, our '13-3 Baby!' bubble suddenley burst, and you find yourself outside of the Land, look for this path:

It is the 'Road to La-La-Land' and will lead you straight to the gate come next Pre-Season.

via cdn1.sbnation.com

What a wild ride we've had this season (pre-season that is) but in a way it is indeed a unique season unto itself. Its no wonder that Football has become such a successful phenom, no other sport initiates such intense emotion months before anything really counts. No other sport creates such deep anticipations, likes, dislikes, and endless prognostications as the NFL--you just gotta love it!! And no other sport has ever gathered a better group of Fans than all you MHR Bronco Fans. I love all you friends. I would really like to thank the number of really great Posters that joined the 'keep it positive' ranks but also had great analytical minds. Their were so many of you that I dare not mention any names lest I forget one. I have really enjoyed all your posts and the often creative humor that came out during the tough times of this funny season that is pre-season.

Its funny, I was really excited at the beginning of last season, but I am even more excited with this season. Last year I knew we had a dynamic offense, yet, in the back of my mind I still had questions about our defense. My concerns played out to the dark side as we held the faiders scoreless for three quarters, phyllis and company for almost two quarters, New Orleans for one quarter, then KC for about five minutes. Somewhere during that run I decided not to vent the negative tendencies I share with myself--but the writing was on the wall--our defense had a single plan to address every team. I don't think talent was as much an issue as the rotten 'bend-but-don't-break' scheme, lack of direction, and the inability to adjust during games just killed us last year. This year I really think our defense may just shock the MSM with the dramatic change. I love attack defenses.

This year is going to be fun, really fun. Even with the much tougher schedule we will make the playoffs. I'm not Joe Namath, thus not into guarantees, but I have a gut feeling we have the MSM and other teams right where we need them to be. No-one is expecting us to be in the picture--no team (at least right away) has any idea how to game-plan us. How can they? Look at some of the changes in our defense--how much film do they have for the likes of McBean, Fields, and Peterson working together--not to mention the changes as they meld as one line. Any film they have on Dawkins strikes fear, film on Bailey says don't throw it there, and what about our strange new linebacking corp? Each of them nothing short of small DL'men with great speed. What about Goodman and Hill? Combined with Bailey and Dawkins we now have two great and two very sound players. What a vast vast improvement from our secondary last year. I hated our safety play last year.

What about Mike Nolan? Had a rough time as a Head Coach--but got that Head Coaching job because he is a great defensive coordinator. What about this funny new defense? What about 3-4? Can any of you say, "Orange Crush?" I like it....a lot....this is going to be a fun year. Let's watch them meld as a team, as Hillis, Royal, Stokley, Scheffler and Moreno get the credit for our early wins. Then let's watch this strange new defense win games for us. This is going to be a fun season!

Let me share with you a friend:

Live long and prosper Al ! Guaranteed two wins here! 2 down eleven to go?

via cdn1.sbnation.com

If any of you get frustrated with faider trolls this year use this:

via z.about.com

Let's hope for a bunch of these:

Love this pic!!

via cdn0.sbnation.com

And hits like this:

Atwater to the HalL !!!

via i357.photobucket.com

Its funny, the last few years I felt much better at the end of the funny season that is Pre-Season than I did January 1st.

This year will be different!!

via cdn0.sbnation.com

We will make the Playoffs!!!

Super Bowl...Here we come!!! ...............until we don't....

mike out

for a while anyway....

Confusion

Mike Clark — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 23:55:20 -0000

Things seem to be moving in a way I did not want to expect. Its been a while since I did a post, maybe because I've been busy, or maybe our team has become so strange I didn't want to....

The B-Marsh thing has me really confused. I am a big fan of Brandon, I don't think anyone at this site will deny that he is special. I don't think anyone at this site wants him to play for another team. I hope that whatever is going on corrects itself by our opening with Cincy. Anyone that thinks that we will be a better team without Brandon Marshall is a fool. I am very curious about what happened at Dove Valley when Players were told, "Not to be happy with Brandon's acquittal," seems very curious to me.

This is a little different post from me, in fact a very different post. Very few of you have loved the Broncos since 1962...let me give an example:

Few of you, with the nomination of Floyd as a senior to the Hall, even know what Floyd Little really meant to this team--you may have read about it--but you have no idea what it meant (for us outside of Denver) to have an NFL team living in the Rockies....and stayed there because of Floyd.

How many of you remember Austin 'Goose' Gonsoulin? He lead the AFL in 'picks' when he retired....and what about Lionel Taylor?

I'm not happy with Brandon's actions, not happy at all. I'm just not sure that he is the poison that 'our team' is making him out to be. Nine weeks into last season he was complaining that his hip was giving him problems.

