Cutler shouldering load of carrying Broncos to playoffs

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published December 17, 2008 at 10:54 p.m.

Text size  

• 52 Comments
• Email
• Print

The vibe is different at Dove Valley this week.

"It's a big game," Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler said Wednesday as preparation began for a contest Sunday against the visiting Buffalo Bills that would vault Denver into the playoffs with a victory.

"Everyone in the locker room understands that. Everyone in the building, for that matter, understands that."

And everyone affiliated with the Broncos knows this, too: If Denver is going to succeed where it failed Sunday in its bid to clinch a postseason berth, it's up to Cutler to lead the way.

A team can thrive without stellar quarterback play if it has a dominant defense, a top-tier running game and/or plays relatively mistake-free.

The Broncos (8-6) have demonstrated none of those qualities on a regular basis.

As Cutler has gone, so have the Broncos. It's as simple as that.

"Yeah," coach Mike Shanahan conceded. "Pretty much."

In the Broncos' eight victories, Cutler has had at least a 61.8 percent completion rate in every game except Nov. 7 at Cleveland, when he threw for a season-high 447 yards. He also has had all five of his 100-plus quarterback ratings and none lower than 93.3 in wins.

The half-dozen losses have included his four lowest-yardage games and only one quarterback rating higher than 75, against Jacksonville on Oct. 12. Only one of his seven passes of more than 40 yards has come in the six losses, as have 18 of 26 throws of 25-plus yards.

Overall, Cutler is 198-of-294 for 2,447 yards with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions in the wins; 128-of-228 for 1,404 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions in the losses.

"You look at what you have," Shanahan said. "We've lost a number of running backs. Our running game isn't the same as it has been, for obvious reasons. We've had a running game at times, and we always stress the running game. You can't be one-dimensional. But it does put a lot of pressure on the quarterback, no question about it."

The Broncos rank 16th on the ground at 113.6 yards per game and are down to three tailbacks, two of whom joined the roster after the start of the season.

But a defense that is 28th in yards allowed (373.4), 29th in points allowed per game (26.1) and 32nd in takeaways (13) has only made it harder on Cutler.

Minnesota can overcome spotty play from Gus Frerotte and Tavaris Jackson and ride Adrian Peterson and a stout run defense.

Baltimore is ranked second against the pass and third against the run, allowing the Ravens to play conservatively with rookie quarterback Joe Flacco.

Tennessee's Kerry Collins has one of the lowest ratings in the NFL as a passer, but his 1.8 interception percentage is among the league's best.

And LenDale White and Chris Johnson have combined for 1,852 yards and 15 touchdowns, with a defense that has forced 27 takeaways.

In Denver, it's move it or lose it.

"Any team, anyplace, in any sport, anytime, when one guy touches the ball the majority of the time, the majority of the time you win or lose off his play - basketball with the point guard, baseball with the pitcher, stuff like that," Broncos receiver Darrell Jackson said. "Jay's handled it well. We're 8-6, still leading our division by a game. And we still have a chance to win the Super Bowl.

"There was a lot of pressure on him coming into this year anyway, with us not making the playoffs last year. So he's done a good job, especially with his own problems, with the diabetes and all that."

At Carolina on Sunday, the Broncos put up their second-fewest total of yards (279) and first downs (15) and the fewest number of net passing yards (158).

It was the second time in Cutler's career he has been at the helm in a game the Broncos needed to win to clinch a playoff berth - and the second loss.

The first came on Dec. 31, 2006, at Invesco Field at Mile High, with the Broncos hosting San Francisco, a team, like the Bills, that already was out of the postseason picture.

Cutler exited briefly with a concussion and finished 21-of-32 for 230 yards and a touchdown, plus an interception returned for a score, as the 49ers won in overtime.

"That was a totally different feel for me," Cutler said. "And I think it was a totally different feel for everyone in the locker room. We've got a totally different team. We've got more experience and I think a lot more confidence than we did in ourselves - and in me."

That loss the 49ers two years ago was only Cutler's fifth career start, so he largely was insulated from criticism.

He made his first Pro Bowl on Tuesday as his second full season as the Broncos' No. 1 quarterback winds down, so expectations are higher now.

