McDaniels interviewed twice; Broncos to ease up a bit
By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published January 10, 2009 at 4:25 p.m.
Photo by Associated Press
New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels looks on from the sidelines during a game against the Miami Dolphins.
Who the Broncos have talked to about their head coaching job:
Jan. 3: Steve Spagnuolo, Giants defensive coordinator, in New York.
Sunday: Josh McDaniels, Patriots offensive coordinator, in Providence, R.I.
Monday: Raheem Morris, Buccaneers defensive coordinator, in Denver.
Tuesday: Jason Garrett, Cowboys assistant head coach/offensive coordinator, and Rick Dennison, Broncos offensive coordinator, both in Denver.
Wednesday: Leslie Frazier, Vikings assistant head coach/defensive coordinator, in Denver.
Thursday: Todd Bowles, Dolphins assistant head coach/secondary, in Denver; McDanies, in Providence, R.I.
Broncos officials, including owner Pat Bowlen, huddled Saturday and continued to narrow the path to a new head coach.
New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris have received the most attention in the most recent discussions, and it is McDaniels who has had a second interview with the team.
Thursday night, Broncos chief operating officer Joe Ellis traveled to Providence, R.I. — team officials had interviewed McDaniels there on Sunday — almost immediately after the team’s interview with Miami Dolphins assistant head coach/secondary Todd Bowles in the Broncos’ Dove Valley complex.
Ellis and McDaniels met for several hours and covered a wide variety of topics.
The 32-year-old McDaniels was the coordinator for the Patriots’ record-setting offense in 2007 — a single-season scoring mark to go with Tom Brady’s record 50 touchdown passes — and this season guided Matt Cassel, who hadn’t started a game since high school, to a 3,000-yard passing season.
McDaniels also has been defensive assistant for Bill Belichick, having coached the secondary for another of the Patriots’ Super Bowl teams.
While the second interview can be interpreted as putting McDaniels at the front of the line, team officials broke their meeting Saturday having agreed to take a step back Sunday with everything from naming a head coach to bringing another candidate or two in for another interview Monday.
By doing that, the Broncos, who also have New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo high on their list, also would have the opportunity to see the outcome of the Giants’ game Sunday afternoon. The Broncos have gathered plenty of information on Spagnuolo, who was the first of seven candidates interviewed, and received almost universally favorable reports.
By league rules for assistants in playoff games this weekend, if the Philadelphia Eagles upset the Giants, the Broncos could re-interview Spagnuolo as soon as Sunday night, while if the Giants win, the Broncos would have to wait until the week after the conference championship games.
Should the Giants win, the Broncos have discussed moving ahead with the candidates they already have spoken to.
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January 10, 2009
5:18 p.m.
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Broncofan_in_Boston writes:
If they want Spagnuolo, they shouldn't rule him out due to the Giants winning. If they mean Denver will move on with other candidates and rule Spags out, that is a bad decision.
Unless they already had a couple guys ahead of him.
January 10, 2009
5:35 p.m.
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mhcsportsdotcom writes:
I agree with you. My belief is part of this has to be financially motivated. Bowlen probably views Spagnuolo, McDaniels and Morris all pretty equally. He doesn't want to wait for Spagnuolo and risk the other two guys being taken. If this scenario were to play itself out, Spagnuolo and his agent would have all the leverage knowing Bowlen is down to his last choice. Just a theory.
January 10, 2009
5:37 p.m.
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avsfan71085 writes:
broncofan and if we wait and he declines? Bad idea, he may make a great coach but he won't make a great coach for us if he continues to win and than doesn't come here
January 10, 2009
5:49 p.m.
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csloan999 writes:
I don't see how finances could play a big role in this decision. We're talking $1m/year more for a different coach. Surely we can find that money somewhere else. Besides, even these assistants making $2m/year as assistants SHOULD be willing to leave for the same or even less money for the opportunity to be a head coach of a successful team...assuming they are ambitious.
January 10, 2009
6:33 p.m.
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mhcsportsdotcom writes:
Yeah, but you aren't taking into account the nearly $7 million the Broncos are on the hook for to Shanahan. Bowlen will essentially be paying two staffs this season and possibly beyond. Also, not reaching the playoffs hurts. That is a lot of money not coming in and a lot going out. I think if Spagnuolo, Morris and McDaniels are fairly even in Bowlen's mind, finances will play into this decision.
January 10, 2009
6:47 p.m.
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Robfromaurora writes:
I truly want it to be McDaniels. I want somebody from the Patriots organization. Any system that is described as having a "Joyless pursuit of trophies" is where you want to get a coach from. The Broncos sure could never be considered as such. We could be considered a "Joyful pursuit of keeping the training room full"
January 10, 2009
6:58 p.m.
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vieng111 writes:
Why are we NOT waiting for Raven's D coach, Rex Ryan? He's the perfect hire for this slugish defense.
January 10, 2009
8:05 p.m.
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Bronco85 writes:
Right, why not wait to get someone like Rex Ryan or Steve Spagnuolo, especially when they have the credentials to fix our broken defense? Our offense can score points, score quickly, and develop leads. We need a defense that can stop opponents from catching up.
