http://www.sportsnipe.com Denver Broncos, Team News, Updates, and Stats from all sports sources, updated continually. http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1048074/ayers-fined-5k-for-facemask.html Rookie outside linebacker Robert Ayers has been fined $5,000 by the league for a “major facemask” penalty in last Sunday’s game against Washington. Ayers grabbed onto Santana Moss’ facemask while making a tackle on a punt return in the second quarter. He was called for a personal foul on the play. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1048073/orton-stays-off-field-once-again.html When it comes to Kyle Orton and his injured left ankle, the answer was "no" Thursday. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1048072/orton-misses-broncos-practice-backup-simms-gets-firstteam-reps-again-canadian-press.html ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - Kyle Orton missed a third consecutive practice Friday with a sprained left ankle. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047214/broncos-vs-chargers.html It’s round #2 for the Broncos -Chargers always impressive duel. The Broncos go into Sunday’s game having lost their last three in a row while the Chargers come in having won their last four in a row. Can we bring back the yellow mustard and brown socks now? How about Brett Kern. We were 6-0 before we released him. This epic [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047213/mhr-chalk-talk-chargers-at-broncos-09.html Well, it turns out the Broncos are much better than many people thought, but not nearly as good as some had hoped for.  After beating a group of pretty good teams (NE, SD, DAL, CIN) and two not-so-good teams (CLE, OAK), Denver lost to two pretty good teams (BAL, PIT) and lost to a not-so-good team (WAS). All in all, the team is still 6-3, tops the AFC West, and has the tie break over SD.  So far, so good.  Now comes the bad news.  SD is a team that is starting to surge, while Denver has dropped three straight.  QB Kyle Orton is hurt and may not play.  If Kyle can play, he may not be 100%.  While Denver has home field, we have to bear in mind that SD has the "advantage of first loss", which is the concept in coaching that a team learns more from losing to an opponent than winning.  In the NFL, it is hard to beat a team twice in one season. Frankly, Denver has a tough battle in front of them this week, and I'm glad that the new format for the MHR staff picks won't force me to pick this game. Still, I think the future overall looks bright.  Really. I was unable to watch the entire game against WAS because of my day job.  I was able to catch a few things worth passing on: First, I like that Denver challenged the Redskins deep.  I saw both throws downfield that Orton made for long TDs.  I've always said that Orton can throw long, he just isn't schemed that way.  Did the WAS coverage break down and make mistakes?  Absolutely.  But that's not the point.  The passes were long and on target.  More so, the errors happened because the Redskins didn't respect the deep pass, and other teams may do the same. Second, I've always been a fan of the officials, and always come to their defense.  This week is no exception.  I saw three terrible calls by the officials, but none changed the face of the game.  I also believe that none of them were "purposeful", as some folks like to claim when they see a bad call.  They were mistakes, and anyone could make them.  So I continue to love the officials, and can't blame the game's outcome on them.  However, the errors I saw were bad enough that I would imagine the League sent an acknowledgment to the Broncos earlier this week.  Here's what I saw (on nearly three back-to-back plays). First, Brandon Stokley catches a ball with both feet well over a foot in bounds.  The catch is ruled out of bounds.  Denver doesn't challenge, since it was third down and the catch was short of the marker.  Any official could mess up this call, and I know I couldn't do a better job than these guys.  No problem. But then, Denver punts the ball and an opposing player knocks the punter to the ground.  It seemed to me that the opposing player didn't even make an effort to slow down.  Combining the 15-yard penalty with the inbounds catch that Stokley made previously, this would have given Denver a first down.  Now I'm not going to begrudge the officials the first down for a couple of reasons.  First, Denver could have challenged the reception, but didn't.  Second, perhaps the official might have called it "running into the kicker" instead of "roughing the kicker", and the penalty wouldn't have made a difference.  Still no problem.  Except for one thing... C'mon guys!  How do you miss a guy flying into the punter and driving him into the ground?  In Stokley's case, and in the case of Mitch Berger, neither player tried to be theatrical to get the call.  A good referee ignores theatrics, and only pays attention to what his eyes tell him.  Fine.  But why wasn't the assigned official watching the punter (as he is supposed to do)?  The only excuse I can think of is that the hit was so late after the punt that the official had shifted his focus downfield.  While this is understandable, it just tends to show how inexcusable the offending player's action really was. At this point, even the announcers were siding with Denver, having noted both calls.  Had enough? Soon after, the WAS QB fumbles the ball and Denver recovers.  Nope.  The official says something about forward progress and the whistle.  The announcers look at the replay.  The ball comes loose, the player hits the ground, Denver's player reaches for the ball, AND NOW the whistle blows.  The play should have been reviewed, WAS reviewable after all, and Denver clearly got the ball back.  Does it change the game?  I don't believe so.  Here again though, the announcers were stunned.  So was I. The officials have the toughest job on the field.  Not only are they nitpicked by guys like me, but they have seconds to see the entire field and try to get a call right.  They have to memorize a tricky rulebook, and they get second-guessed by every fan with replay and slow-motion abilities.  So why am I bringing up these mistakes?  I've written a million times that I respect these guys, and will never blame them for a lost game.  Like the weather, illness, family tragedies, etc, the refs are a part of the game that players have to contend with.  The difference is that the refs are trying to do the right thing.  So here's a game with some pretty awful calls, and a game that we lost.  Are you hearing me griping?  I hope not.  I don't fault the refs for this game, or any game.  I'm thankful for the work that they put in, and the effort that they extend in trying to get as many calls right as possible.  I tip my hat to them. So what happened to Denver?  For what it is worth, I think the loss of Orton in the second half was the critical factor.  We still need to work on some issues, but Chris Simms wasn't able to carry the load on Sunday, and Orton was missed.  Simms completed 3 out of 13 passes and had an INT. The team IS working on those other issues, though.  Orton was allowed to make a couple of deep throws, and they scored.  I saw some more zone blocking than it seems we have been doing lately, and I hope this continues.  Our team has beaten a lot of good teams this year, and really only lost to one team that I would have expected them to beat with confidence. SD has won every game since the last Denver game, including wins against the Eagles and the Giants.  When Denver played SD a few weeks ago, the star players of SD (including Antonio Gates, Darren Sproles and LaDainian Tomlinson) were inconsistent.  They seem to have shaken off the fog, and are now playing in good form. Without Orton, I have to give the edge to SD for this game.  With Orton playing, but not at 100%, I have to give the edge to SD as well.  If Orton is 100%, we have the home field.  Now the concern goes to other injuries. Ryan Harris at RT is still out.  Brandon Marshall (WR) didn't practice on Wednesday, and Correll Buckhalter was limited.  That is a lot to contend with.  Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Here is a list of the notable (starter) SD injuries: Jeromey Clary - RT Ogemdi Nwagbuo - NT Nick Hardwick - OC Shaun Phillips - OLB - limited in practice. Both teams have key injuries all over the field, but no injury is as difficult to adjust for as the QB.  The edge goes to SD.  If Orton can play, and can play at or very near 100%, Denver has a decent chance.  