"Each game I feel pressure. This game is obviously more important. The stakes are a little higher," Cutler said. "But I'm not going to change anything. I'm going to keep playing like I have all year and keep preparing like I have."

SPLIT DECISIONS

The Broncos have yet to overcome a pedestrian effort by quarterback Jay Cutler this season. When he's on, the Broncos are successful across the board.

Cutler victories

Cutler losses

• December 18, 2008

  1:57 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  MATTP1 writes:

  Jay you are the man you can do this win this for the diehard fans.Go Broncs

• December 18, 2008

  2:08 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  areyoukidding writes:

  Actually they are leading the division by 2 games. Does anyone proof read these articles for accuracy?

• December 18, 2008

  7:09 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  kmeissner writes:

  Please let them beat Buffalo this week. If it comes down to the San Diego game, I'm not sure we'll win. They want payback for the game earlier this year. Let's win this week so some of the starters can play sparingly next week. Where the heck is Champ?!?!?! We NEED him on the field ASAP!

• December 18, 2008

  8:23 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  toocool writes:

  So what if the Bronc's make it to the playoff's....just another first time out dive.....

• December 18, 2008

  8:24 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  Andynonymous writes:

  SD loses, we relax and look good against Buffalo. I HAVE SPOKEN (like in Wizard of Oz, and poking fun at me).

• December 18, 2008

  8:57 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  UNV_ME writes:

  Does it really matter if they win or not? They don't have the talent on that team to go anywhere in the post-season.

• December 18, 2008

  9:31 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  MTBroncofan writes:

  Alrighty. Time for a dose of reality. It is important for the Broncos to get to the playoffs... even if all they do is get to the playoffs and lose in the first round. IF you consider this year to be a rebuilding project, the best way to complete the project is to give the young players on this team some playoff experience. Face it, this team will not go to the Super Bowl this year... they just aren't ready yet. Anybody that thinks so is having a pipe dream.

  My point is, SO WHAT if they're one and done in the playoffs... in reality, this team really needs to focus on the future, and every ounce of experience they can glean from this year will only make the future brighter.

  The talent on both sides of the ball is actually very good. Even on defense... add a couple of D lineman, a safety, and some freakin stability (please, no new D coordinator!), and you'll see this defense improve substantially. The offense will continue to improve... give this group another year WITH Peyton Hillis and Ryan Torain... and this offense will be top notch.

  So lets not get too carried away with our expectations for this year. Take the triumphs and failures for what they are - just growing pains. No matter what happens from here on out though, even if the Broncos don't make the playoffs this year (ouch), I consider this season to be a huge success. Good job Shanahan!

• December 18, 2008

  9:58 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  dilligaf writes:

  MTBroncofan

  I agree. What people don't realize is we have played the majority of this season with young rookies in key positions. And they have had an impact. I believe this will go down as Shanny's best rookie class of all time. With a couple of GOOD additions next year and better health this team could be special. This game this weekend could be a game where Cutler can show that he can carry this team on his back like you know who. If he lays an egg he will put a question mark in everyone's head for the entire off season.

• December 18, 2008

  10:09 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  Jubei writes:

  MTBroncofan makes some very good points.

  The rest of this season (including postseason play) is an exam of sorts. It will reinforce the things that are working well, and expose the aspects that need attention.

  And who is to say what happens in the playoffs? Once you're in, it's a new season. And the 'good' Broncos can be a major thorn in the side of any of the other teams in the AFC.

  If the shriekers on the negative side can say with conviction that the Broncos are one and done, then the positive guys like me can say that we COULD play the spoiler if we get in.

  We'll see...

• December 18, 2008

  10:52 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  The only thing thats spoiled is the bronco fans. The past few years have really taken the wind out of my sails. It seems to me the management of the team dosen't care if they win, kinda like our baseball team, no desire to win, just the revenue. Jay may not be our boy! No power. I think sometimes the broncs need a new start, a new direction, something! They could however when the superbowl if they get in the playoffs! NOT, just jokeing!!! Good luck to them, they will certainly need it.

• December 18, 2008

  11:20 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  toocool, then don't watch.

  B300, it's been awhile since we've seen your moronic posts? Parents let you have access to the computer again? Stop skipping school. It's quite apparent that you need an education.