If the Denver Broncos don't have the patience or inclination to talk to all of the best candidates available (offensively or defensively) at the end of this season, then what's the point? How do we get a first-tier head coach if we don't talk to all of the best candidates available? What's the rush?
January 10, 2009
8:17 p.m.
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bwall19 writes:
We need a defensive minded coach - offense will be there - it's the D that bites!!
January 10, 2009
8:26 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
I have lobbied for a defensive minded coach, Spags in particular, but if Bowlen feels that McDaniels is the right guy then do it. Maybe we are overlooking that McDaniels may have a great defensive coordinator in mind to come in and fix these guys, or get better ones. Plus, maybe McDaniels will have the same type of success with Cutler that he had last year with Brady. (with that type of offense, you only need a mediocre defense to go deep into the playoffs)
Give the guy some credit, surely he learned something from being in the Patriot system. And I don't want to hear about how Romeo Crennel and Charlie Weis haven't been successful...neither of them genuinely have been put in a situation with a chance to win so don't compare the Denver Broncos organization with Cleveland or Notre Dame
all that said, if it still ends up being Spags...then great!!!
January 10, 2009
8:46 p.m.
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BlueSky writes:
Bowlen and Goodman must've seen something in McDaniels. How about firing Bob Slowik and bring Romeo Crennel in to coach the D with McDaniels being the headcoach?
January 10, 2009
8:47 p.m.
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BlueSky writes:
I meant to say Bowlen and Ellis .......
January 10, 2009
8:55 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
bluesky, I don't know if I would jump all over Romeo Crennel right now. I know that he did a very good job in NE, but after the past few years in Cleveland he is damaged goods. Young guy like McDaniels probably has someone in mind already. But going after a veteran d-coordinator would make some sense, still be kind of a mentor for McDaniels or at least a sounding board
Anyone watching this Cardinals-Carolina game...can you believe that Arizona is a Philadelphia win away from HOSTING the NFC Championship game...wow, never thought I'd live long enough to say that
January 10, 2009
8:59 p.m.
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Swick writes:
He looks good to me, especially after hearing that he's been a defensive assistant beforehand. We don't neccessarily need a defensive head coach, just a new D-coordinator and some people who know how to evaluate D talent. Mixing his offensive ideas with the coaches we already have on staff may help some of our red-zone problems. Though a decent running game would fix the red-zone problems and make our D look better by keeping them energized and off the field.
January 10, 2009
9:27 p.m.
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myerda00 writes:
Hey GHF bloggers, I still have this weak feeling about NE assistants that have moved to head coaching positions. The track record of Romeo Crennel, Eric Mangini, and Charlie Weis does NOT bring happy or exciting feeling to me. Please correct me!
A second interview is eye opening but the decision to not name a coach Monday is of bigger news.
Here is another note from News lines:
NFL analysis of the Denver Broncos defense: The problem stemmed from poor execution, a lack of talent at all spots and growing pains under first-year defensive coordinator Bob Slowik.
Also;
I can not believe that The SportingNews had the following on available 2009 defensive free agents.
11. LB Nate Webster, Denver – One of the very few things that went well for Denver’s defense last year was the linebacking tandem of Webster and D.J. Williams. Then they both got hurt and the last little bit of the Broncos’ D unraveled. Even when they both returned, it just wasn’t the same, expect a wholesale cleaning on the defense. Webster is strong, but expendable. He’ll look more attractive to another team in need of a defensive makeover.
Next year’s team: Kansas City.
January 10, 2009
9:27 p.m.
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Tedwin writes:
Thank you Swick. I completely agree with your statement of "We don't neccessarily need a defensive head coach, just a new D coord and some people who know how to evaluate D talent."
I don't know why so many uninformed fans are on this bandwagon of wanting a defensive minded coach just because our D needs help. Our D LACKS talent. Any team that drafts defensive busts year after year is not going to get any better despite having the best Defensive head coach. Why is it that Pioli is considered a genius? He knows how to pick players. Shanny didn't and that's why he's gone.
January 10, 2009
9:54 p.m.
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Broncos4Life1 writes:
McDaniels is looking like the best choice. He's got experience on both sides of the ball and he has been successful! Plus, hiring him soon would allow the Broncos Coach and Personel Dept. to start looking at the draft and free agents as a group instead of leaving it all to one area. Much like it was the last decade or so!
January 10, 2009
9:59 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
that is amazing myerda00 how can TSN have him rated as the #11 defensive free agent, he arguably wasn't in the top 11 on Denver's defense (unless you ask Slowik)
so, according to Adam Schefter, all three of the Ravens starting linebackers Bart Scott, Terrell Suggs, and Ray Lewis will be free agents...can you imagine Denver landing any of these three??? wow that would be a great start in the right direction
throw in a 1st round that could include either Maluaga or Mays from USC, maybe land Julius Peppers or Albert Haynesworth...
better stop dreaming hunh? We don't even have a head coach or GM yet...
I would really like them to take a long look at Karlos Dansby from Arizona...playing LB as well as anyone right now
January 10, 2009
10:16 p.m.