Much of the playcalling for both teams may be focused on sizing up and taking advantage of the opposing injury replacements. Denver's keys to the game - If Orton is out, go full tilt with the run game.  Even against a 3-4, the wide runs may be possible if Phillips is out. Stop Sproles in the screen game.  Consider assigning a LB to him. If Simms struggles as badly as last week, consider giving Tom Brandstater a try. San Diego's keys to the game - Take away the run.  If Orton is in, pressure him into running on that ankle.  If not, take away the run and dare Simms to beat you. If Marshall is out, DON'T double Royal.  Denver has excellent depth at WR, as well as several TE receiver options.  Instead, take away the deep game.  Denver's throws are likely to be short passes, and the biggest danger is yards after the catch. Watch out for Royal on returns.  SD has an excellent chance to win this game on both sides of the ball, but can't afford to give up points or field position on STs. If Denver loses this game, Denver is tied with SD in head-to-head games, and needs to win more games than SD from here on out.  If Denver wins this game, they get to keep a lead on SD, AND win the head-to-head tie break.  DEN has some tough games left, so there is little room for error. This is the most important game of the season so far for the Broncos, so we'll see how well prepared they are. Go Broncos! Poll Let's say: You're the coach. Denver has a critical game this week against the Chargers. Orton is healing from a tear in his ankle. Orton claims he can play on the ankle, but the ankle isn't fully healed. Do you... Play him. Denver must keep the lead and the tie-break over SD to make the playoffs. Rest him. What good is Orton (or the team) if Orton re-injures the ankle, and misses several games as a result?   105 votes | Results Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047212/orton-wont-practice-friday-ruled-out-for-sundays-game.html Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton will not practice today because of his sprained ankle, but coach Josh McDaniels said there is “absolutely” a chance Orton will be ready to play Sunday against San Diego. The team has decided it is more important Orton spend his time this week with the training and medical staff doing rehabilitation on [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047211/orton-misses-3rd-practice-ankle-injury.html Kyle Orton missed a third consecutive practice Friday with a sprained left ankle. Coach Josh McDaniels says the Denver Broncos quarterback's availability for Sunday's pivotal contest with San Diego will come down to a game-time decision. Backup Chris Simms again took first-team practice repetitions, as he has all week in the absence of Orton, who was injured during last week's 27-17 loss at Washington. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047209/this-week-in-gameday-nov-22-2009.html Having already achieved more than his share of individual accolades during his pro career, Champ Bailey's focus nowadays is solely on that elusive championship ring. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046336/going-to-game-check-out-gary-zimmerman.html WHAT: The Pro Football Hall of Fame has teamed up with Van Heusen in search of the Fan's Choice for the Class of 2010.  As part of the campaign, The Van Heusen Pro Football Hall of Fame Fan's Choice is hitting the road and visiting INVESCO Field at Mile High on Sunday, November 22, 2009 when the Broncos take on the Chargers. The Fan's Choice program is the first-ever dedicated forum for pro football fans to "voice their choice" at www.fanschoice.com and cast their ballot by voting for the players, coaches and contributors they believe deserve to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2010.  Onsite fans will have the opportunity to: Interact with Hall of Fame greats Vote for their choice for the Class of 2010 Check out memorabilia from the Pro Football Hall of Fame WHO:   Broncos Hall of Famer Gary Zimmerman (Class of 2008) and San Diego Chargers Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow (1995) will participate in a panel discussion about prospects for the Class of 2010 and interact with fans.  (Of note: Hall of Famers will not sign autographs.) WHEN: Sunday, November 22, 2009 THE HALL OF FAMERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR MEDIA INTERVIEWS ON SITE AT 11:30 AM The event runs from Noon - kick-off. WHERE: INVESCO Field at Mile High  Lot C (South End of the Stadium)  Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046335/reasons-to-believe-offense-suddenly-starting-show-promise.html Byline: Ryan O'Halloran, THE WASHINGTON TIMES Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046334/i-am-alarmed.html Bears general manager Jerry Angelo, the man with the plan, feels your pain. He admires your fanaticism. He shares your obsession. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046327/few-minutes-wesley-woodyard.html In this week's edition of "A Few Minutes With...", Wesley Woodyard reveals how he worked to make the team as a college free agent last season and how he relishes his current role as a team captain. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1045324/barrel-mans-last-game.html Barrel Man's Last Game I heard a news report the other night that this Sunday, Nov. 22 against the Chargers, Barrel Man Tim McKernan will be in attendance at Invesco Field @ Mile High for the final time. He was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer and given 2-6 months to live. I can't find an internet source, but I saw it on 9NEWS. Thoughts and prayers. And please, put this man in the Ring of Fame. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1045323/horse-tracks-112009-orton-buckhalter-jordan-miss-practice-marshall-barrett-limited-return.html NFL Films - Week 11: Chargers vs. Broncos Preview - Video DB - Week 11 - Thu: McDaniels - Broncos TV DB - Taking Notice - Zach Eisendrath"There were four changes to the Broncos’ Injury Report on Thursday. After neither player participated in Wednesday’s practice session, Josh Barrett (hamstring) was a limited participant on Thursday and Brandon Marshall (neck) was listed as a full participant. Correll Buckhalter (knee) and Brandon Lloyd (foot) were both limited participants on Wednesday, however, neither took part in Thursday’s practice session." DPP - Broncos' Kyle Orton misses practice again - Jeff Legwold"The injury has been described as a torn ligament by some, but it is a case of semantics, given that any sprain is, by definition, a tearing of soft tissue." DPP - New team brings unrivaled disdain in Broncoland - The Denver Post"Broncos fan website Mile High Report conducted a similar survey Thursday, and found a similar response. With more than 1,200 online votes recorded by late Thursday afternoon, 62 percent picked the Chargers, compared to about 20 percent for the Raiders and 17 percent for the Chiefs." "What I've seen in the comments on the poll, it is almost divided by age group," said John Bena, a longtime Broncos fan who founded Mile High Report three years ago. "The really old-school fans, they picked Kansas City, because that's the oldest rival. Then the older fans that grew up in the '70s-'80s-'90s, it's the Raiders. But for newer fans, from the Super Bowl years on, it's been the Chargers, because the Chargers have been relevant in that time." NFLN - Brandon Marshall interview - VideoWow. Check out the (not very good) painting in the background of BMarsh and JC. NFL - With Bolts on deck, Broncos bumbling, but will they bust? - Vic Carucci"The biggest problem with the Broncos' defense in recent games, according to Andra Davis, is that it has gotten away from the highly disciplined approach it showed through the first six weeks. Too many players have become interested in being recognized for individually making plays rather than sticking to their responsibilities within the scheme." NYT - Ouster of N.F.L.’s Voice on Concussions, Dr. Ira Casson, Is Sought - Alan Schwarz"The NFLPA is calling for the removal of Dr. Ira Casson as co-chairman of the league’s committee on concussions, saying that he is too biased to lead the research and policy group...Casson has dismissed every outside study finding links to dementia and other cognitive decline, including three papers published by the University of North Carolina’s Center for the Study of Retired Athletes." It is ridiculous for a doctor being paid by and representing the NFL to be performing exams on players for an NFL concussion study.   