December 3, 2006 6:16 PM
Rate the rookie
The rookie looked like a rookie.
Jay Cutler threw three passes that resulted in touchdowns: two to teammates, one to the Seahawks and Seattle's Josh Brown kicked a 50-yard field goal in the waning seconds to beat the Broncos 23-20.
Jeff Legwold writes:
In a season when leads have been squandered and opportunities lost, the Broncos watched things slip away once again Sunday night. And this time, a large piece of what are fading playoff hopes might have gone with it.
Bernie Lincicome writes that the Broncos would have won the game with Jake Plummer at quarterback:
Reality has a way of trumping fantasy, and clearly the best quarterback at Invesco Field was on the Broncos bench, and that includes Seattle's quarterback as well.Plummer would have won this game, and this will be true of the next one as well, and the next and the next.
And if he did not, there would be at least the sense that the Broncos' best chance to win was actually on the field and not in Shanahan's imagination, that the Broncos were not in the middle of some sort of on-the-job training.
What did you think of Cutler's performance? About what you'd expect from a rookie on a cold night on national television? Disappointed because of the buildup? Did Mike Shanahan make a mistake by handing the team over to a rookie with the playoffs at stake? Is this the kind of performance you have to expect and accept from a rookie?
Did the Broncos' turnovers aside from Cutler's doom them? Did Cutler show you enough to justify starting him?
December 3, 2006
6:29 PM
Mark writes:
First pass incomplete. Pretty good throw, excellent coverage. And so it begins.
December 3, 2006
6:47 PM
Anonymous writes:
Sacked. Can't blame the kid. Three-step drop and the o-line allowed penetration. Jake in to hold for the field goal.
December 3, 2006
8:03 PM
Greg writes:
He was very shaky early and we wasted alot of good field position and some big running plays by Tatum.
I won't even talk about that ridiculous pick six...
Rod's fumble really upset me because the defender fell down and he really just backed right into him. The team has to stop these bad mistakes.
Cutler seemed to get his feet under him a bit and was moving them after his rookie "blunder" but that fumble really hurt.
The end of the half has put me over the edge. Mike can't decide what he wants to do. For the love of Pete, what in the blue heck was that. Elam isn't going to run for a TD, so what was the point. Now he's hurt? Isn't there anyone on the team that understands football that can stand up and tell Mike that was stupid???
I'm in shock... still.
December 3, 2006
8:11 PM
Greg writes:
What is it with this team putting the ball on the ground?
2 huge third down throws by a rookie QB and then holding and then a fumble...
We just aren't a sound offensive team right now.
December 3, 2006
9:11 PM
Greg writes:
This team has become an embarassment.
Cutler, pick six. Rod Smith... kills drive with fumble. Mike Bell... kills drive with fumble. Brian Clark... fumbled kickoff return.
This offensive team is lost.
Great night defensively
What was that holding call on Veal???? That cost them 2 minutes and a field goal.
I hope they can overcome it, but that was just BS... nice homefield call.
December 3, 2006
9:46 PM
Greg writes:
Well, that'll do it. Too many of these games for an east coast fan. Stay up late just to see them blow another game in the 4th quarter.
Poorly coached game, poorly played game ... really bad first game by Cutler... May have lost Wilson and Elam. What a disaster for Shanahan.
5 turnovers?
The defense played their heart out and dominated for most of the game.... But still can't protect a 4th quarter lead. Its tough to fault them with the terrible offense, and no time of possession, but they give up a lead, and then after a miracle TD to Marshall, they give up another drive for a FG. They are not a great defense.
Are we playing for next year?
I know its tough for rookie, but Cutler did nothing to upgrade the O. I have to be honest, I think they win that game with Jake playing. I support the change still, but Shanahan is leaving himself open for alot questions.
Long term, I think this is the right thing to do, but yikes, that is going to be tough on the team. Alot of guys are probably thinkin' the coaches gave up on this season.
Hope Wilson is OK
December 3, 2006
10:00 PM
Pat writes:
Cutler SUCKS. Bring back Plummer. At least he wins games.
December 3, 2006
10:02 PM
Ken writes:
Okay, we're done with Jake the Snake. This is the start of the Jay Cutler era so he needs a catchy nickname, too. "Wrong Way Jay"? "Maybe on Another Day Jay"? "Why Won't the Fans Stay Jay"? "Just Hope and Pray Jay"? "Busted Play Jay"? "Oy Vay Jay"?
December 3, 2006
10:15 PM
Seth writes:
Too many errors by Cutler, it was a bad move to have him play in his first game when we are fighting for the playoff's. Plummer would have won the game and its doubtful we would have had 5 turnovers. Plummer should be put back in for the Chargers. Cutler is just too green and needs more time. Shanahan made the same decision with Griese and the season was lost. It was worth seeing what the kid could do but save it for next season.
December 3, 2006
10:23 PM
pj writes:
I wonder if the bronco coaches are watching the national telecasts. it seems like the analysts comments on the lack of blitzing in the fourth quarter, the failure of roll outs because the other team keeps a lineman on the qb, and the inability of the broncos to stop anybody in the fourth quarter. I gave up tonight, we will not go to the playoff, we will be lucky to finish .500 with games against the Chargers, Bengals (yeah, we will out score them, ha) and SF with Gore will run over us. Take away the Cutler throw-up int. and the tipped pass and the fumble and you have a win, maybe. I had to laugh at the first Cutler int. Looked exactly like a Jake Plummer pass attempt. I'm 61 and remember the
old Broncos leading into the forth quarter then losing by 7 or 3. I still love em, but maybe it really is time for a coaching chance at the top. Wish Jay a lot of luck and hope Jake finds his way to a winner.
t.
December 3, 2006
10:29 PM
Larry writes:
Why were all of the offensive problems being blamed on Plummer, instead of the loss of Kubiak?
December 3, 2006
10:37 PM
Chip writes:
Even though Jay had his problems...this just shows that it wasn't all Jake's fault in the past. No O-line, bad calls by coach and stupid mistakes. Jay is here to stay...but what about the offensive line? Too bad about Wilson and Elam. What happened with the fake, so Elam makes the first down and mike is looking like a dumb cow not knowing what to do.
This game is the future for the next couple of seasons.
I'm a die hard fan and have been there done that....losing. It will get better...but we are playing for draft picks now. Next San Deigo....we'll be 7-6 after next weekend no playoffs this year.
Oh and for those that think Jake would have done better....after his play this year Jake the mistake wouldn't have done any better.
December 3, 2006
10:39 PM
Chip writes:
Even though Jay had his problems...this just shows that it wasn't all Jake's fault in the past. No O-line, bad calls by coach and stupid mistakes. Jay is here to stay...but what about the offensive line? Too bad about Wilson and Elam. What happened with the fake, so Elam makes the first down and mike is looking like a dumb cow not knowing what to do.
This game is the future for the next couple of seasons.
I'm a die hard fan and have been there done that....losing. It will get better...but we are playing for draft picks now. Next San Deigo....we'll be 7-6 after next weekend no playoffs this year.
Oh and for those that think Jake would have done better....after his play this year Jake the mistake wouldn't have done any better.
December 3, 2006
10:44 PM
john writes:
Well the problem is apparent with denver it wasn't Jake the "snake" as much as it is Mike the "weasel" he is inept along with his Grandpa (coyer) . Rod Smith should retire before he makes a bigger fool out of himself. Cutler will be good but he needs a coach that knows what the hell he is doing. Why does the team always look like they are worn out in the third quarter? Poor conditioning or coaching, they are flat ass bad.
December 3, 2006
10:50 PM
RIck in Dgo writes:
Well here we go in the new era. 5 turnovers and still should have won the game! Cutler was way in over his head, the coaches were again predictable, and to sum it up if you cannot apply pressure on the QB you cannot close out the game. Is it any wonder why Cleveland got rid of their D line and the coach to go with it!!
December 3, 2006
10:59 PM
Steve V writes:
You cannot blame Jake for this one. This team is now officially exposed. To get beat at home by a very injured and average Seahawks team is awful. I thought Cutler has cannon for an arm?. Jake put more zip on his passes. Just remember fans and media, you brought this on yourselves! There hasn’t been a hysteria like this since the Salem witch trials. This team will be sinking to Texan and Cardinal like proportions for a few years…enjoy the ride. Just remember all that emotion you had when you wanted to get rid of Jake so bad your brain cells didn’t work. He will be somewhere else next year and going to the playoffs. Prediction: this team loses to SD, AZ, and CIN. The playoffs are on TV this year! Remember, you all brought this on yourselves! Enjoy the new era!
December 3, 2006
11:03 PM
Richard writes:
This goes to show that Shanny should of made the team better this year through this past draft. He should of taken Laurence Maroney... A stud back with the 10th pick. The Bells suck. Tatum is fragile and Mike is... well... an undrafted rookie.... playing like one. Had Shanny made this move Jake Plummer would still have his confidence and we would be 12 and 0 at this point in time. This was a Super Bowl team this year. He screwed it up for the future. Now we may have to wait for next year and the year after that and the year after that... etc. etc. etc.
December 3, 2006
11:08 PM
RVIZZLE writes:
And now it begins. For the first time in four years, a converted fan rooted against his former team. It isn't the poor play that disappointed me, it's the way management treated those players, and subsequently the fans who tune in week after week to root for the dudes they enjoy watching. It is no wonder these guys are making mistakes and getting frustrated, they don't know if they are going to have their job week next week, and now the guy who has done the least to deserve it is the only person with any security. Benching your offense's leader is never a good idea, obviously if nothing else this game proved Jay is not at this time the guy the players are looking at to make a difference. At least everybody expected something more of Plummer. The season is lost and perhaps so are the next three. The difference between this year and years past is that Shanahan has abandoned all loyalty, and so have the fans. Justice will be served. Without the miracle catch, Cutler performed three out of ten (with it I give him a four). Without the catch and without the return of Tatum Bell (which obviously would have helped Jake) I give Cutler a two. Nice improvement, guys.