What is happening to 'our' team? Is it a team from the Rockies or is it a team that will give up? Is it a team that needs to be perfect? Can someone from New England change us or does he become part of the Rockies?

As I read what I just wrote I don't blame you for being confused....I am also confused. Either Brandon has gone over the deep-end or we have a real 'ego' problem with our coach. I realize that McDaniels has a plan and wants his 'plan' to work. I realize that Cutler caused many of the problems to result in a trade. I know that Marshall was a question mark until the acquittal. Do we want another Pro-Bowl player to leave? Funny us Denver Bronco fans.

I would rather have Brandon on 'our' side ...................... period ............. I guess we'll see.

Sorry for the very different post................

After the Questions Let's Look for Some Answers

Mike Clark — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:57:00 -0000

I really didn't plan on coming back so soon but after an experience I had in a 'FanShot' of all things I thought I would paste a post I did during the 'McJayGate' we suffered through as Denver fans. Please ignore the La La Land thing...its something I do at MHR.

Anyway here was the post:

As you know, posts from La La Land are a little different. They are not for the purpose of starting an intellegent debate, being MHR's village idiot I don't understand 'intellegent debate'........nor want to. I really hadn't planned a post 'till after the draft--but somethings bugging me (which is not allowed in the land) --so I need to write something so I'm no longer bugged. The McJaygate situation has to be resolved. Not that Josh or Jay get resolved--we as fans get resolved. For this post I pulled some 'stuff' from John Henderson's article at the Denver Post (here) so we could resolve (no matter what happens) Jay is a good guy.........and because he is our QB...........We love him.

Remember after reading this post if you decide to enter La La Land with comments there are certain rules you have to follow:

1. Anything that is not good concerning the Broncos, shall not be discussed.

2. All predictions of the future must be approved by Mike Clark or Zappa.

3. Feelings such as; despair, sadness, anger, frustration, pessimism, or any other negative feeling is forbidden while in La La Land.

4. The Broncos rule all.

5. Raiders, Chargers, and Chiefs have foul odor.

These rules, amendments, guidelines or whatever you want to call them are to be followed diligently at all times while visiting or residing in La La Land. Anyone found to be in violation of these rules shall be deported immediately to the Real World of misery and despair. Repeat offenders will be dealt with by Chuck Norris.

La La Land national motto: 13-3 Baby!

La La Land national mascot: Orange and Blue Kool Aid Man, Oh Yeaahhhh!

La La Land national anthem: Ain't No Mountain High Enough

Here is some of the things Jay does when he's not on the field. Doesn't sound like a spoiled cry-baby some writers have tried to paint him. Looks like a caring person that we could love. I personally love and am happy he is our QB.....you should also.

On the other hand, this is a quarterback who dips into his own pocket to fly a Broncos public relations employee to Hawaii for the Pro Bowl. He meets diabetes patients in Honolulu and Tampa, Fla. He shows up on his day off after victories to analyze film and urges teammates to join him. He has the toughness and down-to-earth qualities that make him "one of the guys" in the locker room.

"I've seen the word 'surly' used to describe him a few times, and I disagree with that," said Trey Holloway, his center at Vanderbilt. "The biggest misconception about Jay is that people call him an arrogant punk, and that's not true at all. At the end of the day, he's competitive."

And loyal.

Here it sounds like Jay is very loyal to his team........something you can love.

Cutler's high school coach in Indiana, Bob Clayton, said his former star's perception of a lack of loyalty by the Broncos led to an outburst by Cutler when he learned the team entertained trading him for the New England Patriots' Matt Cassel last weekend.

"Jay's fiercely loyal to whatever organization he's with, whether it was Heritage Hills, or Vanderbilt, or the Denver Broncos," Clayton said. "The thing about these athletes, a lot of them come from a high school and college system where loyalty is reciprocated. You don't get that in the NFL."

"You have to know Jay," Clayton said. "Jay is not a blabbermouth, not a chatty guy, but if you ask him a point-blank question, if he feels strongly about it, he's going to give you an answer. He gave an honest answer and it becomes a nationwide media issue."

If you were to ask me at this point I think Jay got pissed and is no politician When you consider the mess politician's have made of this country you have to love that also.

He opens his house to friends--you have to love that.

At Vanderbilt, he often invited players to his home in Santa Claus, Ind., during holiday breaks so they wouldn't spend them alone. He made a point to hang out with the offensive linemen and earned his props by running over Southeastern Conference defensive backs.

I have been a Bronco fan since 1962 and have seen (and thought) a lot of funny things. I remember when we traded I believe Criss Hinton for John Elway and was upset. "Why would we trade for a cry-baby dictating his own terms," I thought to myself. Funny me..........