  UNV_ME, man peoples who write statements like yours are a humorous lot.... Why do you even watch the game? Your statement was soooo far out there. People watch, smart guy, because they enjoy the game? There are no certainty's in this world, except two. People die and we're certain you know nothing of sports. You miss the whole point of sports in general.

• December 18, 2008

  11:29 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  BigRedCelt writes:

  MTbroncofan is right on. I've been saying the same thing since the season started. They got off to a hot start and all the silly SB talk started. Moving in the right direction. They've been floundering since Elway retired. Unfortunately, many of the fans nowdays became fans during the SB years. That's whats happening right now, moving in the right direction. That's what I want to see. The thing is, with this offense, Denver only needs an average defense.. Make a big play here and there and give them a short field on occasion. The only thing that really gets to me on Sundays it what seems to be a lack of urgency. That's probably the youth.

  and as always....BLY MUST GO!!!!!

  Go Broncs!!!!!!!

• December 18, 2008

  11:32 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  dynodave; too bad we cant talk face to face. you might go home with a fat lip smart mouth. Maybe you should find another way of expressing your feelings. These are my opinions, and if you dont like it, to bad. I dont watch by the way. I could care less but I cant help but put my thoughts in. I also enjoy reading hatefull people like you.

• December 18, 2008

  12:06 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  baylinorcrush writes:

  Let's all take a chill pill. Football is a game and will always be just that. How seriously one takes it, is their business. I personally have taken it very seriously for over 30 years. Fot that reason alone, I refuse to stoop so low as to respond or comment on anyone who finds nothing to say in these blogs other than foul language arguments, band wagon fan futility, bashing our team just because you like another and wanted to beat the crap out of other blogers just because .... like I said, I won't comment on that. It is not worthy of my consideration, and neither is the person writing that comment worthy of my time. The Broncos playing in a "PLAYOFF" like game this Sunday is enough to make me feel excited like a 20 year old again, and my bet is we are good enough to beat the Bills something like 31-27. Is it Sunday yet?

• December 18, 2008

  12:07 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  B300, not to get into a p***ing match, but you definitely wouldn't want to tangle with me. As far as opinions, you don't come in with opinions, you come in, EVERY SINGLE TIME, and you BASH. So, we tell you what what we think of you and your opinion. You have never, ever, wrote ANYTHING positive about the Broncos, which tells me you write in to post stuff to be a thorn in the side. Oh, your threats are tooo funny. You invented hateful with your negative, spiteful post. You called us "spoiled fans". You attacked 1st, tough guy. But you threatened with violence? Who is the "hateful" one, here? You sound confused? Get a tissue.

• December 18, 2008

  12:14 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Jubei writes:

  BigRedCelt speaks the truth. The D needs to be better, not the best. That and a consistent run game will make Jay and the rest of the offense look even better.

  B300, you don't watch? So what exactly do you base your opinions on? ESPN? Bernie's columns? Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that basically amount to admitting that you are uninformed? There's no law against expressing an opinion without basis, but don't be surprised if people with informed opinions disagree.

• December 18, 2008

  12:17 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Jubei writes:

  baylinorcrush, that was one of the better posts that I've read. Nice work.

  I'm through calling the final score after last week, but I do think we'll see a much different team this Sunday. If not, then they don't deserve the playoffs anyway.

• December 18, 2008

  12:28 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  Dynodave I certainly am not afraid of someone who calls people childish names behind a computer screen, so you might want to stop talking crap! If you have a way of us getting together let me know!
  Jubei I watch the news and read the paper of course! If there were real good news I might talk about it. But because the team is full of teeny boppers and gang bangers, and no management is not my fault. I just call um the way I see them.
  I dont mind if other people have different opinions, just dont mouth off!! Have some respect for other peoples feelings.

• December 18, 2008

  12:31 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Jubei, yeah, I think Denver needs to focus on this game. I don't know if they will play Pinnock, this game, or what? He's 250 lbs. and sounds to me like he could carry some players. In SD, he played behind LT and Lorenzo Neal. Never had a chance to make his own mark. I know they will play Pope after his good showing, last week. I don't think Selvin will be playing? Make him an inactive. Tatum? Hmmm, try cutting upfield. I see no reason why Denver can't compete with Buffalo at home? They more then match up to them. Contain Lynch. Who will be the QB this week for them? Losman?