December 3, 2006
11:15 PM
S Love writes:
The rookie was a rookie. But he showed more fire that 16. Watching from TV Cutler's throws looked more crisp but needs work on touch. I think Denver should feel lucky to have a franchise QB instead of whining about the game. Personally I'd rather see the team go for it all next year instead of a first round exit once again. Shanny should give all the young players time in the game from here on out. Rod Smith, thanks for all the great memories but that is all they are now memories. Time to hang up the cleats and let the young guys play.
December 3, 2006
11:15 PM
Tim writes:
Really I think Jay did okay for his first time. I hate to see that he's blaming himself for the loss; when a team wins it's because it's a team effort, and it's the same with losing. 5 turnovers is just inexcusable, and I only fault Jay for one of them. Rod's was unlucky, but he normally plays better. There's a lot I could say about this game but it doesn't matter. The Broncos don't deserve to go to the playoffs (even though they probably will), and I think Jay should get all the experience he can now for next season.
I too hope Al is okay.
December 3, 2006
11:42 PM
ken jackling writes:
I hope all the califonacation transplants also known as boobirds
enjoyed jays first start,you morons asked for it know you got it.Ive been a loyal Broncos fan since the days of Jim Terner Charlie Johnson and Lyle Alzado.(aug. 1974 ) And the fans back then supported their Q.B. no matter what. I guess you forgot who got us to a 13-3 season last year. Newer is not always better.We had other tools last year that we dont have this year, like Gary Cubiak Trevor Price,Mike Anderson and Lets not forget Jeb Putziar.Tonights loss to the stumbleing Seattle sea turkeys is all on you!!!!!
December 3, 2006
11:44 PM
Rich writes:
Cutler played like a green rookie, to be expected. Shanahan is coaching like a rookie - not to be expected of a seasoned "genius". Now our best asset (Elam) is injured because of it. It's time for a coaching change in Denver.
December 3, 2006
11:53 PM
Chris writes:
I'm very angry with the fans and media in Denver who have been calling for Plummer's head since the day Culter was drafted. This loss is on YOU! You are all idiots and don't deserve to be called "fans." I'm also extremely dissapointed that Shannahan gave in to the pressure and has now thrown away the freaking season. We still had a chance with Plummer and now we've got no shot of going anywhere. Good job you all. You are all stupid!
December 4, 2006
12:08 AM
Joe writes:
Whoa...wish I had what y'all are drinking. Cutler (a rookie), had a decent first outing. Coaching has been....hmmmm, that is not his fault. Plummer may do well as a holder, and maybe with another team & system. This season was down the tubes before tonight. Too much whining here from fans with a consistently winning team. Let Cutler learn, and yeah, there IS next year. boo hoo
December 4, 2006
12:13 AM
chris writes:
ok enough of the talk of putting Plummer back in. Cutler played like a rookie, but with Jake in, sure we make the playoffs but no hope of WINNING a superbowl. Remember the one in done the last couple of years in the playoffs? Us Bronco fans are shooting for one thing, a superbowl! Cutler needs time...however the defense is in question. Why can we not stop anybody with the game on the line? I got to question Coyer's ability to call defensive plays and a d-coordinator. No blitzing again, and the last 2 min, it was inevitable that they would score to win.
December 4, 2006
12:35 AM
Kyle writes:
I'll wait until after next week to make any calls about the state of the Broncos this season or for any of the succeeding seasons. They looked horrible, but Seattle was only able to capitalize on one of the many turnovers. Denver's D kept the Hawks in check. Take away the turnovers and Denver would have won 35 to 3. They've gotta do what they've gotta do next week. Beating the Chargers in San Diego will change the complexion of everything.
If the Broncs lose, well, that will be it. But Cutler, will get some excellent garbage time to gain his feet in the NFL. It ain't over yet, but more than likely is.
December 4, 2006
12:52 AM
BRIAN writes:
Anyone that knows the complexities of playing quarterback in the NFL, knows this kid did well for his first outing. Made one bad move, but has everyone forgotten how HORRIBLY Elway played his first year. He either threw an interception, or was three and out, nearly every series!! This kid would make Elway look like a Pop Warner bench warmer, at the same stages of their careers.!
Stop beating up yourselves, your wives, and your children, over a stupid football game. It all really means nothing, in the larger scheme of things!!
Peace.
December 4, 2006
12:56 AM
Eric writes:
Jay Cutler played as expected for a rookie and, unfortunately, the only thing that would have unified an increasingly segmented locker room would have been if he had not played like a rookie. This team has many issues beyond the quarterback and that was apparent this evening. Denver will not go very far in the playoffs, if they make it there, with either quarterback due to the other issues this team suffers from. It isn't a valid statement to say all was lost when Plummer was benched any more than it is to say Cutler can do what Plummer can't because neither would be able to save this team. At some point a team has to start looking towards the future and by starting Cutler now they are at least getting a jump start on the most important position in the game of football.
December 4, 2006
2:13 AM
flo writes:
Denver always expects the best however, we also know that there are a multitude of factors which make a good football team, and our good guy shanahan is unbelievable, he's trying to raise our team to a higher level, despite the setbacks, so tonight we had a rookie, damn what do you expect, he comes off cold past mid season and throws some sorry passes, he's young, his throws are strong, and plummer also deserves some praise, afterall, 7 wins is something. our defense is superb, tired? of course being on the field sometimes more than the offense, give the broncos a break. there exists potential and many more super bowls to wiin. peace.
December 4, 2006
2:42 AM
Fred Furnier writes:
Shanahan did not help with his predictable play calling. He had the kid passing only in obvious pass situations and took away the element of surprise. As a result, the defense was set up for the pass, making it especially hard for a completion.
December 4, 2006
4:09 AM
jay byrd writes:
Enough of the inane Elway first-game comparisons. Hundreds of NFL rookie qbs have had lousy first-game starts since 1982, and they did not last in the NFL. Recalling it took Elway 16 years to win a Super Bowl, you may want to check back on Cutler in 2022. Assuming he is still around.
Another error on the part of the Mastermind, who brought you Griese and Plummer. He should have taken the Florida head coach job when he had the chance.
December 4, 2006
4:12 AM
jay byrd writes:
Enough of the inane Elway first-game comparisons. Hundreds of NFL rookie qbs have had lousy first-game starts simce 1982, and they did not last in the NFL. Recalling it took Elway 16 years to win a Super Bowl, you may want to check back on Cutler in 2022. Assuming he is still around.
Another error on the part of the Mastermind, who brought you Griese and Plummer. He should have taken the Florida head coach job when he had the chance. 3 consec losses...going for 4.
December 4, 2006
5:47 AM
Anonymous writes:
Cutler has Real potencial! He thinks quick, just needs a line that protects. Real potential!!
December 4, 2006
6:25 AM
Mark writes:
The fans got what they asked for. It was stupid to put him in this year in December, they will be lucky to finish .500.
December 4, 2006
7:00 AM
g writes:
Shanny has gotten away from practicing at full game speed without pads. notice practices seem to be relaxed and slow. This is not the way it was when he first got here from SF.
Timing was noticeably off to receivers as was hand off to running backs. Scripted plays should normally be crisp execution, not seen since the Plummer era.
OL needs fixing, Shanny needs to use 2 tight end maximum protection to help QB .
At any rate Broncos are a 500 team this year. We seriously need to think about trading draft picks to get a probowl left tackle, and a great running back. Shannan has a lousy record in drafting too.(Delta O neal, Ashly Lelie, Willie Middlebrooks, Marcus Nash etc)
Broncos would do better to trade all their draft picks for real football players. New England has been great at getting older free agents. We should do this.
Remember, when Shanahan first got here from SF. Broncos went and got lots of older great players, Romo, Tony Jones, McCaffrey. We need to get better Fast.
December 4, 2006
7:06 AM
David (R) writes:
For crying out loud gang, if you honestly thought he was going to go in there and play perfectly, you need to get those orange colored glasses off and take a reality check.
The one absolute certainty was that he was going to make a few mistakes, and he did. Shanahan even told everyone last week that would happen. And for those who say the season is now lost, it was lost before anyway - I mean, if you thought this was the year to retake the trophy then you just aren't paying attention.
The benefit of putting Jay in now was to give him games under his belt, real game playing experience that he will build on in the off-season. But come on now - neither Jay nor Jake was going to win this game, neither will win in San Diego next weekend, and neither will win against Cincinnati - that's just the likely truth of the matter.
We've got other areas to look at, such as a speed rusher, another receiver, maybe left tackle, safety, and much of special teams. Jay did just fine, although he's trying to put it all on his back, but the fans shouldn't let him because it just isn't so.
December 4, 2006
7:22 AM
MDBroncofan writes:
Am I the only one that noticed the last 2 games the Broncos lost Tatum Bell didn't play? He ran wild in the first half and barely got the ball in the 2nd. I cannot understand the play calling this year. Why are these so called fans keep saying get Cutler games for next year because they weren't going to win the Superbowl? ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN IN THE PLAYOFFS. The season is done and give Tatum Bell the ball and there is a reason Mike Bell was undrafted(2 left feet maybe)
December 4, 2006
7:25 AM
BOB GARVEY writes:
It seems that this was one of the worst game plans that Shanahan has ever put together. Everyone expected Cutler to play like the rookie that he is. And he did. But he does have a strong arm and I liked the way he performed for the most part. Hang on Denver faithful Jay will show you the way. At least he didn't line up behind his guard.