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BigRedCelt writes:
Bolwens pocketbook has never been held back and will have nothing to do with the choice for a head coach. And no I'm not forgetting about what he has to pay Shanny.
I'm hopoing for Spags and don't think the Giants run will have much to do with the decision. I also would not mind McDaniels and a veteran DC. A DC with head coaching experience would be a great idea. I'm of the opinion the Cutler needs a kick in the @$$ and may get that from McDaniels. Jay's really been given a free ride since he got here. This kid has unreal talent, but I think he's been babied too much and needs to grow up. Watching the "Altitude Summit" a couple nights ago Hastings was finally bringing it up also. With McDaniels working with Brady he's not going to be in awe of Cutler.
DRE BLY MUST GO!!!!!
January 10, 2009
10:58 p.m.
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jethdlr writes:
It cracks me up that most of the so-called Bronco's fans will not be happy until the second coming of the Elway days. Shanahan was able to go 8-8 with smoke and mirrors. The defense has always been a problem even when John was the QB. Offense excites the fans defenses win the games. A decent defense and a really good offense won the Super Bowls for the Bronco's. Bolen would have been better served (and so would have been the fans for that matter) if a GOOD defensive co-ordinator would have been shoved down Shany's throat and the front office filled with a GM. If Shany could not handle that then fire him. Instead of shoot first and ask questions later as it appears is the case. E,veryone will pay the price of mediocrity. You heard it here first. New faces same game for at least 3 years. As far as the anti Cutler movement, Elway aint coming back and he is pretty damned good for what he had to work with..........even with the hobbled 11. As usual fair weather fans rule the day.
January 11, 2009
1:34 a.m.
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flybys writes:
Denver is showing its' attraction, isn't it?
Josh McDaniels is the one that makes Pat Bowlen's heart flutter because it reminds him of his last girlfriend, or his last head coach.
McDaniels can be special but he's not the ideal man for the job right now.
Leslie Frazier is.
http://coloradosn.blogspot.com
January 11, 2009
4:22 a.m.
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tomk writes:
Hi, I am watching this debate with mounting fascination. Being thousands of miles away in Scotland I cannot be a judge of the best potential HC, but I do think that the ideal would be someone who can keep an eye on both sides of the ball but with a record on D which is where the problems really lie. The O is coming along nicely but a fit, classy running back is badly needed. Our 1st Draft pick or is anyone else available? After that it has to be Defense, Defense, Defense. Any ideas gentlemen?
January 11, 2009
7:26 a.m.
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Broncostimein09 writes:
Rex Ryan! Rex Ryan! get with it Bowlen.
January 11, 2009
7:28 a.m.
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jonnyrotten writes:
I've got no problem with McDaniels. My #1 concern is the rebuilding projct ahead on defense. Even with his experience on that side of the ball, he is clearly an offensive minded coach.
I still find myself drawn to Leslie Fraiser. If defensive aptitude and leadership are any priority, this is our guy. 10 years NFL coaching experience. Super Bowl wins as a player and a coach. Special assistant to Tony Dungy and he happens to be the DC for the #1 defense in the NFL. The lions are hot for this guy and we better be sure Spags wants the job if we are waiting for him.
January 11, 2009
8:08 a.m.
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Andynonymous writes:
Tomk - We're thousands of miles away too, we just don't "act accordingly."
I know nothing about what impact Shanhan's salary and staff will have on Bowlen's pick, and I don't think many of my more geographically acceptable compatriots do, either.
I haven't paid attention to every word, but I've yet to hear Bowlen say one word about salary, and he has proven that he will spend if he thinks it will give him a chance to win. We know that from watching him over 25 years and we know that whoever he picks, he will likely be pretty dedicated to him. The rest we're just making up!
January 11, 2009
8:40 a.m.
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OrangeCrusher writes:
Ok..enough with the Rex Ryan chatter. he has too big of a personality fit with Pat Bowlen. I might be wrong but we havent seen any signs of Pat looking at Ryan for the position? There must be a reason why he is not the Ravens head coach?
January 11, 2009
9:02 a.m.
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jersey writes:
broncofan_no_matter: I wouldn't be too quick to label Romeo Crennel as damaged goods. The outstanding "D" job that he did for my Giants enabled him to land the Browns head job. Just like the "Village Idiot" Wade Phillips who has done more than a decent job as an assistant coach, his two top jobs, first with your boys and now the "Cowgirls", have been disasters. Just goes to prove that all assistants who study and learn under any head coach no matter how great the coach or the length of time learning is not guaranteed to have the same success when they take over the top rung! Some serve better by remaining in the shadows. Dirty Harry said it best when he said "A man has to know his limitations"!
January 11, 2009
9:05 a.m.
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Kellys_Heroes writes:
Mr. Bowlen - don't be an idiot. Hire either Spagnuolo or Frazier (in that order) and let them pick their own staffs outside of Jeremy Bates & Bobby Turner. Everyone else has to go. At least Bill Johnson left on his own - good luck to the Saints on that one!
Oh, and BTW - please don't be stupid and hire Rick Dennison.
