Go to the mobile version of this Web site.

Login | Contact Us | Site Map | Paid archives | Electronic edition | Subscription Questions | Extras

ADAMS: Does Marshall's reduced suspension change expectations?

By Sam Adams, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published August 29, 2008 at 1:57 p.m.
Updated August 29, 2008 at 1:58 p.m.

Text size  

Broncos quick links

Drew on the NFL
Drew Litton
Scores and statistics
Broncos inbox

The Broncos learned today that the NFL has reduced Brandon Marshall's suspension from three games to one game. How does this bit of news alter your view of the team's prospects as the regular season draws closer?

I had the Broncos finishing 10-6 when the league released the schedule in April -- before Marshall's injured arm was healed and before the suspension for off-field brushes with the law was levied by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

The thought of Marshall missing the first two games, both against AFC West opponents, seemed scary to many Broncos fans. As it stands, Marshall will miss the regular-season opener at Oakland on Sept. 8. But he'll be expected back in the lineup when Denver opens the home schedule against the defending division champion San Diego Chargers.

The Broncos managed two field goals in eight quarters of play against San Diego last season. Six points -- with Marshall in the lineup. Now Denver believes its offense is far more potent, and that Marshall and quarterback Jay Cutler will be a far better combination in 2008.

An offense good enough to beat Oakland without Marshall? Perhaps. Competing with the Chargers? We'll see. For sure, he Broncos' chances are much better against San Diego with Marshall than without him.

For the record, in April (click Sam-ulcast here)I had Denver winning 27-17 at Oakland and 23-20 against the Chargers.

Does Marshall's reduced suspension alter your forecast of Denver's fortunes this season?

Click here to join the discussion on this story on Sam Adams' Open Mic blog.