December 4, 2006
7:28 AM
Tony Ellsworth writes:
I thought Jay Cutler had a really good first start. If you take away one play it would be as good as you can expect, and remember you could be saying that about Jake - many times we have. We knew Jay would not have a perfect game and he also made some big plays - 2 TD's and some good 3rd down conversions. What was unfortunate was that the Broncos had 5 turnovers - only two of those go to the rookie QB. Without the other 3 turnovers, we win the game. Mike's decision to start Jay now will be better for next year. We have already let go of Trevor Pryce and Mike Anderson and it is time to give a great send off to the other Broncos from the old Superbowl era, to build towards a new one. Jay Cutler, Javon Walker, Brandon Marshall, David Kircus and Tony Scheffler are really exciting when you think about them with an offseason under thier belts. Though Tatum Bell is good for 10 carries, we need a top shelf back and the Broncos can again be one of the premier offenses in the NFL.
December 4, 2006
7:40 AM
David (R) writes:
Look MDBroncofan - whether you want to look at it this way or not, here is the truth - Jay was going to have to play his first game sometime - either this year, or next. But with everything staying the way it was with Jake at QB, can you honestly tell me that we had any reasonable shot at making the SB and winning it? Against Indy, Sandy Eggo, or Chicago? Are you crazy? It isn't happening this year, and all Broncos fans need to just support the team and let the kid learn.
December 4, 2006
7:41 AM
Jeff writes:
Where is Jay's emotion. He looked like a kid that was in trouble
waiting for their father to come home to puntion him. Overall its was a
c- grade. I hope he can step up to the bat and be more vocal as a
leader. He looked like a deer in headlights.
December 4, 2006
7:57 AM
Robert writes:
Culter is a Rookie, makesure that we don't forget that! All in All if he makes a few misstakes that is okay and expected from a Rookie. But when Plummer made the same kind of misstakes it was different with him being a Veteran! He should know how to compose a game and throw to the correct areas where he can make a play. Culter is going to have to learn all that. The longer he was behind Plummer the more he would pick up his bad habbits so it is good that he is starting and making mistakes now so that if we do make the playoffs then by that time he can feel more comfortable and take the team beyond what Plummer could have done! Cutler is the Present and Future of the Broncos and he is going to be a Bright one!!! Go BRONCOS!!!!!
December 4, 2006
7:59 AM
Robert writes:
Culter is a Rookie, makesure that we don't forget that! All in All if he makes a few misstakes that is okay and expected from a Rookie. But when Plummer made the same kind of misstakes it was different with him being a Veteran! He should know how to compose a game and throw to the correct areas where he can make a play. Culter is going to have to learn all that. The longer he was behind Plummer the more he would pick up his bad habbits so it is good that he is starting and making mistakes now so that if we do make the playoffs then by that time he can feel more comfortable and take the team beyond what Plummer could have done! Cutler is the Present and Future of the Broncos and he is going to be a Bright one!!! Go BRONCOS!!!!!
December 4, 2006
8:14 AM
R8er55 writes:
My, my my.....How quickly Bronco fans can turn on a decent QB like the Snake. The guy had a QB rating of 72% and the team had a chance of making the playoffs, but not now. Keep playing the rookie and some day he too can have 30 comeback wins in the 4th quarter like Jake had before he was benched.
December 4, 2006
8:27 AM
JW writes:
I thought the kid did great, especially for his first game, and a total lack of oline pass protection.
Yea, we probably win this game with Plummer in there, but who cares? With the way our oline is playing, we simply arent doing squat in the playoffs should we make it.
Play the kid. Fix the oline in the off season. Next year we are sb contenders again.
December 4, 2006
8:28 AM
futbal king writes:
Ha Ha, Broncos suck and all you losers spent hours watching a loser team! Get a life and do something more productive than watching this team swirl around in the toliet bowl
December 4, 2006
8:30 AM
DMC writes:
Damn but Bronco fans are a fickle bunch. You screamed and screamed for Jake's head on a platter and wanted the rookie Jay to play. You get you're wish and now you're screaming for his head too.
Get over it!!! There won't ever be another Elway!! That's all in the past. You got what you wanted now either get behind the kid or shut the hell up.
December 4, 2006
8:30 AM
hckydood writes:
What I saw honestly was the same team losing again. Pulling Plummer didn't change a thing because he wasn't the only problem. He might not have made the mistake INT. for the TD, but otherwise it looked like the receivers dropped the passes, most passes were behind the receivers, we abandoned the running game in the second half, special teams continue to be the worst in the league and the defense cannot create a 3-and-out after the first quarter. The only good part was that for a change the media (Krieger, Linicome, etc.) and the fans(?) aren't blaming Plummer yet, however they will after we lose 2 more games and don't have a chance at a wild-card birth. Everyone will talk about how Plummer screwed us and despite having the highest winning percentage of ANY Denver QB, he lost the whole season from day one. Cutler will end up being a good QB, but what we really need is changes in coaching. Instead of Mr. Bowlen and all the sports writers praising "The Mastermind," maybe Shanahan should be at least a little accountable, think about it, Bowlen has said publicly that Shanny can coach as long as he wants. Does that still count after 4 or 5 seasons of 6-10? Honestly everyone kept saying how Cutler "singlehandedly" won every game for Vandy, when they did win, and that he was surrounded by a bad team, winning despite that. I didn't see that last night, he is surrounded by a team of non-superstars and underachievers and lost.
December 4, 2006
8:35 AM
ron writes:
I wonder if Shanahan regrets listening to all you idiot fans yet. YOU DON'T PUT A ROOKIE QB IN A PIVOTAL GAME WHEN YOU ARE 7-4 AND TRYING FOR A PLAYOFF SPOT!
If Denver had the running game every game like they did last night, they would have only lost 1 game all season! THIS IS A MEDIOCRE TEAM!
December 4, 2006
8:39 AM
futbal king writes:
the only thing more pointless than watching futbal is consuming your productive moring talking about how bad the team is. Again, get a life!
December 4, 2006
8:43 AM
Anonymous writes:
futbal king saidthe only thing more pointless than watching futbal is consuming your productive moring talking about how bad the team is. Again, get a life!
LOL Appartenly he has no life if he's here reading this blog and passing judgement.
December 4, 2006
8:43 AM
Anonymous writes:
With just alittle bit of luck, and experience on the belt of Cutler Denver will rise above it! This kid has guts! A touch of Elway, maybe!
December 4, 2006
9:00 AM
gwats writes:
Like I've said before, when a fish starts to stink, It starts at the head. A friend of mine, a diehard orange and blue fan, wants wholesale change in the Broncos Organization. He feels Shanny and his boys (Coaches) have lost their way. I couldn't agree more. Time to clean house.
December 4, 2006
9:02 AM
Joe writes:
Who I am disappointed in is not the obviously capable young talent of Jay Cutler. This kid is the real deal. He was put into a very difficult situation late in the season with the playoffs hanging in the balance on national television. I too wish we could have waited until next season to put him in so he could soak up some more experience on the sidelines. I hope putting him in this early doesn't really rattle his confidence.
Who I am really disappointed in is all the fans who have turned so calous and mean over the kid. In the long run this town will never be satisfied without a franchise quarterback and now we finally have one. Rally around the kid and he will rally the Broncos. Maybe the post season isn't a reality but was it really with Jake?
I for one wish the kid all the best. Hopefully Santa leaves all you cut throat fans out there a nice shiny toy under the tree to improve your moods.
December 4, 2006
9:14 AM
778 days to go writes:
Jay had some rookie quirks but did you see him read the defense? I thought Shanahan was going to smile. Look at it folks, we have one good team left to play this season and we can beat them if we can eliminate the mistakes. The rest of our schedule is weak. Jay made a couple bad plays but he is a rookie. I was more upset with the special teams play than the rookie. Jay did better than I expected and with his back up against the goal he moved forward fairly well. He had some bad nerves but that will be gone next game so I expect the first passes to be better. If you eliminate the mistakes by the team members other than Jay this could have been a win. I see the Broncos finishing 10 and 6 and possibly better. I bet this will draw a wildcard.
December 4, 2006
9:21 AM
778 days to go writes:
Bernie Lincicome rips on Jay but the only thing Plummer would have done different is he would have thrown the interception with his left hand. Plummer has had years to prove himself; Jay has had one cold night after being on the bench all season. I would wait until next game to judge Lincicome, besides this is about not just getting to the playoffs but winning in the playoffs which has been the weak part for Jake. Have you even looked at the Denver schedule before you doomed them from making the playoffs? 10 and 6 is real doable.
December 4, 2006
9:25 AM
futbal king writes:
the broncos couldn't finish first in an ass eating contest much less compete with the big boys in the NFL. They won't make the playoffs this year or next. They suck, and so does the new QB.
December 4, 2006
9:27 AM
Sheila writes:
I can honestly call myself a true bronco fan but lately I'm not so proud to be. Our fans in Denver worship Elway and will not give any quaterback coming in here a chance. Plummer never had a chance. Given he's made more mistakes than I think allowed but he has also taken us pretty far. Just remember how long it took John to get us our first SB win. Coaching not so great right now but we just need to have faith! Hope all is okay with Wilson.
December 4, 2006
9:43 AM
Jeff writes:
Last night only showed the glaring deficiencies of this football team. Cutler looked no better or worse than Plummer. This team needs Shannahan to drop his ego and address the problems with his defensive coordinator, Offensive line coach, and special teams coach. The Broncos defense resembles more of an Arena Football defense, than an NFL defense. The running game is inconsistent at best. The offensive line coach was a backup linebacker, and special teams player. The Broncos could have had the greatest defensive mind in football, in Gunther Cunningham, but Shannahan's ego got in the way. He didn't want to give Gunther autonomy over defensive player personnel decisions. Way to Shanny, Kubiak and Elway were the true masterminds, and you are still that loser coach who ran the Fade to 3-13.