NYT - Weighing the Toll of Contact in Practice - Judy BattistaI've got to wonder - is all the practicing in pads this summer starting to tire out the Broncos defense? I know the company line this week has been that the unit's players have been going too often for the "big play" or "individual glory" but doesn't that strike you as a little hard to believe? I don't see a lot of egos on the Broncos' D, and with BDawk leading the way I can't see guys losing their discipline. Obviously, this is only speculation and it could never be more than that, but what do you think? DB - Soy-Based Success - Gray CaldwellWho would ever have guessed? Kenny Peterson is a pescatarian (vegetarian who eats fish). He made the switch a year ago due to his blood type. DB - Providing Perspective - Broncos TVThe Broncos talk about this week as a chance to rebuild a division lead. DP - Dawkins tabbed for player forum - Jeff LegwoldLeaders lead... DPP - Broncos linebacker Davis thankful he's out of Cleveland - Jeff Legwold DPP - Spotlight: Broncos rookie safety David Bruton - Lindsay Jones DPP - Analysis: Jackson's improvement great for Gates, Chargers - Jeff Legwold DPP - Q&A: Will the Shanahan staff reassemble somewhere? - Jeff Legwold"Running backs coach Bobby Turner, offensive line coach Rick Dennison, special-teams assistant Keith Burns and strength and conditioning coach Rich Tuten were retained by Josh McDaniels, but the remainder of the Shanahan assistants were let go. All have worked with Shanahan for a long time and all could be possibilities to go to Shanahan's new team at some point, if for some reason they wanted to leave Denver or contract situations could be worked out." LTC - Ayers still adjusting - Brian Howell LTC - Broncos QB Orton improving - Brian HowellNote: this was written before Orton missed yesterday's practice. CSG - Simms ready, if needed - Frank Schwab CSG - Broncos thin at running back - Frank Schwab"Knowshon Moreno and Peyton Hillis were the only tailbacks from the 53-man roster healthy enough to practice Thursday because Correll Buckhalter (knee) and LaMont Jordan (back) missed practice." CSG - Orton missed second straight practice - Frank Schwab AP - Chris Simms gearing up for 1st start since '06 injury - Arnie Stapleton ESPN Insider - Chargers-Broncos: 10 observations - Doug KretzSan Diego 21 Denver 20 PFW - Return of defensive players should improve Giants - Eric Edholm Chargers News SDUT - Chargers see wildcat as more than gimmick - Chris Jenkins SDUT - Depth at linebacker paying off SDUT - Binn belongs in - Mike Fleiss SDUT - Clary doesn't work - Kevin Acee"Everyone else (except center Nick Hardwick, who is not going to play again Sunday) worked today. " PFW - Injuries allow Chargers ILB Siler to carve out role - Michael Blunda NCT - Cromartie believes he has improved - Scott Bair NCT - Defense prepares for system, not the quarterback - Scott Bair NCT - Trouble at right tackle; injury update - Scott Bair NFL Results NFL - Miami Dolphins 24 at Carolina Panthers 17 SN - Williams' running helps Henne have a pro day - Vinnie Iyer AFC West News NFP - Diner morning news: Russell move long overdue - Mike Lombardi KCS - Long has his big chance with the Chiefs - Kent Babb KCS - Chiefs notes | Steelers are what Haley hopes his team can be - Adam Teicher SFC - Hard-working Gradkowski gives foes new look - David White OT - Benching JaMarcus Russell a call for Raiders' quarterback to shape up - Monte Poole NFL News NFL - NFL names Dungy to lead newly formed Player Advisory Forum NFL - Vikings reward Childress with contract extension through 2013 NFL - Bengals RB Benson likely out vs. Raiders NFL - Redskins RB Portis ruled out vs. Cowboys because of concussion NFL - Week 11 injuries: Saints’ Bush misses second practice NFL - A change is gonna come: Owner Wilson ready to revamp Bills NFL - Torn ACL ends season for up-and-coming Rams DE Ah You NFP - Brohm’s arrival signals change for Buffalo - Matt BowenThe Bills snatched another recent draft choice off the Packers' practice squad; this time it's 2008 second-rounder QB Brian Brohm. Before that, it was '09 fifth-rounder OT Jamon Meredith. FH - Bears Shun NBC for Sunday Night Game - Matt Snyder NFL Opinion SI - Mike Shanahan, Leslie Frazier among NFL coaching candidates - Don Banks"The smart money continues to be on Washington and Danny "Warbucks'' Snyder (we could call it the Danny and Shanny show)." Y! - Eagles, Packers' futures brighter than Giants' - Charles Robinson SN - For three struggling QBs, it's November nosedive - Clifton Brown Y! - Gruden finds safe haven in the booth - Mike Silver FH - Thursday-and-Long: It's Rex Ryan's Party, He Can Cry If He Wants To - Dan Graziano FOX - It's a QB's world in today's NFL - Alex Marvez CBS - Hungry Jones-Drew rushing to elite stature - Pete Prisco NFL - Bengals have easy out if they lose their gamble with LJ - Steve Wyche SI - Larry Johnson will try to resurrect career with Bengals - Paul Daugherty FOX - NFL Truths: LeBron needs to focus on NBA - Jason Whitlock ESPN - Percy Harvin is making Vikings QB Brett Favre look good - Elizabeth Merrill FOX - Boom or Bust: Who's to blame for Bills' struggles? - Adam Schein SI - Wildcat revolution fails to materialize in NFL in 2009 - Andrew Perloff PFW - Mays' freakish talent being preserved - Nolan Nawrocki Picks, Etc. NFP - The Player's Picks: Week 11 - Matt Bowen"I see a great AFC West game with Nate Kaeding winning it on a long field goal in the fourth quarter as the Chargers take over the West." NYT - Week 11 N.F.L. Matchups - Mike Tanier"After 20 years, the dossier on Norv Turner is complete...As a disciplinarian and motivator, he ranks somewhere between Dick Jauron and a substitute gym teacher...We’ll learn over the next few weeks whether McDaniels will correct those mistakes, get overwhelmed by them or adopt Turner’s philosophy: ignore them and hope his veterans bail him out." NFL - McNabb-Cutler duel leads solid list of Week 11 matchups ESPN - Sunday Countdown online: Your weekly NFL guide - Week 11 SI - The Peter King Challenge"Prediction: San Diego Chargers 30, Denver Broncos 14" FH - Week 11 NFL Picks: Colts Goin' Down - Dave Goldberg Poll What do you think is behind the Broncos' defensive woes? They're losing discipline They're getting worn down Opponents have figured out how to beat them They simply had a rough stretch   127 votes | Results Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1045322/eagles-notes-depleted-birds-need-some-leadership-from-ranks.html Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1045321/game-fans-are-thankful-for.html Thanksgiving arrives a week from today, but New York Giants fans may face some indigestion with their turkey. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1044051/betts-just-running-this-chance.html Ever since he came to the Washington Redskins seven years ago, Ladell Betts has believed the same thing. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1042596/chargers-erase-big-deficit-to-broncos.html The San Diego Chargers have already outdone themselves. Or is it the Broncos who have? Last year, the Chargers became the first NFL team to overcome a three-game deficit in their division with three weeks to go when they caught Denver on the final day of the season. That vaulted them into the playoffs and sent the bruised Broncos into an offseason makeover that started with a coaching change. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1042595/broncos-simms-close-to-starting-again.html The Denver backup has been practicing with the starters while Kyle Orton continues to be sidelined with a sprained left ankle. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1042116/san-diego-chargers-at-denver-broncos-thursday-injury-report.html DENVER BRONCOS Player Injury Wed. Participation Thur. Participation Fri. Participation Friday Status S Josh Barrett Hamstring Did Not Participate Limited Participation T Ryan Harris Toe Did Not Participate Did Not Participate RB LaMont Jordan Back Did Not Participate Did Not Participate WR Brandon Marshall Neck Did Not Participate Full Participation QB Kyle Orton Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate RB Correll Buckhalter Knee Limited Participation Did Not Participate WR Brandon Lloyd Foot Limited Participation Did Not Participate San Diego Chargers Player Injury Wed. Participation Thur. Participation Fri. Participation Friday Status T Jeromey Clary Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate TE Antonio Gates Foot Did Not Participate Full Participation C Nick Hardwick Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate DE Travis Johnson Groin Did Not Participate Limited Participation OLB Shawne Merriman Foot Did Not Participate Full Participation DT Ogemdi Nwagbuo Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate OLB Shaun Phillips Ankle Did Not Participate Limited Participation P Mike Scifres Bilateral Groin Limited Participation Full Participation ILB Tim Dobbins Knee Full Participation Full Participation Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1041289/soybased-success.html On the field, Kenny Peterson thrives on a steady diet of run-stuffing tackles. But his diet off the field is a tad unexpected for a defensive lineman. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040697/exclusive-interview-broncos-hall-famer-gary-zimmerman.html Gary Zimmerman helped guide the Denver Broncos to their first Super Bowl Championship in 1997. As a left tackle who protected John Elway and created running space for Terrell Davis to work, Zimmerman was the unsung hero of that team. NFL.com put together a great video of his Hall of Fame career: Zimmerman will join Kellen Winslow (HOF class [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040696/exclusive-interview-broncos-hall-famer-gary-zimmerman.html Gary Zimmerman helped guide the Denver Broncos to their first Super Bowl Championship in 1997. As a left tackle who protected John Elway and created running space for Terrell Davis to work, Zimmerman was the unsung hero of that team. NFL.com put together a great video of his Hall of Fame career: Zimmerman will join Kellen Winslow (HOF class [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040695/brian-dawkins-tabbed-to-join-nfl-player-advisory-forum-led-by-tony-dungy.html More photos » by David Zalubowski - AP Who wouldn't listen to this guy?? (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) Browse more photos » Former NFL head coach TONY DUNGY will lead a new NFL Player Advisory Forum as Special Advisor to COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL, the NFL announced today. The program will involve a regular series of meetings in various cities with NFL players, including Pro Bowl veterans such as BRIAN DAWKINS of the Denver Broncos, RAY LEWIS of the Baltimore Ravens, and KURT WARNER of the Arizona Cardinals. "Players continue to be an invaluable resource in providing direction and insight into a wide range of programs and policies," said Commissioner Goodell. "Tony's experience and expertise in working with players make him an ideal leader of the Player Advisory Forum and we appreciate his willingness to take on this important role." The purpose of the Player Advisory Forum is to provide input to the commissioner's office on policies, programs, and issues that affect the lives of players on and off the field, including player health and safety, personal conduct, game rules and procedures, career transition, and player development. Dungy will organize the meetings, identify the player attendees, and develop a list of topics for discussion. Commissioner Goodell will attend the meetings and the NFL Players Association has been invited to send a representative. Dungy also will serve as a resource to the NFL Player Development staff and the team Player Development Directors. "Input from the players to the commissioner's office and vice versa is so important in helping our league and our players be the best they can be, on and off the field," Dungy said. "The commissioner asked me if I would lead this initiative and to me it is exciting to be in a position to help our players." Dawkins, Lewis, and Warner said they are looking forward to being part of the initiative. "It's an honor and privilege to work with Coach Dungy," Dawkins said. "This will be a great new way for players working with Coach Dungy to be part of the process of improving the league for everybody." Added Lewis, "This is extremely important and Tony's involvement is a big factor for me because he stands for everything that is right about the NFL. This is an area where we need unity because it's about players and the league helping each other. I truly believe we can accomplish things that will carry on way beyond us." Warner, the 2008 Walter Payton Award winner as the NFL Man of the Year, said, "For the NFL to remain as successful as it is today, this type of open communication between the players and commissioner's office is crucial. To have someone as respected and accomplished as Coach Dungy leading the effort is tremendous. His integrity and credibility are unmatched and everyone involved will be better off because of his involvement." The Player Advisory Forum will be similar to the series of meetings Commissioner Goodell conducted around the country last year with retired players. The new program for current players is an evolution of the NFL Player Advisory Council, which was created by Commissioner Goodell with the NFL Players Association in 2006. The Player Advisory Council provided ideas and direction for the development of the Personal Conduct Policy, the team captains program, the change in venue of the Pro Bowl this season to South Florida prior to the Super Bowl, and contributed direct input on other policy matters, including safety-related rules changes. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040692/chargers-return-300-tickets-for-sundays-game-available-to-general-public.html The Denver Broncos announced on Thursday that the San Diego Chargers have returned 300 tickets for Sunday's 2:15 p.m. game at INVESCO Field at Mile High, and those tickets are now on sale to the general public. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040691/chris-simmss-long-road-back-could-lead-to-first-nfl-start-since-2006-canadian-press.html ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - Chris Simms was taking snaps with the Denver Broncos' starters again Thursday. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039716/orton-out-again-marshall-returns.html Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton missed his second conseuctive practice Thursday because of his severely sprained left ankle. Orton suffered the injury in the final seconds of the first half last Sunday against the Washington Redskins and did not return for the second half. He does hope to play Sunday in the potentially pivotal AFC West game [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039715/simms-gearing-up-for-1st-start-since-06-injury.html Chris Simms was taking snaps with the Denver Broncos' starters again Thursday. That makes it increasingly likely that Simms will start against San Diego on Sunday in place of Kyle Orton, who sprained his left ankle last week against Washington. Coach Josh McDaniels said Orton was feeling better, but Simms was the one under center during the portion of practice open to the media Thursday. Orton hasn't started a game since Sept. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039713/simms-gearing-up-for-1st-start-since-06-injury-ap.html Chris Simms was taking snaps with the Denver Broncos' starters again Thursday. That makes it increasingly likely that Simms will start against San Diego on Sunday in place of Kyle Orton, who sprained his left ankle last week against Washington. Coach Josh McDaniels said Orton was feeling better, but Simms was the one under center during the portion of practice open to the media Thursday. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039115/mitch-bergerhes-got-quotgood-personalityquot.html Sometimes the hot girl at the bar is only hot because she's wearing a lot of makeup and the lights are dimmed low.  And while she looks great now, you find out later it was all show, and perhaps you just had a little too much to drink. Her friend, on the other hand, is only slightly above-average.  She falls into the "good personality" category.  But you know she's the kind of girl you could bring home to momma.  Which one should you choose?   Neither.  This isn't about you.  It's about the Denver Broncos. And they did NOT choose the hot girl. They chose Mitch Berger.  You know the backstory.  When the Broncos signed Mitch Berger three weeks ago, it caused quite a stir in Broncos Country. The Broncos were 6-0.  But the dirty little secret was that their punt-coverage unit was horrible.  Not because the coverage was bad, but because Brett Kern was out-kicking the coverage. Denver has dropped three straight games since the signing of Berger.  But I wouldn't exactly say he's to blame.  