KRIEGER: Cutler still has some growing up to do

By Dave Krieger, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published November 23, 2008 at 8:12 p.m.

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Photo by Chris Schneider © The Rocky

Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler wasn't ready to provide answer after the Broncos 21-point loss to the Raiders. Cutler had his worst statistical game in the loss.

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Is Jay Cutler's immaturity to blame for the Broncos' up-and-down season?

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Comments

November 23, 2008

8:43 p.m.

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r3dgraphix writes:

The Broncos have been pretty poor over the last 9 or 10 years and the only common denominator is Shanahan. They can change Defensive coordinators until the cows come home but until they get a coach that can get his team ready to play every week they are doomed. This clown should have been gone four years ago but the other clown keeps him around.
November 23, 2008

8:46 p.m.

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deezBroncs1127 writes:

Man I'm sick and tired of this comparison of Elway to Cutler...quit writing about it. There will NEVER BE ANOTHER ELWAY !!! So quit making the comparisons of what Elway did in his early career compared to what Cutler is doing.

Its not rocket science. If you passer rating is low your not gonna win many ball games...if you passer rating is high...your gonna win the majority of the games. Yeah Cutler has a little attitude at times...but thats Cutler...He is NOT ELWAY!!! So let him be.

Again...everybody is quick to ride off somebody when they do something bad...but it is only his 2nd full year of starting and he has over 3,000 yds and 19 td's...Name 5 other QB's with these numbers this year...............waiting..........waiting...........YOU CAN'T !!! Because there are none. So take Jay as he is, because is our best chance of winning...if not go write for the Chargers....maybe you'll like Rivers more.
November 23, 2008

8:55 p.m.

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Jubei writes:

First of all, the INTs are on Cutler. The sulking and the poor attitude are also on Cutler. The refusal at times to use the second and third reads and forced throws? Yes, unfortunately all on Cutler.

But the blah play-calling, the suspect defense, and the horrid special teams play are not the fault of Cutler. The obvious lack of any kind of game plan is not his fault either. Neither was the near-complete abandonment of the run game.

Does he need to grow up? Damn right he does. Does he need to show some fire when things don't go his way instead of withdrawing and sulking? Yep. Should he get the clue that his attitude after a loss will be what people remember, and not after a win? Sure.

He desperately needs to step up and be THE leader of this team, not just the offense. But he also needs to realize that the fat paycheck comes along with a lot of responsibility. The guys that are even younger that he is are looking at him. If they see that he's going in the tank, they will probably do the same thing.
November 23, 2008

9:13 p.m.

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Spider writes:

What the heck happened? I was only able to catch the last 13 minutes of the game and the Broncos looked terrible. Both lines were just getting mauled.
November 23, 2008

9:44 p.m.

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Swick writes:

It's not all Cutler's fault. The team around him has little experience and only shades of talent. Give him a defense and dependable running game and he'll win SBs just like Elway did. No he's not Elway, but he's a really good young QB who is going to be inconsistant like most young QBs are. Had a feeling we'd lose to the Raiders. Denver has been playing up and down all year and this was a classic trap game. Luckily SD(a better team with a worse record) lost tonight so Denver still has a chance to lose in the playoffs. I'd be happy if this year ended with one playoff win. That would be an accomplishment for this team.
November 23, 2008

10:06 p.m.

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milehigh303 writes:

Shanahan needs to go- We have won 1 yes 1 playoff game since Elway left and 1 AFC West title. Shanny's message and strategies have grown old and stale here. Its time for a change. We have had 4 defensive coordiantors in 9 years, he takes ZERO accountability for the Defense. He is the HEAD COACH Right? This team is in Shambles, he doesnt have them ready and prepared to play week to week and that's a problem. Sorry Broncos fans, we have to cut the ties with this man the Super Bowl years are ancient!!! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR ME LATELY???
November 23, 2008

10:15 p.m.

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RockyMts69 writes:

In the past 14 seasons Shanahan has led the Broncos to seven play-off appearances and won two SB's. Not bad.

Under Reeves in with 12 seasons at hand Denver made seven play-off appearances and lost three SB's.

Some people want Bill Cowher, but in his 15 seasons with the Steelers they made it to the play-offs eight times and two SB's winning only one of them.

Shanahan has done an EXCELLENT job these past couple of years in regards with the draft.