January 11, 2009
9:06 a.m.
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jersey writes:
Until proven wrong, and by no means would it be the first time, I maintain what I have previously stated. The only way that my guy "Spags" comes here is if we repeat. If not he stays put!
January 11, 2009
9:25 a.m.
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Rutabaga writes:
I like Spags cause it's a real cool nickname and it's easy to spell. Also, that's my nickname for spaghetti, one of my favorite foods. McDaniels is a good name too. His nickname could be McDee, or Big Mac. I like Big Mac cause it reminds me of you know what. I don't know what kind of nickname Leslie Frazier could have but Leslie is a funny name for a guy. Maybe we could call him Fraz or Frazy. His name doesn't remind me of any kind of food. Too bad.
I know whoever we get we'll find lots of good things to call him, some not so good. His nicknames will probably change if he wins or loses just like Shanny. I never liked Shanny, the nickname, cause it rhymed with fanny and that seemed like a dumb name for a smart guy. Oh well...
January 11, 2009
10:19 a.m.
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Broncostimein09 writes:
Well Yea Ryan isn't the head coach of the Ravens but they are doing pretty good on the defensive side of the ball huh? How did we do last year, and the two previous years on defense? I'm not saying we haven't interviewed other defensive coordinators that might be a good fit but like I said befor how do you interview a secondary coach and not the best defensive coord. in the league? Who gives a shit about personality fit? How bout we get a defense that can win us games instead of losing them. Look at the past two wins for the ravens in the PLAYOFFS! Defense.
January 11, 2009
10:43 a.m.
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Robfromaurora writes:
I think our offense is getting free pass (undeserved) in all this. There were many many problems with the offense. 18 interceptions, 12 fumbles which all lead to a -17 in the turn over margin. That in and of itself is placing to much pressure on a crappy defense.
SECONDLY: we were 17th in scoring, once again, too much pressure on a crappy defense.
THIRDLY, a bunch of cry baby running backs..if Parcells was on the Bronco staff we wouldn't have had half the injurys. Parcells players aren't allowed to be hurt.
Josh McDaniel can address "ALL THE ISSUES" of this team. Offense and Defense.
....I respectfully submit
January 11, 2009
11:31 a.m.
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Miss_Sin_Link writes:
So many great choices, so little time...
By process of elimination, I'd be happy with Spags, Frazier, and McDaniel, in that order.
Thank the gawds that Stoops never even emerged to see the light of day as a candidate, and I hope to gawd that Bowlen is wise enough to see through Garrett. He can probably keep Dennison anyway as an OC, if it makes sense to (another whole debate there) -- why buy the cow when you can still get the milk? Morris probably needs more seasoning, and Bowles doesn't really bring enough elite track record to be a top candidate. Rex Ryan is so blessed with a plenitude of Ravens D talent it may obscure what his coaching capabilities really are -- time will tell if he can get it done elsewhere without that array of future HOF'ers. And, no way SD lets Ron Rivera go to a division competitor. Plus, let's not forget Romanowski... haw, haw.
Which leaves...
Spagnuolo brings a great attitude, and has been able to craft a dominant D for two years running now with talent that is good but not loaded with blockbusters, like say the Ravens or Vikes. Great work ethic. Gotta wonder about those rumors of his not interviewing well, though... Nonetheless, he's probably still my top candidate.
Frazier is actually the most intriguing of the lot. His defensive pedigree is second to none -- he's steeped in defensive tradition, and wherever he goes, defenses improve. Starter on the epic '85 Bears, he goes to the Eagles, who improve on D each of his 4 years there. Then it's the Bengals, where he's with Marvin Lewis, a great defensive mind -- and who become one of the best takeaway teams in the league while he's there (lack of success they've had since then is no fault of his). Finally he goes to the VIkes, who've had the #1 defense the last 3 years straight! Even if he's not personally responsible for that success for the start of that run, he knows what makes top, elite defenses tick, and how to put them together. No substitute for that.
McDaniel might be the most-balanced candidate. Though he's regarded for being an offensive wunderkind, let's not forget he spent a year or two on the defensive side of the ball as well, and the Patriots have had decent, if not top-notch, D's over the last few years. I'd hate to see so much an emphasis put on D that we neglect the huge potential that remains on offense, and fail to use that to best advantage.
Any of those three, I think, would leave me nodding my head.
January 11, 2009
11:34 a.m.
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reillyad writes:
The game may have just started but the Giants D just made Philly run like 6 plays to move the ball 4 yards for a TD. Yes they scored but I still like the fight in the Giants D. Spags is the reason for that and I for one would love to see that kind of fight and great play from our D here in Denver. We tried the HC who focused on the O side, and yes it did work for a while but now our D is so far behind the eight ball we have to have a massive restructure. Leave the O coaches in place and lets see what they can do.
SPAGS! SPAGS! SPAGS!
January 11, 2009
12:20 p.m.
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BigRedCelt writes:
Wanting Spags or Frazier here. I would not mind at all to see Bates go. He spends way too much time kissing Jay's @$$ and the 5-15 yard pass gets old and predictable.
