SB Nation User Blog: RockyMountainThunder

Broncos Humor: Christmas gifts

RockyMountainThunder — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 16:27:55 -0000

Every so often I try to cheer us up after a loss. Through my many sources within the Broncos organization and the NFL, I was able to find out what some of the players, coaches and personalities are getting each other for Christmas. Here is a snapshot.

Mike Shanahan to Josh McDaniels: Peyton Hillis

Apparently, the gift exchange went a little like this

Mike: "Hey Josh, it can be hard being the Broncos coach, it's good to have a strong running game. Peyton Hillis is your man, he'll help you out"

Josh: (Looking at the gift as if it were a piece of fruit cake) "Gee Thanks Mike, Sorry I didn't get you anything but all the Tanning Salons ran out of giftcards."

Pat Bowlen to Jay Cutler: Cell Phone

Hey Call me back bro!

Jay Cutler to the NFL: Footballs

25 of them hand delivered, and still counting.

Terrell Davis to Knowshon Moreno: Hand Stick-em

Terrell: Here Knowshown, use this, now you don't have to run like you're afraid of fumbling the ball

Knowshown: Thanks TD, you know you're a great running back, too bad you didn't play at Georgia, Go Bulldogs

Terrell: I did play at Georgia

Knowshown: Huh nobody there mentioned this, Awkward!

Mike Nolan to Mike Singletary: Suspenders

Dude keep your pants on if you're going to coach the Niners. I wore a suit for crying out loud, the least you could do is be clothed.

Kyle Orton to his O-Line: Brand New Toyota Prius'

O-line: Uh Kyle, none of us can fit in these.

Kyle: Yes but you'll be saving the environment.

Roger Goodell to Bill Belichick: Video tapes

To Bill: In replacement of the one's I destroyed and suspiciously let nobody else see

Eli Manning to Plaxico Burress: Holster

Some other people recieved anonymous Christmas gifts this year

Woody Paige: Research Intern

Mark Kizla: Talent

John Clayton: TMNT Action Figure Krang-Tell me, is there a resemblance here

Peter King: Brett Favre Vikings jersey signed "You know who"

Brad Childress: Trout to stockpile his "Stream of Consciousness" (If you don't get this you need to read his monday transcript from his press conference talking about possibly benching Brett Favre. He goes on to use the phrase Stream of Consciousness 7 times-hilarious)

Phillip Rivers: A Mirror (You're so vain, you probably think this joke is about you)

Seattle Seahwawks: A top 10 pick

Seattle: Sweet, this must be from the Denver Broncos

NFL: Uh no, this is your pick, Karma's a bitch ain't it.

And Finally......

MHR to Ted Bartlett: Epaulets,

farewell my friend, and good luck

Mythbusters: Part Two

RockyMountainThunder — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:32:57 -0000

A number of weeks ago I posted an article debunking some common myths, mostly about the Broncos but the NFL in general as well. For example, debunking the myth that Kyle Orton is noodle armed or that Josh McDaniels is a Belichek clone. I feel it is now time for a second installment of common myths that you might hear that simply aren't true.

Myth #1: Jay Cutler can make any throw on the football field

Jay Cutler can make any throw on the football field to the other team. This is why arm strength is so overrated and there is a difference between functional arm strength and just being able to whip the ball all over the field. Jamarcus the Hutt can throw the ball probably 90 yards, but how often in a game does this come up as useful. Another example, Peyton Manning has incredible arm strength but if you notice most of his passes last sunday had an incredible amount of touch.

Myth #2: Brandon Marshall will not be with the Broncos next season

Yesterday it seemed all the Denver radio media decided that now that Brandon has a big game it's time to bring up his rift with the Broncos and point out that Brandon won't be a Bronco next season. The biggest argument is that with Marshall, Doom, Kuper, Orton and Scheffler all up for contracts the Broncos can't possibly keep them all. Well I hate to dissapoint the MSM, but for the most part these players will fall under restricted free agency because it is looking more and more like we will have an uncapped 2010. Besides, the Broncos have a lot of flexibility.

I predict the following: They will sign Kuper and Doom to longterm, Franchise tag Marshall for one year, try to sign and trade Scheffler for a 2nd round pick, and try to get Orton to give us a home team discount. My guess is Orton and Kuper might sign for slightly less than their market value to remain Broncos. Either way, while the MSM finds it likely Marshall is gone, I find it very unlikely he is gone next season. Pat Bowlen has even said he will open up the checkbook.