You can't put this whole loss on Cutler...Marshall and Royal dropped some catchable passes, and the defense just let Oakland run all over them.
November 23, 2008

10:36 p.m.

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I_am_smarter_than_you writes:

RockyMts69, the Steelers under Cowher were the most consistent winning team of the time. You can go back 14 years to make your stats if you want, but by the same token we can go back and note that the Raiders have won more Super Bowls that the Donkeys. In all, it's ancient history - last millennium.

Here's a real stat for you. Since Mike Shanahan lost John Elway, he's won 1 playoff game. That's it. That's your stat, right there. Those 2 Super Bowls he won were with teams that Dan Reeves put together. So don't go deluding yourself into believing that Mike Shanahan is the Mastermind. It's a Sham-a-han.
November 23, 2008

10:49 p.m.

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DallasKing94 writes:

Loss to the Raiders? The horrible, lousy, bottom ranked defense, offense and stinky Raiders?!
November 23, 2008

10:56 p.m.

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Swick writes:

Wade Phillips was the coach before Shanahan arrived in Denver. Most of Reeves players were gone except Elway and Atwater by 1997. Shanahan picked up a ton of FAs like Neil Smith, Alfred Williams, and Romo that helped us in his early years. The key piece, TD, was a Shanahan pick. Cowher wouldn't be a good replacement and who's to say he wouldn't be on his way in Parcell fashion after a couple of years. We'll stick with Shanahan, who also picked the best NFL QB out of the Leinart,Young draft.
November 23, 2008

11:02 p.m.

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broncos4724 writes:

hey I_am_smarter_than_you...your name should be im dumber then you cause under Shanahans years no team in the nfl has had more wins then mike since hes been coach....look it up!!!!....and dan reeves didnit build that team he was out the door in 1992 we didnt get good untill 96...did reeves bring in players like....terrell davis,tom nalen, ed mccaffery,rod smith,gary zimmerman,bill romonowski,john mobley, mark schlerth, alfred williams,neil smith,keith traylor........NOOOOO!!! mike Shanahan did....everyone of those players were key players in our 2 super bowls the only players reeves can take credit for our elway,sharpe and atwater....so maybe you should check your stats!!!!!
November 23, 2008

11:42 p.m.

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angryman1n writes:

deezBroncs1127... How about this... QBs w/ 18 or more TDs.

1. P. Rivers, 23 TDs, 2806 yds,
2. K. Warner, 21, 3506
3. B. Favre, 20, 2461
4. J. Cutler, 19, 3036
5. P. Manning, 19, 2823
6. D. Brees, 18, 3251
7. E. Manning, 18, 2319
8. T. Romo, 18, 2228 (How many games did he miss?)
November 23, 2008

11:48 p.m.

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angryman1n writes:

Jubei... well said.
November 23, 2008

11:55 p.m.

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westwoods writes:

Hey Krieger,

I understand that part of your job as a sports writer is to be controversial or incendiary; however, if you’re going to try to place the blame for the Broncos multiple personalities this season on Jay Cutler’s shoulders then I would suggest that your understanding of Broncos’ football has some “growing up to do”.

Do you find it irrelevant that the Broncos lead the league in dropped passes? Or that our running game has been mediocre at best? How about the fact that going into today's game the Broncos had the 3rd ranked overall offense and the 28th ranked defense? I’m sure you would agree that the fact that six of our defensive back seven are backups has nothing to do with the inconsistency? Or the fact that we’ve had four injured RB’s (five if you count Alrige) and are starting our FB at RB? Is Cutler responsible for the uninspired play calling? How about the atrocious special teams play?

Again, Dave, I understand that you’re trying to be controversial, but do you have to be so ridiculous while doing it?

Cutler does sometimes act young...but that's not why the Broncos are losing. Grow up!
November 24, 2008

12:01 a.m.

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westwoods writes:

Dave,

On second thought, it occurs to me that Jay probably hurt your feelings by not giving you the time or detailed response that you thought one of your questions deserved and this is your way of getting back at him. That's the only way that I can really make sense of such an absurd article. Assuming that is the case, talk about the pot calling the kettle black. Again, grow up!
November 24, 2008

12:04 a.m.

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FTR writes:

What is all this talk about Cutler? You are all fools if you think this loss was due to Cutler. Get off his back!
FTR
November 24, 2008

12:46 a.m.