I'll reiterate the 17th rank in scoring comment. Get all the yards you like. What decides games is points scored.
And the the guys on here suggesting drafting a RB. Put down the crack pipe. This team needs defensive players period. With the 12th pick they have an opportunity to get an immediate impact defensive player. With all the picks they have an opportunity to trade up for another late first round pick or two 2nds. Way too much needed on defense.
Oh yeah, and I'm quite sure that had Parcells been involved players would not have TORN knee ligaments and hamstrings..please...
DRE BLY MUST GO!!!!
January 11, 2009
12:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
OrangeCrusher writes:
I'm not saying that Rex Ryan isn't a great D coach. He just doesn't seem like a good fit with Bowlen, same with Parcells or even Cower. Seems that Pat wants to "Run the Show" and needs his "Yes Man"?
I want to disagree with all the people on the Jeremy Bates bandwagon. I did not like the playcalling for the offense this year. Very predictable and completly helpless in the red zone, no adjustments after half time, no special plays to get the momentum back when we are down, no imagination at all. He is a boy! Our offense was good because of the tallented players,not Bates! We need a real O coordinator who will be a mentor to cutler, not a buddie!
January 11, 2009
12:26 p.m.
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srmarine1967 writes:
I think that before we hire the next HC we should find out who they have in mind for the O cordinator and the D cordinator. Then lets make the decision. How about Marty Shottinhiemer as GM.
January 11, 2009
12:28 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
jonnyrotten, I think you need to do your homework, better? Minnesota does not have the #1 D, Pittsburgh does. Minnesota is ranked #8.
Minnesota: Total yards allowed= 4,678
Pittsburgh: Total yards allowed= 3,796
January 11, 2009
12:31 p.m.
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OrangeCrusher writes:
I really do like Rex Ryan..I wish he was our D coordinator.
Rutabaga......you crack me up dude!!!!
January 11, 2009
12:39 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
Tedwin, the positive side of having a defensive minded HC is that when he brings in a DC, he'll know more of what it will take, to make a turn around, then an offensive minded coach would. He can evaluate the qualifications of a D coach, better. Also, the O doesn't need and offensive minded coach in there. He will try to "tweak" the offense, too, too much and the O will unravel from what they already have, a solid unit.
January 11, 2009
12:51 p.m.
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OrangeCrusher writes:
Let's imagine for a moment....Spagnuolo as head coach/defence and McDaniels offense/asst head coach! What a dream team!!
I fell and bonked my head this morning...LOL
....Demote Bates to quarterbacks coach!!
January 11, 2009
12:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
BlueSky writes:
Rutabaga: you're really funny, making me thing of the "Fat Man" of the Raiders. All he thinks of is food.
bronco_fan: yeah, the Cards are playing really good football. You know what their defense reminds me of? That's right. It reminds me of the Superbowl Broncos D under Greg Robinson which is not a top nod defense, but making play whenver needed. Maybe our D didn't have that many turnovers, but the two D's look completely similar.
January 11, 2009
2:13 p.m.
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cdomis writes:
Two minutes away from Spags becoming the next coach of the Denver Broncos.
January 11, 2009
2:21 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
Spags is available now. Please don't bring that run on first and second down, short pass on third down offense to Denver! I know he doesn't call the plays in NY, but the thought of someone coming in and implementing an offense like that makes me sick. That's what worries me about Spags; He will be so defensive minded that it will put our offense where it was in the Dan Reeves era. IMO, it is much easier to find a good DC than it is to find a good OC.
January 11, 2009
2:23 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
cdomis, yep, that's my feeling. We should know very soon. Maybe by Wednesday, you think? I feel comfortable with him or McDaniels. I just want to see who our DC will be?
January 11, 2009
2:31 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
liesandpropaganda08, I think, from everything that I've read, that the O will be left intact. If the new HC changes what has been working, then he is the biggest fool in history. let's hope he understands that and doesn't let his ego and power get in the way of common sense. IF IT AIN'T BROKE, DON'T FIX IT!!!!!!!!!!
January 11, 2009
2:49 p.m.
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cdomis writes:
As long as we keep Bates, Turner, and Dennison, it will be all good on the offensive side of the ball.
It would hard for anyone to screw that up with Cutler, Marshall, Sheffler. Royal, Clady, and the rest.
By the way, I really do not like Phillip Rivers.
January 11, 2009
2:55 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
Dynamicdave- I want to see changes, just not the kind that lead to a power- run game based offense.
McDaniels or Spags first......Go Broncos! even if it's Romo.
I want to see Phyllis get hurt today. Terrible thing to say, but I can't stand that guy/chick.
Bad too.
January 11, 2009
3:27 p.m.
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Mark13 writes:
According to the experts on this website Spagnoulo is some kind of defensive genius. Didn't I just see the mediocre offense of Philly go right down the field on the Giants? So much for that. Good luck finding anyone as good as Shanahan.