As Lindsay Jones points out today in her article from the Denver Post: Berger's gross punting average in the past three games is several yards shorter than Kern's — 39.7, compared with 46.1 for Kern — but the average net distance when returns are factored in has been slightly better (36.5 to 34.5). Berger also has put only one punt in the end zone in three games. It turns out the girl with the personality may have actually helped the Broncos, after all. Of course, some at MHR were against the move.  And they will continue to be.  Some of us were for it.  The day the move was made, John Bena had this to say: For many of us, both on this site and on MHR Radio, we've been discussing the concerns in the punting game. After the Broncos beat the Bengals in Week 1, the team spent the off day working out punters. I wrote that Kern's ineffectiveness was costing the Broncos - at times 10 yards per punt - compared to some of the better punters in the NFL. That's a first down each change of possession - when you have a defense playing the way Denver's is right now, well, that's a HUGE deal. Several days later, I wrote a statistical piece as to why the move was made, making the case for Berger based on his ability to limit the amount of opportunities the other team had on punt return: In the punting game, putting your opponent in their red zone and limiting return opportunities are the most important factors in winning. In fact, the two most important positive relationships between winning and punting are the percentage of your punts that you put inside the 20 and the percentage of punts not returned. Again, don't let your opponent have the opportunity to have opportunity! And finally, here is a quote from Berger himself before they face the Charger this Sunday (again courtesy of the Lindsay Jones story you can find here).   Either he reads Mile High Report or he's a punter who understands what helps teams win games: "You just want to hit balls accurate and high and give your guys as much time to cover as you can," Berger said. "Hopefully you get some fair catches where (Sproles) doesn't have a chance at all. You want to put the ball in the part of the field where he has the least options possible." The girl with personality is also well-spoken, which is another plus.  Mother will certainly like that. Admittedly, the debate isn't over.  If the Broncos drop another 2 games in a row, the "curse of Kern" talk will again surface. However, Berger is doing his job, even though on TV, he's not got the "big leg" that the casual fan mistakenly associates with winning games.   It's about limiting the ability of the other team to get return yards. Broncos fans, let's not think we need to go back to the hot girl again because we're a little bored.  It looks way too needy.  And you simply don't need her anyway.  She's high maintenance and out-kicks your coverage. Go Broncos!! Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039113/week-11-fantasy-preview.html There are a few Broncos to keep an eye on in Week 11 of fantasy football, including Tony Scheffler -- who could be worth a start against a Chargers team that continues to allow touchdowns to opposing tight ends. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1038297/dawkins-tabbed-for-player-forum.html Broncos safety Brian Dawkins is one of the players selected to participate in a new initiative from the NFL to see where players stand on certain issues confronting the league. Dawkins, Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis and Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner are among those who will participate in the first round of meetings. The league has selected [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1037464/horse-tracks-111909-according-to-ap-kyle-orton-has-torn-ligaments-in-ankle.html DB - Week 11 - Wed: McDaniels - Broncos TV AP - Simms Gets The Reps, Orton Sits Out Practice - Arnie Stapleton"The ligaments in Kyle Orton's left ankle are torn. He certainly isn't." WHAT?!?!?!?! DPP - Broncos QB Orton hurting but hopes to play - Mike Klis"His sore ankle — initially twisted two weeks earlier against the Baltimore Ravens — had not healed sufficiently to participate in practice." DPP - Berger's net punting is Broncos' more important statistic - Lindsay Jones"Elvis Dumervil has been credited with an additional half a sack in Denver's game at Washington, bringing his season total to 12...In addition to quarterback Kyle Orton, whose injured left ankle kept him sidelined, wide receiver Brandon Marshall (neck), running back LaMont Jordan (back), offensive tackle Ryan Harris (toe) and safety Josh Barrett (hamstring) did not participate...Rookie tight end Richard Quinn was yanked during a blocking drill against linebackers Wednesday and reprimanded for several minutes by position coach Clancy Barone." DPP - Broncos in a rush to stop the run - Jeff Legwold DPP - Q&A: Stokley no longer star receiver in Broncos' slot - Jeff Legwold DPP - Analysis: Broncos looking to buck disturbing late-season trend - Jeff Legwold"They lost five of their last seven in 2006, lost four of the last six in 2007 and lost four of the last six last year, including the last three games of the season."   DB - Quarterback Quandary - Gray Caldwell DB - Bringing a Backfield Presence - Chris Gentilviso"Denver forced four fumbles in its 34-23 Week 6 win over San Diego...Since that Oct. 19 game, the Broncos have forced a total of two fumbles in their three losses to the Ravens, Steelers and Redskins." DB - Week 11 - Wed: Orton - Broncos TV DB - Week 11 - Wed: Dawkins - Broncos TV DPP - Woody's Mailbag: Broncos broken down"I give my opinion, which is based on sound information, thoughtful research and observation, unlike some kid in Arizona who is a Broncos fan and writes a blog, without proper grammar or punctuation or understanding, from his mom's laundry room and think he knows what he's talking about, and people actually pay attention." "People tell me Robert Ayers is sensational. He has made one play." Funny, the "one play" Woody credits Ayers as having made is the one play where he probably just happened to be in the right place at the right time (the fumble return for TD). "Also, if you have a quarterback who doesn't throw down the field (until the Washington game), cornerbacks cheat up; the defense can put a safety in the box, and the defensive line can sell out on the run." Hasn't it been established on MHR that in the Broncos' losses, the opposing defenses have gotten a rush out of their front 7, therefore not needing to keep two safeties deep bring up either of their safeties? Or was I imagining things? CSG - McDaniels doesn't say what injured Orton's status is - Frank Schwab CSG - Broncos won't devise different game plans for quarterbacks - Frank Schwab CSG - Broncos, Chargers going opposite directions - Frank Schwab CBS4 - Hnida: Hard To Assess Orton's Ankle At This Point DPP - Numbers: Broncos-Chargers rivalry hits the century mark KDVR - Chargers vs. Broncos Round II - Chris Tanaka KDVR - Insider's Blog: Broncos Ryan Harris, Robert Ayers; Redskins Clinton Portis, Ladell Betts - Josina Anderson Chargers News SDUT - Tucker to IR - Kevin ACee SDUT - Denver aware of Chargers' second-half surges SDUT - Gamer Gates - Kevin Acee AFC West News KCS - Passing game must adjust to life without Bowe - Adam Teicher KCS - Chiefs buzz: Brown AFC defensive player of the week - Kent Babb SFC - The future is no longer now - Russell's out - David White SFC - RAIDERS' FUTURE - Team extends lease at Coliseum 3 years - David White & Carolyn Jones SFG - Raiders Silver and Black Blog : Cable on JaMarcus - David White NFL News NFL - Survey: Players hide concussions, despite fear of long-term effects NFL - Brown lost for season with bad foot; Williams now Dolphins' top RB NFL - Childress close to contract extension with Vikings NFL - Doctors see improvement in Eagles' Westbrook after concussion NFL - Jets safety Leonhard's status vs. Pats unknown after thumb surgery NFL - Double whammy: Seahawks CBs Trufant, Wilson suffer concussions NFL - Lions put S Manuel, CB Williams on injured reserve, add two playersYes, that Manuel. NFL Opinion NFP - Tavern talk: Scoring too early can hurt - Mike Lombardi SI - Saints, Colts remain on top - Don Banks NFL - Let's get wild: Playoff races heating up heading into Week 11 - Steve Wyche SI - NFL regular season would be fine if more games added - Ross Tucker SN - Week 11 picks: Chargers surging for a Mile High pass - Vinnie Iyer CBS - Sorry, Colts/Saints fans ... Super Bowl highly unlikely - Clark Judge ESPN - More coaching firings likely on the horizon - John Clayton"Certainly, the idiot -- that would be yours truly -- who said the Broncos would