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tdcolorado writes:

We're lucky to have Cutler. Do you long for the good old days of Brian Griese and Gus Ferotte? Get real.This team is beat-up, young and inexperienced but has alot of promise to be damn good in the near future. We need an impact DE and better safeties way more than a change at QB or coach. Sorry, but I don't see Cowher as the Messiah, either. Quit trying to make Cutler be Elway and keep building for the future!
November 24, 2008

1:08 a.m.

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Mark13 writes:

Cutler is not the problem he is playing with a lot of journey man talent who will be gone soon enough. Draft defense for the next two years. They have a good start with the young offense.

Some of the so called fans are amazing. They jump off a cliff with every loss. Hey, they are what the are, things will get better ladies.
November 24, 2008

4:51 a.m.

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Seawen writes:

Hey mentioning Rivers was a cheap shot on the other points you are correct.
It is mostly Cutler's fault. This team is built around him. He has been given a very solid O-line, and two very good targets. Three when Sheff is healthy. With that he should be able to beat a team like the Raiders. It is totally his fault.
Now on the flip side, he is making a very good progress. He is still young, and he is getting better every week, and he shows flashes of greatness. The team is on the right track with him under center.
I don't blame Cutler for losing to teams like New England and Jacksonville. The team does not have the defense or running game to beat a quality teams on a consistent basis. But the Raiders? He has to lead by example, and burry the bad teams. Beating the good teams will come when they get him more help.
November 24, 2008

5:42 a.m.

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Broncody writes:

I will agree that there is a strong correlation between Cutler throwing INTs and the broncos getting a loss. That doesn't fall explicitly on Jay though. A poor run game allows safetys to sink back and wait on balls and a poor defense giving up 30 or more points (EVEN TO THE STINKING RAIDERS) forces Jay to throw more than an offense should. So many "ifs" this year; if Torain stayed healthy, if Champ was healthy, if any LBs were healthy (even though the backups are playing great football), if he didn't fumble on his first two carries, if he didn't throw so many INTs... fumbles and interceptions are preventable but the lack of a true HB and the lack of a good defense effects those stats. I think this is an average team that over achieves sometimes and is two or three players away from being a great team.

The raiders were overlooked. That does have to fall on the coaches. They weren't playing as well as they should against a rival and the raiders did. Ugh that was hard to type. I feel sick now.
November 24, 2008

8:07 a.m.

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benh0017 writes:

Once again another field day for the Bronco and Shanahan apologists. I can't beleive that intelligent Bronco fans can accept what is happening and have the guts to defend them in print. But then again, after reading some of your comments, I use the term "intelligent" loosely.

I have taken exception with Cutler before and I will again. He does pout and it reflects on the rest of the team. HE is NOT a leader, not yet anyway. HE is NOT a professional, on or off the field. Part of being a pro is being accessible to the media and somewhat responsible to the fans. HE is NOT. He is so immature, I am surprised he hasn't picked up the ball and just went home. I hope I am wrong, but I don't think he is the future and I certainly hope Shanahan isn't.

Everybody needs to read the comments from Jubei...he really hit the nail on the head and his point was right on. His was the most intelligent comment posted on this sight in months.

Well said Jubei!!!!
November 24, 2008

8:23 a.m.

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Blind_Pete writes:

Where have you gone Mr. Robinson
Our defense turns its lonely eyes to you
Boo hoo hoo
What's that you say Mr. Shanahan
Blitzin' Greg has left and gone away
hey hey hey hey hey hey
November 24, 2008

8:28 a.m.

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J_easy writes:

remember the raiders did beat the NY Jets but did yall 4get that and just went for the young injury prone broncos we are fans people you have to take it game by game just like the team we are going for stop being hypocrites when the broncs win you all on they nuts praising jay cutler but when they lose you want to crucify jay cutler and shanny just be a fan ppl we are not the experts so stop acting like you really know wats best 4 the team your not getting paid for it
November 24, 2008

9:53 a.m.

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Woodrow writes:

Good article Dave. "Westwoods" completely misses the point.

Of course the D is weak and the O is dropping WAY too many passes and the giveaway thing kills any team in any league.

The fact that Cutler is a little baby after losses is a valid point. And the fact that he would not take a pass on responding to a reporter about any comparisons to Elway also shows he needs to grow up.

Growing up often means knowing when to keep your mouth shut. Weather you have a stronger arm or not, saying you do serves no purpose.