January 11, 2009
3:32 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
dynamicdave...I don't totally agree with your evaluation of the offense. I agree that it isn't broken, but it can get better. They could do a better job of coaching players to secure the ball, not to throw int's and not to drop it so frequently
has our offense been as powerful as the NE offense was last year? no, then it isn't perfect is it???
if it turns out to be McDaniels he will probably make it better and I would not be surprised if he didn't purge a bit on that side of the ball
If it is Spagnuolo then yes the offense should stay intact
January 11, 2009
3:33 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
oh, almost forgot...they could coach them to be much better in the red zone!
January 11, 2009
3:48 p.m.
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cdomis writes:
Mark 13. Shanny's time was up. Too many Willie Middlebrooks, Deltha O'Neal, and Ashley Lelies in our draft history.
Great coach, but time to move on.
January 11, 2009
4 p.m.
Suggest removal
Dynamicdave writes:
Mark13, the Giants held the Eagles as much as possible. Even got an IT, but the Giants O is what killed them, not the D.
bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful, Denver fumbled a lot, but that's not the coaches fault, it's the players. Mental errors. Every player is taught to secure the ball, on every team in the NFL. It is the players responsibility, once he's on the field. As far as the offense, we were already looking at all our RB's getting injured, which altered the gameplan. Denver's D also fell apart. The O was young. They have a year under their belt. Get rid of Selvin and Hall, then get the injured RB's, Torain, Alridge, Hillis, Pope and Boyd healthy. The O will do well. I would hate to see a coach come in and change the blocking scheme, also. I'm sorry, but I stand by my assessment of the O. I think the only thing they need is an extra, quality WR to go along with Royal, Marshall and Stokley. Denver had the #3 O in the league. I honestly feel that if Denvers RB's would have stayed healthy, they would have been #1.
January 11, 2009
4:06 p.m.
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ParkHillPosse writes:
I would not view a McDaniels hiring with any optimism. The team already has Jeremy Bates; how many up-and-coming offensive minds do you need? I am hoping for Frazier or Morris, our defensive inadequacies are so numerous, glaring and long-lasting that we need a real defensive presence at the top.
January 11, 2009
4:07 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
cdomis- Give Shanny some credit. I will not sit idle while this becomes a "bash Shanny" free for all. HE GOT FIRED and I miss the hell out of that guy AND WE WILL BE HARD PRESSED to find a coach of his caliber. You made the Middlebrooks etc comments. Doing it again makes me wonder where the love is for that coach that got us those 2 Super Bowls. No credit whatsoever for the picks that worked, and to his credit, brought in Goodman because he realized he needed help. BTW, Bowlen kept Goodman who was Shanny's choice.
He made bad choices AND good choices.
Sound like anyone else you know?
January 11, 2009
4:15 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
Dynamic, I respectfully disagree with you. Having been a football coach for many, many years you don't allow your team to continue to turn the ball over by being flat out careless. Yes they have been taught that from Pop Warner on but that is something that should have been focused on. I know that the defense didn't take the ball away that often but a minus 17 turnover ratio goes on both sides of the ball. The talent is there, and with healthy running backs this team could be the top offense in football. Especially with definitely the most underrated and possibly best offensive line in football.
I do hope that they are able to resign Casey Wiegmann and look in the middle of the draft (5th round or so) for the eventual replacement at Center...
Gotta go with you on the defensive picks however...all but maybe drafting a center should be on the defensive side. They could possibly land Maulaga, Mays, or Lauranitis at #12, then possibly trade up into the late 1st round to get LB or S (whichever they don't get at #12) even if they don't trade up, two picks in the top 44 should allow them to get better on defense...maybe spend a little free agent money as well (again all on the defensive side)
January 11, 2009
4:18 p.m.
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Miss_Sin_Link writes:
Dynamicdave, you're right... the Vikes weren't the #1 in total D. I was wrong in my post, too -- I was saying that they were #1 in total D for the last three years. I was misremembering -- they were actually #1 in *run* D for the last three years. (Maybe that makes their D line coach -- Karl Dunbar -- the hot DC prospect.) With Leslie Frazier taking over in 2007, Minnesota went from #20 to #6 in total D -- great job, but not necessarily as impressive as I was making it out to be. Still, I'd bet he knows good D when he sees it, and has been part of some pretty stout ones.
As for the Stillers... after doing some research, I realize they had an *insanely* good year this season on D -- they weren't just #1, they were #1 by a huge margin. They allowed only 3.9 yards/play, better than the second-place team (Eagles) by almost half a yard, better than the vaunted "best of all time" 2000 Ravens D by 0.3 yds/play, and better than any team dating all the way back to the 1991 Eagles. Impressive indeed. We'll see whether the Bolts fight back in the second half.
What's also interesting about the Pitts D is who's responsible for it. Normally, you'd be seeing a DC that had that kind of production subject to all kinds of hubbub and fanfare as a top head coaching prospect. Well, that would be D ick Lebeau [grrr, why can't I type his first name, RMN?], and we can recall his gawdawful tenure as HC of the Bengals back in 2000-2002. Instructive, Broncos fans -- even the best of the best in the ranks of coordinators doesn't necessarily translate into success as HC. See also: Romeo Crennel, Charlie Weis, Marvin Lewis, Wade Phillips, Scott Linehan, et. al.
January 11, 2009
4:22 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
liesandpropaganda08, if it were up to me, you and some others, Shanahan would still be there, but it's not and he's not. I put the whole, "If Shanahan were still coach" or the "I wish Shanahan was still here" routine. People! He's GONE! Yes, he's done great things in Denver. Now, the greatest thing he could do, is go back to work so Denver can get the 20 million back. Let's all focus on the future of Denver, not the "what ifs." It accomplishes nothing. It wastes energy. Me, I'm psyched for the future. I refuse to let myself go into the season with dread in my heart and negativity in my soul. I go in feeling that this team can be the best in the league. GO BRONCOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 11, 2009
4:24 p.m.
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ORBroncoFan53 writes:
Well It shouldn't be long now to see who our next coach will be. If Spagnuolo is scheduled for another interview then It seems to be between him and McDaniels, if he isn't scheduled than it looks to be McDaniels, and Capers at Defensive Coordinator as reported a couple of days ago.
January 11, 2009
4:37 p.m.
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cdomis writes:
lies and propaganda, you are right, we all make good choices and bad choices.
I will root for the next team that Shanny coaches unless it is KC or Dallas. Oh the irony there. Sorry Wade, but Jerry found a better date to the prom..again.
January 11, 2009
4:39 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
guys
you are totally right...this cannot be a Shanny bashing. One could argue that he has been at least as important to the Broncos franchise as John Elway. It is time to say a final goodbye to Mike Shanahan (greatest coach in broncos history) and embrace the future. I agree with Dynamic, this team is very, very close to being right there as the best in the league!
good call too on him going back to work, but I don't think that will happen this year. Although I can imagine that Jerry Jones is sitting at home fuming over the loss to Philadelphia now that they are in the NFC championship against a team the his Cowboys lost to as well, on a blocked punt in OT. It is still possible that he gets angry enough to pull the trigger on Wade Phillips. And let's face it, there is no better situation out there for Shanny than the Dallas job.
ok, so if this team is going to be the best...let's have some draft and free agent thoughts from you posters...
we should be free to talk about our team with that Charger troller (chargertom) interrupting us to tell us about how his team is currently getting worked over by the Steelers (#1 defense)
January 11, 2009
4:42 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful, I think after the 1st string of fumbles, the players psyched themselves out and dwelled on it so much, that they fumbled even more. Plus, other teams knew they were struggling with it, so they tried that much harder, to strip the ball, kind of like flies on horse manure. They will have Casey for another year, I'm fairly certain. He was outstanding. Don't forget, we have Kory Lichtensteiger, and Ben Hamilton. Lichtensteiger has been with us all of 2008 and is being groomed, I think. He played RG and even lined up as an H-back (he would clear the way for Pittman on short yardage). He was on ST for most of the season. He played in every game last season.
January 11, 2009
4:46 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
Dynamicdave- .....I don't post the "man, I wish stuff". I was hurt when they got rid of that guy. The Broncos are not just "my team" and I understand that......I think about the feelings now, that I might end up having, about the coach they hire. It's not my choice. Don't have the smarts or the money, but I will support this team no matter what. What in the hell else am I gonna do?
As far as the Shanny stuff.....He is the best coach in the history of the Denver Broncos (team "WE" love), was fired, yet Bronco Nation still kicks the man.
I am moving on the best I can (again, I don't post the "we made a mistake, armageddon stuff), but if moving on means to say nothing while Shanny's mistakes keep getting thrown around, I never will.
Bronco Nation that support Shanny's firing- Please understand that other die hard fans had an argument as strong as yours in favor of keeping him. Best coach in Bronco history. He was fired, you won, can we please move on?
January 11, 2009
4:57 p.m.
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Mark13 writes:
Great point about Lebeau being the guy behind the Pitt D. Several former head coaches are now coordinators and assistants. Just because you can coach as an assistant doesn't mean you know anything about being a HC.
It's all a shot in the dark, I hope Bowlen chooses the right guy since he already had a good coach who he fired. It's all on Pat now. And yes, we all know that Shanny is gone and it's time to move on, blah blah blah... thanks for the life lesson.
January 11, 2009
5:01 p.m.
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trudon writes:
I don't know what the finanical situation is with the Broncos, but, if they bring in an offensive minded person like Josh McDaniels, who I think is a little to young in the first place, they will be no better off than this year. Championships are won with defense, if the broncos have been watching the play-offs that should tell they something. I still think the best guy for the job is Steve Spagnuolo. We have enough offense to win now, but look at our DEFENSE!!!!!!!!!!
January 11, 2009
5:04 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
Dynamic, good point on the offensive line. I do know that Casey is under contract one more year but Shanny had mentioned that he wasn't totally sure that Casey may not retire...hope he doesn't
As for the fumbles, you are right that teams tried even harder to get the fumbles from our offense (that is good coaching)...now let's flip your argument that it is only a mental thing. Do you believe that all the missed tackles are only a "mental thing" or that it got in their heads? I don't either, some of it was coaching just like all the turnovers...