December 4, 2006
9:52 AM
Jakyl writes:
Shannahan should've benched Cutler in the 3rd quarter and sent Plummer in there to win it. Plummer has won more games in Denver than he's lost, and sitting out for a rookie is a good wake up call.
December 4, 2006
9:58 AM
Valerie writes:
I am disgusted the way that Plummer was tossed to the side to have Cutler come in. It took Elway awhile to get good, but we stuck with him. How about giving a little faith to Plummer. Everyone has bad games here and there. Look at the Steelers? If Cutler stays in, you can count Denver losing the season. They need to put Plummer back in, especially with the Chargers being up next.
December 4, 2006
10:00 AM
JW writes:
"The Broncos defense resembles more of an Arena Football defense, than an NFL defense. "
Anyone notice that the D gave up one td?
Anyone notice that the D makes stops on a regular basis despite defending a short field?
This d is about as tough as it gets. They give up less than 20 pts a game on a regular basis, and that is DESPITE the offense going three and out all the freaking time. This d with last years clock eating offense KILLS Pitt in the AFC title game.
But we dont have last years offense. We have an offense that has a time of posesion of about 20 min a game. LAME!
December 4, 2006
10:20 AM
larry writes:
In his NFL debut, Cutler was almost as good as Elway in some of his early games and way better than Plummer in his first 6 or 7 years.
December 4, 2006
10:28 AM
777 days to go writes:
Oh crap I agree with JW. Denver’s defense is the class of the league. I think Jay will only improve. How many bad games did Elway start with? Cutler will have his legs a little more each game and if he beats the Chargers he will surprise me. I see him winning the last three and going to the playoffs where I hope he does better than Plummer. He is still a rookie with only one game so give Jay a game to warm up.
December 4, 2006
10:43 AM
Anonymous writes:
Cutler didn't lose this game, Shanahan did. Period. Poor coaching.....
December 4, 2006
11:35 AM
Bronco Fan writes:
Jay did ok. It wasn't all his fault he had no passer protection so what do you expect? He had to deal with the other team in his face all night, Hassleback on the other hand had plenty of time in the pocket so that was the difference. I'm still rooting for Cutler keep Plummer where is now as the holder for Elam!
December 4, 2006
11:51 AM
Ha ha ha writes:
Half of the Bronco fans here say "Oh well, wait until next season", knowing that the playoffs are not going to happen. The other half have not yet pulled their collective heads out. They fail to see 3 losses in a row - almost 4 having barely beaten the miserable Oakland Raiders. This team is going nowhere. Who is to blame? It's not Jay, and it's not Jake anymore. Nope, it's Mike "Loser" Shanahan. He wins a Super Bowl with a Hall of Fame QB and someone else's team, and he doesn't do crap after that. One playoff win since Elway retired??? Hell, I could get that!
December 4, 2006
12:23 PM
history buff writes:
The Broncos do no have a deep threat receiver. That was supposed to be Ashley Lelie. Oh well. There is always next year's draft.
December 4, 2006
12:37 PM
Ivan writes:
No defense......no surprise. In the last 2 minutes of any game the Broncos make any quarterback look like a hall of famer.
What happened to good old fashioned pass rushing?
I was hoping the carving was done on Thanksgiving Day!!
December 4, 2006
12:44 PM
Tony writes:
This game was handed to Seattle by
Jay Cutler yes...but the defense had
another late game collapse and ultimately it another loss we can hang on them.
Instead of building on last season
the defense has regressed and they just look OLD and unable to
put any pressure on the QB
December 4, 2006
12:49 PM
Mary Beth writes:
I am a Bronco fan residing in Seattle. The best chance for the Bronco’s season is sitting on the bench. Jake Plummer should not have been benched. Jay Cutler may be the future but you may have sacrificed your best chance for the post season by benching Mr Plummer
December 4, 2006
12:51 PM
Donna writes:
I am sooooooooooo disappointed in the Denver fans!!!!!!!!!! In my simple mind I would have assumed that if you take a ROOKIE Quarterback that has never played in an NFL game, that was also televised on TV, that there might be a little bit of compassion for Jay Cutler!!!!!!!! No.......there is nothing but anger and cries of bring back Jake!Make up your mind!!!!!!!!! How in the world could you expect a ROOKIE that has stood on the sidelines for the entire season to be thrown into the fire like he was and not make mistakes????? As A HUGE Jay Cutler fan that watched him play in college at Vandy don't blame your teams woes on him. There was tooooooooooo much pressure put on him and he alone cannot save your season!!!! So Denver fans grow up and give # 6 time to grow. He is an incredible QB that I imagine in the years to come will make many of you ( not all) very happy !!!!
Vandy Fan/ #6 Fan
P.S. He is not John Elway and never will be ......let him be his own person!!!! A little kindness goes a long way!
December 4, 2006
12:53 PM
Jeff writes:
The defense does resemble an AFL defense. "Why yes you can throw on us all day, because we have no pass rush to speak of." No twists, no stunts, everyone rushes straight up the field. If they are the class of the league then how about last night. The Seahawks started on their own 16 yard line, and the defense just fell flat on its but again. Couldn't get the Seahawks off the field, because nobody got even close to Hasselback. If it was just against Indy, I would have said that was Payton Manning. But to have that happen also against KC, and Seattle. That is just poor defensive play calling. The defense has given up more yards in the second half's of games all season, because Coyer doesn't know how to make adjustments. Imagine the talent of this team, and a real defensive coordinator running the reigns. OMG.
December 4, 2006
1:14 PM
Bob writes:
I am really tired of hearing that Denver is not a Super Bowl caliber team. Denver beat Baltimore, KC, the Patriots, the Steelers in Pitt. Our problem now are bigger than our QB. Our D has created NO pressure on opposing QB's, Darrent can't cover, our WR's except for Walker are non-existent, our TE's are extinct. This is not Jake's fault. If we are trying to make the play-offs put Jake back in, if not then apologizr to the fans and to your players and keep playing Jay.
December 4, 2006
1:17 PM
Bronccrushfan writes:
Jay Cutler made some throws last night, that Jake can't. The one to Scheffler in between two defenders, is one that really shows the glaring difference between the two quarterbacks. Jay had some balls that were dropped that should have been caught (Maybe the receivers were shocked that the ball hit them in the numbers). Cutler threw two picks the entire game. If memory serves, a certain guy who wore #7, threw two picks in the first quarter alone. The kid is going to be alright. What is the worse thing that can happen, we don't get into the playoffs, finish with a worse record than the Redskins, and have two first round draft picks? Oh wow, imagine if they used those on a couple of defensive linemen that can get to the QB. My concerns are more with the second half meltdowns by our defense, and a running game that gets snuffed out in the second half. The way I see it, the Bell's and Nash have had their chances, Cobbs had a decent game against Pittsburgh, maybe he is the answer to our running game woes. I agree with Jeff, this whole rushing straight up the field by our defensive linemen, in obvious passing downs, is making the blocking schemes easier, and allowing QBs all day to throw the football.
December 4, 2006
1:29 PM
Brandon writes:
Wow folks...let me tell you...
I am glad I don't live in Colorado right now...
I hope all you whiners out there realize that everyone across the nation views Denver fans as the most ridiculous fans in the league... and not in a good way.
I for one, as a Broncos fan, am sick and tired of those of you who DEMAND overnight success.
Give me a break.
Cutler made some mistakes, as a rookie playing his first game would. That in mind, he STILL played just as good (if not better) than Plummer has (a 10 year veteran mind you)
So stop pointing the finger at the quarterback, whoever they may be, and start focusing on the fact that right now, the team as a WHOLE isn't playing that well.
Despite this heart-stomping loss, anyone with a lick of sense can see that Cutler has amazing potential.
Don't be so quick to throw everyone to the dogs. One game and you want him out? It makes me sick, and makes us look like miserable, pathetic fans.
December 4, 2006
1:49 PM
Tricia writes:
Most of you just shock me. The problem is not Jake Plummer, it is that most of the Denver receivers seem to have "ball repel" on their hands. What really galls me is that nobody will even give Jake Plummer the credit that he has beaten all of John Elways records and I never quite understood the God like stature that he attained. Remember that there are 11 men on the field not just one.
December 4, 2006
1:53 PM
Bronccrushfan writes:
Thank you Brandon,
I remember Elway's first few years here in Denver, the fans and the media were screaming for him to get the hook. They wanted DeBerg his rookie year, then they wanted Kubiak. Broncos fans seem to have forgotten, life PreElway was pretty lean for wins, but it didn't stop people from selling out Mile High and making it a miserable place for the visiting team. Where were the Broncomaniacs last night, when the team needed them to get loud and make it impossible for the offense to hear? Oh yeah, they started leaving when the score was 20-13, that's right.
December 4, 2006
2:02 PM
777 days to go writes:
As I remember when Jay left the field it was tied 20 to 20.
December 4, 2006
2:09 PM
Bronccrushfan writes:
Right 777, but people started leaving the stands when the score was 20-13.
December 4, 2006
2:18 PM
Troy writes:
The kid did well. The one pass to Seattle that he souldn't have thrown, looked to me like a knee jerk reaction to pain and suprise. He will take us far. Lots of mistakes made by all.
December 4, 2006
2:28 PM
Tricia writes:
I am a Denver Fan through and through but what I saw last night just made me sad. All the signs of hope and thankfulness for Cutler but not ONE sign that even acknowledged ALL the great things that Jake Plummer did?? Come on 2 rough games and you people completely bail. I am ashamed of all of you!
December 4, 2006
2:31 PM
BRIAN writes:
Jake simply does not have the tools to get you to the show!
Its like dating a girl, you know you would never marry.
This kid is going to light it up the next couple weeks, and for many years to come. He has the ability to make the plays that made you proud to be a Bronco fan. You remember that feeling?