It seams that when we have early adversity, he can't seem to shake it off and the rest of the team feeds off of that. He is the leader after all. He needs to be more professional and that will come with experience...hopefully...
November 24, 2008

9:57 a.m.

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LarryB writes:

The poll is missing one selection. Cutler should develop more of an "even keel" AND the players around him should pick up their own performance. And the coaches have to get smarter.

Dropped passes aren't Cutler's fault. The Raiders had more constant pressure on him than any other team so far this year. That wasn't Cutler's fault. It is my understanding that Cutler doesn't call his own plays, except for an occasional check off. Calling deep passes time after time after time is not Cutler's fault.

Remember when Favre came to town with the Packers and beat the Broncos with two deep passes? How many deep passes did Favre throw in that game? Two. At least, there weren't many more than that.

The Broncos have great receivers at TE and in the slot, and the outside receivers are good short and long. And Hillis is a terrific receiver. So where were the slants, the hooks, the dumps out of the backfield? Where was the West Coast?

Cutler did not have his best game. Neither did the receivers or the linemen. But what really stunk up the joint was the play calling. Whoever calls the plays (we can never seem to get that straight) should lose his voice.
November 24, 2008

10:03 a.m.

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mexcellent writes:

Sounds to me like the "Faders" came into town.......boo hoo. Eat it! Go Raiders
November 24, 2008

10:55 a.m.

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BoiseBroncoFan writes:

Bench Brandon Marshall and take away the play calling from offensive coordinator. Marshall had at least 3 easy drops. I stopped counting how many times we'd throw long and incomplete on 1st down then give the ball to Harris on 2nd down for 6-8 yards. We were running what looked like a cliff note version of the offense. On defense, plain and simple, we are not big enough to compete over 60 minutes. From here out, we may only win one more game and I'm not sure about that even. I'd say Kansas City would be a win but then again, I thought the same thing about the Raiders. Jeez, loose to anybody but the Raiders!!! All I want for Christmas is some good draft picks for next years D!!!
November 24, 2008

11:31 a.m.

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blm69 writes:

What happened to the controlled game plan that Shanahan devised for Jake Plummer three years ago. That team went 13-3. We haven't even tried to establish a running game and cutler has been given too much freedom to throw the ball all over the field.
November 24, 2008

11:51 a.m.

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JCut6JElway7 writes:

westwoods... Nailed it!!! Are you serious KRIEGER??? Talk about transparent... did Jay ignore you or something at a press conference? This article is ridiculous. The fact that you use the word "maturity" and Phillip Rivers in the same sentence show you have 0 idea what you’re talking about. Jay has played in only 32 games!!! Last week EVERYONE was talking about his 4th quarter stats... his come from behind wins... commanding the offense against the Falcons and Browns. Now this week you want to put the blame on him for losing 31-10 against the Raiders??? And Jamarcus Russell was 10-11, 152, 1 TD and you said Jay was "outplayed"??? This article is an embarrassment to yourself. I could care less if and how Cutler talks to the press after the game. Spin it anyway you want... the Broncos are 2 games up in the AFC West with 5 to play. I'll take that any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
November 24, 2008

11:53 a.m.

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Mark13 writes:

Remember just before the first Superbowl win when the team went into a skid at the end of the year? The Romo spitting incident etc. I'm sure all you whiners were up in arms then. I know the press was but they're paid to be a bunch of negative underacheivers, go work for them.

This team is not going to any Superbowls for sure but they have a good young nucleaus and the payoff will come. I'm sure the bandwagon will stop to pick you back up then.
November 24, 2008

12:15 p.m.

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Broncofan_in_Boston writes:

The criticism of Cutler is definitely warranted, along with the criticism of the defense, special teams, play-calling and big-time Brandon.

It was a total team effort to stink like that.

But the maturity of Cutler is a big issue. To me, the stats only confirm the criticism because it shows the potential. He's very young and they are asking alot of him. Hey, that's life for a 1st round draft pick at QB.

You can visibly see when he gets rattled and his play goes sharply downhill when that happens. And while a lot of people share blame, Jay's performance affects the team the most.

For all the a blame the defense gets, they gave up 3 points in the first half. The offense was terrible. You should be looking at a double digit lead at that point.

Against Miami, 13 first half points were directly from turnovers. Again, 3 points at the half by the defense.