finish the season with a 3-13 record won't be overly critical about a team he miscalculated." FOX - Week 11 Cheat Sheet: NFL picks and predictions - Peter Schrager FH - Dirty Dozen: The Mysteries of Rankings - Dave Goldberg FH - Steelers Kick Coverage Team May Break Records ... In a Bad Way - J.J. Cooper FH - How Might Miami Replace Ronnie Brown? - Chris Burke NYT - N.F.L. Week 11 Probabilities, and a Forecast for Jets-Patriots - Brian Burke Y! - Disruptive behavior a winning formula route for Johnson - Charles Robinson NFP - Wednesday whys: Concerns send Westbrook to specialists - Andrew Brandt NFL - Lofty expectations have played into Ryan's sophomore struggles - Bucky Brooks NFP - The NFP Super 30 - Wes Bunting SN - Mock draft: Mays the solution for Giants' struggling secondary? - Russ Lande Shanny/Bills/Browns NFL - Shanahan likely to meet with Bills officials next week DP - Memo to Shanny: Just say no to Buffalo - Jim ArmstrongI was stunned by this, too - at least Shanny is checking out all his options. Maybe he's bored and wants to get out of the house for a couple days? NFP - Crank up the coaching carousel - Robert Boland NFP - Diner morning news: No magic wand for Fewell - Mike Lombardi NFP - Can Perry Fewell win in Buffalo? - Matt Bowen NFL - Bills interim coach Fewell reinstates Fitzpatrick as QB, fires up team NFP - Why Quinn should pay big for hit on Suggs - Matt Bowen NFL - In trouble again: Quinn stumbles in second chance with Browns Poll Why do you think Mike Shanahan is going to meet with the Bills? He's actually interested in the job Out of respect for Ralph Wilson Needs to kill a day or two I have NO idea   72 votes | Results Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1037463/poll-week-who-broncos-biggest-rival.html This topic recently came up and I thought I would ask it of the greatest Broncos fans in the world - so guys and gals of Broncos Country - which is the biggest rivalry the Broncos face??  We all know the Raiders are the historic rival, but their lack of success may have dampened that.  The Chiefs and Broncos battled for AFC West supremacy in the 90's and early in this decade but they too are now struggling.  The Broncos and Chargers are battling it out nowadays, and it appeared Philip Rivers and Jay Cutler were going to have their own personal rivalry going until the events of the off-season. Please explain your answer in the comments.  Call it a little "market research"! So, I ask all of you - Poll Who is the Broncos biggest rival?? Oakland Kansas City San Diego   147 votes | Results Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1035908/quarterback-quandary.html Kyle Orton did not participate in Wednesday's practice with an ankle injury, and his status for this weekend is up in the air. But whether Orton or Chris Simms take the field, Head Coach Josh McDaniels said the game plan remains the same. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1034839/potent-quotables-wednesday-media-walkthrough.html Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton and Brian Dawkins took their usual turn at the podium in preparations for the Broncos-Chargers showdown this Sunday at Invesco Field @ Mile High.  While Orton hopes he can go on Sunday, he DID NOT participate in Wednesday's workout.  Here is the transcript for the Presser, brought to us by our friends in the Denver Broncos P.R. Staff - HEAD COACH JOSH McDANIELS On QB Kyle Orton's status "I don't know. We'll see. He's going to do everything he can to get better every day. We'll make that decision at the end of the week." On adjusting an offensive line to a left-handed quarterback vs. a right-handed quarterback "We're not going to really change our system, so it's not that the plays are going to be different. If we feel like we need to do something different on the backside of a player, whether he be left handed or right handed, than that is up to us as a staff to do that, but I don't think the preparation for the linemen, in general, is going to be much different. They've got to still block the same guys, and the protections that we use, we use protections where we slide left, where we slide right, where the left tackle is singled (and) where the right tackle is singled, and we do that when we have either quarterback in the game. That shouldn't make a difference in terms of what we're doing and how we're preparing. They've got to do their assignment the same no matter what hand the guy throws with." On if Orton is questionable for Sunday's game against San Diego "You're going to see it on the injury report today." On switching the left and right tackles based on what arm the quarterback uses to throw "Nobody that I know does it. I've only coached one other left-handed quarterback in my career, and he never played in a game. In terms of speaking for other coaches and other staffs that have done different things when they've had a left-hander and a right-hander, I have no idea. We're not doing that. We're going to play left and right tackle the way that we know how to play it and get ready to play the game." On if momentum from the Broncos and Chargers' last few games will affect Sunday's result "I don't think so. They've obviously played extremely well since we played them four weeks ago. They've really gotten on a roll and played a lot of good football. I think that they're a team that has really improved in every phase of their game. They're playing better defensively, better offensively, more balanced (and) really have improved significantly in the kicking game in basically every area on special teams. We've lost three games in a row, and I understand it seems like we're going in opposite directions, but I think this game is going to be determined by how we play on Sunday and how they play. If we have a good week of preparation and practice and go out there and play well, we know what we are capable of doing, and it ought to be a really difficult game for either one of us to get away from one another. We'll see who plays better in the second half (and) wins the game." On how San Diego has improved since its last game against Denver "There are a lot of things. They've only given up four sacks in the last 16 quarters. They haven't turned the ball over very much. (RB LaDainian) Tomlinson is running the ball very well. They've got the running game going pretty well right now. (They) ran the ball very effectively last week against Philadelphia. I think they're fourth in defending the run (during) the last month of the season. They've created a lot of turnovers. (OLB Shawne) Merriman and (OLB Shaun) Phillips have 10 sacks in the last four games. They've moved up significantly in punt return, net punting (and) their kickoff return in terms of where they stand in the league and how productive they've been. We know that they've been in this predicament before where they haven't necessarily started as well as maybe they would have liked, but that hasn't fazed them at all. Three years ago, they won the last 10 (games). Two years ago, they won the last eight. Last year, they won the last five. We know we're playing a team that's going to be very confident, and they should be based on the way that they're playing." On if the special teams touchdowns in the last Broncos-Chargers game greatly affects both teams' game plan this week "I don't believe so. I think those kick returns kept the game kind of tight. The whole second half was basically played within a score of one another. I don't think we're going to get a whole lot different in terms of what they're going to try to do to defend us or attack us on offense. Schemes will change, we understand that, but it's an explosive offense that makes a lot of big plays in the passing game. They're running the ball well. They do what they do on defense. They blitz you, and they get plenty out of their pass rush in their blitz game. We're going to have to block that in the run game, block it in pass protection and try to make some yards doing that. That's really what the first game was all about, anyways. This is a team that is very talented, and I think when you're playing a team like that, they don't have to change dramatically from one game to the next. We're going to prepare for what we've seen, and what we've seen the last four games is very similar to what we played against. They just have done things better, and they're getting better as a team. I think that last game does matter. I think there are some things that we will take from it and try to get better at, and I'm sure they're doing the same." On if having only four days