Go Jay, the smart money is betting on ya!
Remember, being a Bronco fan, isnt a part time job!
December 4, 2006
2:32 PM
BRIAN writes:
Jake simply does not have the tools to get you to the show!
Its like dating a girl, you know you would never marry.
This kid is going to light it up the next couple weeks, and for many years to come. He has the ability to make the plays that made you proud to be a Bronco fan. You remember that feeling?
Go Jay, the smart money is betting on ya!
Remember, being a Bronco fan, isnt a part time job!
December 4, 2006
2:35 PM
Bronccrushfan writes:
I remember being a proud broncos fan, when we prayed for a 7-7 season.
December 4, 2006
2:42 PM
Anonymous writes:
Ya'll want some freakin' cheese with your whine??? What a bunch of cracker-assed fair-weather piss-poor fans. The kid is a rookie ... give him a break .... he'll get there. Let's just say he'll grow up before the half-wits on here bitching about him after one game and saying "I told ya so, I told ya so" ... you pansies make me want to puke.
December 4, 2006
3:14 PM
Bronccrushfan writes:
"Ya'll want some freakin' cheese with your whine??? What a bunch of cracker-assed fair-weather piss-poor fans. The kid is a rookie ... give him a break .... he'll get there."
Hmmm..... First of all, I supported Jake when he was in the saddle, and I support Jay now that he is in the saddle. Secondly, you need to realize that there are two types of Broncos fans. The first are like myself, who know who you are talking about when you say Randy Gradishar, Steve Foley (not the idiot who got shot in San Diego), Louis Wright, Joe Rizzo, Billy Thompson, Floyd Little, Lyle Alzado (yes, he was a Bronco before he got stupid and joined the Fade), and the fact that John Ralston turned this franchise around. We're the Pre Elway fans, and because we struggled all those years, we tend to enjoy our Broncos a little differently.
Then there is the Elway era fans, who have no idea that the 6-8 season in '75 was awesome. All they have known is Elway and winning, and so that is what is expected.
I am happy that Jake had success here. It showed the nay sayers in Arizona, that he wasn't the problem, and that he could be more than a 6-10 quarterback. He learned more about being an NFL QB in the 4 years that he was here, than the 6 in Arizona.
Jay Cutler is running the show now, and like Brian said "Being a Bronco fan isn't a part time job." That means rallying behind the kid, and learning to move on from Elway. Hey folks he's not coming back, and so it is time to move on. The kid showed he has so much potential and I predict that in 3 years, the AFC west will be the toughest division, because of it's QBs. We have Jay. The Chargers have Rivers, and the Fade will more than likely grab Brady Quinn or Brian Brohm.
As much as some Broncos fans don't want to admit it, Jake did right by this team, and for whatever reason the team just wasn't getting it done this year.
December 4, 2006
3:30 PM
Rich writes:
Tricia, you missed my signs at the game!
"Benching Your 7-4 QB, Thankless" and "Holding Clipboard for $400,000 per Game, Pricelss" and the best, which I held til the end of the game "Now What?" Boy, you should have heard the people around me (13 rows behind the Broncos bench)!
I agree with John Madden, I wouldn't have benched Jake. Can you imagine how fans would have reacted if Jake had a game like Jay. They'd have BOOed the stadium to the ground. But no such reaction to Cutler's performance which says they didn't really hold him to the same standard as they've been holding Jake. Heck, Jake hasn't had that opening field position in all his years in Denver (first three posessions starting on the 37, 45 and 49). And, if the Seahawk DBs (let alone their receivers) could catch a thrown ball, two of Cutler's three first quarter passes should have been intercepted.
Do you Cutler dreamers realize Jake holds team records for: Best career winning percentage, Most TD in Season, Most Passing Yards in Season, Most Passing Yards in Sgl Game, and, here's the one most Jake critics choke on: Best Career QB Rating. Don't believe me, look it up on the Broncos web site.
I wouldn't have gone to Cutler at this juncture if Shanahan has real designs on this season going far. But, here's the real reason. Plummer is not guaranteed for next year. The Broncos need to know if Cutler is the real deal so they can release Plummer next spring. They didn't want to be put in a Chargers predicament like last year with Brees and Rivers. So, while they maintained the public face of "gives us best chance to win today", no one seriously believed it (at least not anyone who knows the history of rookie first round QBs). Jake won't be around next year at millions of cap dollars to hold for Elam's kicks.
Cutler may well be the future. But they needed to have an indication before this season was over before putting all the bets on him. We are spoiled here in Denver with all our winning seasons. And that has made all you bar room critics naive. It's a long and continuous process to get an occasional shot at a Super Bowl. Let's hope our 3rd place schedule (i.e. no Patriots or Bengals next year) will be nice to Jay next year.
December 4, 2006
3:40 PM
Justin Shull writes:
Why are so many people writing off Denver to make the playoffs with four games. I believe that the Broncos will right the ship and make the playoffs. After that it is a new season. The fair weather fans and whiny media need to realize that John Elway was a once in a lifetime quarterback. Cutler will be fine and he will gell with Brandon Marshall and Tony scheffler. Dont stop believing!! Go Broncos!!!!
December 4, 2006
3:44 PM
Anonymous writes:
Hey Bronccrushfan .... I was at the 'half-a-loaf' game .... remember it? The Elway-era fans you refer to have never even heard of it much less anything before it, and not a lot for years after it. True fans of any team, like me and you, know that it is a rare thing to get to the playoffs, more rare to get to the big dance, and a once-in-a-blue-moon deal to win it. Our franchise has been truly blessed over the years, and now that the change has been made to Cutler, we just need to encourage the whine-and-cheese crowd to figure out how the game really works, and to support their team and its coaches. Good post.
December 4, 2006
4:32 PM
mark writes:
Cutler looked a lot like Plummer. Not horrible, but not too good either. I know he's young, but I believe the words were' "He's our best chance to win now."
I was never in favor of a QB change this far into what was a promising season. Cutler's mediocre, at best, performance proves just 1 thing now...I was right, & the media & majority of the vocal public was wrong. It's too late to go back to Jake now. Cutler needs more time on the pine.
December 4, 2006
5:37 PM
steve writes:
Those of you who say Jay Cutler is the man can gather with Linus on Halloween and wait for the Great Pumpkin. A great arm? Two words, Jeff George! Rich's comments about Jake's historical performance were right on. Broncocrushfan as well in standing behind the team. Doesn't mean that the team is totally beyond criticism in their decisions. Who thinks Elam can outrun his own grandmother these days?...Apparently, Shanahan. The deed is done now. Cutler is in as the Broncos' quarterback. It's exactly like Dallas with different results. One thing is for sure, Plummer will start for another team next year--and probably one that doesn't have the smallest offensive line in the league. And perhaps an offense that doesn't look like the rejects from the Island of Misfit toys.
December 4, 2006
6:03 PM
Brian writes:
Come on, folks, it was his first NFL game ever, and he threw a whole lot fewer interceptions than Jake Plummer usually throws. Jay Cutler is not the reason the Broncos self-destructed. The team has lost a lot of confidence and enthusiasm over the year. That won't come back after one week.
December 4, 2006
6:24 PM
Jack writes:
I think coaches outthink themselves these days. I don't see why a young quarterback can't be brought along to get experience by inserting him in games throughout the season to let him get the feel or to change the pace of games we're struggling with. This worked in the past. Why do we have to commit to one QB or the other??
December 4, 2006
6:47 PM
Anonymous writes:
Hey Futbal King ... you got it wrong all three times:
1) "Ha Ha, Broncos suck......" - no, YOU suck. Quit blaming your problems/issues on others.
2) "the only thing more pointless than watching futbal is consuming your productive moring..." - no, it's being a putz who hates the game and wastes his time posting to tell people they're wasting their time - dipshit.
3) "the broncos couldn't finish first in an ass eating contest much less compete with the big boys in the NFL....." - no again doofus - check the stats and you'll find that the orange and blue are very competitive in most areas including won/lost record.
Now, go sit in a corner, shut up, mind your own business, and don't come back unless you have an intelligent post to make.
December 4, 2006
6:47 PM
Brian writes:
Let's not wear the rose colored glasses here, people. Facts are facts....Cutler was plain BAD last night. The good news is that he is a rookie and we're all praying that he will get better with time (I believe he will). More importantly, the Broncos are just not the team that we all thought they were when they were 7-2. Some of us saw the holes and now reality has caught up with us. The defense is great, I believe, but what the heck has happened to them? Where are all of the creative blitz schemes? The offense is a BIG problem. With Cutler or Plummer it doesn't matter, the offense is merely good, at best. That's not going to take us to the Super Bowl this year or next. We will probably lose 2 of our last 4 and Shannon will need to do some serious re-tooling to make this team playoff worthy. My answer, bring Kubiak back!!
December 4, 2006
6:50 PM
Anonymous writes:
I guess Broncos fans are now just willing to settle for another first round exit with Jake the fake. I think Cutler played like a rookie as it should have been. Folks lets face it this team is not a Super Bowl caliber team. Why not play for next year by getting Cutler the experience he needs now. The guy can throw as evidence of his laser beams last night. Plummer's rainbow passes may have touch but they take forever to hit the target.
December 4, 2006
7:00 PM
GARY writes:
KUBIAK' GONE, THAT'S THE REAL MAN WHO WAS RUNNING THE SHOW! ALL OF THIS ABOUT JAKE IS B.S... HE DOES'NT PLAY DEFENSE, SHANNY'S NOT COMFORTABLE WITH JAKE, BECAUSE HE'S NOT AN OFFENSIVE MINDED COACH.. KUBIAK WAS THE GLUE AND NOW HE'S GONE, GET OVER IT! HE SHOULD 'VE BEEN THE COACH HERE AND MOVE SHANNY UPSATIRS...NO MORE SUPERBOWLS FOR DENVER, ( OVER THE YEARS TEXANS UP AND BRONCOS ON THE WAY DOWN!