I don't remember the score in the Jags game, but that game remained close into the 4th quarter, but again, the O did nothing.

KC, 4 offensive turnovers...

Denver is supposed to be an offensive team. The defense did their job while the O sputtered and eventually the defense broke down. Even good defenses eventually break down when the O doesn't put up points. Are they a good defense? NO! But they did a good enough job that the offense should have had leads in those games.

Games go completely different when you are playing with a lead.

Cutler and Marshall are very "fragile" and if things don't go their way, they act like children and pout. Sure, they are young, but they aren't children. They are men and should act accordingly.

Most QB's go through the growing pains. I think he's the right guy, but he needs to grow up. And if he plays bad or acts like a punk, we have every right to get on here and say it.
November 24, 2008

12:41 p.m.

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Woodrow writes:

Broncofan_in_Boston. Well said. Absolutely... they are known for having a "potentially" number one ranked offense in this league.

The defense will struggle, it's the offense that needs to carry them consistently and when they don't it's ugly. This team can't afford to get behind early.

Cutler and this year's team still have a chance to improve and compete at a high level. I believe (and hope) the defense will continue to improve this year.

There are a few other players that need to correct mistakes (#15) but, Cutler is the key and if he can increase his maturity level both on and off the field, I think they will compete in the playoffs and you never know what might happen when you start to click at the end of the season.
November 24, 2008

12:41 p.m.

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westwoods writes:

Woodrow,

How can you state that I 'don't get' the article and then write, "It seams (sic) that when we have early adversity, (Cutler) can't seem to shake it off and the rest of the team feeds off of that". I'm sorry... but didn't jay just lead us to two back to back fourth quarter victories on the road? He has been stellar for a QB who is essentially a second year starter. I don't think anyone really gives a rat's @ss if you and Dave don't like his attitude.

I would think that before you accuse somebody of a "lack of understanding" that you'd know what the hell you're talking about first. Good day sir!
November 24, 2008

1:10 p.m.

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Dynamicdave writes:

I_am_smarter_than_you, Sorry, but you're wrong. I agree with RockyMts69. Cowher had 15 years and only one ring. Sorry, doesn't exactly send signals of glory through my body.
mexcellent, get over yourself.
November 24, 2008

1:37 p.m.

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deezBroncs1127 writes:

This is to you angryman1n...Of those QB's you listed...Who are their RB's....Rivers/L.T....Farve/Jones...Peyton/Addai...Brees/Bush&Deuce...Eli Manning/Jacobs,Bradshaw & Ward...Romo/Barber. So your telling me that Cutler is on the same level as those guys....GIVE ME A BREAK. Cutler has no running game to support him in the passing game...All of our play action plays are pointless b/c the whole NFL knows we can't run the ball consistantly. Yeah we get a few 8-10 gains...but tell me when the last time we broke one to the house.

Cutler is putting up great numbers without a running game. So get the hell of his back and leave hime alone. Cutler is the best thing we have going for us right now and until we bring in a every down running back its not gonna change. So Cutler's numbers of 19 TD's & 3,000 without a running back is pretty damn impressive to me.
November 24, 2008

1:45 p.m.

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bubba17 writes:

Krieger is not being "incendiary" or "controversial". He's being honest. Jay is a baby. At 25, he's older than Matt Ryan. But you'd never know it from their performances on and off the field.
November 24, 2008

2:09 p.m.

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Woodrow writes:

Westwoods, I said you missed the point, which you clearly still do. It's not about Cutler coming back to win those 2 recent games in the 4th of that he is "essentially" a 2nd year QB.

Krieger said that the word has gotten around the league that you can get into Cutler's head. I'll take his word on that long before I would take yours.

Nobody questions his ability and talent level. Why so sensitive? I've seen him make some of the best throws that I have probably ever seen, but even Brandon Marshall is saying they ALL need to mature.

Dude, they just got smoked by the Raiders at home no less. Everyone beats up on the Raiders this year.

The point is that if Cutler can use these experiences to grow and improve, then Broncos will be a much better team. A team that should beat the freakin Raiders at a time when they are horrible.
November 24, 2008

2:22 p.m.

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BroncoBrad writes:

I_am_smarter_than_you writes:

"Those 2 Super Bowls he won were with teams that Dan Reeves put together."

