http://www.sportsnipe.com Denver Broncos, Team News, Updates, and Stats from all sports sources, updated continually. http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2905474/nfl-week-1-denver-broncos-depth-chart.html The Broncos website has released the new depth chart for the start of the season.  Read below the break for some of the surprises!   POSFIRSTSECONDTHIRDOTHER WR1 Brandon Lloyd Demaryius Thomas LT Ryan Clady Chris Clark LG Stanley Daniels Russ Hochstein Eric Olsen C J.D. Walton Russ Hochstein RG Chris Kuper Russ Hochstein Zane Beadles RT Ryan Harris Zane Beadles D'Anthony Batiste TE Daniel Graham Dan Gronkowski Richard Quinn WR2 Eddie Royal Eric Decker WR3 Jabar Gaffney Matthew Willis QB Kyle Orton Brady Quinn Tim Tebow FB Spencer Larsen RB Knowshon Moreno Correll Buckhalter Lance Ball Andre Brown   POS FIRST SECONDTHIRDOTHER LDE Ryan McBean Marcus Thomas NT Jamal Williams Ronald Fields Marcus Thomas RDE Justin Bannan Le Kevin Smith OLB Jason Hunter Jarvis Moss RILB D.J. Williams Wesley Woodyard LILB Mario Haggan Joe Mays OLB Robert Ayers Jarvis Moss LCB Champ Bailey Perrish Cox Syd'Quan Thompson SS Renaldo Hill David Bruton FS Brian Dawkins Darcel McBath RCB Andre Goodman Nate Jones Cassius Vaughn     POSFIRSTSECONDTHIRDOTHER K Matt Prater Britton Colquitt P Britton Colquitt Matt Prater H Britton Colquitt Kyle Orton PR Eddie Royal Perrish Cox Matthew Willis KR Eddie Royal Perrish Cox Matthew Willis LS Lonie Paxton Chris Kuper     So the surprises -- Beadles not starting, Daniels will be, kind of strange but Daniels did look good run blocking when he was in there. Quinn still being the #2 QB.   R Quinn getting moved to the #3 TE spot behind Gronkowski.  I didn't see the TE switch happening, only because I thought R Quinn had performed to be expected in the Vikings game.  Perhaps with his injury they want to give him a little more time?  I also thought that B Quinn would be #3 behind Tebow.  Jason Hunter also takes over the #1 spot from Moss.  This actually provides me with some relief. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2905472/broncos-sign-byers-dotson-hall-to-practice-squad-national-football-post.html The Denver Broncos on Monday signed offensive lineman Jeff Byers, defensive lineman Lionel Dotson and running... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2904009/preseason-reflection-pointcounterpoint-by-other-mhr-staff.html More photos » Jim Mone - AP 3 days ago: Denver Broncos cornerback Perrish Cox (32) breaks up a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Taye Biddle during the first quarter of an NFL football game Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010 in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Jim Mone) Browse more photos »        Watching the Denver-Minnesota was both a treat, and a frustration. I saw some very good things that made me feel like there was hope for the 2010 season. I saw some things that made me wonder whether or not the Broncos would be lucky to match the 8-8 record of the last two seasons.      Not wanting to start off a Friday at work with those thoughts bouncing around in my head, I fired off an email to the rest of the MHR staff -- an email that ended up taking on the tone of a rant, more than anything else. The responses I received prompted me to share that "rant" as a post, along with the responses from other MHR staff members. Take a jump with me as I take one last look at the 2010 preseason.      As I mentioned above, I fired off the points you will see below as an email. As such they were fairly terse. I've given not only the original points, but my fellow staff members' responses. Those responses are offered without comment. I would invite you to join with us, through your comments, in this reflection. 1)I've officially moved from the "unabashedly optimistic/we'll do fine" camp into the "I have some very serious reservations" camp.      This is a large move for me.  I typically reside in La La Land of the Preseason during this time of year.  I've always tended to go into the season seeing the upside of the coaches, players, team, etc.  In 2009, I felt validated by the 6-0 start and crushed by the way the Broncos finished the season. I too am in the reservations camp.  Perhaps the biggest benefit of moving on from Shanahan has been the realism that has been imposed.  I can't even imagine 13-3 at this point...  (Jeremy) I'm optimistic in the long term, but for the short term I am concerned. The talented youth on this team (Decker, Thomas, Thompson, Cox, etc.) is something that we haven't had for a while. I'm convinced that the 2010 draft class is going to be something special, much like the 2006 draft class was under Mike Shanahan. Will that translate to instant success in 2010? Probably not. I'm not even getting a whiff of 13-3 right now but I still think we will end up closer to .500 than we will be to .000 in 2010.  (Troy) I am always optimistic, but I never believe we will do fine. Regardless of our faults, I expect the Broncos to be able to win every game they have to prepare for. Not that they should go 19-0 every season, but I think as a fan, I have the mindset that they at least CAN win. This year is no different. I firmly believe we have made the necessary improvements to increase last year's win total. There's been some hurdles thus far, so we will see how well we can overcome.  (Sayre)   2)If (and that's a mighty big if) all of our starters remain healthy throughout the season, we have a shot at an above .500 finish and a playoff berth.  Having said that, (the rest of the points follow my fellow staffers' comments) Not so fast. We have a lot of starters out already, so the results I have seen from the first stringers leaves me guardedly optimistic about the meat of our schedule. That said, there are some specific areas where I share your concern. See below.  (Jeremy) I do think that we have a more talented roster, though. If someone goes down, we'll suffer a little bit, but it won't be disastrous with the caveat that...  (Troy) Almost every other team is dealing with the injury bug. Some more than others. I still see 10-6 as a definite possibility.  (Kirk) If this team is healthy, I think it's the most complete team in the division from top to bottom.  (Sayre)   3. If Orton goes down, the offense is screwed. Quinn, while I still believe he's better than Simms, has not shown that he can should the load. Tebow, all things considered, is still just a rookie -- he's shown flashes of greatness, and just as many (IMHO) rookie mistakes. With either Quinn or Tebow at the helm, we'll be doing well if we can go .500. 100% agree, but perhaps for a different reason. Orton is finally showing the confidence reserved for leaders, and if he goes down we lose his leadership, more than anything. Yes he has a grasp of the offense unrivaled by his backups, but last year he showed he could work the system well, within his and the offense's short-term limits. Losing Orton would be like losing steerage in a boat: great sails, good motor, a keen hull mean little without constant adjustments to account for the big picture. Losing Orton is about losing long-term viability, which is why I like John's question so much last night. Losing Orton for more than 4 games is a totally different question than which backup we like more; it is about asking who the Broncos will be long term. That is an important question too, but the brain can't answer both at the same time without short changing one or the other answer. Also, for the record, I voted Tebow over Quinn, specifically because of the leadership element I mentioned. Tebow's moral foundation is one of self-sacrifice, and that aligns well with one of the key traits needed from leaders, that they give without taking. He is very consistent in this regards, and that is the kind of solidity that a team can lean on, even if he makes tactical mistakes. He has a long record of living up to that particular demand.  (Jeremy) ...it can't be Kyle Orton. Like you said, if Orton goes down, the offense is screwed. I don't trust Tebow or Quinn with this offense right now. That's pretty much a given. John has said it multiple times and I believe he is absolutely right. "Kyle Orton is the second most important player to his team behind Peyton Manning." If Peyton Manning gets injured, the Colts are done. If Kyle Orton gets injured, the Broncos are done. It's that simple.  (Troy) Agree. If he goes down, we're screwed. Brady hasn't progressed enough for my comfort, but I still don't want to see Tebow doing anything but charting plays this year.  (Kirk) I believe Orton is very, very important to the Broncos. Peyton Manning carries a lot of weight, and I have to say, it's hard to say he's the 2nd most important player in the league seeing as the Broncos are not yet a perennial Super Bowl contender, but it's a valid argument. That said, the Broncos backups seem far more serviceable than anybody the Colts have, and I have to think that this team could rally around someone if Orton went down. Simms was a major bust for the Broncos when they needed him, but both guys they have now are signficant upgrades.  (Sayre) The offense will go as far as the O-Line can protect Kyle.  (Kirk)   4)If any of our defensive starters go down, the defense is screwed.  Need I say more? If our defensive starters start dropping, our struggles may be insurmountable. However, I think this applies primarily to the front 7, so there IS room for error. On the backend Denver is as solid as I have ever seen them, and we will end up cutting some good defensive backs in the near future. Chris Baker needs more time on the field, and I am starting to think this long development process may be hurting him more than helping. . .but, no way to know for sure. His power and athleticism seem gone, replaced by tentativeness. On the ends of the line our rotation seems sloppy and the backups (last year's starters) look slow and lost. I really want to chalk that up to preseason flakiness, but then I remember the front seven's disappearing act last year and I know that we simply don't know who they truly are. Pass rush is one dimensional, even for the starters, but that is to be expected, but our LB depth is shallow with a very severe ceiling. I love Woodyard as much as the next guy, but I honestly don't know what kind of defense we would have if he was one of the base guys full time. Wore down, methinks. Despite all of this I am very optimistic about our defense short term. With our secondary, we can count on being able to keep games low scoring, with long laborious scoring drives. 1st and 2nd down will be our weakness, but they play into our strength. To sum up, I look at our defense this way: the tougher the game situations get, the more suited our defense is for handling them. What really scares me on D is when I look at roster forecasts 2-3 years from now.  (Jeremy) All I have to add is that my concerns about our D have been validated (sadly) through four preseason games. I am quite worried about our front seven - they don't look any better than last year's front seven. Jeremy is right though, it could be 2008 and I could be complaining about both the front seven and the back four.  LOL  (Tim) If any of our defensive starters go down, the defense is screwed. Need I say more? No, you don't need to say more. I agree.  (Troy) I am hoping we can stuff the run enough that we can live (read exist) without Doom this year. Getting more 3 and outs will go a long way toward that. I still worry about the missed tackle opportunities in the LB corps. I'm fine with Haggan, but DJ really needs to lead this team.  (Kirk) We could absorb a hit to the D-Line (except Jamal) and the DB's, but not any more LB's.  (Kirk) I think we have depth in certain areas on the defense. We could lose a guy like McBean and stick Marcus Thomas in there. We could lose Goodman and put Cox in. We could lose Dawkins and put McBath in. I think if we lost ANOTHER linebacker though, yes, we would be screwed. It's enough to lose the best sack artist in the game, we don't need to lose a guy like Ayers or something like that.  (Sayre)   5)The WR corps has been a pleasant surprise. Gaffney & Royal are solid. Lloyd appears to have overcome his reluctance to take a hit. Decker and Willis have looked awesome. Stokley, as much as I like him, is probably going to be the odd-man out, unless they do something creative with Thomas and keep Stokes around til Thomas returns. I don't know if I would call it surprising, but it has most definitely been pleasant. I think it is important not to get too high on Willis: I am excited at his prospects as a depth guy, but I still wonder what kind of role he can carve out on this team. He has made it almost impossible to cut him, but that doesn't mean we automatically have a place for him. Lloyd is a changed man. The dude looks like a zen master out of focus, and his ceiling has always been high, so it is great to see it clicking for him. Finally. Everyone else looks fantastic, Decker looks great, not tentative at all. Yep, the WR position is definitely a strength of this team, top to bottom. Now we just need to keep getting into position to use them successfully. Love our chances in an end of game shootout, if we can keep the QB clean.  (Jeremy) Absolutely. The depth of this group is outstanding. Gaffney, Royal, Lloyd, Thomas, Decker, and Willis are a solid team. I left off Stokley because I don't think he'll make it. His nagging injury has kept him out of the action for the most part and, since other players have stepped up, he's on the outside looking in. It was fun while it lasted, but I really like our receivers this year.  (Tim) I just hope that Cox or Squid can take over Eddie Royal's return duties. I hate having Eddie back there, despite how talented he is as a return man. It just takes one play, one hit, one concussion. . .Certainly you could say that about offense or defense, as well, but the risks are much higher when your eyes are watching a ball fall from the sky while a runner is sprinting directly towards you, ready and willing to crush your ribcage into a thousand tiny bits. It's a gruesome description, but it holds some truth.  (Troy) One guy I am comfortable saying will not have that problem is Eddie Royal. He has a personal assistant stretching his legs every day.  (Kirk) I have high expectations for this group. I think someone else said pleasant, but not a surprise. I am more surprised at how Orton has responded and made this crew as big a strength as it will be.  (Sayre)   6)The running game seems to be coming around and will do just enough to keep defenses honest. Agreed on the running game. I really like what Ball was able to do, and I think that some early season starts will be huge for him, and will help us work Knowmo and Buck in more smoothly. We will have a lot of versatility with our 45-man active rosters, from a personnel standpoint. The only thing that would be better offensively is if we had a TE corp we could count on...1 out of 3 isn't going to get it done.  (Jeremy) Indeed, and it certainly helps that Orton is leading our passing attack so efficiently, as well. Being able to keep the defense honest so that they have to respect the pass as well as the run is really beneficial to an offensive coordinator, in terms of how to approach calling plays. It makes the offensive coordinator's job much more easy because they can mix up their play calling a little bit more and catch the defense on their heels more often.  (Troy) This is still an unanswered question. Knowshon's hammy may not heal until the off season. Hamstrings are touchy.  (Kirk) I want Knowshon and Buckhalter. This is a pass-first team, but like you said, we can keep teams honest. We can't if we don't have those two players.  (Sayre)   7)The O-line still needs a fair amount of work, but I think they'll come together as the year progresses. They will come together, but there will be some ugly stuff. I am still making the mental switch from the plug-and -play zone-block, where no names could come in and succeed early, despite being overmatched physically (I won't miss watching them get bullied, however), to the gap schema where we really are relying on developed talents. But, I can't help but be optimistic about the line, especially long-term. These guys are the most dedicated, hardest working players on the team, a true team within a team, and more than anything, their ability to work together will determine their success. And if Clady is a go, even if he isn't 100%, they will be together at least, which is more important for our success this season than whether he lets a couple of guys into the backfield on occassion (which still makes him better than about 80% of the LTs out there...) Harris' injury is slightly more concerning, as is his overall health history.  However, I love the idea of Beadles at RT, so I can't get myself worked up about Harris.  Part of me thinks the Broncos, long term, may need to look beyond Harris.  (Jeremy) Good thing the offense is clicking, still worried about the run game though. Our O-line lacks depth and now that Clady is back, it appears to lack chemistry. These guys need to get used to each other, but I figure by midseason they'll be gelling.  (Tim) We all expected that would be the case. When you start so many rookies at a position and are also inserting guys who are rusty, coming off of injuries, there are bound to be growing pains. It's going to take some time, but I think we have a solid foundation of an offensive line that will get better with more experience.  (Troy) We can only hope. Will Harris make the season? Or will it be Beadles at RT and Stanley Daniel at LG?  (Kirk) Very much agreed.  (Sayre)   8)Run containment is still a major issue.  No way the defense can continue to let QBs be the 2nd leading rusher on teams.  Need more be said? Run contain and the QB rushing are two separate issues, and Joe Webb will get his yards on the ground, regardless of who he is facing. Discipline from underneath defenders can have a finger pointed at it, for sure, but I think contain is doing reasonably well right now. Still need those LBs to step it up, but I like what I see from the base seven guys. (Jeremy) Certainly, and you described how to remedy the situation in number 9. Great job, Brian. :)  (Troy) Nope.  (Sayre)   9)The LB corps needs to stay in their positions & not over pursue, while at the same time, need to be able to put more pressure on the QB and contain him when he bolts. Looks like I responded to this one with my closing comment in (8) above.  :)  Not too worried about this point, just some concern for the substitution packages at OLB.  They will be under a ton of pressure.  (Jeremy) ILB's definitely.  (Kirk) 9 and 10:  Yes.  (Sayre)   10)Too many tackles being made by the CBs & Safeties. Our DBs are doing a fantastic job of run support.  Remember, this could be 2008 and you could be saying, "Too many missed tackles by our safeties and CBs..."  :)  (Jeremy) Totally agree. Our front seven has to make plays. Although, to be fair, we have gotten to see lots of second stringers and third stringers during the preseason. Many big plays came when the starters sat on the bench.  (Troy) YEP  (Kirk) 9 and 10:  Yes.  (Sayre) Maybe i should have said, too many tackles being made by CBs & Safeties after missed tackles by the front 7 (me)   11)This item has been omitted, as it dealt with Alphonso Smith.   12)I'm annoyed that we're continuing to see stupid/ill-timed penalties on both sides of the ball. Stupid ill timed penalties tend to be products of confusion and lack of direction. For now I will chalk it up to a divided focus in the preseason:  winning is secondary so things are on the plate that are contradictory to typical game prep.  Team leadership has a lot to do with mental focus, so the scrubs making mistakes (where there are no developed leaders on the field) doesn't bother me much.  Having said that, my final thought:  We hardly knew ye Riar Geer.."   (Jeremy) So am I. Penalties are one of biggest pet peeves. If you are a player in the NFL, you know the rules of the game and you know how to play the ball and not the receiver and you know not to jump offsides and you know that you can't hold and you know that you can't yank on a guy's facemask and so on and so forth. Well, you SHOULD (my email lacks an italics button, for some reason) know these things if you are a professional football player. Penalties are a lack of discipline. You know what to do, but you just don't do it. I completely agree with you there, Brian. Penalties are infuriating.  (Troy) It pisses McD off too.  (Kirk) I will forever be annoyed by penalties.  (Sayre) Okay, rant over. I'd like to offer a great word of thanks to the MHR staff for helping me find a sense of balance as we race towards the start of the 2010 season.  I'm now sitting in a place in which I could see us finishing above .500 with a shot at the playoffs, and -- as I do every year -- that is what I'm going to root for.  I'd like to leave you with these two final thoughts from my fellow staffers: This team was .500 last year with a brutal schedule, no reason they shouldn't win 10 games this year.  (Tim) I've actually had the hardest time gleaning anything of import from this preseason for our Broncos.  With the scale and scope of our injuries, it's been next to impossible to discern any real value from the games.  I mean, how do you evaluate units missing their top performers when those same players will be back (with the notable exception of Dumervil) for the actually meaningful games next week?  The offense has largely been without Clady, Moreno, Buckhalter and Demaryius Thomas.  The defense has been missing Bailey, Dawkins and D.J. Williams for the most part.  Each of those players' return will have a trickle down effect on the rest of their teammates.  If anything, the only "new" information I'm confident in is that Kyle Orton really is THAT good.  I expect our offense to be impressive, our defense to bend but not break and our special teams to be plenty of hit but some miss.  I came into this season thinking we'd be 9-7 or so and I still feel that way, even if for different reasons.   (Ernesto) Go Bronocs!!!! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2902288/riding-nose-broncos-run-defense.html More photos » Jeff Gross - Getty Images 28 days ago: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA - AUGUST 08: Joel Tudor surfs in the final of the Pacifico Nose Riding Invitational final during the Hurley U.S. Open of Surfing on August 8 2010 in Huntington Beach California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images) Browse more photos » Being a Native Californian, the art of riding a surfboard is familiar to me. Surfers have a laid back lingo of their own. Maybe you've heard the term, "Hang Ten." This is a surfer word from the 1960's that means--riding a wave with your ten toes Hanging over the very front tip of the surfboard, or "Riding the Nose." Now you may be wondering where I'm going with this surfer slang on a football blog. Well, follow along and I will explain. The Denver Broncos employ a 3-4 Base Defense. Three Linemen and four Linebackers. In this system, the Linemen are required to take up space and clog the running lanes. This frees up the Linebackers to make the majority of tackles. The key component of the 3-4 Defense is the Nose tackle, and the Denver Broncos have a good one in Jamal Williams. If the Denver Run Defense is going to improve on last years ranking, it will be on the back of Jamal and his 348-pound frame. If Williams can stop a lineman (or two) from getting to the next level, Inside Linebackers Mario Haggan and D.J. Williams can concentrate on tackling the opposing Running Backs. And if the big guy can get penetrate inside and collapse the pocket on passing plays (jackpot), it leaves one-on-one matchups for the ends and outside linebackers.Wiki states this about the NT position:In a 3-4 defensive scheme, the nose tackle is the sole defensive tackle, lining up directly opposite the center in the "0-technique" position. Like the traditional 4-3, the nose tackle must occupy the center and one guard, however in the 3-4 it is typically the weak-side or pulling guard. One defensive end then matches up with both the strongside tackle and/or strongside guard, while the other occupies the classic 1-on-1 matchup against the weakside tackle. This leaves the outside linebackers free to pass-rush, creating the 3-4 scheme's distinctive pressure on the passing game. Baltimore Ravens NT Haloti Ngata, who stands 6-4 and weighs 345 pounds says, "basically you're trying to eat up as much space, as many guys as you can. Two, three -- whatever you can do to make a running back bounce, or move them to another area where you don't want him to go." How important is the Nose Tackle?  