January 11, 2009
5:21 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
trudon, While I may agree about McDaniel's age, I don't agree that we must go with a defensive coach. I think that if McDaniels is that guy that is ok, provided that he has 3 key ingredients:
1. Hire a great defensive coordinator who will put pressure on the opposing offense.
2. Have someone in place for personnel that is a good judge of character and talent, especially on the defensive/special teams side of the ball.
3. Earn the respect and trust of the entire team! If they believe in him, they will run through a wall for him...that used to be true of Shanny but due to character issues of some of the players brought in, it wasn't so evident over the past few years.
I agree with what liesandpropaganda said earlier, we don't want to see this offense turn into 3 yards and a cloud of dust, do we??
no, I don't think so
also, if Bates is such an offensive genius, why were we so average in the red zone...if we were a little bit better in the red zone we might be watching the Broncos playing on CBS right now instead of talking about who our new head coach will be...don't be so quick to annoint him "genius"
I am not lobbying for McDaniels, really (although as I re-read my post, it could sound that way)...I just think we all need to wait and see what happens. I have put my trust in Pat Bowlen for years and years, I am not going to start distrusting him now
go Broncos!!!!
oh, by the way...where are you chargertom??? we miss your big mouth...too busy crying about the Chargers getting spanked???
January 11, 2009
5:36 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful, ha, ha, I like the Chargers praise.
1st Round
1.) Rey Mauluga - MLB - USC (IF still available at #12, if not, James Laurenaitis - MLB - Ohio State)
2.) Taylor Mays - S - USC (This is dependent on whether Denver can trade a couple draft picks and/or future draft picks for a #1 early spot. If later in the 1st, then Myron Rolle - S - Florida State)
2nd Round
3.) Brian Orakpo - DE - Texas (IF taken, George Selvie - DE - USF)
I can't add on that because I don't know how Denver will trade up?
As far as missed tackles, that was D scrwing up and I blame poor talent and even poorer coaching. Hopefully that will be corrected with the draft and new D coaches.
Mark13, no need to be sarcastic about it. I was making an observation, you retort with a diss?
trudon, McDaniels was also a D coach, as well. Keep that in mind. And I'm sure he would get a new DC.
OH, AND THE STEELERS SPANKED THE CHARGERS!!!!! THERE IS A GOD!!!!!!!
January 11, 2009
5:40 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
liesandpropaganda08, I still love you, man, ha, ha. It wasn't directed at you, anyhow. It was for the whiners. We both wanted Shanny, but he's gone and we move on.
January 11, 2009
5:44 p.m.
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bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful writes:
dynamic...I'm with you on that...man it sure is fun watching Rivers lose :)
good call on Orakpo, wow I hope he is still there
I don't know how realistic it is to get both Maualaga and Mays in the 1st round as I don't think they both are still on the board after about #15 or so...but we can hope
let's get this new coach named soon!!!
how cool is it now that we finished with the same record as the Chargers, but they will draft WAY later than us and will have the 1st place schedule to go against (not that our schedule is a peach either)...
go Broncos!!!
again, where are you chargertom??? I will not let up until you show up...you were big enough to run your mouth, are you big enough to show up when you lose??? troller...
I still think that they need to make a big splash in free agency, but this team needs to be built through the draft.
January 11, 2009
5:51 p.m.
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cdomis writes:
dynamic dave, orakpo is a first rounder, maybe top ten. He will not be available in the second... Taylor Mays is the way to go at 12. Like I said earlier, remember Dennis Smith?
January 11, 2009
7:45 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
ESPN just reported it's McDaniels......
WE HAVE OUR COACH BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 11, 2009
7:57 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
Dynamicdave- HAAAAA! No offense taken man. That's what I hope all understand....we love our team and want them to win the championship, but do not agree on what they must do to get there.
I understand that and love the debate. Even with chargertom (- the guns).
January 11, 2009
8 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
cdomis, I think we need a MLB more. Yes, S is an issue, but Mays can be got in the 1st, also, by Denver "if" they trade up for a 1st round pick. Why not go for both Mays and Mauluga? Yes, we might miss on one, that's why I gave another alternate, just in case. Of course, with the new coach, who knows what they will consider a priority? Is this nerve racking or what?
bronco_fan_no_matter_how_painful, chargertom is busy, I'm sure, single-handedly stopping the terrorist in the Gaza Strip and capturing all of the pirates in Somalia.
January 11, 2009
8:08 p.m.
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Dynamicdave writes:
liesandpropaganda08, like I said to "cdomis", earlier, Spags or McDaniels, I was good with either. I said in an earlier post that McDaniels was also a D coach, before. Now we just see who he brings with him.
January 11, 2009
8:19 p.m.
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liesandpropaganda08 writes:
Dynamicdave- Exciting stuff. I can't wait to see what cuts they make. We are going to throw the hell out of the football and I think we need another talented WR. Maybe that Nicks kid out of NC.
I would like to see us move to a 3-4 defense because of the talent at the LB position. We already need help on the line and this change would shift our focus to a big NT. Dumervil and Thomas could play end, while Moss can get a shot at ILB.
Decisions, decisions