Hey dipstick, I believe the roster of those two superbowls were put together under Wade Phillips and Mike Shanahan, not Reeves. Phillips was the coach of the Orange and Blue for the two years prior to Shanahan. And correct me if I am wrong, but Shanahan did not win in the superbowl in his first two years as head coach. Give the guy some credit for putting some of the other pieces in place during their superbowl runs of the 90's.
November 24, 2008

2:22 p.m.

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westwoods writes:

bubba17,

It's clear from your comment that you don't understand just how much a consistently potent running game helps a QB. Matt Ryan has one of the league's best RBs in his backfield just like nearly every other QB mentioned in this thread. Cutler has had to throw the entire offense on his shoulders and carry them. He has consistently overcome terrible defensive play, dropped passes, no running game, and poor playcalling while leading this team to a 6-5 record and a two game lead in the division. He has led several come from behind wins and is on track to destroy many of the Broncos single season passing records.

Still the idiots must be heard. People will still find ways to criticize him. Obviously the only way some of you would be happy is if Cutler single-handedly led the Broncos to an undefeated season and a SB victory in his second full year as a starter (come to think of it, a lot of you still wouldn't be happy). He has done about everything short of that.

Again, if you simply don't like his personality then I would suggest you get over it. It has nothing to do with the Broncos winning or losing. Or are you going to tell me that every single successful NFL QB been the pinacle of class and maturity?
November 24, 2008

2:46 p.m.

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westwoods writes:

Woodrow,

Don’t try to soften Krieger’s point to make it sound reasonable. You said, “The point is that if Cutler can use these experiences to grow and improve, then Broncos will be a much better team.” Well…who would disagree with that? But that wasn’t Krieger’s point.

The point of the article is clearly that when the Broncos lose it is because of Cutler's poor play and immaturity, “As Cutler goes, so goes his team.” He then goes on to to correlate Cutler’s low QB rating and turnovers with their losses. However, he is failing to take into account that having no running game and being forced to play from behind because of poor defensive play is inevitably going to force any QB into situations where he is required to be reckless with the football. If he was not consistently in 3rd and long situation due to poor play calling and inadequate running on 1st and 2nd downs (or making up for dropped passes or blown routes) then he wouldn’t have to try to make those 10-15 yard passes in obvious passing situations that are prone to turnover. The assumption that a poor QB rating or INTs are entirely the result of “immature” play at QB is absurd.

Furthermore, suggesting that, “the single biggest improvement the Broncos could make right now would be more professionalism, more maturity and more consistency from their quarterback.” is equally absurd. You wouldn’t take an improved defense? Or a running game? Or better play calling? Or better special teams play? Really? If you had your choice you’d pick “more professionalism, more maturity and more consistency from their quarterback.”? Really? It seems like improving on the 28th ranked defense would be a bigger improvement than improving on the 3rd ranked offense? Do you watch the Broncos?

Why am I so sensitive? I’m not really. I understand that there are always going to be haters, but I don’t have to let their absurdity go unchallenged.
November 24, 2008

3:09 p.m.

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BoiseBroncoFan writes:

Here's a grand idea, let's trade Jay for that head case down in Tennessee (Vince Young)!!! Come on, he's 25 and yes, I'd like to see him act a bit more mature but then again, he's 25. I'm willing to bet that the vast majority of you acted immature at 25 and I'm certain that none of you could handle the pressure he is under. Horrible play calling and a worse than average defense is what is killing us. Since some of you think that the whole game is in Jay's hands maybe he should be playing both sides of the ball instead of Spencer Larsen. There are plenty of places to point the blame, our QB play isn't one of them.
November 24, 2008

3:21 p.m.

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Swick writes:

I like Cutler's personality. He gets fired up. Sometimes a little frustrated, but most players would be in his position when the team implodes around you(dropped passes, missed FGs, fumbles). He might not placate to the press all the time, but have you actually listened to some of the idiotic questions they ask. They're trying to get a rise out of the players and ask the most asanine questions. Krieger is probably one of them. Denver should fire all the writers whose name starts with a K. That'd free up some spots for some level headed writers(some from these blogs would definately do a better job).
November 24, 2008

4:30 p.m.

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ES writes:

STOP COMPARING CUTLER TO ELWAY!!!!! GET A LIFE AND SOME ORIGINAL MATERIAL!!!! The only person your entertaining by doing it is your own ego!!!
November 24, 2008

5:11 p.m.