Our own Steve Nichols stated: The NT is like the queen in chess; she's so powerful that she can be a hindrance because her loss can have such a negative impact. The origin of the 3-4 is explained here, but to Denver fans, Joe Collier is the one who put the system into the pages of Broncos history and was the architect of the "Orange Crush Defense." He's also the one Patriots coach Bill Belichick, Josh McDaniels' former boss, often has credited with first showing him the defense.Collier on the 3-4 and the Nose:  "You build it from the inside out. The nose tackle and the inside linebackers, those are three guys that are very important. But when you go through it, the nose tackle is probably the single-most important guy." The position is important enough that the New England Patriots have recently signed Vince Wilfork to the richest deal for a Nose Tackle with an extension that is said to be worth $40 million over five years.More from Joe Collier:  "He (Nose Tackle) has to hold it all together and make it so the guards can't get out on the inside linebackers. Let me put it this way - the nose tackle can make the inside linebackers look pretty good, and if your inside linebackers look pretty good, you're going to play pretty good defense. But that guy is the first guy you have to get," Collier said. "He has to be physically capable of playing the position and mentally tough enough to do it over the long haul. I used to ask Rubin Carter's son, Andre, all the time where he wanted to play in the NFL and he'd always say, 'Anywhere but nose tackle, because I saw how my dad walked around the house on Mondays.' The nose tackle, all three guys up front, have to play with that physical side and they have to be unselfish, powerful and ready to deal with the fact they have to do their jobs well so other people may make the tackles, force the fumbles, get the sacks and interceptions. He's going to get double-teamed almost every time, and he can't dig in 8 yards down the field; he's got to hold at the point (of attack) so that linebacker can come around the bend behind him to make the play." A nose tackle makes his living in the anonymity of the trenches. He is virtually an unknown to everyone but his teammates around him. The position comprises lots of exertion, body trauma and grunt work but no glamour and little recognition. In fact, most nose tackles look a lot like Shrek. About the only time anyone notices the ubiquitous nose tackle is when he somehow sacks the quarterback, which does not happen very often. It is considered the most physically demanding position in football, but there's more to playing nose tackle than grabbing, shoving and receiving body blows. It's also a thinking man's position. They have to recognize formations and blocking schemes and react accordingly. A 3-4 nose tackle has to stay square to the line, get underneath the center's pads, anchor and hold his ground.Here's the job description: Needs to be strong and stout. Has to quickly diagnose blocking schemes and plays. Must stand his ground, plug the gaps on either side of the center, take on constant double-teams and keep offensive line men from reaching linebackers. Physical distress is to be expected. "You've got to be a bad ass to play there, no question" says Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan. The Broncos brought in a bad ass this off-season. His name is Jamal Williams. Throughout his 13 year career, Williams has gone to the Pro Bowl three times and been named All-Pro 1st team twice. Bothered by a Tricep injury in 2009, the San Diego Chargers took a flyer on re-signing Jamal. All the better for the Broncos. Williams fits the prescription for the anchor position of Josh McDaniels idea of the 3-4 Defense.He is bigger and stronger than any center in the league, and it shows. Better yet, I asked Broncos rookie Offensive Lineman Zane Beadles about Jamal at Training Camp. Zane said, "He's a Beast!"Without Williams, the Broncos will not be able to run the 3-4 effectively. He's so important that offensive coordinators in the league draw up their game plans around him. If he can return to his pre-injured form, he could put up numbers like he did in his last full season (2008-09). 16 games, 56 Tackles (46 solo), 1.5 sacks and 3 pass deflections. To revisit my Surfer slang, if the Broncos "Hang Ten," Jamal Williams will be the Surfboard that carves up opposing Offensive Lines. The other ten Denver defenders will be able to make tackles. That is why the Denver Broncos Run Defense will be "Riding The Nose" this season.Football season has finally arrived.Go Broncos!P.S. If you haven't got enough understanding of this position and the 3-4 Defense, below you will find some suggested reading material from the MHR Archives. MHR-U story about the 3-4 formation MHR-U story on gaps and techniques MHR-U story about the nose tackle Trends by ivanthenotsobadAnalyzing Nose Tackles by Doc Bear Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2902287/top-10-song-ever-soggy-bottom-boys.html The greatest songtrack ever was from the movie “Oh, Brother Where art Thou!” which also happens to be one of the top 10 movies of all-time. And with apoligies to Alison Krause, the best song from this soundtrack was “I-I-I-I-I-I Am a Man … ” George Clooney is getting rave reviews for his just released movie [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2902286/new-roster-numbers-for-several-broncos.html With the 53-man roster in place (for now), several players who made the cut have opted to change their jersey numbers for the start of the regular season. The changes: - CB Syd’Quan Thompson will wear No. 22. (He was No. 43 in camp, when 22 belonged to Alphonso Smith.) - LB Joe Mays has switched to No. [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2901502/dolphins-form-practice-squad-national-football-post.html The Miami Dolphins signed seven players to their practice squad today with six spending training camp with the... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2898636/broncos-start-practice-squad.html There will be more added, but for now the Broncos have placed five players to their practice squad after they cleared waivers Sunday. The five-man practice squad as of today: Rookies Riar Geer, a tight end from the University of Colorado, linebacker Kevin Alexander and safety Kyle McCarthy. Receiver Britt Davis and linebacker Worrell Williams, D.J.’s [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2898635/broncos-add-ol-chris-clark.html Tough break for linebacker Baraka Atkins and running Bruce Hall. They were waived Sunday after the Broncos claimed running back Andre Brown from the New York Giants and offensive lineman Chris Clark from the Minnesota Vikings. Hall is expected to be added to the Broncos’ practice squad team Monday if he clears waivers. Atkins is expected [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2897890/vikings-top-off-practice-squad-g-seth-olsen-national-football-post.html The Minnesota Vikings announced the signing of seven players to their practice squad earlier today and the team... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2897056/broncos-claim-giants-rb-andre-brown-bruce-hall-to-practice-squad.html Given the thin nature injuries to Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter and LenDale created at their running back position, it’s no surprise the Broncos went to the waiver wire loaded with talent Saturday night in search of a tailback. They found one in Andre Brown, whose inability to stay healthy led to the New York Giants cutting [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2891476/2010-nfl-roster-cuts-mhr-radio-tonight.html That's right, it's back!  MHR RADIO!  We're going to talk about the 53-man roster - who made it, who didn't and what it means.  We'll talk about the preseason.  We'll talk about.....whatever you want to talk about! If you are new to MileHighReport and have no idea what I am talking about, head over to the HOME OF MHRRADIO and sign up.  Then head on over around 10PM et / 8PM mt and check it out.  It's all Broncos, all the time!! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890518/denver-broncos-roster-cuts-final-53-open-thread.html The Denver Broncos have already released veteran players Brandon Stokley and Jarvis Green on their way to a 53 man roster.  Here is an updated list of the players the Broncos have released so far in finalizing their roster:  UPDATE:  CB Alphonso Smith traded to Detroit Lions for TE Dan Gronkowski DL Chris BakerDL Jarvis GreenWR Brandon StokleyWR Alric ArnettWR Britt DavisTE Nathan OverbayTE Kory SperryOL Paul DuncanLB Johnny WilliamsLB Darrell ReidLB Jammie Kirlew To Injured Reserve RB LenDale WhiteOLB Elvis Dumervil Reserve/Military DL Ben GarlandBy my count, the Broncos are at 59 players as of the time of this report.  The deadline to cut players and get rosters to 53 players is 6 PM ET.  Discuss away! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890517/alphonso-smith-traded-for-te-dan-gronkowski.html The Broncos used disappointing cornerback Alphonso Smith to fill a need at tight end by acquiring Dan Gronkowski from the Detroit Lions. Besides Gronkowski, who had seven catches for 80 yards during the Lions’ preseason, the Broncos will get a late-round draft pick in exchange for Smith. Considering the the Broncos traded away a 2010 first-round draft [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890515/titans-cut-chris-simms-raheem-brock-national-football-post.html The Tennessee Titans have cut quarterback Chris Simms and defensive end Raheem Brock. Simms was signed to a... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2889603/denver-broncos-roster-cuts-ben-garland-placed-on-reservemilitary-list.html More photos » Ed Andrieski - AP 3 months ago: Denver Broncos rookie defensive lineman Ben Garland runs during drills at passing camp at the team's training facility in Englewood, Colo., on Friday, June 4, 2010. Garland graduated from the Air Force Academy this year and was picked up by the Broncos as a free agent. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski Browse more photos » Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post just tweeted that defensive end Ben Garland has been placed on the Reserve/Military list for the Broncos.  Garland has to choose between the NFL or flying for the Air Force.  He will serve two years regardless of which he chooses, but the Broncos and Josh McDaniels have been clear that they would love to have him around. Garland was always one of the first players on the practice field, and is a hard worker.  He didn't do much statistically in the pre-season, and was an undrafted free agent out of Air Force. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2889601/denver-broncos-roster-cuts-stokley-released.html More photos » Jack Dempsey - AP 9 months ago: Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Stokley (14) reacts following a 17-yard touchdown-reception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in Denver, Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) Browse more photos » Well, the "slot machine" has finally gotten his chips cashed in, as the Broncos released him along with Jarvis Green earlier today. The debate on whether Stokley was long for this roster has been one with legs on MHR since before the draft, but as the deadline got closer and Decker got healthy and Willis shined, it became clearer and clearer that Stokley wasn't going to make it. The math is pretty simple:  Stokley didn't play special teams, and the Broncos were looking at establishing their 6th or 7th receiver on the roster.  Those days are behind Stokes, and Matthew Willis' performance shifts the attention elsewhere.  The wheel of change moves ever onward. To Stokley's credit, he had morphed into the kind of receiver who saw only a handful of plays in a game, but who capitalized consistently, with 100% of his catches last year earning a first down or touchdown.  That is some good sauce right there.  But with a reloading team like the Broncos, and Stokley spending much of this offseason banged up, now is simply the time to ask for --and get-- more. I have heard it suggested that Stokes might be good in a coaching or mentorship role, but I think he will try to find somewhere to produce, and that is the way it should be, if he can get back to 100%.  I'm sure Stokes will be remembered fondly by the vast majority of Broncos fans. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888773/outside-linebacker-darrell-reid-cut-by-broncos.html More photos » David Zalubowski - AP The Broncos will have a new duo of players celebrating sacks in 2010 without Elvis Dumervil (92) and Darrell Reid (95) Browse more photos » The Denver Post is reporting that the Broncos have released linebacker Darrell Reid, who is recovering from offseason surgery.  Reid had four sacks for the Broncos last year, and was also a special teams player.  He is famous in the NFL for his huge hit on former Titans running back Chris Henry when he played for the Colts. Reid was expected to begin the season on the PUP list while he recovered from his surgery, but the Broncos owed him nearly $2 million and it's possible they cut ties in order to save that guaranteed money, per the Post. Reid's cut comes as somewhat of a surprise with Elvis Dumervil missing the entire season, and some thought the Broncos would keep him on the PUP until he was ready to go and then add him to the active roster. This move puts the Broncos officially at 63 players on the roster, though Marquez Branson is expected to head to the injured reserve at some point today as well. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888770/surprise-darrell-reid-cut.html The Broncos are in the process of making cuts and one of the morning surprises was Darrell Reid, who as an outside linebacker had four sacks last year and as a special teams player was among the team’s two or three best. Reid is coming off knee surgery that made him an ideal candidate for the [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888320/elvis-dumervil-placed-on-injured-reserve.html by Bruce CiskieFiled under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL InjuriesEven in a best-case scenario, the Denver Broncos figured to be missing defending NFL sack champion Elvis Dumervil until November. Dumervil suffered a torn pectoral muscle in training camp, and after surgery, there was talk he could return before Thanksgiving. That talk is no more, as the Broncos have placed Dumervil on injured reserve. The move means he will miss the entire 2010 season. Considering that he suffered a serious injury that requires months of recovery time, a mid-November return seemed quite optimistic. The Broncos were in a bind, because the timing of Dumervil's injury -- after training camp started -- meant he was ineligible for the physically unable to perform list. Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2886539/elvis-my-season-over.html Broncos All Pro outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil will not play in 2010. Dumervil posted a message on his Twitter account Friday evening that confirmed an NFL.com report that Dumervil will be placed on the injured reserve list. “TO ALL MY FANS, THANKS FOR THE ALL THE SUPPORT & KIND WORDS BUT THIS SEASON FOR ME IS [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2886538/dumervil-says-ir-was-mutual-decision.html From the time Elvis Dumervil suffered a torn pectoral muscle during an ordinary training camp drill on Aug. 5, there had been fear the NFL sack king would be finished before he had a chance to defend his title. But there had also been hope since Dumervil underwent surgery to reattach a tendon to the bone [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2886537/broncos-searching-for-tight-end-help.html As the Broncos finalize their 53-man roster tomorrow afternoon, they will be culling the waiver wires in hopes of upgrading their tight end position. Other teams, meanwhile, are hoping the Broncos will have to cut away from some of their incredible depth at receiver and defensive back. Tight end, particularly one with receiving skills, has surfaced as [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2885515/broncos-shopping-alphonso-smith.html More photos » Jim Mone - AP about 21 hours ago: Denver Broncos cornerback Alphonso Smith (22) intercepts a pass intended for wide receiver Javon Walker in the third quarter of an NFL football game between the Denver Broncos and the Minnesota Vikings Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010 in Minneapolis. The Vikings won 31-24. (AP Photo/Jim Mone) Browse more photos » NFL.com's Jason La Canfora is reporting that the Broncos are actively shopping CB Alphonso Smith with the team reportedly looking for a 5ht Round pick in return.  That would be a huge fall for a player that the Broncos thought so highly of just a year ago. Smith has received plenty of playing time this preseason, but the emergence of Perrish Cox and Syd'Quan Thompson, along with the siging of Nate Jones in the off-season has put Smith's future in Denver in serious doubt.  His time with the Broncos to date could easily be described in last night's game against the Vikings.  A perfect microcosm of Smith's pro career, it saw flashes of brilliance - Smith had an interception and a fumble recovery - as well as poorly-timed lowpoints - Smith tripped and fell on Javon Walker's 63-yard touchdown reception, and Smith was called for an Illegal Contact penalty on a 3rd down play in the 4th Quarter that kept a Vikings drive alive. This is surely a story to keep our eyes on.  The Vikings are one of the teams in need of some CB depth, and Smith was likely being prominently displayed to Minnesota in last night's contest. Another NFC North team being floated around is the Green Bay Packers... Stay Tuned! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2884901/end-line-for-lendale-white.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2884900/broncos-cut-seven-place-lendale-white-on-ir-national-football-post.html The Denver Broncos made it official, placing injured running back LenDale White on injured reserve with a torn... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2884899/denver-broncos-waive-seven-players-canadian-press.html ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - The Denver Broncos have waived seven players and placed injured running back LenDale White on injured reserve. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882414/lendale-white-done-for-season-torn-achilles.html More photos » Barry Gutierrez - AP 4 days ago: Denver Broncos running back LenDale White, left, is congratulated by Brandon Lloyd after White's touchdown during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Aug. 29, 2010, in Denver. (AP Photo/Barry Gutierrez) Browse more photos » ESPN is reporting that Broncos RB LenDale White has a torn achilles and will miss the entire 2010 season.  White, who was suspended for the first 4 games of the season for violating the NFL's Substance Abuse Policy, was injured during the Broncos game against the Vikings last night. More to come. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882413/2010-nfl-cutdown-day-open-thread-1.html We'll move this post around as the names of those released begin to filter in.  If the comments add up to necessitate a new thread, I'll start one. Here are the names of the Denver Broncos that have reportedly been cut: DT Chris Baker Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882412/who-on-broncos-roster-bubble.html The Broncos are in the process of making their cuts to get their roster to 53 players. We expect the team to do their cuts in two waves, one today and one on Saturday. The final rosters are due to the NFL office in New York by 4 p.m. MT on Saturday. As there are every [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882411/lendale-white-will-still-serve-suspension-in-10.html An NFL spokesman has confirmed that Broncos running back LenDale White will serve his four-game suspension in 2010 regardless of his injury status. White suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Thursday’s preseason finale and is likely out for the entire season. White was suspended by the league for four games this year for violating the [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882410/broncos-make-8-roster-moves.html The Broncos began trimming their roster Friday. The team needs to make 21 roster moves before 4 p.m. MT. The first round of cuts include seventh-round draft pick Jammie Kirlew, nose tackle Chris Baker, tight ends Korry Sperry and Nate Overbay, offensive lineman Paul Duncan, receiver Alric Arnett and linebacker Johnny Willliams. The team also officially [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882409/lendale-white-out-for-season-torn-achilles.html by Bruce CiskieFiled under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL Injuries For the second straight year, Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno missed the preseason. Last year, it was a holdout. This year, it was a hamstring injury on the first day of practice. With Moreno out, head coach Josh McDaniels got a lot of looks at his depth guys, including veteran LenDale White. Traded by Tennessee and eventually cut by Seattle, White was trying to get a fresh start in Denver. He ran 17 times for 54 yards and two scores in two preseason games, but left Thursday's game at Minnesota with what was termed at the time to be an ankle injury. ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted Friday that White's injury is actually an Achilles tear, and White will miss the 2010 season. Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881845/broncos-tim-tebow-finishes-strong-in-preseason-finale.html by Dennis J. GeorgatosFiled under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL Training CampHere are some impressions from the Denver Broncos' 31-24 loss at Minnesota on Thursday night in a preseason finale: Rookie quarterback Tim Tebow recovered nicely from a rough start against the Vikings and appears to have the edge over Brady Quinn for the No. 2 job behind starter Kyle Orton. Tebow's fumbled snap on his first play was returned for a touchdown and he threw an interception that led to a Vikings field goal during his next series. But he pulled himself together and then went on a tear. He completed 12 of 13 passes at one point, including a 39-yard touchdown pass to Matt Willis and converted a third down with a 14-yard scramble. Overall, Tebow was 12 of 16 for 167 yards for a 75 percent completion rate, a 10.4-yard average per completion and a passer rating of 102.9. Quinn had his strongest outing of the preseason after struggling previously but Tebow may have too much momentum for him to win the backup job. Almost lost in all the hype over "Tebowmania" has been the exceptional preseason play of Orton, the only one among the three with the benefit of a year in coach Josh McDaniels' complicated offensive system. Orton has turned that experience into a preseason that saw him go 38 of 57 for 397 yards and four touchdowns with two interceptions and a 95.4 passer rating. He led the Broncos to a touchdown on their opening series with LenDale White finishing the drive with a 2-yard run. In all, Orton led the Broncos to 52 points in his six quarters of preseason play. "Hopefully, we can do that in the regular season," Orton told the Denver Post. "I think we got some confidence from the preseason. I think more than anything, we're excited."  Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881279/horse-tracks-vikings-31-broncos-24-edition.html Broncos lose 31-24 in crazy preseason finale at Minnesota - The Denver PostThe preseason is finished, and not soon enough for the battered but encouraged Broncos. More injuries, same questions for Broncos - The Denver PostWhen it comes to the preseason finale, if a team has its health, it really does have everything. OT Clady makes surprise return; Buckhalter debuts - The Denver PostThis was a sight few were expecting to see in the preseason: Ryan Clady, the Broncos' all-pro left tackle, on the field with the starting offense. "Focus" the key for Broncos' Cox - The Denver PostFor all of Perrish Cox's physical talents and instincts when sprinting upfield through a crowd of blockers and would-be tacklers on a punt return, whether Cox becomes the team's primary return man this season will come down to one thing: Can he catch the ball? Broncos have competition at corner - The Denver PostThe Broncos likely will keep four or five cornerbacks on the 53-man roster. NFL reporter Lindsay H. Jones analyzes who has a shot to make the team: Shannon Sharpe: Touching on Tebow, Hall status and staying buff - The Denver PostIn this installment, Shannon Sharpe, the Denver Broncos' Ring of Fame tight end and current studio analyst for CBS Sports' "NFL Today," answers questions about Tim Tebow, memories of playing with John Elway, the Broncos' prospects for the 2010 season and whether his No. 84 should be retired. NFL Game Center: Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings - 2010 Preseason Week 4Tim Tebow's first two series had rookie written all over them. Then he started playing with the veteran-like poise that helped him get drafted in the first round by the Denver Broncos. NFL.com news: Gimme 5: New contenders for the next decade1. New York Jets Looking into a crystal ball is not advised given all the volatility and worst-to-first scenarios that seem to pop up every year in the NFL. Still, it's interesting to take a calculated look at the 32 teams and try to predict which could become the Patriots, Steelers, Colts and Eagles in this new decade. Pittsburgh Steelers' Byron Leftwich hurts left knee in preseason finale - ESPNSteelers quarterback Byron Leftwich, expected to start during Ben Roethlisberger's suspension, sprained his left knee in the second quarter Thursday night as Pittsburgh beat the starter-less Carolina Panthers 19-3. Report: Terry Bradshaw says Ben Roethlisberger's suspension should stand - ESPN"Going to bars -- treating women like that; oh my God," Bradshaw said. "I pray they don't cut [his NFL suspension] to four games. I hope they leave it at six. There is no excuse for that. The egos get out of hand." Jacksonville Jaguars' Maurice Jones-Drew expects to practice next week - ESPNJaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew expects to be back at practice next week. Vernon Davis defends his decision to criticize Michael Crabtree - ESPNVernon Davis' frustrations with Michael Crabtree finally came to a boiling point, and the San Francisco 49ers Pro Bowl tight end let his teammate have it -- for everyone to see. Cleveland Browns' Montario Hardesy hurts left knee vs. Chicago Bears - ESPNCleveland Browns rookie running back Montario Hardesty left his exhibition debut because of an injured left knee. Chicago Bears vs. Cleveland Browns - Recap - September 02, 2010 - ESPNOn crutches again, Montario Hardesty hobbled toward the stadium's exit after his first NFL game for a doctor's appointment. Baltimore Ravens vs. St. Louis Rams - Recap - September 02, 2010 - ESPNOne perfect series and done for Sam Bradford. Washington Redskins vs. Arizona Cardinals - Recap - September 02, 2010 - ESPNIf the Arizona Cardinals find themselves in need of a backup quarterback, Max Hall believes he can do the job. New York Jets vs. Philadelphia Eagles - Recap - September 02, 2010 - ESPNMichael Vick has reached the point in his comeback where he doesn't have to prove himself anymore. Miami Dolphins' Kendall Langford can't find missing diamond earring - ESPNThe search for the 2.5-carat diamond earring lost by Miami's Kendall Langford came up empty. CFB and was 2006 draft's top 10 worst ever? | National Football PostCollege football is back starting tonight and I for one am excited to have it back. Nothing to me beats the passion, energy and blind allegiance of rooting for "your school" no matter how many years ago you may have attended the university or for that matter when you started to root for them. It's time for the agents to shine | National Football PostImagine that while you are busting your ass in the work place, the boss’ right hand man taps you on the shoulder and asks you to "gather your company’s manuals and report to the boss’ office right way." You know what it means: you have just been fired. No two-week notice, no retirement party, just get your stuff and get out of here as soon as possible. "Oh, we might call you back if some things change around here. Do you need a ride to the airport?" No winner declared yet in Ravens' kicking derby | National Football PostThere were no field goal attempts by kickers Shayne Graham and Billy Cundiff. Report: Roethlisberger won't ask for suspension to be reduced by more than two games | National Football PostWhen Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and team president Art Rooney II meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell today, they won't ask for his suspension to be reduced from six games to three games. Revis' grandmother says he's underpaid | National Football PostBack in New York Jets' star cornerback Darrelle Revis' hometown of Aliquippa, Pa., they guard his privacy with pride. Struggling in St. Louis: Ravens end preseason with a loss | National Football PostDannell Ellerbe strutted and showboated, pausing for a swaggering moment on the cusp of the St. Louis Rams' end zone as he returned a Keith Null interception. Agency: Leftwich has torn medial collateral ligament | National Football PostPIttsburgh Steelers quarterback Byron Leftwich tore his medial collateral ligament, according to Pro Players Solutions. Reebok says it never had a deal with Brandon Spikes | National Football PostReebok issued a statement earlier today that it never offered a marketing deal to New England Patriots rookie linebacker Brandon Spikes. NFL.com news: Actions louder than words: 'Boys rookie, 'Fins GM shake handsMiami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland and Dallas Cowboys rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant have made amends. NFL.com news: Seahawks looking to trade Houshmandzadeh, save over $7MThe Seattle Seahawks like their emerging wide receivers and have made it know that veteran T.J. Houshmandzadeh, a top free-agent signing by their prior regime in 2009, is available, league sources said Thursday. Jets in danger of losing Revis forever - NFL - Yahoo! SportsAt one point during the latest episode of HBO’s "Hard Knocks," Jets coach Rex Ryan explained to veteran wide receiver Laveranues Coles(notes) why the team had to cut him. It was over salary reasons, but Ryan said the team hoped to bring back Coles in the second week of the season when his contract won’t be fully guaranteed. Owner rankings, Part 1: Brown makes 'em laugh - NFL - Yahoo! SportsMike Brown isn’t especially gifted in terms of economic generosity, entrepreneurial enterprise or assembling winning football teams. When it comes to unintentional comedy, however, the Cincinnati Bengals owner has no peers in his profession. Manning, Brady solid in finale tuneup - NFL - Yahoo! SportsEli Manning(notes) and Tom Brady(notes) are ready for the season, and so is Rhett Bomar(notes). Vick makes brief appearance in 1st start since '06 - NFL - Yahoo! SportsMichael Vick(notes) has reached the point in his comeback where he doesn’t have to prove himself anymore. Patrick Crayton's agent to ask Cowboys for player's releaseWith the writing on the wall, the agent for wide receiver Patrick Crayton will ask the Cowboys to release his client before the 5 p.m. deadline on Saturday to set the 53-man roster. Chad Ochocinco uses Twitter account to buy 64 fans free dinner at St. Elmos Steakhouse in Indianapolis - NFL News - FOX Sports on MSNHe'd never met of them before, yet Chad Ochocinco still felt compelled to buy dinner for 64 "fans" of his Wednesday night at St. Elmo's Steakhouse in Indianapolis. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2879628/poll-who-should-be-2-quarterback-for-broncos.html More photos » Barry Gutierrez - AP 3 days ago: In this Sunday, Aug. 29, 2010, photo, Denver Broncos quarterbacks, from left, Tim Tebow, Kyle Orton, and Brady Quinn sit on the bench during an NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Denver. When Orton took a hard hit from Pittsburgh linebacker James Harrison, the Broncos held their collective breath. For all his popularity, rookie Tebow isn't ready to lead an NFL offense, although he apparently has supplanted Quinn as the backup quarterback. (AP Photo/Barry Gutierrez) Browse more photos » The preseason is <thankfully> over.  We've seen enough to know Kyle Orton is deservedly the starting quarterback of the Denver Broncos.  We've also seen the good and bad of both Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn.  That brings us to the question on everyone's mind.  Who should be the #2 quarterback? Before you answer, I want you to think of the question this way:  Kyle Orton is hurt and is going to miss 4 weeks of the season.  Who would give the Broncos the best chance to compete and win those games.  Ok, answer away, and feel free to explain yourself in the comments! Poll If Kyle Orton was hurt and was going to miss a month (or more), who should be the quarterback of the Broncos? Tim Tebow Brady Quinn   131 votes | Results Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878108/denver-broncos-at-minnesota-vikings-2nd-quarter-open-thread.html More photos » Andy Blenkush - AP about 2 hours ago: Young fans cheer before to the start of the NFL preseason football game between the Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010 in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Andy Blenkush) Browse more photos » For everything that is anything regarding the Vikings, check out Daily Norseman!! REMEMBER - Follow MHR on Twitter for up-to-the-second thoughts on the game as well as everything going on with the Broncos and NFL. BECOME a FAN of MileHighReport on Facebook!!! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878107/denver-broncos-at-minnesota-vikings-3rd-quarter-open-thread.html More photos » Andy King - AP about 2 hours ago: Football fans watch the pre-game action before the NFL pre-season football game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Denver Broncos in Minneapolis Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010.(AP Photo/Andy King) Browse more photos » For everything that is anything regarding the Vikings, check out Daily Norseman!! REMEMBER - Follow MHR on Twitter for up-to-the-second thoughts on the game as well as everything going on with the Broncos and NFL. BECOME a FAN of MileHighReport on Facebook!!! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878106/alphonso-smith-in-champ-out.html Minneapolis _ Although left cornerback Champ Bailey dressed and participated in pregame warmups, he won’t play tonight. Perrish Cox took his place at left corner and Alphonso Smith started at right corner in place of the injured Andre’ Goodman. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878105/clady-buckhalter-start-no-knowshon.html Minneapolis _ Ryan Clady did start at left tackle, but it was Correll Buckhalter, not Knowshon Moreno, who started at tailback. Moreno dressed and participated in pregame warmups but he will not play. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878104/hunter-starts-ahead-moss.html Minneapolis _ As All Things Broncos readers expected, recent pickup Jason Hunter started ahead of Jarvis Moss at the outside linebacker position opposite Robert Ayers. Moss replaced Hunter on third down _ even though Hunter had five sacks last year for the Lions and Moss has 3 1/2 sacks in three years. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878103/ryan-harris-hurt.html Minneapolis _ All this concern about keeping Ryan Clady healthy and it was the other tackle, Ryan Harris, who got rolled up on a running play. Harris appeared to suffer a left ankle injury, and was replaced by new backup tackle Zane Beadles. Harris missed the second-half of last season with a fractured right big toe. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2871587/they-replace-marshall.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2871586/around-league-9110.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2871585/denver-broncos-notes-amp-quotes.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2871584/coachs-corner-josh-mcdaniels-83110.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868229/shannon-sharpe-eager-to-receive-your-fan-mail-questions.html Shannon Sharpe has never, ever, been at a loss for words. Little wonder CBS hired him as an analyst as part of its ?NFL Today? pregame show. Sharpe has been dishing out insights and opinions for CBS since 2004. Back in the day, when I was a Broncos beat writer for The Post, Sharpe was one of [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868226/tim-tebow-brady-quinn-to-battle-for-top-understudy-in-preseason-finale.html by Dennis J. GeorgatosFiled under: Broncos, AFC WestThe performances of rookie Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow and veteran counterpart Brady Quinn in Thursday's exhibition finale at Minnesota could be a determining factor in which one serves as the primary backup to Kyle Orton. Coach Josh McDaniels said earlier this week that the No. 2 job remains up for grabs. "It's a competitive situation," McDaniels said. "Both players have done some good things. Both players have turned the ball over. I think both players have plenty of room to improve. "From that standpoint, I think this game will probably help us determine kind of where we see everything." Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868225/tim-tebow-brady-quinn-to-battle-for-top-understudy-in-preseason-finale.html by Dennis J. GeorgatosFiled under: Broncos, AFC WestThe performances of rookie Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow and veteran counterpart Brady Quinn in Thursday's exhibition finale at Minnesota could be a determining factor in which one serves as the primary backup to Kyle Orton. Coach Josh McDaniels said earlier this week that the No. 2 job remains up for grabs. "It's a competitive situation," McDaniels said. "Both players have done some good things. Both players have turned the ball over. I think both players have plenty of room to improve. "From that standpoint, I think this game will probably help us determine kind of where we see everything." Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868224/clarett-confident-success-wont-discuss-past-pa-sportsticker.html By ERIC OLSON AP Sports Writer Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates