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Plenty of good things, but no moral victory

Matthew Hill, Special to the News

Published October 31, 2006 at midnight

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The NFL's most deadly foot claimed another victim Sunday. The second that Adam Vinatieri stepped onto the field with seconds remaining, Bronco players, coaches and fans had to realize, deep down, Vinatieri was not going to miss from 37 yards. Sure enough, Vinatieri would drill his 20th game-winning field goal of his brilliant career, and the search was on for moral victories.

Bronco faithful didn't have to look long to find some good among the pain of the last-second loss.

Only a fan whose total distain for Jake Plummer has eliminated any potential for rational thought could fail to be encouraged by Plummer's performance Sunday. Thanks to a game plan that allowed for Plummer to get outside the pocket and use his athleticism, the underappreciated quarterback looked comfortable for the first time this season. Rolling out to both sides and making strong throws downfield, Plummer looked like the man who led his team to the playoffs each of the past three seasons.

The offensive line simply dominated. They opened holes and embarrassed the Colts' front seven by giving Bronco backs room to rush for 227 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries. The line's stellar play was not limited to the ground game as Plummer was provided with time, both in and out of the pocket, to find his open receivers.

Mike Bell was able to take advantage of the line's effort by turning in his best performance of the season. The forgotten Bell spun, cut, accelerated and lowered his shoulder to the tune of 136 yards and two touchdowns on only 15 carries.

Yes, Bronco fans had to leave the game feeling like the offense provided them with a moral victory. It was balanced. It was physical. It was good.

There is only one problem — moral victories are about as desirable as a date with Rosie O'Donnell.

This is the NFL. There are no participation trophies. No one is hoping to earn a varsity letter. The only thing that matters is winning the trophy named after Lombardi. Sunday, the Broncos took a giant step back in their attempt to capture the prize.

I know that it's only October, but championship teams must beat conference rivals when they face them at home. Each week brings a chance to move one step closer to earning home-field advantage in the playoffs. Don't think the Broncos aren't aware of the value of having the road to the Super Bowl go through the Mile-High City.

Would the Broncos rather have their playoff rematch with the Colts occur in the sterile, always passer-friendly RCA dome, or at home, outdoors, with the unpredictable Denver weather as its backdrop? The answer is obvious.

Regardless of whom the Broncos play this postseason, the bottom line is the same; the Broncos chances improve with home field. This weekend the Broncos didn't help their cause. No moral victory can change this.