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Colorado_Thunder_77 writes:

Everyone trying to defend Jay needs to stop. He has to bump his head to learn what to and NOT to do. In this town he will always be compared to Elway and always be under a microscope, deal with it Jay. I am a therapist by career and what I see in Jay is what you would normally see in a child that has not had to learn natural consequences for his behavior. He most likely was told most of his life that all will be ok and don’t worry and then the person who was telling him this would go and fix the problem. Now he has to fix things himself. Did you ever wonder why Jays family moved here right after Jay did? OVER PROTECTIVE PARENTS! But they can’t fix this. So Jay acts like a sulky petulant child. He will be fine as long as he learns to turn to his peers to work through things and as long as he does not turn the city against him with his attitude.
November 24, 2008

5:34 p.m.

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Swick writes:

Nothing better than an armchair therapist. Very professional of you to judge somebody you've never met personally. Your field is one of the easiest to access so don't act like you know more than the rest of us. Typically therapist need therapy which is why they're so interested in the profession to begin with. If you had done a study on the personalities of NFL players(especially QBs), then you may have some room to speak on the matter. Otherwise stop acting like Cutler is different from any other 20yr old making millions. They're all pretty spoiled so it's ridiculous to single out Cutler when he's no worse than most. He's not TO or Ryan Leaf by any stretch.
November 24, 2008

5:48 p.m.

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Colorado_Thunder_77 writes:

Swick
Wow, some hostility there. Sounds like you need some therapy. I hope you work out your anger issue before you get home to your wife and children. How many times did you read me blame Jay for anything? It is his parents' fault. I also never judged any thing. I spoke directly to the behavior that we all see. As to knowing more than you, it is not an act. You are the one who brought T.O. and Leaf into the conversation, not me. Lastly, how do you know who I have and have not met??? So, please, go back to pushing your broom.
November 24, 2008

6:04 p.m.

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Swick writes:

I'm tired of the hostility towards decent human beings that so called fans on here throw out every time they get a chance. You just got the brunt of it. Seemed very unprofessional on your account to judge him in such depth considering you very likely don't know him. My girlfriend is actually a counselor, so I'm not against therapy by any means. I do however, see a serious problem in judging others when they don't deserve it. It's like the preacher that calls out everybody that he thinks is a sinner. Not his place or yours. You should know better.
November 24, 2008

6:22 p.m.

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Dynamicdave writes:

Swick, I'm with you brother. Being a therapist doesn't make him correct. He already has Jay labeled with parenting issues. This guy knows nothing of Jays parents. He's projecting. If he would have done his homework, he would see that Jay bought his parents a home and they moved to Denver so that they could watch his games. Hmmm, yeah, those parents are just "evil". I guess it not ok to use positive reinforcement when raising your child? I did with mine and he is a test pilot at Edwards. Man, I really messed that one up? But every time that Denver loses a game, all the bashers show up and talk about how jay stinks, fire Shanahan, dah, dah, dah. Chalk them up to bandwagon fans or just plain, hateful people. By the way, I saw no hostility in your comment. Just plain, hard facts. Don't stop telling it like it is. Speak your mind. That's what these blogs are for.
November 24, 2008

6:33 p.m.

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tdcolorado writes:

Swick and Dynamic-
I third the motion. Colorado Thunder- time to schedule some more time with your own therapist!
November 24, 2008

6:42 p.m.

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Swick writes:

Thanks Dave. I thought I sounded a little harsh, but like you said, sometimes you just have to call em' like you see em'. He should know to reserve his comments for his sessions. His personality came right out after a little prodding. "As to knowing more than you, it's not an act." Sounds like he's got quite an ego. I saw the same thing you did with his parents coming to Denver. TD lived with his mom when he won the SB. What a terrible parent to share the benefits of the hard work ethic they've instilled in their child. They should just leave them to themselves so they can experiment with as much as their money can afford them. Thanks again brother, you're a real fan and sounds like you're a good parent too.
November 24, 2008

7:31 p.m.

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horsepower writes:

"After losses, he has nothing to say and considers accounting for the result an imposition. Every question is ridiculous. He mumbles a few quick answers and makes a rapid exit. You might think this a natural response from a competitor, but keeping an even emotional keel is considered a key to success by most of the league's top quarterbacks.

Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers, to name three, make an obvious effort to be professional and responsive after losses, as if they see it as a test of their maturity. Cutler, by contrast, too often comes off as a spoiled kid. When things don't go his way, he will be in a snit."

Hey, Dave. Cutler is paid to win football games not talk to you!
November 24, 2008

7:39 p.m.

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horsepower writes:

The fact of that matter is the kid has no RB. No running game equals more passing attempts, more INT's, more 3 and outs which in turn means an average at best defense is on the field and wears down. All this equals LOSING in the NFL. The Broncos will never be a SB contender until we find another elite RB. Remember, the defense in the SB years were average at best. The Broncos wore out the oposition with TD and out scored them in 3rd and 4th quarter.
November 24, 2008

7:46 p.m.

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Swick writes:

I've seen Brady lose his temper before(just like his coach, who I love watching in interviews because he's such a terrible interview), and Rivers is not perfect either. Manning is a great speaker and an exception. I wish every player were as gracious and humble as Manning, but that's just not happening.
November 24, 2008

7:51 p.m.

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westwoods writes:

Swick,

Even Manning has had his moments. Remember the "idiot kicker" rant? That wasn't exactly mature or professional regardless of circumstance.
November 24, 2008

8:33 p.m.

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Dynamicdave writes:

Horsepower, also keep in mind that Rivers did his little unsportsmanlike act towards Cutler, the year before. Remember? He was on the field, jawing and talking smack across the field at Cutler, without a helmet on. Very, very unprofessional. Cutler is going to be fine. He is "technically" only finishing his 2nd year, as far as game time playing is concerned. He's doing well and will only get better. Yes, he seems to get a little "down in the mouth" when things don't go well, but I feel as time goes by, he'll learn and grow as a player. Rivers lost my respect with his childish bravado.
November 24, 2008

8:47 p.m.

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Swick writes:

Good point. Forgot about that one. No one's infallible. Next week being Thanksgiving I'd just like to say that I'm very thankful that we have an extremely talented QB, especially after Griese and Plummer. I'd be even more thankful if his receivers could start catching the ball, if we could run for a 1st down on 3rd and 4 like the old days, if we could stop teams every once in a while on 3rd down, if we didn't fumble away our momentum so early in the game, and if a few of you invested in a DVR so you'd be able to review the games and see who's really at fault when we lose.
November 24, 2008

9:12 p.m.

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djfrido writes:

wow...i didn't necessarily agree with everything in this article but respected what was being said until he said Phillip Rivers makes an obvious effort to act professional...hmm...do i even need to say anything?
November 24, 2008

9:32 p.m.

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Dynamicdave writes:

djfrido, ha, ha. I already did and I agree. Rivers is a joke. He may have some stats, but he also has a 4-7 team. He definitely has no personality worth bragging about.
November 24, 2008

10:43 p.m.

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horsepower writes:

Phillip Rivers is nothing more than a toned down version of Ryan Leaf. He is a better player though.
November 24, 2008

10:59 p.m.

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xxx writes:

Well said Jubei, could not agree with you more. The great QB's
in this league do or die on third down %..PERIOD. He can't convert
2 first downs in a row.
November 25, 2008

3 a.m.

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kinetic writes:

Jay Cutler has a higher quarterback rating during the first three years of his career than the following, notable, superbowl winning quarterbacks, and these are just the ones I researched:

Tom Brady
Peyton Manning
Eli Manning
Joe Montana
Brett Favre
Terry Bradshaw
Kurt Warner

AND THE VENERABLE

JOHN ELWAY!!!

Cut the kid some slack!!! He will bring it home. Once our defense comes back to. And we get our running game in order again.

And keep in mind we have a 2 game lead in our division. PLAY OFF BOUND? I think so.
November 25, 2008

1:51 p.m.

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Dynamicdave writes:

Kinetic, agreed. Nice to hear a man of reason, now and then. Too many "fans" expect "perfection". They set the bar soooo high, they can't help but to feel cheated when their expectations fall short. They don't look at the overall big picture. We will make the playoffs. Will we we go to the SB? Who knows? I have no crystal ball, but I do know that I will be watching them, win or lose. Once you're in the playoffs, you have a whole new chance. Everyone is 0-0.

Home › Denver Broncos

KRIEGER: Cutler still has some growing up to do

By Dave Krieger, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published November 23, 2008 at 8:12 p.m.

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