between the next two games affects the quarterbacks' repetitions in practice this week "I don't think the short week has anything to do with it. I think if Kyle can practice then he will. If he can't practice or he is limited to some degree, than (QB) Chris (Simms) will take the reps that we feel like he needs to take just to be ready to in case we have to play him this week. If Kyle can't practice, then he'll take most of the reps, just like Kyle would. I don't really think next week is going to have a big bearing on how we handle our quarterbacks this week during the course of the week. We're going to practice the players we think are going to play in the game, and if Kyle is not out there today and he is tomorrow, whatever day it is, then we'll make that determination of how many reps he needs to get versus how many reps Chris gets, but I don't think that has anything to do with the game next week." On if QB Tom Brandstater will get reps in practice this week "That'll all depend. He could get a few reps. If Kyle is not practicing, yes, he will get a few reps. He always takes plenty of the defense's reps when the defense is out there. We try to get him a lot of work against high-level competition." On if Simms will get more reps in practice as the season continues in case Orton gets injured again "No, there are too many things that go into a game plan that you need the guy that you think is going to play-we're playing the percentages. If we've got a healthy quarterback, by and large, he's going to go play the game and hopefully, most of the time, play the whole thing. We do give (Simms) those kinds of things. He does the same drills, and we get a lot of reps in those kinds of periods in practice that simulate some of that stuff. That's what it is. Any backup player, you're talking about a backup left tackle, he doesn't get a lot of reps either, but if he has to go into the game, we're not going to change the protections because he didn't necessarily rep them in practice. It doesn't make any difference what position it is. If you're a backup player, you've got to do a great job of studying and understanding the play and knowing what to do even though you may not do it at full speed in practice against the same look that you're going to play against. That's just life, and we deal with that on a weekly basis. It just so happens it's not normally the quarterback, but there are many times in the course of a game where we're playing with a backup defensive tackle or a backup left guard or whatever it may be because we've got an injury or a bump or a bruise, and that guy goes in there and he's got to do his job." On if timing is a factor when using a backup quarterback in practice "Yeah, but the same case would be made with the starter. If you're going to take him out of those reps, then the guy who's playing 95, 99 percent of the time is not going to have the same reps that he needs to be effective." On how Orton and Simms' personal strengths affect his game plan for San Diego "Really, the only thing that's going to change-to me, the game plan is going to be set up to beat the Chargers not to just cater to one or the other (quarterback) because both quarterbacks are here because they can function in our system. The game plan this week is designed for whichever quarterback is playing to be able to be effective, and it's not going to change that much. The only thing that may change is if we're going to sprint out right or sprint out left, it'll be based on which quarterback is in the game. Other than that, the run game is the same (and) the pass patterns that we feel like can be successful this week, either quarterback is going to have to get ready to throw those. San Diego does an excellent job of defending the deep part of the field. They've given up the fewest number of big plays in the league this year. We understand what kind of defense we are playing this week. It's a talented defense that does a lot of things well and puts a lot of pressure on you, so we're not going to try to mess around to create some magical game plan for Chris and then have one kind of in the hole for Kyle or vice versa and have one ready for Chris if Kyle can't go. The game plan is the game plan. I don't think you can do that to your other players. They have to practice and they have to study one type of plan, and you have to make it go with whoever is in there. Whichever quarterback plays, that's what we're going to do." QB KYLE ORTON On if he will play on Sunday against the Chargers "I sure hope so. That is the goal. I'm going to do everything that I can to be on the field Sunday. Myself just like everybody else, we're excited to move on and play San Diego and just play in this big game for the AFC West." On the status of his ankle "We're going to see. It is going to be a day-to-day deal. I haven't done much on it as of yet. We'll go out there and see what we can do. I'm not positive I can go today or not." On if the injury is similar to the one he suffered last year with Chicago "(It is a) different foot and different deal. It is different. It is not the same type of thing, but I've played with leg injuries in the past, and I hope that I can do it this time." On if it is a high-ankle sprain "If you're going to get that specific, you've got to talk to Greek (Head Athletic Trainer Steve Antonopulos) or (Head Coach) Josh (McDaniels)." On comparing last year's ankle injury to this year's "Last year was so tough because it was (painful) pushing off and that was my back leg. That was tough. This will present a different challenge, I'm sure, but we'll see if I can play through it." On if he returned to play too early after his ankle injury last year "I come back as fast as I can and try to lead my football team and try and be in the huddle like everybody else. This sport, you've got to play when you are dinged up, and the quarterback is no different. Did my play go down or whatever? I don't know. That is opinion, I guess, but I came back last year as soon as I could, and I'll do the same thing this year." On how his ankle has improved since last Sunday "I have had improvement. I haven't tried to do a whole lot, so I can't really give you any details, but I have made improvement every day so that is definitely a positive. (I am) feeling better, and I'll hopefully feel better tomorrow." On getting treatment for the injury "I've been in the training room every day, and I'll continue to do that until Sunday." On how San Diego's defense has improved since Denver's first meeting with the Chargers "The pass rush is really getting to the quarterback. It seems like the quarterbacks have had to move a lot and get out of the pocket, and they've really got into the inside of the pocket, which makes it tough. Just like when we played them last time, the cornerbacks are extremely good. There are not a whole lot of plays being made outside on them, and they are stopping the run, so we will have to be able to stay balanced." On if San Diego's pass rush will affect his status for Sunday's game "No. If I can sit there and throw the ball and do everything that I need to do, then I'll be playing." On if it is difficult to play in a game after missing the majority of the team's preparation "It is tough. It is not an ideal situation, but it is what it is, and we are going to make the best of whatever situation it is." On if he was fully healthy when he returned from his injury last season "No. I wasn't. I wasn't even close for the Green Bay game. That's just how it is. I don't know if anybody is feeling 100 percent right now on our team. It has been a physical season, and I'm no different." On if he will talk to Chris Simms more this week "We talk a bunch every week, and that won't change this week. I'm going to prepare like I'm playing, I'm sure he is going to prepare like he is playing and we will communicate throughout the entire week and make sure whoever is playing is going to do a good job." On the offense's performance in the first half against Washington last Sunday "We were playing well up until (I was injured), offensively speaking. We did some decent things in the first half. When the deal happened, I thought I had a decent chance for coming back out (to play) in the second half, and I came out and tried to do it, and I just wasn't able to, unfortunately. We didn't play 60 minutes, and that is why we got beat." On if he will be a game-time decision on Sunday "Hopefully, it is better tomorrow and I'll be practicing tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll be able to practice today. We'll just