• December 18, 2008

  12:33 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  B300, 4 Mile Bar, Las Vegas, tough guy. Bring your lunch.

• December 18, 2008

  12:38 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  Funny dave, anything realistic?

• December 18, 2008

  12:46 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  baylinorcrush writes:

  DDave, yesterday ESPN annouced Edwards taking over the starter spot from Losman for Sunday. Hopefully, he'll be a little rusty.

• December 18, 2008

  12:46 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  B300, why would I travel to Colorado to waste a ticket and money on a blogger? I would rather spend it on the plane flight to the SD/Denver game which a SD friend of mine bought for us.

• December 18, 2008

  12:52 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  baylinorcrush, I hope he's rusty, as well. I would have loved to see Losman. He's usually good for at least 2 picks. If we can contain Marshawn, then we have a very good chance. Like ours, their D is struggling and our offense should be able to exploit them. We have a better offense then Buffalo, so our D needs a stand-up game.

• December 18, 2008

  12:56 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  I dont know dave, why would you talk crap when you cant back it up? If your ever in Denver let me know. We will see what you got. Did the snow put you in a bad mood?

• December 18, 2008

  1:13 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  B300, yeah, didn't care for the snow. As for me, a little history. Retired in 1996 from the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) out of Ft. Carson. Fought in Kuwait and Africa. Sold my martial arts studio in Sept. after 11 years. Teaching private lessons to a few local celebs, still, and volunteer my time teaching the arts to troubled youths and kids involved with gangs, drugs, broken homes, etc., through the city program. My chances of fighting you or anyone else could land me in jail and lawsuits. Save your strength for those who actually might fight you. I talk what I talk when I see someone bashing for the sake of bashing. You tend to do that. Every time. You talk of Cutler having "no power". That tells me that you aren't getting a very good grasp of talent, or, you're talking to get a rise out of the fans? He's going to the Pro Bowl? Others (fans, players and coaches) disagree with you. Is it any wonder, that I would, as well?

• December 18, 2008

  1:22 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  B300 writes:

  Your right about the jail thing, I guess its for a cause. Jay has no power yet! he has not grown up. I personally dont see good leadership qualities yet. His arm is stronger than Elways, but he dosen't have the control over his team yet. That comes with experience and self control! I could sit here and talk statistics with you, but a lot of times those things dont come into play, you know "any givin Sunday". So far this year Jay, and the rest of the team in my opinion have not shown behavior that we typically see from winners!

• December 18, 2008

  1:49 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  B300, yes, Jay needs to mature more, and he will settle down. I feel that with the RB injuries, more was forced on him then he was ready for, or needed? He will get better. But he does have a strong arm. He also has shown the ability to throw the "touch pass". He was good enough to make the Pro Bowl, so others saw the talent he has. He will break 4000 yards. I expect great things from him thoughout the years. Well, I'm out of here. I have someone coming over to teach at 1:30. Then off to the YMCA at 4:00 to teach again. Nice, chatting, bantering. Have a Merry Christmas, B300, to you and yours.

• December 18, 2008

  3:14 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Bmac writes:

  Cutler is a little uppity,immature, and makes the sometime blunder that most players seem to make (old & new), but I think he's getting better. The one thing not mentioned here is the offensive line. They are doing a hell of a job of giving Cutler time to throw - especially since our running game is not much of a threat. Hope Hillis and a few others get back in time for the playoffs.

• December 18, 2008

  4:09 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  jeremmegack writes:

  Jay Cutler has far exceeded any expectations that I initially had. He has a great arm and is extremely accurate. His interceptions are almost always where he meant to throw them, he just doesn't see a defender at times or is a little overconfident. He is so far above and beyond the typical third year quarterback. Not to speak for anyone else, but I am so l glad that Tennessee and Arizona thought Cutler was the third best quarterback in the draft, and that Shanahan struck at the opportunity to move up to take him.