Myth #3: The Chargers are the best team in the AFC right now

First, I give the Chargers credit because I thought they were headed for 8-8 or 9-7 after the first Broncos game but they really pulled it together. But this notion that they are better than the Colts right now is based upon their past playoff history with the Colts. While true, this is a different Colts team and a different Chargers team. The past Chargers teams beat the Colts with elite pass rushing which they no longer really have. They've shown flashes but the Chargers defense has some holes. Plus the Colts are actually playing better defensively than they are offensively. Right now the Chargers are #2, and will have to play a perfect game if they end up playing the Colts this year. In fact, I would love it if the Broncos had an opportunity to return to Qualcomm in the playoffs to face the Chargers.

Myth #4: The Broncos are destined to finish 10-6

No matter what, you can't assume victories vs. the Chiefs and Raiders. All bets are off in a rivalry game. However, there is also this assumption the Broncos will lose to the Eagles. Sure the Eagles are a good team but our pass rush has the ability to Pressure D. McNabb. Jason Peters is a great left tackle against bigger rushers but he is going to have his hands full with Dumervil. Plus the Eagles don't run as well as they pass. Yet the Broncos strength is pass defense. I don't know if they'll win but I know the Broncos will show up and give the Eagles a run for their money.

Myth #5: The Broncos 2009 draft got some decent players but overall was not good

Knowshon Moreno is on pace to have an 1100 yard season which is about where Terrell Davis was his rookie year. This while splitting double duty with Buckhalter for much of the year. Robert Ayers has played the run very well, set the edge, and showed a flash of ability in getting after P. Manning last sunday. He is developing.

As for the rest McDaniels philosophy comes a lot from Belichick and Parcells and that is limitiing the amount rookies play. Alphonso Smith played great vs. Cincinatti but hasn't been the same since spraining his ankle. He has shown great potential though and will get better. Darcel McBath broke his arm in perhaps his most brilliant game to date. He will be our future Renaldo Hill. David Bruton has teamed with McBath and Barrett to be an awesome special teams force. Our coverage is much improved because of him. Richard Quinn has found ways to contribute and does a good job of blocking in 3 TE sets.

Seth Olsen has not seen the field, much like Ryan Harris, Chris Kuper, Ben Hamilton and many great o-lineman before him. (And yes, Ben Hamilton in his prime was a great 0-lineman for us.) Kenny McKinley showed great ability in preseason and Tom Brandstater is the quarterback of the future. So much so that the Broncos wouldn't risk putting him on the practice squad. Finally although Blake Schleuter did not make the team Chris Baker a FA signee could be a great 3-4 NT for us in the future.

Quick Hits

Easy to fall in love with the Saints because of their offense but their defense is a mixed bag. They can make big plays like int's, but they also are just plain bad at times. Not good to have Chris Redman pick you apart.

Ryan Clady come back to us. I just think he has to be playing through some sort of injury we don't know about

Chris Kuper, when did you become the best RG in football? I like it. Sign Him!!!

Ryan McBean-It was brought up a few weeks ago whether you are the key cog to our run defense. Turns out you are a huge piece of the puzzle. You don't get much recognition but here are some props.

Does Shawne Merriman care more about winning or protecting his copyright of Lights Out? My biggest problem with the dance is when players do it but they are losing. In the words of Keyshawn "C'mon Man"

Eli Manning, if nothing else, deserves credit for playing with Plantar Fasciaitis. (spelling???) It is an extremely painful injury

Al Michaels, Mike Tirico has passed you as an all around play by play man. I know some don't like Tirico but I think he's great

Jay Cutler alluded that a Quarterback can make a reciever. Well apparently Jay you were holding B. Marshall back, because he only caught 18 passes in a game with you and got 21 with Kyle.

Can Indy Colts fans really claim Super Bowl 5 as their own since it was won in Baltimore. The Ravens don't claim all the NFL championships from the 50's because they used to be the Browns. Know what I'm saying.

Here is a list of brilliant coordinators who should only be coordinators. (i.e. not head coaches)

Wade Phillips, Mike Nolan, Cam Cameron, Gary Kubiak (this kills me), Bill Callahan (great o-line coach), Dick LeBeau, Dom Capers, Romeo Crennell, Charlie Weis and Josh McDaniels. Just kidding on the last one, seeing if you're still here.

Parting Shot

Rich Gannon doing the Color for another Broncos Raiders game. Haven't we suffered enough already. Thank god I'm going to the game and don't have suffer through that drab. For those of you watching t.v. I leave you with the mute button.

Go Broncos!

Broncos Vs. Colts: The Game Plan

RockyMountainThunder — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 23:38:39 -0000

I've been doing a lot of studying of the Broncos and Colts and I have come up with a few specific tactical strategies that the Broncos can use on offense and defense as they take on the Colts. This is the game of the year, and if you want to be the best you've got to beat the best. Here is how I see the Broncos attacking the Colts.

Everyone has mentioned running the football and time of possession as keys to the game. I agree with this and believe that the Broncos will bring out some formations from earlier in the season on offense. Defense will come down to winning one on one battles, which is football as it was meant to be. We just need to put Dumervil and Bailey, our two best defensive players, in on those 1 on 1 battles.

OFFENSE

The Return of the Wildhorse: The Broncos brought this out against the Patriots because they struggled defending and had success early on. Similarly the Colts struggled vs. the Dolphins Wildcat. Therefore I expect Knowshon Moreno to line up in Wildhorse early and often. Sometimes they will run out of this formation. However, sometimes Kyle Orton will motion back under center. This forces the defense to adjust but as seen in the Patriot game many times the defensive adjustment leaves a seem in the middle for the TE to exploit. Expect Tony Sheffler to factor heavily in the game plan especially since the Cover 2 can be susceptible to the seam pattern of TE's.

Three Tight Ends: The Broncos have used this off and on to power the running game this season but my rationale for using it dates back to 2007. Mike Shanahan used the set and zone blocking to run over the Colts. We lost the game 38-20 but at one point we were up 10-0 because of the strength of our running game. We have gone back to being the best zone blocking team in the league and I truly believe we can dominate in this area.

DEFENSE

4 Man Pressure: The Colts have allowed just 10 sacks all season but 3 of them came vs. the 49ers. I wouldn't blitz Payton Manning a whole lot. Show blitz or zone blitz is fine, but no all out blitz. Players like Dumervil, Reid, Holliday, and Ayers are just going to have to win 1 on 1 battles. Pressure with 4, move the front seven around so Peyton doesn't know which 4 are coming. Move Dumervil up and down the line of scrimmage.

Single Bailey on Wayne: The assumption is that Bailey and Goodman don't switch places. Time to throw a wrinkle and just let Bailey blanket Wayne the entire game. Double Dallas Clark with Dawkins over top and Woodyard or Barrett underneath and then let Goodman cover Collie or Garcon, whichever is in the game.

Finally, I believe the Broncos can win and if so this will be there greatest victory since the 2005 divisional game vs. the Patriots. The Colts are a great opponent which makes the game exciting. Much respect to them because this strategy I laid out will be hard to execute due to their speed and intelligence. Go Broncos.

Quick Hits for Den/KC

RockyMountainThunder — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 14:44:31 -0000

Here is a rapid reaction from the Broncos/KC game. I think the game provided several interesting nuggets or insights.

It looks like we have gone predominantly to a zone blocking team the past two weeks which is good for several reasons. One it shows McD is willing to change his philosophy if something isn't working. Two it really fits our o-line, TE's and most of all running backs better. Plus Dennison and Turner have great familiarity with coaching it.
Did Dick Enberg really say that Kuper has not allowed a sack in two years. How is this slipped by us? Kuper and Clady for the Pro Bowl.
Ryan Clady seems to be hobbled by some sort of injury because he isn't moving with the same swiftness earlier in the year and getting beat. Still one of the best in the game though.
Dick Enberg is one of my favorite announcers. I know he isn't everyone's cup of tea but he always has information that adds to the enjoyment of the game. He is very good at using pre-game interviews and interjecting them at key moments in the game. We've seen so many bad broadcasters this year that I think Enberg deserves his props. Too bad he's announcing for the Padres.
Speaking of Kuper, not only did he do well in the passing game, but he looked dominant in the run game as well. Sign Him!!!
Matt Prater is kicking lights out right now. Let's hope it continues, but really whatever he's doing he needs to bottle it.
Mitch Berger has really started to boom his kicks but still isn't getting returned. Also made a sublte move to not have his punt blocked. One of the best. I don't think Prater has missed a kick since Mitch became the holder, knock on wood.
I don't know what to make of Jay Cutler now. He seems all of sudden to be playing not to throw interceptions, instead of his usual play to win attitude.
I was down on Peyton Hillis because he made too many critical errors early in the season but hopefully his showing yesterday will re earn the coaches trust. McDaniels is smart and I will trust he will find a way to utilize Peyton a little more.
However, finding time for Peyton might be hard because Spenser Larsen is playing awesome these last two weeks at full back. He is quick to the point of attack, makes good reads and just blows people up. Plus he's made a bunch of special teams tackles recently.
Alphonso Smith-Just get it together man. Listen to Champ and B-dawk, do what they say.
Robert Ayers is so close to getting a sack. It's going to happen and he flashed his first round ability yesterday.
Todd Haley looked like a desperate coach. He was really creative with some of the things they were doing, which shows he has a good offensive mind, but when you resort to that many gadget plays it means you think you don't have the players to go head to head.
We need to find a package that works when teams go no huddle. We will see a lot of this vs. Peyton.
What the Colts and Saints have done at 12-0 is spectacular, But both have some major flaws. Doesn't mean they'll lose but they certainly have weaknesses. I don't think either team can stop the run very well and the Saints pass defense makes big plays but also gives up big plays. I hope we pound the ground game at the colts. Gives us best chance to win.
Brady Quinn through for almost 300 yards vs. San Diego: Good. Anyone get the feeling that if we are a wild card our first game will either be at SD or at NE. Not exactly what one would hope for but hey, it's the playoffs.
Ndamokong Suh won't be around for the Broncos selection but Terrance Cody might be. I think he'd be worth the investment. Guy can control the entire middle of the field.

Have a great week everyone. Look forward to your thoughts!

LIghtening the Mood: NFL related humor

RockyMountainThunder — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:44:54 -0000

The economy sucks, people are losing their jobs or if you are a state employee, have to take mandatory furloughs. And you know what the worst part of it all is, I never learned to read. No actually, the Broncos lost. But cheer up my friends, here is something to cheer you up about the economy and the Denver Broncos.

After scouring the internet I was able to find a ton of NFL related job openings posted by NFL teams and players. So boom, helping the economy and our doom and gloom. Enjoy!

The New England Patriots-Video Assistant

Applicant must suck at golf and be sly and not be friends with Eric Mangini

Adam Schefter-Blackberry Support

Unfortunately you must be with Adam 24-7. While he eats, sleeps, showers, and well, you know

New York Jets-Hot Dog Vendor

Last week Mark Sanchez ate a hot dog and the jets won 38-0. This week no hot dog and a loss. Meaning, the Jets need to improve their diet.

Jay Cutler-Psychotherapist

In case he gets his feelings hurt again.

Green Bay Packers-Left Tackle

Actually this one's not a joke. The Packers were actually hoping one of you could maybe play left tackle next game.

Brandon Marshall-Conscience

Brandon Stokely is nearing the end of his career and retiring soon. So he needs to start to train someone else to take his current job.

Bus Cook-Gastrointerologist

Bus needs somebody to siphon out all the crap the he is full of.

Oakland Raiders-Cryptkeeper

For their beloved owner. Must have 4.3 speed, however,

John Madden-Bus Operator

If a grizzly looking man named Brett wearing #4 stops by late at night just let him in. Later if a sportswriter named Peter comes by howling at the bus for said Brett, please just chase him away.

Kyle Orton and Jake Plummer-DNA Tester

Let's see both sport amazing facial hair, and despite their detractors win most of their games. Are you two sure your not brothers? Neckbeard and Grizzly Man cut from the same cloth. Job might also include doing the genetic make-up of Brian Dawkins/Wolverine.

Brian Griese-Dog walker

Dog is known to be a bit high strung. Must be strong and nimble when going down stairs.

Rick Reilly, Jamie Dukes, John Clayton, and Mark Schereth-Waiter

To serve them crow! Also with a side of Stink's Green Chili, It's actually pretty good

AJ Smith-Home Nurse

Because everytime Drew Brees and Michael Turner score a touchdown, AJ craps his pants.

Kansas City Chiefs-Diversity Instructor

Larry Johnson hates gay people (twitter)

Todd Haley and Scott Pioli hate Latinos (traded Tony Gonzales)

Name Chiefs is culturally offensive to Native Americans (Okay that's a bit of stretch especially when there is a team nicknamed the Redskins. Seriously, if the Washington Bullets can change their name why doesn't the football team, but I digress.)

The Sports Guru (AKA John Bena)-Locksmith

The next time the Broncos beat the Patriots we don't want the Guru to be locked out of his house so we need someone to help a brother out.

Have a good week everyone!

Mythbusters: What's really true!

RockyMountainThunder — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:34:17 -0000

As I read articles online and in newspapers, there are so many half-truths, mistatements, and right out lies that I feel compelled to write an article debunking some of the myths that you may read about it in the paper. Now while most of what I'm about to say is opinion, I'll try to back it up with facts as much as possible.

Myth #1: Kyle Orton does not have a strong arm

Kyle Orton does have a strong arm. He has proven he can throw it at least 65 yards down field. But further more, if you watched the Chargers game, Orton had a pass to Gaffney about 25 yards down field that had some real zip to it. Plus, peolple tend to think throwing deep is all about arm strength, but in truth it requires a great amount of touch to deliver it over linebackers heads and into a recievers bread basket. Look at Orton's TD pass to Tony Scheffler. It was a thing of touch beauty. Does Orton have as strong an arm as Jay Cutler? No, but if you ask Jay neither did John Elway so Orton is in pretty good company

Myth #2: Eddie Royal is a good reciever but is less effective if you press coverage him

I can't remember where I read or heard this but it goes to show you that because Eddie Royal is 5'10" 180 pounds he must not be able to beat press coverage. Actually this is one of Eddie's strengths. At the NFL combine Eddie Royal bench pressed 225 pounds 24 times. Jarvis Moss only did 17 (of course Jarvis does have much longer arms than Eddie Royal and that does skew the bench press numbers a little bit to be misleading). Nevertheless, watching Eddie on video tape he is very good at getting off the bump. Against New England in overtime on a 3rd and 1 Eddie was bumped by the cornerback, but with a quick move to the outside, a strong slapping away of the corners hands, Eddie got the release on the inside for the slant route and a first down. He can beat bump and run or press coverage.

Myth #3 Pat Bowlen stated he has short term memory loss so Jay Cutler must be telling the truth that Bowlen did not try to contact him

This is one of my biggest pet peeves. First Bowlen I guarantee you is still in charge of all his faculties. Second, short term memory loss usually starts with small things like where did I put my car keys or what do I want to get at the grocery store. It usually wouldn't cause someone to forget something like, gee I need to talk to my pro bowl quarterback to clear the air, did I call and reach out to him yet. Furthermore, I'm sure that Josh McDaniels and Brian Xanders were also aware of Bowlen reaching out to Cutler. I am sure they weren't like "Oh Pat, did you call Jay" and I'm sure Pat wasn't like "You know it was on my to do list but I'm not sure if I called him or not" B.S. Pat called him, Jay didn't call back, Jay was traded, end of story. Future lesson, don't disrespect the man who signs your paychecks.

Myth #4 Josh McDaniels is a Bill Belichick clone

I, along with many others have written about this before but the truth is Josh couldn't more different from Bill. Now they do share similar philosophies on injuries, the draft, and team mentality However, Bill is a grumpy old man, who is dismissive with the press, comes across as very angry after wins and can seem very arrogant. Josh McDaniels has been accused of being arrogant, smug, and a complete control freak. I find the very opposite to be true. McDaniels could easily after 6-0 said "I told you so" but all he's said is that the team is off to a good start and they haven't won anything yet. He is not a control freak. Look at how much freedom Kyle Orton has a the line of scrimmage. Jay Cutler and Jake Plummer never seemed to have the freedom to change plays at the line or change up protection scheme. (Brian Griese did get this freedome but he's probably one of the smartest QB's to every play) McD trusts his quarterback. Plus McDaniels shows emotion after wins, which I love, and he'll probably be upset after losses, but gracious in defeat.

Myth #5 Ryan Clady is a good left tackle

Got ya, just making sure I still have your attention. Clady isn't a good left tackle though, he is a great left tackle and getting better at run blocking. In fact, much to my father's dismay, I stated that Clady would wind up being even better than Gary Zimmerman. Not a shot at Gary, just shows how good I think Ryan is.

Quick Hitting Thoughts that are a bit against conventional wisdom

Tony Gonzalez is a great pass catching tight end, but Daniel Graham is a complete player. Much better blocker than Gonzalez and very underrated as a pass catcher and athlete in the open field.

Terrance Cody will be a great player but I wonder for how long. That's a lot of weight to hold up over a pro career, especially in the trenches.

This is a pass happy league. While this is true, the Steelers (twice) the Giants, and the Colts have won Super Bowls with very good running games. In fact, when the Patriots were winning Super Bowls they won them with defense and Corey Dillion. Tom Brady is a great player but the fact is that the Patriots haven't won the Super Bowl since he started to air it out more. Which is why I am glad the Broncos are very balanced on offense this year. Many people thought McD was just a pass happy freak, turns out, he tailors his offense to the defense they're playing and his own teams strengths.

And finally...Why did ESPN hire Teddy Bruschi. All he does is talk about the Patriots. It's not like we were lacking for coverage of the Patriots on that channel. Plus he is still talking this year like the Patriots are the greatest team ever. REALLY! They lost to the Denver Broncos, one of the worst teams in the NFL (according to his colleagues) how embarrasing is that. Tom Jackson and Schlereth are former Broncos but TJ can be fair and balanced, even if he is a homer, and Schlereth I think goes out of his way to prove he is not a homer.

Have a great week everyone, and Go Broncos, Beat Baltimore.

Unsung Heroes: Part One

RockyMountainThunder — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:44:17 -0000

Now that we are at the bye week, this is as good a time to give some plaudits on a few Broncos who have stood out but may not be getting the credit or press that is due. Of course in many instances the astute talent of the MHR will have already made mention of these unsung heroes. Still I think it would be fun to examine the great Broncos who have made this 6-0 start possible. I have chosen one defensive player, one offensive player, and one special teams impact player.

Unsung Hero #1: Kenny Peterson

Nothing made me so happy about the make up of this football team than to see Coach McDaniels jump up on big #90 after the New England Game. Last year in the 4-3 Kenny played DT. In the switch to a 3-4 Kenny moved to the 5 technique meaning he plays defensive end in our 3-4 alignment. Kenny has been an unsung hero this season and has been tremendous as a 3-4 defensive end. He has been extremely stout at the point of attack, taking on 2 to 3 blockers on running plays so that DJ Williams and Andra Davis can attack the ball carrier. On passing plays Kenny can move to NT and generate a push up the middle. Allowing Elvis Dumervil and Darrell Reid to attack the quarterback without fear of the QB stepping up in the pocket. Also, I think that Kenny Peterson has emerged as one of the leaders on the defense. It is easy to see his teammates respond to him and that he is a constant professional. #90 has become one of my favorite players.

Unsung Hero #2: Chris Kuper

I'll admit it, I did not know that Chris Kuper was this good. First, as far as the offensive line goes, I think the RG position is much tougher than the LG position, because the LG can usually rely on the LT. The RG is usually forced to block in 1 on 1 in pass protection. This is where Kuper has really become quite good. Chris anchors well on pass plays and also does a good job of communicating with Casey Wiegmann and picking up interior blitzes. Also Chris is really becoming a devestating run blocker especially when he pulls. He has the speed to get across the line and open up holes for our running backs. He has gotten credit on this blog before, but he deserves it because he is really protecting Kyle Orton back there.

Unsung Hero #3: Josh Barrett

Josh Barrett is still a work in progress but he is getting the nod here for his special teams play. Josh is always the first one down on punt and kick coverage, and is often able to make the tackle or force the returner to defensive help. Also in the past couple of years Barrett has started to be utilized as a man who can cover the best TE 1 on 1, as was seen last year versus Tony Gonzales and last week versus Antonio Gates. What is most intriguing to me about Barrett is he has the same physical gifts as the heralded Taylor Mays of USC. Barrett is 6'2", 225 pounds but can run a 4.3 40. He is raw but with continued development (Dawkins, I"m asking you to help) Barrett has the physical skills to be an elite safety. Also, more is in store for Mr. Barrett as during training camp he was seen utilized in a LB spot at times. He provides the coaching staff the versatility that they always seem to look for. This is a 7th round pick that I thought at the time and still believe was brilliant. It's too bad Shanny's best draft was his last, in my humble opinion.

Bring the Thunder!

RockyMountainThunder — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 17:02:11 -0000

Through the first three games, the Denver Broncos have done their part, now it's time for us fans attending Sunday's game to do our part. We need to bring Mile High to a level we haven't seen since the glory days. On every play make sure you are screaming and yelling when the Cowboys have the ball. Flozell Adams, left tackle for Dallas already has three false start penalties this year. Imagine on Sunday how many he might have if we ramp up the noise and he has Elvis Dumervil to worry about.

Stomp your feet. The metal of Invesco needs to shake from our Thunder. I implore you, we can play a role in our teams victory on Sunday we just need to bring it.

I have been a Broncos fan my entire life, and I am proud to say I have always been one of the loudest people in my section. But lately it seems I am the only one making noise. I remember in the Old Mile HIgh I could barely hear my scream. By the end of most games I have very little voice left but it is more than worth it.

I know MIle HIgh can be the best home environment. We already have the altitude, now we just need a little attitude. For those of you who will be watching on t.v. check for the camera shake and still cheer as loud as you can.

See you at the game!

Discussing the MSM: Some ground rules

RockyMountainThunder — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 20:50:48 -0000

There has been a lot said over the past few months regarding the mainstream media and their opinions about our favorite team. Some people are sick of talking about the MSM, while others continue to be interested in various opinions and critique said opinions based on our own intimate knowledge of the team. I am not here to discourage discussion of the MSM. I actually find it quite interesting to compare opinions and realize what Chris Berman often says "We think we know, but we don't know"

However, to better serve the Mile High Report which I dearly love, I decided there should be some ground rules to any critique of the MSM. Some of them are personal pet peeves, so please, bare with me. I think of us as a very classy community and I want to stay that way.

1. Let's shy away from personal attacks- Most notably, lets not refer to Bill Williamson as "Pork Chop" Some of us MHR's are a little rotund

2. Utilize the intelligent observation this blog has become known for Instead of saying that Jamie Dukes is an idiot. Let's delve deeper. Let's examine exactly where he is analyzing this team wrong. Let's point out what so many have missed.

3. Give Praise where it is warranted Like praise recently for Bill Simmons, Adam Schefter and TJ (PS, I think TJ is by far the best ESPN analyst. He has a positive way at looking at things but also can give honest reflective opinion.)

4. Have Fun If the Broncos keep winning we get to have the last laugh. So lets enjoy getting to prove the MSM wrong, just do it without the personal attacks.

I know for some this post will be offensive because many people have stated before that they don't want to be told how to post on a blog. However, I just feel that we have a standard at MHR and we should keep it that way.

Take Care!

Broncos 2008 vs. Broncos 1998, A Few Comparative Notes

RockyMountainThunder — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:18:06 -0000

Many have looked at our 2008 team with Cutler and Company and made comparisons to the Super Bowl years. I watched tape last night of the Broncos Super Bowl XXXIII victory over Atlanta and made some notes when looking at this years Broncos team. Here are some thoughts:

1. The Running Game- Of course with Terrell Davis the running game is going to be a lot more effective for the 98 team. But I also noticed there was for more complexity and movement in the zone blocking for the 98 teams. This is mostly because the 98 offensive lineman were very veteran players (Tom Nalen and Dan Neil were the youngest). I think this squad can get to that complexity but it will be a while. The biggest difference I noticed was how quickly some of our lineman would get in on linebackers and attack a more specific spot on the defense. Where as in the Chiefs game the Broncos looked like they were running basic stretch left, stretch right plays.

2. Defensive Blitzing-The 98 Broncos didn't have near the talent that the 08 Broncos have in the secondary. (Dre and Champ vs. Ray Crockett and Darien Gordon, come on...). They made up for this with creative blitzing. It was usually a linebacker with a nickel back. They would bring Atwater from time to time to mix it up, especially since Atwater was a great blitzer.

3. Eddie Royal as Rod Smith-In his heyday Rod Smith had speed and ran excellent routes. Eddie Royal looks just as good. Both guys were amazing finds. If Royal has half the career Rod had we will be in good shape.

4. Brandon Marshall as Ed McCaffrey-I love Eddie, but this isn't even fair. For Marshall there is no comparison. He is a freak of nature. Both have good size and are devestating blockers. Eddie had better hands but Marshall is stronger, faster and more of a playmaker after the catch.

I think we have the offensive ingredients to be great. It will take time to develop more complexity in the run game and star tailback like Torain could make that happen. Our receivers our awesome. There is talent on that defense, it's time to ring up the Greg Robinson blitzes. I know he isn't doing very well on Syracuse, but the man could bring the heat and I thought he worked well with Shanahan.