Then again, if old-time Broncos fans remember, another quarterback went through the same thing. After three years, John Elway was 27-10 but hadn't won a playoff game and was clashing with Dan Reeves, his coach.

"People were saying, 'He's a loser. Keep Reeves. Trade Elway,' " Clough said.

The bottom line is I hope Jay Cutler reads this. He needs to know that we love him and stand behind him reguardless what happens. I personally have to believe that Josh and Jay ten years from now will be best friends with five Super Bowl rings with their name.

Remember that all comments in this land have to be positive, we will make the playoffs this year, and we are going to the Super Bowl until we don't.

13-3 Baby!!!!

Thought I'd Pay a Visit.

Mike Clark — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 23:42:31 -0000

With all the changes my beloved Broncos suffered I really haven't had time to explore other SB sites. It seemed only right that I should start with a few of my alternate favorite teams to root for (unless you're playing us).

My main reason for this post is to see how your team is progressing and your expectations, but I'll start with a very brief update on the Broncos.

Everyone knows the troubles we had with Defense last year, the firing of Kubiak's mentor 'Shanny' (as he's fondly known in Denver), our loss of Pro-Bowl QB Cutler, and Pro-Bowl WR Marshall's, "I want to be traded" mess. To keep this from being a 5000 word essay I'll just briefly touch on each of these subjects...starting with Marshall and working backwords to Defense.

Marshall:

In my humble opinion Brandon wants a raise...that's the entire issue. The problem is his hip and his off-field antics. No-one knows if his hip is an issue and won't until he plays....hips are funny things--ask Bo Jackson. As far as his 'off-field' issues--they are becoming further and further apart. Brandon is really a very nice guy--kinda reminds of Shannon Sharpe--but Shannon did all his (rather mouthy-funny-very-enjoyable) partying in the stadium during games...then went home and shut up. Will Marshall be in Denver this season? I believe he will. I doubt any team will fork up what his tallent deserves in a trade with these two issues unanswered. Will he be with Denver next year? I hope so.

Cutler:

This one hurt....period. Jay is the real deal. There have been some critics saying that he forces too many throws--but that is bunk. During games when he had a supporting running game Jay was nearly flauless, with QB ratings regularly over 100. The problem is we sent something like 10 or 11 RB's to IR last year...it was just crazy. No QB in the NFL had entire games put on his shoulder as what happened to Jay last year...I wish him well in Chicago. As far as our offense this year, I'll try to cover that next segment...

New Head Coach:

I couldn't be more impressed with Josh McDaniel. Despite the rocky start and the Cutler debalcle he has been nothing but professional. The funny thing is...is he reminds me of Shanny when he first became HC and Kubiak's love of being involved (on a personal basis) with the offense. I personally think we will have just as good, if not a better, offense than we had last year. Our OL is set--one of the best in the NFL--and we've made a really fun addition. I was absolutely shocked (considering our defensive problems) when we took Knowshon Moreno with our first pick. At the time it didn't make sense. After studying, however, Knowshon's career and videos I couldn't be more excited. He is a true 'one-cut' don't-give-up runner and our only 'hold-overs' in coaching were our OL and RB coaches. He may not be the next Terrell Davis--but he is what I'll call a 'complete-natural' at RB. We also have a secret weapon in a FB named Peyton Hillis, who, in just three short games, became possibly the most popular player in Denver. I kid you not this guy is 'Larry Csonka' with really great hands and a lot more speed. In fact his first five-yard burst may be as fast as any in the league--and the guy is over 250 lbs. His top speed may not be that great but watching him put his head down and plow his way over defenders for another five, six, seven yards is just plain fun. Old fashion 'Smash-Mouth' football. Almost brings a tear to this old-blogger's eye.

After watching Cutler for a couple years Kyle Orton is indeed a step back--as far as tallent. However, Kyle is looking good as a leader and really picked up McDaniels complicated offense in a hurry. If Brandon shows up to really play this year--our offense is going to be awsome.

Defense:

Our changes in Defense may have me more excited about this season than I've been in years. McDaniels obviously wanted to focus on the offense so he brought in Mike Nolan as our DC. As I said before I was shocked by the lack of defensive picks this draft--but then again--I didn't have access to team films that Josh and Mike had for 3 to 4 months before the draft. I am so happy to see our defense go back to a 3-4 alignment. I don't know if any of you are familiar with Joe Collier but he basically invented the 3-4 defense which resulted in our 'Orange Crush' defense and Denver finally could win. and win again.........and again...........ever since.

We have lacked this quality the last couple years but I have a funny feeling that we are about to get it back right away. Another aspect we have lacked is the word 'attack' in our defense and one of the first statements out of Nolan is, "This will be an attacking defense." Yes!!!!!!!!! Yes!!!!!!!!!! I love it!!