  I'll take the teeny bopper team comment as a compliment. We are a young team that is on the verge of the playoffs, and though odds say we'll lose in the first round, the experience is vital. Playoff atmosphere is priceless. We remind me a lot of the team that went 10-6 or 11-5 in Elway's third year that didn't make the playoffs. The next year SI predicted Broncos vs. Giants in the Super Bowl. It happened. This team needs a bit more defense, but is ahead of that offense. With the amount of young players that will be back next year, the chemistry is going to be great. I would so much rather win against the Bills than have to count on the Chargers, but I'll take playoffs however we get it, so go Broncos and go Bucs!

• December 18, 2008

  4:56 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Bronco1lovesDADOF5 writes:

  As soon as I can kick Dadof5 out from under the sheets I do have to say that today we had fun on the SD site just saying how great the broncos are and how lame it is to be living in SanDiego where the weather is always nice! I hate how it is so cold here in the winter months lots of Coors in the Fridge though!!! any who Dynamicdave can you give me some props bro?

• December 18, 2008

  5:18 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  myerda00 writes:

  B300 and Hillbillygoth are trolls.
  DO NOT FEED THE TROLLS.

• December 18, 2008

  7:38 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  RockyMts69 writes:

  HEY!!! DD, B300...you two need to play nice or you're not opening one single gift on Xmas Eve!!!

  Seven more days till Xmas...

  Three more days until we get to have some Buffalo burgers!!!

  And 17 more days until Denver gets to smack Phyliss Rivers around!!!! HELL YEAH!!!!!!

• December 18, 2008

  7:39 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Bronco1lovesDADOF5, smile, have a Merry Christmas and defend the Broncos to the end. Yeah, SD must be warmer then Vegas, right now. The snow was a trip. If I want snow, I'll move back to Colorado. I know it will be COLD at Invesco, come Sunday.
  Props, huh? Ha, ha, ok. Constructive criticism by bloggers is great. Bashing the boys as some do, though, gets penalized, 15 yards, loss of down and no computer usage for the rest of the week, ha, ha.

  Hey Myerda00, just got in. Hope you are well?. You said you were going to meet with some friends at another bar, this weekend? Should your plans change, I look forward to seeing you at the 4 Mile. If not, Merry Christmas and GO BRONCOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• December 18, 2008

  7:43 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  RockyMts69, I always play nice.... Trust me.....

• December 18, 2008

  7:50 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  RockyMts69, I thing you meant 10 more days till SD game?

• December 18, 2008

  7:53 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  cdmdenver writes:

  TOO Many People in here Drinking the "Kool Aid"
  FIRE BOWLEN & SHANAHAN!

• December 18, 2008

  8:05 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  RockyMts69 writes:

  So DD, are you bringing some snowballs to the SD game? HAHA!!! You have to admit that would be funny...see snowballs flying out of the stands in sunny SD!

  Did you get good seats? My wife and I will be on the visitors side on the 45yd line, row 4...she's in for a rude awakening. It's her first NFL game, she thinks I'm nuts when I watch them at the bar or at home.

  Where is Rutabaga...?

• December 18, 2008

  8:15 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  RockyMts69 writes:

  Doh!!! Thanks Dave, I'm ready for the play-offs RIGHT NOW! I think Denver is going to surprise a lot of people. Guys at work thought I was crazy when I picked Boise St. over Oklahoma, and when I took the Giants over NE last year. Even the guy at the sports book was lookin' at me funny, until I came back the next day to collect my money!

  Feelin' good man, feelin' good...

• December 18, 2008

  8:36 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  RockyMts69, we'll be on the 40 yard line, Broncos side, 1st level. Not sure which row? He has the tickets and lives in San Diego. Even if it were "nosebleed seats" (it's not), I would love it. But we're close to the field, I know, just not sure how close. No, no snowballs. I'm glad this melted. We might get more, though. Hope not. I'm a "sun-monkey". Don't like the cold, anymore.
  I know what you mean about being "the quiet one" at the bar. I'm the official "cheerleader at the bar I go to for the games. I get everybody going. Been going there for 6 years. It was kind of dead there, last weekend. It was a locally televised game, I believe. People must have watched it at home? Myerda00 showed up and we met. Good person. Knowledgeable of the game. He got to see my "quiet side", ha, ha. We split a few pitchers with another one of my Broncos friends who goes there. But I didn't see about 12 of the regulars who normally show up? I don't know if this weekends game will be locally televised, either? The TV guide, online, doesn't state which game will be aired? Somebody at Cox needs to get it together. But, by not listing it, it means the fans will come to the bar. I expect a full house, this weekend.
  I bet on the Giants, last year, as well. I always love the underdog, unless it's against Denver. Are you in living in Vegas? I thought you lived in CA, if memory serves me? Alzheimer's must be kicking in? What was I saying? Oh, yeah... ha, ha. I saw you mentioned Sports Book which we have in Vegas. Anywhere else, they call 'em "bookies", ha, ha. Well, here's to a Broncos win and a SD loss. Broncos need to win, though, to earn the spot. GO BRONCOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• December 18, 2008