December 4, 2006
7:09 PM
Anonymous writes:
Gary - you're a dumbass - shut up, and stop YELLING by using all UPPER CASE. You're already wrong in your opinions, there's no sense yelling it to everyone. If you're going to look stupid at least keep your voice down. I guess it being "all Kubiak" is why the Texans have a record of 4-8 now, hmmm? Don't get me wrong - he's a good man and a good coach, and his loss is no doubt some of the problem, but it's not all of it.
Here's a quote from an article on the Post, made by Elway:
"Elway experienced his share of early growing pains, throwing seven touchdown passes and 14 interceptions as a rookie. At one point, he lined up under left guard to take the center snap. But that was before he won two Super Bowls and landed in the Hall of Fame, developments which have prompted certain people to conveniently overlook his shortcomings.cq
"I'll tell you what's amazing," he said. "You retire, you're away from the game for eight years and people look at you like you never made a mistake. You (media) used to crucify me and now it's like I'm a god. You know what I mean? I went through the same things that everyone else is going through, that Jay is going through, that Jake's been through.
"What happens when you retire is you get a lot better than you were. I never lost a Super Bowl, never threw a pick, never got sacked, never, as I was going down, threw it in the air. I did all that. They just forget."
I watched John's games in his rookie year and it took him a good six or eight games to start getting on track. Same will be true of Jay. For Pete's sake, everyone calm down.
December 4, 2006
7:19 PM
The Fox writes:
What did we expect? He's a rookie starting his first game. Why is Shanahan using the same plays Plummer used? These are two different QB's, even though it was tough to see any difference.
December 4, 2006
7:37 PM
Chris writes:
I just don't understand the mindset of putting a rookie into a situation where you have a team that has legitimate playoff and superbowl goals. It turned the team into a one dimensional offensive team. Once the Seahawks figured that out the offense came to a grinding halt. How does that give your team the best chance to win. Plummer does have his faults, but he at least gives you the threat of a passing game, right now Cutler doesn't. If this was a team like the Lions or Raiders, with no hope at all this season, then put in your future quaterback and let him learn on the fly like Elway did, or Vince Young is doing this year with the Titans. If Shanahan sticks with Cutler he is just throwing the season away and looking forward to the offseason and some golf.
December 4, 2006
7:42 PM
Don writes:
I'm a Bronco fan living in Michigan, born and raised in Denver. Not going to call myself an expert, but I've watched a LOT of football in my time. It surprises me how many fans are missing the big picture here, not all, but most: the coach. Has anyone been paying any attention to the play calling on offense? Hey Shannahan, this isn't Madden '07 -. One play last night was a summary of most of the play calling this year. With 30 seconds on the clock, you're just benched QB tosses a no-look pass like he's some Iverson wanna-be over his shoulder to a very old kicker who almost drops it and then barely runs for a first down and gets smashed by a defender, maybe risking the rest of his great career. What do they say in those Guiness commercials?
BRILLIANT!!!!
Then the rat of a head coach blames it on Elam 'convincing' him to call that play during the post game press conference. What a total f&^%ing copout from an overrated coach. Blame Shanahan for the way Plummer has been treated - like Jake or not - all he's done here is win. And after benching him, what does Shanahan do to acknowledge his accomplishments? "Cutler is our future". Wrong you dumb ass, Cutler is DENVER's future. If the top brass in the Broncos organization has any balls, they'll can Shanahan after this year and he won't have a future here.
I'm also a Lions fan, thats right, a LIONS fan. And right now, and I'm not sure what to be more ashamed about.
December 4, 2006
7:57 PM
Anonymous writes:
Got so pissed writing that last msg that I forgot to include one of the main points: After Elam gets smashed, Shanahan watches 20 seconds tick off!!!!! Great job!!!!! Now your kicker is hurt and you don't even do anything with the three yards you just got but kick a field goal from three yards closer!!! I haven't coaching/play calling that poor since Wayne Fontes was coaching the Detroit Lions. Shanahan's play calling is beyond aweful. How bout scripting some plays to help your rookie QB, not put him in bad situations
Hey Mike, you tool - here's some ideas for simple play calling to help your pure rookie QB that you didn't do ONCE last night: Move the pocket to add some protection? Throw a couple WR screens to your best offensive weapon (Walker) to build Cutler's confidence and get Walker involved? Maybe some Shotgun formations to add give the kid another second or two? Some screens to Mike Bell? (sorry, I think there was one RB screen last night)
I'm beginning to see what Al Davis saw in this guy.
December 4, 2006
8:01 PM
Anonymous writes:
Fox - here's what I think:
Jay not only makes his first NFL start, which is a major change from a preseason game, it's at home, and on national TV. The guy looked to me like he was ready to projectile vomit before the game started. He promptly goes out and throws his first pick because he underestimated the speed the D would get to him.
From there on, some things went right, some more things went wrong. There were too many fumbles by our guys - I mean, Rod Smith letting the guy helmet punch the ball out? He knows to put the ball away. Mike Bell not clamping onto the rock when he hits the pile? He knows better than that too. So we keep our D on the field too long and they inevitably fail in the 4th again - no brain surgery there - it's just how the game goes.
We add to this some not-very-special teams play on coverages, getting pinned on our 1 or so a couple times, and our punts going to the center of the field instead of a sideline to make a guy play on a smaller field. Kubes is running his own team now, and the new guy is getting his feet under him, and Shanahan is going nuts because his team is making silly mistakes, when what they need to do is pick up their game so they can outplay the mistakes the rookie QB is going to make.
Cutler is smart, he is athletic, he has a will to win, but he's a kid of 23. He felt personally awful about his mistakes, and nobody in that stadium wanted the win as bad as he did so he could immediately show his detractors that they weren't right - that he does deserve the chance to take this team to the next level. Elway thinks he can do it. Shanahan think so too. And so do each of the 7 NFL head coaches that were asked if Cutler had the talent and ability to win the big game.
Any of you guys out there have any sons in Pop Warner, high school, or college football? I have, and they make mistakes at every level. I sure didn't expect my sons to catch every pass thrown their way, or to make a TD every time they caught the ball.
There's a maturing process, and I believe this season is already over before Jay ever was named starter - over as in we're not going to win it all this year anyway. Jay will be just fine. But it's going to take some time. Did for Elway (1 of 8 in his first game), it did for Montana, it did for Aikman, it did for Staubach, it did for every one of them. Let's give Jay some time.
Chris - get real. This team would NEVER have gotten past Indy, San Diego, probably New England or Baltimore now, or Chicago's D. There WAS NO superbowl in the cards for this year. That, Don, is why the switch was made now - it gives the QB of next year, maturing time now. Shanahan could see it, and so could most fans. The fake FG was something that just didn't work out, but it could have under the right circumstances. And by the way, after Broncos brass takes your half-assed advice and cans Shanahan, who you goinng to replace him with that will no doubt do better??? Come on - we're waiting ...... maybe you could do it.
December 4, 2006
8:01 PM
James P. writes:
We want plummer. we want plummer. Cuntler is the absolute shits and i called it before he was at the throne. I want Shannahan out...Cuntler cut...and the snake back at the QB spot to win me the superbowl.
December 4, 2006
8:06 PM
Anonymous writes:
James P. - spoken like a true a-hole - now run along and play with your crack pipe.
December 4, 2006
8:10 PM
Anonymous writes:
Hey Don - you're right man - it's time to pick up your favorite firearm and check out dude - there's just NO SENSE in hanging around now because both your teams won't win the superbowl. You're a genius.
December 4, 2006
8:15 PM
Tricia writes:
Rich, I did miss your signs and for that I am truly sorry. I would have loved to come and sit with you and scream my thanks towards a wonderful quarterback who was never really given a chance from the beginning. I am not saying anything bad about Jay Culter, all I am saying is that the way that Jake Plummer has been treated since he first dawned the Broncos uniform has embarassed me as a Broncos fan. The coaching and some of the receivers are the ones to blame for this season and to pull Plummer before the end of the season was a bad call and showed tremendous bad taste.
December 4, 2006
8:31 PM
csg writes:
The answer shanny gave was Jay was the best player to start on 12/3/06 against Seattle and he only plays his best players...Hmm..Guess he was wrong, but of course, the coolaid drinking factless people will defend the cutler decision to undefensible ends..
Just like they defend George Bush's outrageous claims of weapons of mass destruction as imminent threat from Iraq..same coolaid drinkers by that agruement ...
Facts do not apply in these peoples irrational and emotionally based assessments.
The best quarterback in the stadium 12/3/06 was not on the field for either team but on denvers bench.
Those of an opinion that with Jake we might make the playoffs but will be one and done with a score of something like (10-42). Well since you were so wrong in the Jay for Jake assessment I do not have much faith in your predictions.
Even shanny admits he should have scaled back the play calling. Wow based on his playing calling with Jake did not think that was possible.
Last years Super bowl champs were wild card team..(Remember) unbelieveable you think that it would be better to quit on this season than at least have an opportunity to make the playoffs.
Wonder if that is what Shanny meant by, Jay giving his team the best chance to win sunday.
December 4, 2006
8:42 PM
Anonymous writes:
Boy Tricia - you and your buddy Rich are a matched set. It would be really helpful if either of you knew what you were talking about.
Yeah Rich, Jake holds those records - but, he holds those BECAUSE of Shanahan and Kubes, NOT in spite of them. When Jake got here, he was a PROJECT and the coaches weren't sure they could break him of his BAD HABITS. You may remember, oh great football guru, that Jake had ONE winning season in the desert - ONE, in 2001 (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/players/3895/career)
And, yes, he did that through athleticism and by being the "snake" and making things happen. Because of his WILL TO WIN, Shanahan thought he might be able to make it work here. Last year, it did. Until the AFC Championship game. You may remember it. I do. Jake self destructed, and returned to classic "Bad Jake" form.