One of the first moves Nolan made was to bring Brian Dawkins in--what a great move--instant stability and leadership in the locker room. With Bailey and Dawkins in the secondary we may be a defensive force much sooner than people think. The other fun surprise is the number is the amount of tallent we already had that did not fit in the last two year's defensive schemes. Many of us here at Mile High Report are shaking our heads and realizing that we have a plethora of good athletes that fit in a 3-4 scheme. There have been several posts comparing us to the, "No Name" defense that carried Miami through its Super Bowls. I Kid you not........I am really excited. The MSM may think we didn't address needed issues but I have a gut feeling that we may accidently have three of the best defensive line-men in the NFL. I could be wrong--but I don't think so--I've watched this game for a long time. Watch for these names:

Marcus Thomas, Carlton Powell, and Chris Baker.

Put these names in your where-ever and remember you heard it here first.

WOW!! I am so sorry!! I came here to ask you guys a couple questions and wondered how I could do that and meet the 75 or 100 word requirement (whatever it is).

Anyway here are my questions:

1. What do you feel are the most positive changes to your team this year?

2. Are there any negative changes to your team?

3. Should Favre give it up..and if he doesn't can you handle him?

4. Will you make they playoffs?

5. What will be your season record?

Thought I'd Pay a Visit.

Mike Clark — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:56:37 -0000

With all the changes my beloved Broncos suffered I really haven't had time to explore other SB sites. It seemed only right that I should start with my alternate favorite team to root for (unless you're playing us).

My main reason for this post is to see how your team is progressing and your expectations, but I'll start with a very brief update on the Broncos.

Marshall:

Cutler:

New Head Coach:

Defense:

Marcus Thomas, Carlton Powell, and Chris Baker.

Put these names in your where-ever and remember you heard it here first.

WOW!! I am so sorry!! I came here to ask you guys a couple questions and wondered how I could do that and meet the 75 or 100 word requirement (whatever it is).

Anyway here are my questions:

1. What do you feel are the most positive changes to your team this year?

2. Are there any negative changes to your team?

3. I think you guys match up very well with the Titans.........Do You??

4. Will you make they playoffs?

5. What will be your season record?

My 50th Year Team

Mike Clark — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 01:48:02 -0000

Like most of you I immediately went to cast my wants for who should be on my team. Some of the choices were obvious, but I'll tell you, I had some real problems looking at (and re-living through their Bios) players I love and basically telling them, "I don't want you on my team." Did anyone else have a problem with this? Did any of you have a hard time telling a player you love you don't like them anymore or am I the only emotional mush stuck in La La Land where everything is supposed to be easy.?

Man! This would have been much easier if the Broncos, after locking in your first team vote, had then asked you for your second team vote. I would probably still have some problems--but it would have been easier.

Anyway, here I go, probably not the best team (there are far greater football statitions at this site than myself) but it is my team....and I love them.

Special Teams:

I start here because because there is only one tough choice and that is Punter.

My Punter is Mike Horan.

I had a real problem with this because of Tom Rouen. Not only was Tom very good, not only did he help us during our SB run, he was a great Bronco that loved kicking in the 'Mile High' air...for us 'Mile High' fans.

Neither had the strongest leg in the league, yet, but both could punt it out of the park on occasion. Mike wins because nobody (and Rouen was close) nobody could could drop a punt inside the ten like Horan. I'm doing this from memory so some of you stat experts may want correct me on this.....but my Punter remains Horan.

My Kicker is Jason Elam. I hope you understand this...there is no contest.

I gave a somewhat thought for Rich Karlis. Its funny, from the cameras angle, that barefooted kick that complimented 'THE DRIVE'and sent us (with Elway) to our second Super Bowl, looked like it missed by ten feet. Did anyone else think that? I was shocked when the Ref raised his hands. I thought the kick was left...funny me.

My Return Specialist is Rck Upchurch.

No contest here. For you younger MHR members, I feel sorry for you... Rick Upchurchcould watch a punt, with great hang time (google Ray Guy), come towards him at a slower speed than 'The Bad Guys' and suddenly be on the 'Good Side' of those 'Bad Guys' and on his way to a touchdown. Billy 'Whiteshoes' Johnson was good ........ Upchurch was better. Hester scored two TD's against us when we where bad. Upchurch took down The Steelersone game (during the Steelers' Glory Years) with three returns for TDs.

Defense:

Here is where I'm sure many of us will seperate. I hope we remain friends, and I will not (most of the time) go into as much detail, but we should remain friends. This kinda scares me as I am an 'emotional fan'that understands facts and stats, but never lets reality get in the way of my love for this team. That being said I start (this time) with the easiest picks......... Corners.

My Corners are Louis Wright and Champ Bailey.

All of us know Champ, yet, from what I remember, few players could cover an entire, 'What Was Happening" as well as Louis. It was a different time back then. Zone coverage was becoming popular. Defensiveswere morphing. Offensives were flirting with 'Ideas'.....things were changing. Louis (I suppose) didn't have the soft hands that GOD blessed Champ with--but he did what was needed--and he did it always.

I'll tell you...this is really scary...before I leave defense (after touching on Safety) I have to tackle, DE (defensive end) Tackle and Line Backer. Where do I go with this? I come from so way before the 'Orange Crush Era' that I don't know what to do. It will be so much eaisier after I get to offense...or so it seems. I hope some of you 'Old Timers' feel my pain that I've had to tell players I love that, "I don't want you on my team" ........this is really tough.

My Defensive Ends are Simon Fletcher and Rich 'Tombstone' Jackson.

Simon Fletcher was my easy choice. I personally think he was the best DE Denver's had (he was the 'Sack-Master' afterall), in fact I'm a little suprised he is not in the Ring of Fame.

Rich Jackson was almost as easy but I did wrestle with Alzado (serious punn here) but said, "Nope! No Way!" Having been born in Utah, Rulon also got some serious concideration, but he was just too weak against the run. Barney Chavous was much more difficult to pass. He is really an 'Ouch of Emotion' as I tell him 'I don't want you on my team', forgive me Barney...you are first pick second team. Rich 'Tombstone' Jackson just has to be on the 'Fifty Year Team'. He was not near as good at sacks as Fletcher--maybe not as good (in sacks) as Chavous--but he was difinitely a "Tombstone.' It didn't take long for other teams to realize that you could not run against this man--neither sweeps, or inside. Once Rich realized it was a run--you could not block him--period--he by golly was going to take that runner down. I personally feel it was 'Tombstone' that made the Denver organization realize that a dominant defensive line might be the way to build a winning team. Rich Jackson was not part of 'Orange Crush' but he was a proto-type of a half-dozen years down the road.

My Defensive Tackles are Trevor Pryce...Rubin Carter....and (sorry but I need to bend the rules) Greg Kragen.

I had to break the rules here because there was a transition here from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense. The picks I submited were Trevor and Rubin. Trevor was by far the best 'pure'Tackle to play on our team--skilled in both stopping the run and getting to the QB from the inside. Rubin was such a staple at Nose Tackle during our 'Orange Crush' glory years that I had to make him my second pick... I just couldn't couldn't look undersized, over-achieving, Greg Kragen in the face and say, "I don't want you on my team," so at least (for this post) I won't.

My Line-Backers are Randy Gradishar (should be in the Hall), Tom Jackson(watch Wesley Woodyard the next few years) and Karl Mecklenburg (STUD.......period).

Gradishar (should be in the Hall) may have been the best Inside Linebacker to ever play the game. Definitely the best to play in a 3-4 scheme. Totally dominant! ...It was probably a good long-term decision to leave, after just 9 or 10 years, thus no injuries or long-term problems, but it may keep him out of the Hall. A shame...Randy is a HOL must...yet may never get there. Tom is one of my favorite Broncos ever. He was the over-achieving, undersized, shouldn't be able to do this, perfect example of what us 'underachievers' wish we had tried. He was everywhere, vocal, and everywhere...on every play...I love Tom. For you younger MHR members, you would have to have experienced 'The Albino Rhino" to really appreciate how special this man is..........to us old-timers anyway. There was never a more confusing defensive, 'Whatdo we do with HIM?' than Karl Mecklenburg. He was officially a Linebacker (and a very good one) but he was DE (and very good at that) and a DT(and pretty good with that). He was (using Chess as an example) a very large pawn, that you just can't get to, before it moves that one space forward, and re-instates the Queen.

I do need (because we've had so many great linebackers) give special mention to: Al Wilson (the neck injury is trajic), John Mobley (knocked down Favre's pass that led to our first SB), Bob Swenson (an undrafted 'overachiever' that was very steady), and Jim Ryan (a staple for many years).

My Safeties are Steve Atwater and Austin 'Goose' Gonsoulin .

As I near the end of 'Defense' (thinking offense will be easier) I'm already feeling some hard picks for offense. It is already the 12th of June, 2009 and I should have finished this a week ago. Anyway....I push forward...

Steve Atwater (should be in the Hall) is a no-brainer. He was every bit the hitter of Dennis Smith or Ronnie Lott, great in coverage, great against the run, and maybe the best 'Short-Yardage' stopper to ever play the game. My other pick, 'Goose,' is going to require some history...without a history lesson...let's see how I do.

Back in the early 60's there were two 'Pro-Football' leagues: AFL and NFL. Most of you know that, but do you know...

The two leagues were quite different, they even used different balls. The NFL used the same ball they had used for years, the AFL introduced a ball that was a bit thinner in the 'belly' and a little friendlier in air travel. In the early years the NFL remained mostly 'smash-mouth' while the AFL began nicknaming players 'Bambi.'

The NFL was like early UPS (mostly ground with some air) and the AFLwas like early FedX (mostly air with some ground). As the leagues competed (without competing against each other) UPS began to understand the 'Air" game ( Tom Landry was the first NFL coach to see the future of the 'air-game')....and FedX reluctantley began to understand the importance of 'Ground Deliveries'.

With that said, let'sget back to Goose (SHOULD BE IN THE HALL) and what he did. I was too young to remember if Goose was a strong or free safety...to tell you the truth...I don't think 'strong' or 'free' concerning 'Safety' had been invented yet. If 'strong' or 'free' had been invented...us fans had no idea what they were. Then comes Goose. I guess I would call him the 'Ultimate' ...and I'm going to say 'Free Safety' ..........that was Goose. In a new league trying to find its purpose, here was this guy catching as many passes, from the 'Bad Guys' QB than many of the receivers on the 'Bad Guys' team. That is what I remember as a child. As far as I'm concerned Goose Gonsolin invented and perfected what we now call the 'Free Safety' position. If you guys knew how many times I heard, "And the player that made the first INT in the AFL keeps piling them on" you would know why Goose should be in the Hall....He invented (just because of the way he was) a current NFL position. Not only that he was my hero as a kid...if any of you haven't voted--show Goose some love when you do.

We've really had some great Safeties on this team, (makes what we had last year kinda peeuuke). Special mention needs to go to Billy Thompson--next on my list, Steve Foley not far behind, and Dennis Smith..................................bambam.

WOW!!! I made it through Defense!! Offense should be easier...I hope.

Offense:

My QB is #7, it belongs to Elway, and is retired.

Special mentions go to Craig Morton who brought stability to an offense that was complimented by an 'Orange Crush' defense. Thanks Craig for our first Super Bowl. I also want to thank Frank Tripucka for getting things started, and Marlin Briscoe for giving us one exciting year and a lot of media attention.

My running backs are Floyd Little (should be in the Hall) and Terrell Davis (should be in the Hall).

Everyone remembers Terrell and his exploits...so let me talk about Floyd. Man! ... I kid you not...I am getting choked-remembering just how much Floyd Little meant to this franchise at a time when this Franchise could've failed. At a time when we were near or at the annual 'doormat'in the AFC West, while KC and the faiders were knocking down doors for respect, Floyd Little stood out as one of the best all-a-round offensive players to ever play the game. You 'youngsters' have no idea how elusive and special, on some very bad teams, Floyd really was. In total offense he led--or was near the lead--every year he played.

I need to give special mention to Sammy Winder. Sammy--you may not make this team--but I want you're on my team--and I love ya man! Also need to mention Otis Armstrong, if not for the 'spine problem' may have been the best back we ever had.

I was going to do Receivers next, both tight end and wide--but they are too easy. It is now the 13th of June and I started this thing the day after the voting started--distractions, family visits, and (can we say) procrastination have really hindered my progress. Not to mention the fact that there are some really tough choices here. I need to attack the offensive Line. This is very difficult. Few people watch (and I gues I'm one) the Offensive Line during a play. To make matters worse, I don't care if you've loved the Broncos for ten months or 48 years like me. You've heard as much 'Speak...so to say' from the offensive line as I have. I'm not a stat guy--I rely on this site for that kinda nonsense--so forgive me if I make choices based on emotion.

My Offensive Tackles are Gary Zimmerman (In the Hall as a Bronco) and Ken Lanier.

What can I say. Gary guarded #7's (retired and belongs to Elway) blindside and helped us lead us to the.........release of frustrations from so many failed attempts. I was torn between Ken and (believe it or not) Matt Lepsis. Lepsis almost got my vote...too small...too something underachiever. I've always been a sucker for that. Had to go with Lanier however because he may have been evry bit as good as Zimm without the fire-power behind him. Just don't know. Its kinda fun to have a 'Silent Giant' like Clady...that because of new rules...may have to speak.

My Offensive Guards are Mark Schelereth and Ben Hamilton.

I have no reason for this. Ben proved he was a part of a special line last year and I wanted Keith Bishop as my second guard. Can anyone explain what I have just done?

WOW!! .. It is still the 13th and I have made it through this post. I know I still have three positions left--but they are no-brainers. I may not finish it today.....but once again....I trod forward.

My Center is Tom Nalen.