  8:53 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  RockyMts69 writes:

  I'm working in CA right now. I live over off of Windmill & Eastern. I sometimes go to Roadrunners down the street. I'm in San Jose right now. I watched the Broncos game last week in Raiders territory. I kinda kept a low profile there...you know, I did'nt want to advertise that I wanted my @$$ kicked. Hate it when you can't cheer on your team. But when I was in Fresno that was a good time on Sundays. The Silver Dollar has about 16 large flat screens, and it was a good crowd of people. Mostly Packer fans, Steelers, and then Broncos fans. We had about four t.v.'s to ourselves, and the local 'cheerleader' raffled off some pretty cool stuff during half time. Maybe I can buy you a beer at the SD game, we'll be in row 4, but I'll double check the tix when I get home.

• December 18, 2008

  9:10 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  johnb writes:

  jay has power.

• December 18, 2008

  9:15 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Sounds good. Just so you know, my mother has just finished angioplasty. She got out of the hospital, yesterday. She is going in for open heart surgery the 1st week of January. No other family nearby to take care of her and my father (he had a stroke 5 years ago), so it's pretty much up to me. I have to see how she's feeling, before I go. I don't want to be gone for any long periods of time. I already told Frank about it (he's the one with the tickets). If I don't go, he and his wife will take a friend in San Diego. I told him I would know by the middle of the week, next week. Family comes 1st. I don't want her unattended for too long. She's 80.

• December 18, 2008

  9:38 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  RockyMts69 writes:

  Sorry to hear about your parents. I totally understand...

• December 19, 2008

  6:10 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  TatMat76 writes:

  Wow I just read every single comment on here. Some good stuff. First thing I gotta say is Cutlers arm is and never will be better than Elways. Had to throw that out first, I am a huge Elway fan and will always take his side (except when he married that dam Faider cheerleader). On a personal note I named my third son after him. Even if I wasn't such a fan of his I would still dissagree with the comment. I do agree with most every other post tho, even when we do make it to the playoffs, and if we do lose in the first game oh well (that will not be cool but oh well), look at what we delt with this season. Mainly the injuries; What other team in the NFL could have ended up with a record like ours and lead their division the entire season using practice squad guys, cell phone dealers, and numurous other nobodys who have all become (for the most part) house hold names. Our boys deserve a huge pat on the back for what they have done for us. I will be upset if we lose in the playoffs, but hell the Broncos put up a hell of a good fight and the Thunder will come right back next year. For the two of you who are going to the SD game have a great time, I live in Ohio and when I took my wife to the Thurs. night game she pretty much got the scare of her life. Those Cleveland fans are frickin ruthless. Especially if your the only Broncos fans in a 2-3 section radious and your decked out in Elway garb. Dam 22 years and they still are pissed about the drive. Threatened to punch my wife in the face for cheering, I was threatened to be killed, hell my wife didn't use the bathroom the entire game for fear of being jumped. Anywho, good times, much funner when we go to the games in Denver tho lol.
  GO BRONCOS
  Den- 31 Buf- 17

• December 19, 2008

  8:48 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  TatMat76, yeah, I talk to an online friend from Ohio and she was at the Cleveland game. She also said they were jerks. She also said they kept grabbing her behind and such. Stupid people. Anywhere else, and that would be sexual assault. Raiders black hole is even worse, from what I hear. Go in there and it's like pulling the pin on a grenade and putting it in your own pocket. She's moving back to Colorado. At least she can enjoy the game, there. Maybe it's safer to look around for a Broncos bar (if Cleveland has one)? At least you got the satisfaction of seeing Denver win against them, in high fashion, this season. Merry Christmas.