Jake has been treated like a god around these parts until that game. You might also recall that he's cussed fans out, flipped them off in and outside the stadium, called a certain cancer-ridden newspaper lady all manner of durogatory names, and had a few other stumbles along the way to show us that he's human. I don't recall John, Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Steve Young, Troy Aikman, Brett Favre, or even Gus Ferrotte or Brian having any runins like that.
Don't get me wrong. I'm from Phoenix. I attended ASU. My folks have season tickets to all the football games. I like Jake as a player, and as a person. But he's made MILLIONS each year since he's been here to progress each year and win the big game. There are those who lament that the Broncos will likely release him next year - there is no doubt about it unless he'll take a pay-cut to whatever is backup QB money. That's not the Broncos being heartless - it's salary cap reality, and all teams HAVE TO DO IT. That's the very reason Brees and Rivers couldn't be on the Chargers at the same time. The top guy gets $8M a year, the backup gets $2M - period. No way is the top guy going to give up $3M a year to the other guy to keep him around, and neither would you.
And, CSG, "Last years Super bowl champs were wild card team....." - okay Mr. Football Facto, how many times has that happened in the history of the league? Right.
That's not to say it can't or won't happen again, but who said Shanahan has "given up on this year" either? Oh yeah, you did. Show me the quote where he said, "We're going with Jay because I've given up on this year .. hell, we're no good and we aren't going to win any more games this year anyway."
Damn, I wish you people would think before you even consider putting your fingers on the keyboards.
December 4, 2006
8:52 PM
??? writes:
I never said shanny stated he quit on the year.. However, in my assessment his actions speak for themselves.
His team is 7-4 and playing at home against a poor road defense in seatlle with a quarterback out of sinc because of injury and a running back coming of a layoff. So what does he do he turns his team into a question mark at the QB position Jay has not won a game yet in the NFL and Jake has won 40 just as a Bronco..
I suggest this home game against seattle was easier pickens than next week in San Diego
An do not ever suggest that I should think before i type somethin
U right wing nut job
December 4, 2006
8:59 PM
Anonymous writes:
"in my assessment his actions speak for themselves." - then you did a piss-poor assessment, and know nothing about this coach. Don't feel bad, most people don't, but everyone should know he is a true competitor.
"An do not ever suggest that I should think before i type somethin
U right wing nut job" - ROFLMFAO - Three words misspelled, and two punctuation errors. Excellent. I won't even mention that I'm a registered Democrat, but again, I will suggest that you use your head before typing anything else. I swear, it's true - truth IS stranger than fiction.
December 4, 2006
9:08 PM
Tricia writes:
If you are as up on Arizona sports as you think then I bet that you will recall that the reason Jake had so much trouble in Arizona is that they trade most of the good people that they are fortunate enough to get. Which leaves the ones they have left twisting in the wind. Please remember that Jake gave up half his salary in the Valley of the sun so that they would hire defenders to protect him and what did the Cardinals do? They took the money and then DIDN'T! The Bidwill's are in for the money and not the game. Jake has been cranky and you know what I don't blame him. Whenever Elway made a mistake, the whole team was blamed but when ANYONE else on the Broncos did anything right Elway got the credit. I am not here to deface what Elway did he was very good, but let's just say that Bronco fans were NEVER going to give Jake a chance. As for your statement that Jake Plummer was treated like a God, let's just say that is a gross overstatement. The press and the fans have been on him since he first put on the uniform because he was not Elway (remember Elway RETIRED, you weren't getting him again) I have seen that Plummer could get cranky, well hell if people on a regular basis treated me like that I would too!
December 4, 2006
9:19 PM
csg writes:
Nice analysis of my assessment..No facts just your opinions that i don't know shanny or his competitve nature..nice assessment.
As far as punctuation and spelling these are form issues not the substance of what we are discussing.
Just like your analysis of the situation form but no substance.
You still believe that a rookie quarterback with no NFL wins gave us the best chance to win last sunday..
Keep drinking your coolaid and of course you never lose an arguement because you never allow any facts come into the discussion that do not follow your preconceived ideas of the situation.
December 4, 2006
9:25 PM
kenny haines writes:
Shanahan realised two weeks ago that Plummer was not going to be the quarterback that took the Broncos to the Super bowl. Plummer may have one the game against the Seahawks, but how many more games would he win as a Bronco if he remains the starter? not many, especially in the playoffs.
Shanahan had to make a decision; either depend on an unreliable Plummer whos play is so inconsistent it makes him unpredictably bad, or play Cutler and hope for the best, I think it was the right decision made by a man who knows more than you or I about the situation.
I will be dissapointed if the Broncos do not make the playoffs, however i would be even more dissapointed if they played Plummer and lost in the first round of the playoffs, and Jay Cutler got no expirience this year and had to come in next year with no expirience as the starter. People in Denver need to realise that John Elway is gone for good, Jay Cutler is not going to be the next John Elway, he will however be the first Jay Cutler.
Plummer had his chance in Denver and he blew it, his attitude hurt him more than his bad performances. The Broncos will have to start fresh and be patient with Cutler, Shanahan knows that he can not have another Brian Griese incident. We all need to remember that every time fans scream and cry for a QB change.
December 4, 2006
9:29 PM
Anonymous writes:
Tricia - you are correct about the Bidwell's - they act like they want to fund a good team, but they seldom spend the money to make it reality. That showed some signs of changing this year when they loosened the purse strings and hired Denny Green as the coach, lured Edge from Indy to be their star running back, brought in Kurt Warner as the starting QB, and ponied up the money for one of the best QB's in the draft in Matt Leinert. The Cards have been playing better and I think they're improving.
As for the "treatment" Jake has received since he has been here, I frankly think it depends on one's perspective, and what we each are somewhat predisposed to believe. Do you honestly believe that any NFL franchise brings in someone so they can intentionally assist them in failing? That just doesn't happen Tricia - there's too much money spent for that to happen. Go to that website I posted and look at Jake's numbers - passes attempted, completed, QB rating, and TD's and interceptions. Then pull up info on Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and the other top QB's.
I'm telling you in all honesty that Shanahan gave Jake more than three full seasons, and Jake's numbers simply don't say that he can beat those other guys. Moving to Jay was an admission that it's time to move to they guy they're going to go to anyway. As I said, I am a Jake Plummer fan - he's a good QB - he's just not going to be a "great" one, here or anywhere else. There's no shame in that. Only 3 or 4 QB's during any 10 year span get to be "great", and the rest are guys that were simply the starting QB for a good team, but not a superbowl winner. Shanahan is paid handsomely by Pat Bowlen to win the big game, not to field a good team. It's all in the finances Tricia, and Jake will leave with a full wallet, respect from his coach, and a bunch of friends and admirers.
And, CSG, I've posted the website for Plummer's numbers, I've made references to several interviews and newspaper articles that were quoted, and I've also used my own experience in games personally attended, and seen on TV over the past 30+ years. Call it "my opinion" if you want, but it's certainly more data and relevant experience than you presented. And, I never, ever, ever, touch Kool-Aid - it's bad for you.
December 4, 2006
9:39 PM
CSG writes:
Ok no cool(Kool)aid for you...
Your statments (parapharsing) that Jake is not a great quarterback and Shanny gave him three years and his numbers do not add up maybe are an agruement that Jake is not a great quarterback( I think those are not the only things to judge but lets go with you stuff) .
But the question was who gave us the best chance to win on 12/03/06
Jake 40 wins as bronco and Jay no nfl starts
If the broncos are out of playoff contention then bring Jay in.
As far as not being able to win the super bowl this year or get Jay experience this year so he is ready for next year.
The first is not knowable unless you get in the playoffs but I agree they probably would lose but not to try is quitting.
And getting Jay ready for next year is an admission of quitting I dont see any other way to look at that.
December 4, 2006
9:43 PM
Tricia writes:
I have a question then: Why is the only defense of mid season replacement Jakes numbers? Because as the game goes, quarterbacks throw the ball, but RECEIVERS are suppose to catch the ball! Jake (albeit, not the last few games) but for the most part throws straight into the numbers of his receivers and they "DROP" it. So an honest question is "why is no one talking about the poor receiving going on?" (Take out Walker and Bell on that one they are consistant in receiving the ball). My biggest beef is the mid-season replacement without looking at the whole picture.
December 4, 2006
10:02 PM
Anonymous writes:
Also Tricia - about John Elway, he was crucified his first year. He almost quit the game and went into baseball (he was drafted by the New York Yankees - I have his rookie MLB card).
He had no "easy road", and when reference was made to other areas being the "problem", it's because they WERE the problem. Dan Reeves never put a top-tier line in front of Elway - not once. As a result, Elway became, and remains, the most sacked QB ever. The defenses on his teams were generally "good", but usually had only one or two named players that were top-flight. Despite this, John and the Broncos went to two superbowls before 1996 (1986, 1987, and 1989), and could have gone to three more but for a fluke in a team with an 11-5 record not making at least a wild-card spot. In addition to that, in 1997 and 1998, John and Broncos won the superbowl. So in his 16 years, he took the team to the big dance 5 times, won 2 of them, and had a chance 3 more times.
You are right Tricia - nobody else is John Elway, and nobody expects Jake or Jay to be. But if you just look at Jake's numbers in his career, as I said, he's just not going to beat the other QB's out there.
CSG, if that is the question you want to look at, then yes, Jake was likely the better choice, although that is no guarantee after he personally handed 3 losses to the other teams. Go back and review it. He was totally off-target in St. Louis (result was 3 interceptions and 10-18 loss). Against Indy he played well, going 13-for-21 for 174 yards and a passer rating of 104.1, but faced Manning who did pretty well himself. Against San Diego, I believe he was picked twice in the Chargers come-from-behind by 17 points win. And, in KC Plummer was picked I believe twice, both leading to scores in a 10-19 loss.
My point about Jay vs Jake is only that I believe there was a decision made based on the belief that there was a diminishing chance for the Broncos to be in and win the superbowl this year. Sure, flukes can happen, but Shanahan is pretty much a realist who knows what he has in his team.
And Tricia, to answer your question, Jake simply WASN'T hitting his receivers in numbers. There have been some where his receivers blew it - no doubt about it. Those are very frustrating. But everyone here can tell you how may times the ball was thrown into the ground, far behind the receiver, or Jake led them too much. I believe it was in the San Diego game, I counted five passes in a row that were uncatchable because of Jake's throws. I wondered if he was hurt or something. Later, Kizla of the sports page, said that the coaches were upset with Jake because he was not spending time studying film and the game plans. I don't know if that's true, but if so, I can tell you that's something that will lose a QB a ton of respect with the coaches AND the rest of the team. And I can assure you, people who are far more qualified to look at the "big picture" did exactly that and make the decision based on their findings.
December 4, 2006
10:03 PM
csg writes:
Speaking of numbers just this year..
Jake was 7 wins and 4 losses
Now of course it is a team game but Jake is the quarterback in the wins and the lossess..
I hear the Jake detractors saying the defense won those games not the offense...
Win at Pittsburgh hmm 31 points
Win at New England Hmm 17 points but were leading by that late in fourth quarter
Win at home Baltimore.. remember Bengals vaunted offense which is top flight only put up 13 points on baltimore last thrusday and I guess Palmer was not responsible for that one. Also the game in Denver it was wet that night bad conditions
Win at Cleveland.. There were high winds that day.. and cleveland just beat KC and they are tough at home gave San diego tough game in San Diego
Win at Oakland Houston just threw for a total 9 yards against them something like that but one game and that is the great Kubiak coaching.
Win at home KC they lost trent green and shanny called such a conservative game only 2nd game of year looking back shows shanny lost confidence in plummer already not jakes fault..
Win raiders at home.. again another wet game i believe plus shanny got conservative thinking they could not score.
Lossess
San Diego up 24-7 in third quarter more about defense than offense although offense was not good
Indy loss come on indy did not punt once defense loss
KC thanksgiving tough to win there also shanny really pulled the bag over jake on his play calling
Rams first game of year new players drops two by Javon first game and scheffler looked well we know what he is now..
On top of all this jake was bashed in the media and obviously shanny lost confidence in jake last year by drafting cutler thereby affecting his play calling this year(being to conservative)
December 4, 2006
10:18 PM
Anonymous writes:
"shanny really pulled the bag over jake on his play calling"
Not going to agree with you on this one CSG. When a game plan is developed and inserted into the strategy for the week, it is predicated on everyone doing their job a certain portion of the time. In other words, if Jake is hot on his reads and crisp on his passes, they can stay with the plan. If the running backs are hitting the holes and picking up at least 4 yards a carry, the running game is considered effective, and it is left alone.
When Jake is throwing left-handed passes, under-throwing into the hands of defenders, or something else goes wrong, the coaches have to try something else. If the running backs aren't effective up the gut, they try outside. Or they try screens, or draws, or traps. NFL football is a game of taking what the defense gives you. If their D has a weak corner, you kick his ass until he cries 'uncle' just like Manning did to us two years in a row.
Shanahan (you call him Shanny as a form of disrespect because you don't like him as a coach) started pulling the reigns in for Jake because he thought being simpler might get him back on track, but that didn't work either. Now Shanahan also knows it won't work for Jay, and he'll have to simplify more. And just for the record about this weekends game, no way we win in SD, no matter who starts, unless Rivers, Tomlinson, and Merriweather are all too ill to play.
December 4, 2006
10:24 PM
csg writes:
Thats fair you do not have to agree with analysis of the games this year but do not forget Jake lost tatum bell when they were 7-2 going into the indy game he was playing with bad toes.. So Jay had a healthy Tatum.. we know who is the best back on this team Jake had no tatum for a 4 game stretch..
Plus kinda curious why Scheffler sits out for games when Jake starts and mysteriously appears when Jay does..
I know cause they had a love connection in preseason
December 4, 2006
10:36 PM
Anonymous writes:
Very true - Tatum is the better RB on the team - Mike Bell was probably used to push Tatum to step up. I'm personally glad to see Tatum back on the field.
As for Scheffler, I find it odd as well, not to mention the absence of David Kirkus (87). Jay needs both those guys out there when it's a passing play. Jay hit those guys so well because they were all three on the scout team and had their timing down. The coaches should capitalize on that.
I think letting House go was not a good idea. He was our most experienced remaining tight end, and I wanted to see him excel after that auto accident last year. I think his blocking has been missed, and I know his catching is too.
December 4, 2006
10:42 PM
Argumentative Bronco Fan writes:
CSG, I'm going to pour myself a little Dewar's and go watch Letterman. Thanks for sparring with me, and take no offense at my comments - although I truly am a nice guy, I love to play devil's advocate and sometimes have been known to argue for things I don't even believe, just for the fun of it and to see if I can get someone's goat. You're a good Joe. You too Tricia. Have a great evening. And you can use the handle "Argumentative Bronco Fan" if you want to find me in the future - lol - I'll know who you're looking for.
December 4, 2006
10:44 PM
csg writes:
Well I have a theory that if Shanny would had faith in Jake for the next few years and made these personnell decisions
Do not draft cutler
Draft Maroney
Resign Jeb Putizer
Do not draft Scheffler
I believe that means we had two picks one first rounder used to move up to get cutler
and go another way with our second round pick
Try to keep lelie probably not likely because he makes nice acrobatic catches
demote Rod Smith to thrid receiver
and pickup Javon walker
that way u start the year
with TE JEB Putizer, RB L.Maroney and Tbell, Rec 1 J.Walker and 2 A Lelie..3 R.Smith
and who knows who the draft pick might have been a DE that could get to passer.
Shanny started playing for the future when he drafted the way he did
December 4, 2006
11:28 PM
rick writes:
I love the guy who is responding and putting down everyone praising Jake, yet doesn't have the nerve to put his name on his comments. You say you went to ASU, and you calim that jake only had 1 winning season, but I guess you never watched the team those years. The recievers were horrible and the Bidwells used his first and only play off game for the Cards into getting a new stadium and line their pockets even more, then trading or letting players go that were decent and keep the over the hill gang for cheap salaries. I saw the same thing here ever since Jake showed up. Shanahan thought/thinks he can just put any old running back behind Jake and his master schemes will run at will. They let their best TE from last year go to HOU, and their current TE's can't hold a pass to save their life.
How you can honestly say that Jake was treated like a "God" is the biggest crap I have heard. He was constantly booed whenever something happened bad, always his fault when the receivers drop the ball right in their hands, yet if they caught it, it wasn't Plummer's doing.
How can you say the season was lost when a team is 7-4?
He puts 30 points up against INDY, but the defense can't stop anything and they lose, Jake's fault though in your eyes, the defense blow another comeback in the SD game, and Shanahan set Jake up to lose the KC game with his piss poor play calling.
This season will be lost when we loss to SD this week, and the way the Cards are playing will probably lose to them as well.
December 5, 2006
7:45 AM
Argumentative Bronco Fan writes:
Wow Rick - everyone else on the list that I've been sparring with is sooooo glad you're here to post in their defense, and take me to task for putting no name in. You using "Rick" is full disclosure as to your identity, and knowing exactly who someone is, is just so important, and of course, everyone puts all their identify info in here.
As for Jake, the Cards, the Bidwells,etc., if you would read the full posting list, you would see I already agreed that the Bidwells have been slugs, the Cards have been crap, and Jake was minus a lot of help who got traded if they were any good, mainly because he Bidwells were slugs and didn't want to pry the wallet open.
You would also have seen me say that I think Jake is a good person (despite MANY on-field and off-field examples of him doing things he ought not do), and is a good QB. The team has been a "good" team with him here, and he holds a number of impressive records. That said, it's my belief that we have seen his best, and now he is declining. It happens - no surprises. He is becoming consistent at throwing behind, too far in front of, over, and below his receivers on a consistent basis. This can be part receiver, part QB, part defensive alignments, or some of each.
This season, with Jake and the team playing down to the level of their competition, simply illustrates tht they aren't a championship caliber team - those go after their opponents from the starting whistle - they pound the other team, rip their hearts out, and stomp on them to show no mercy. With things going the way they were, it is just my opinion, but the team was better off to get Jay some playing time this year, so as to be better prepared for next, when hopefully they'll have repaired a few other things and gotten injured starters back.
Now, stop whining and go enjoy some football.
December 5, 2006
9:12 AM
futbal king writes:
the rookie sucks as much as the rest of the team. Broncos will be lucky to finish at .500
December 5, 2006
9:21 AM
Anonymous writes:
but he doesn't suck as much as you, so shut up and stop being a negative nelllie
December 5, 2006
9:42 AM
futbal king writes:
OOOO good comeback. YOU are just mad that your team sucks the big one!
December 5, 2006
10:59 AM
Tree writes:
Cutler did great.
I took Seattle and 4 points for lunch money.
December 5, 2006
12:09 PM
Anonymous writes:
Not mad at all King ol' buddy - I saw this move as inevitable, as much for salary cap concerns as anything else, and was only surprised that with Jake not playing very well, that it didn't happen sooner. The loss to Seattle didn't surprise me, and the loss to SD won't either. I'm hoping we actually pull out wins against the Cards and San Fran, and Cincinnati will just depend on how everything gels by that time.