For you younger fans your center should be Tom Nalen. For you older fans your center should be Tom Nalen. What a staple for our line for so many years. In a few years I will add Tom to the, 'Should be in the Hall list' in my signature. No other choice--Nalen should make the Hall.

My wide receivers are Lionel Taylor and Rod Smith.

Rod Smith is a recent memory and the essence of what a football player (you really want to love) to be. Rod Smith is the example of hard work and humility that you hope your children will become. Rod Smith should be in the Hall (when the time comes) and I just pray that he gets there. No other could be the example he's been these last troubling years. Showing first, how to try to come back, and then showing us how to retire with grace....and a few tears. I will forever love Shanny forever for giving him an unlimited shot.

Lionel Taylor was the 'Floyd Little' in the very early years of this franchise. How Taylor is not in the Hall--I just don't understand. Is 'Bambi' in the 'Hall' ...oh my goodness yes! Was Taylor better than him the first few years they have in common? .......... Oh my!!! I didn't realize that there was a better receiver, back then, than Bambi !!" Why yes!!! Lionel Taylor should be in the Hall.!!!

Special mentions for Steve Watson (Steve Largent type and best 'Slow White Receiver' I've seen). Haven Moses and the M&M connection. Mark Jackson for ending 'The Drive'. and EddieMc for being there when we needed you. We love you Eddie!!

My tight end is (and I'll tell you. As an an old-timer, I really thought about Riley Odoms.) Odoms was maybe the best 'all-around-tight-end' to ever play the game but he was not Shannon Sharpe. Most of you know about Shannon's mouth...I love that part of him also. Many of you may not know that (when he was trying to make the team, as a quite low draft pick) that he walked into Dan's office and told him, "You will never see me come here out of shape...and you will never have any issues with me outside this office." Whatever that 'open and volgarious personality' Shannon had...he kept it inside the stadium. You have to love Shannon---you just have too--and love him some more. Somewhere in this post I think I said that Tom Jackson was my favorit player. I need to correct that. Austin Goose Gonsolin (because of my childhood) will always hold that. Shannon somehow moved up the charts of my heart and now sits there with Tom. Hmmm, I hope this country lives long enough for me to watch Woodyard for a few years. A Tom Jackson, Shannon Sharpe type of player.

My tight end is Shannon Sharpe.

Well, I think through all the distraction I have covered all positions. Its funny when you do something like this--trying to be objective while mushing (and sometimes tearing) through memory lane is a funny thing.

I will make this statement as fact:

I have no regrets being a Denver Bronco Fan over these near Fifty Years.

I love all you fellow fans, I hope this post makes sense.

La La Lands forecast of 2009

Mike Clark — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 01:02:23 -0000

Now that the schedule has been released we can all give our forecast of what is soon to happen. Normally I don't get too involved until after the draft but Zappa's regress into an 8-8 guy has me concerned that 'hope' and whats really happening is somehow getting mixed up. I find it a must that I share how La La Land expects this season to play out.

1 Sun. Sept. 13 at Cincinnati.....W.....

Cincy will end up with a pretty good season but they are unable to handle Royal and unprepared for Hillis in the HB position.
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2 Sun. Sept. 20 CLEVELAND....W.....

Carlton Powell shows signs of being a great nose tackle. He completely shuts down runs anywhere near the middle taking Browns out of their game plan. Brandon is a force--not wanting Eddie to overtake him as #1.
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3 Sun. Sept. 27 at Oakland .......W....

'Nuff Said'
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4 Sun. Oct. 4 DALLAS..................W....

Rumors of Romo's affairs with multiple models has really affected his game. Steam, coming out Jerry Jone's ears, is caught on film. YouTubes most hit video for five days.
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5 Sun. Oct. 11 NEW ENGLAND..W....

Bill's 'hoodie' is uglier than McDaniel's and really upsets Josh. Josh decides to burn all his Hoodies and become a pure Denver Bronco. This is the turning point for years to come.
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6 Mon. Oct. 19 at San Diego......L....

phyllis crushes us. We are ashamed. The ghost-monkey that was on Shanny's back is seen perched on Josh's shoulder. Horvil Tiki is pissed, blames an albino crab, and writes a very funny article
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8 Sun. Nov. 1 at Baltimore...........W..

Our Defense is really beginning to meld. Hillis and ??whoever?? shove their own game in their face. Hillis is very popular in Denver but is booed in Baltimore when he does his "Mile High Salute" (with a bit of a smiling sneer) for the fourth time.

via cdn0.sbnation.com

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9 Mon. Nov. 9 PITTSBURGH.......W..

The Steelers are very confident coming into their 9th game undefeated, however, McDaniels really pulls out the stops on defense with constant creative blitzes. Rothlesburger goes down in the 3rd quarter with a tremendous hit by Wesley Woodyard. Brandon and Eddie each have two touchdown receptions. Eddie also throws his first touchdown pass--all Denver loves Eddie!!
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10 Sun. Nov. 15 at Washington...W...