• December 19, 2008

  9:59 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  jersey writes:

  Dynamic&300: Hey it's XMAS! If ever there was a time in trying to get along I hope now would be that time. Each and everyone of us has an opinion and NO ONE should be subjected to name calling in expressing those opinions if not agreed with. That crap is middle school! As for Cutler and the expectations? To whom much is given...much is expected!

• December 19, 2008

  10:48 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Jersey, hey, I've called you names and you called me names, but I still love you, man. (Got a Bud-Lite?) Anyways, I'm well over it. I move on. So, keep your fingers crossed for your Giants to pull out a win. I think they can do it. D needs to shut down that Panthers running game, to keep it close. What's your thought on the Steelers/Titans? I think Steelers will win it in a low scoring game?

• December 19, 2008

  3:01 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  jersey writes:

  Dynamic: Ditto on the love Bro. Make mine the Steelers. Even though I pull for the local kid, LenDale White out of Chatfield High I'm not sold on the Titans as a whole. I get the impression that they are more surprised by their start than anyone else. As for my boys I'm not concerned about stopping the Panthers running game. Unlike your guys it's a forte with us. What does concern me more than anything is our DB's. I cringe when it's third down and long with the obvious pass coming. Kenny Phillips our number one draft pick has been a welcome addition but like most rookies he's been up and down like the rest of the DB's. On one play he looks All Pro and on another I wonder what the heck happened to him on that one? It's a most demanding position for sure and the successful ones have to have amnesia to flourish and survive. I played against a QB back in HS named Ted Shoebridge who unfortunately perished in the Marshall University plane crash made famous by the movie. This guy was such a magician he had my head on a swivel in trying to guess whether to support the run or stay back for pass support. Man! That was only HS so you can just imagine how tough it is in the pros. Later.

• December 19, 2008

  4:10 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Jersey, Marshall, huh? Yeah, I saw the movie and then did some reading up. Such a tragic turn of events. Never played football. Went into kickboxing, instead. I probably would have made a decent WR, though, if I would have attempted it. I was fast in my day. Good hands and hand/eye coordination. Just chose a different path.
  Yep, I would still be concerned with the Panthers running game, mainly towards the end of the game when the D is getting tired. Unless the Giants can jump out with a big lead and force the Panthers to change their game plan? I still think the Giants will win it, regardless.

• December 19, 2008

  7:09 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  jersey writes:

  Dynamic: Tragic does not begin to sum it up. I was in the service when it happened and was truely saddened when I heard about it. I only spoke to him briefly after our game and he was almost apologetic for making me look so bad. With his option ability and accurate arm he was truely a magician. I, aka "Karnac" says.......Gmen-35....Panthers-14...........Bronc's-24.....Bills-21. I'll be surprised if I don't hear from Pantherfan. I'm sure he is lurking out there somewhere.

• December 19, 2008

  8:13 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Dynamicdave writes:

  Jersey, I never saw "Pantherfan" on the blog, before. Only after the game, to gloat. We call them "trolls". The regular bloggers (myself included) we call "a pain in the a**", ha, ha.

  Giants - 27
  Panthers - 24

  Broncos - 31 (I hope)
  Bills - 20

  San Diego - 20
  Tampa Bay - 30

Featured

• DNC in Denver

  

  Complete coverage of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

• The Crevasse

  

  A five-part series that examines one tragic day on Mount Rainier.

• Deadly denial

  

  Sick nuclear workers applied for government compensation but most haven't seen a dime.

• Final Salute

  

  The Rocky followed Maj. Steve Beck as he took on the most difficult duty of his career.

• 'Colorado's burning'

  

  Coverage of the state's worst wildfires.

• Columbine shootings

  

  Coverage of the April 20, 1999, shootings at Littleton's Columbine High School.

• The Crossing

  

  Colorado's deadliest traffic accident killed 20 children on Dec. 14, 1961.

• Osveli's journey

  

  Osveli Sales left Guatemala for a better life. Two months later, he came home in a box.

• Wake for an Indian warrior

  

  Oglala Sioux bestow a tribute to the first tribal fatality in Iraq.