Washington is forever dreaming of becoming a SB contender--but being surrounded by politicians that want to turn this Great Nation into a Socialist Hell-Hole has cursed them. Denver wins 28-3
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11 Sun. Nov. 22 SAN DIEGO........W...

Horvil Tiki prepares Ribs for a special ritual as well as dinner. Panff captures a White Albino Crab and prepares it as a sacrifice. They use the ribs and scraps from the crab to create an image of the Ghost Monkey perched on McDaniels' shoulder. They throw it on plenty hot coals and watch it burn. It works! The Ghost Monkey sweats stinky gue, falls of Josh's shoulder, and we win.
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12 Thu. Nov. 26 N.Y. GIANTS ......L..

The Giants seem to be the best team in footbal again. Eli is having a great year and everyone is talking (again) about an all Manning Super Bowl.
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13 Sun. Dec. 6 at Kansas City ......W....Revenge from last year.
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14 Sun. Dec. 13 at Indianapolis.... L.. This hurt. The Steelers now have a clear trail to home field advantage and the Colts can now be the #2 seed. We in La La Land are not worried. Looks like a perfect, "Revenge Tour" to me.

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15 Sun. Dec. 20 OAKLAND..........W..

via cdn1.sbnation.com

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16 Sun. Dec. 27 at Philadelphia...W..

Philly, for some reason, never gets it together this year. Rumors of needing a re-build are rampant.
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17 Sun. Jan. 3 KANSAS CITY.......W......................

Playoffs...Here we come!!!!

Remember the rules of La-la-Land:

1. Anything that is not good concerning the Broncos, shall not be discussed.

2. All predictions of the future must be approved by Mike Clark or Zappa.

3. Feelings such as; despair, sadness, anger, frustration, pessimism, or any other negative feeling is forbidden while in La La Land.

4. The Broncos rule all.

5. Raiders, Chargers, and Chiefs have foul odor.

These rules, amendments, guidelines or whatever you want to call them are to be followed diligently at all times while visiting or residing in La La Land. Anyone found to be in violation of these rules shall be deported immediately to the Real World of misery and despair. Repeat offenders will be dealt with by Chuck Norris.

La La Land national motto: 13-3 Baby!

La La Land national mascot: Orange and Blue Kool Aid Man, Oh Yeaahhhh!

La La Land national anthem: Ain't No Mountain High Enough

Hey you guys...........Keep it kind............Keep it positive.....Remember............

This is La La Land!!

via cdn0.sbnation.com

As a Denver Fan Since 1962...

Mike Clark — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 21:58:40 -0000

Thought I would stop by and let you guys what you just got.

Last year we knew we had a good offense, the question was defense. We found out quickly about both--Great offense (at time unbelievable) terrible defense--at times laughable. One little stat you guys are going to love is when our defense held a team to under 30 points Cutler (over the last 2 years) is 13-1, with the one loss being an OT loss to Green Bay.

What we didn't expect last year was putting 7 running backs on injured reserve. There were a couple games last year where we ran out of tail-backs.

What I'm trying to say is Cutler literally carried our entire team last year. Everyone we played knew we were a pass only team with no defense. Only one game, when Peyton Hillis moved from Full-back to Tail back, giving a dominant performance against the Jets, did we have a well rounded offense. Peyton went on injured- reserve the next week.....go figure.....our entire team was on Jay's shoulders again.

Without Cutler we could have easily gone 3-13.

Don't worry about Jay having a character problem or a bad attitude. Jay comes from a small town and has the inhierant small town, very straight forward, very honest (what-you-see-is-what-you-got) personality. The fact is McDaniels lied to Jay which pissed Jay off--then lied to him again which sealed the deal.

This has been a rough time for our great franchise--with Cutler we were only one good defensive draft away from being a Super Bowl contender--now (with jaws dropped) we just shake our heads and wonder.

I started writing a poem of what I think of the Belichek clone McDaniels and it went like this:

I hate to start my story with “Once upon a Time”

But how else can I tell a tale of an all-consuming slime.

I have no evidence to prove my tale is really true

So I give to you a bed-time rhyme—to believe is up to you.

It started late one stormy night two days ‘fore Halloween

And lasted well past New Years twice, and almost into spring.

It crosses vast dark voids of space to worlds that have no time

And tells of evil incarnate where good is turned to slime.

But I had to stop, the thought of McDaniels was forcing steam out my ears, and I am supposed to be the keep-it-positive leader over at Mile High Report.

Anyway--congradulation you guys. You are now Super Bowl contenders.