have to wait and see every day." S BRIAN DAWKINS On how San Diego has changed over the past few weeks "I've always had a healthy respect for this team and the weapons that they have. (QB Philip) Rivers has always been a competitive guy. (RB) LaDainian (Tomlinson) has always been able to do the things he needed to do in big-time situations. They are playing with a high intensity right now. They are very confident. All the things that we expected in the first game, we are expecting the same things in this game, a very tough battle. (We are) going to have to be very mentally strong both sides of the field. It is going to be a very, very exciting game." On if he will be checking on QB Kyle Orton's status "Our job does not change. I've said this quite a few times. Our job does not change. No matter who our quarterback is, no matter what the offense is doing or whatever you want to say, our job does not change. It remains the same. We have to do a better job of doing what we are supposed to do this game and then be consistent at doing it, not having spurts of doing it and then trying to do too much at other times. We've just got to do what we are supposed to do and go up against a very, very talented team." On San Diego RB LaDainian Tomlinson's age affecting his play "You just go out and play your game. That is going to happen as long as you continue and mount up years. It is a blessing that you are playing. It can be a curse if you listen to the outside people because once you get past a certain age, no matter what you do or whatever mistake you make out on the football field, it is always going to be because of your age. That is what people are going to say. I know that that is not the truth. I look at him on film and still see him making the same cuts and stopping on a dime and leaving people standing right there in their shoes while he is going the other way. I see those same things happening on the football field from him. I'll let all the experts, so called, say that he can't do it because of his age. I'm going to respect (him) and I'm going to go in and expect his best game and expect me to have to be a very sure tackler against a very, very talented running back." On players being criticized for poor play because of their age "That's just the way it is. People, they want to find the reasons why you aren't doing something. It doesn't have to be anything, but the fact that you made a wrong read (or were) a step too slow because of guessing on something. It is always going to be because of your age, so I've learned (to) leave that alone, let people say whatever they want to say (and) use it as motivation if you want to. As I've said in the past also, I've never let somebody's opinion of me define who I am. That will never change." On rebounding from three consecutive losses "I've been in these things a couple of times, these things being losing streaks (and being) completely counted out, whatever the reason was, or whether we lost (Philadelphia QB) Donovan (McNabb) or whatever. I've been in these situations before. I love being put in a situation where people don't expect you to do something, or they think you can't do it. I love that. I relish that. I feed off of that. We're put in a situation that we've got to go out and do our job, but like I said, this is going to be (an) exciting, playoff type of atmosphere. These are the type of games that should just get your blood pumping and get your heart beating fast, get you breathing hard, like I'm doing right now (in) anticipation of the game." On if having people doubt his ability due to his age motivates him "I use those things. I told you guys that before. I won't shy away from that. I use those things as motivation. I put them into my pile and burn them, and then during the offseason, (I) make sure that when I come out that all of those questions that somebody may have had, that I answered with a definite. The things that they were saying won't be answered from a positive stand(point) from their side. The thing that I wanted to do coming here was be who my teammates needed me to be here. I've tried to give everything that I've had emotionally and physically (and) to do everything that I needed to do to let my teammates here-which I believe, they do now have complete and total confidence in me. If I'm one-on-one, I'm going to make that tackle nine times out of 10. If I'm in coverage, there is going to be a great percentage that I am going to be able to knock the ball out, get a pick or bring him down immediately. Those are the types of confidence builders that I wanted my teammates to have in me. I think that they have that in me." On helping the Broncos stay positive mentally "I practice what I preach, and I preach what I practice first. In other words, I'm out doing what I'm supposed to do on the football field. I'm doing what I'm supposed to do in the meeting rooms. I'm still engaged in every phase of preparing for a team with my teammates (and) having conversations. My head is not held low. My smile, it doesn't disappear from my face in the midst of a losing streak. I'm still going to have fun playing this game. Those things, young guys, especially, see that and understand that this is not a panic situation. It is a situation where the things that we've talked about the last couple of weeks of doing consistently, we haven't done consistently. In order for us to get back to where we want to be, we have to do those things consistently. The challenge is put forth, absolutely. I don't think there is not a guy in the locker room that shouldn't feel a thirst for this game. There is so much excitement for this game. There really is." On the Chargers' performance during the past month  "You look at tape, regardless. (You) look at from when we played them last and then look at the games that they've played, obviously, since then and how much progress they've made since then. They are playing with a different fire, with a different zest that you can see on film. You just go into this game expecting their best, and then you put up your best and see whose best is the best. Like I said, it is going to be an exciting game. I'm jacked up, juiced up about it already." Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1034014/memo-to-shanny-just-say-no-buffalo.html It?s one thing for Shanahan?s name to bounce around the rumor mill. But a meeting? As in Shanahan is interested enough to confer with the powers that be? Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1034013/simms-gets-snaps-at-broncos-practice-starter-orton-out-bad-ankle-canadian-press.html ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - The ligaments in Kyle Orton's left ankle are torn. He certainly isn't. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1033159/week-11-wed-transcripts.html Head Coach Josh McDaniels, quarterback Kyle Orton and safety Brian Dawkins spoke with the media about their preparation for the San Diego Chargers. Here are the transcripts of their interviews. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1032208/broncos-are-still-contender.html I’ve already come up with 10 reasons why being a Broncos fan is better than being a Chargers fan. Not that I couldn’t come up with 10 more reasons, but I wanted to put a different spin on things this Wednesday. As we enter Sunday’s game, it feels like week 1 of the season. That 3 game [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1032207/orton-practicing.html Had the Broncos played the San Diego Chargers today, Kyle Orton would not have been their quarterback. Orton was not out for the Broncos’ practice Wednesday, at least during the media-viewing period in the first 10 minutes or so. Orton suffered a severely sprained left ankle late in the first half Sunday against the Washington Redskins [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1030212/dude-abidesthe-stats-that-dont-lie-week-10.html I can no longer sit back and allow a stats infiltration, a stats indoctrination, a stats subversion, and the international stats conspiracy to sap and impurify all of our precious bodily fluids. --General Jack D. Ripper ______________________________________________________________________ Last week another disaster movie, 2012, opened across the USA. This coincided with Week 10 of the NFL season. We were reminded of three important things: Do not ignore ancient warnings (apparently, the world ends) Don't give Peyton Manning a short field (apparently, the game ends) Jay Cutler's arm is a Mayan calendar (apparently, the Bears end) The Denver Broncos have thus far avoided complete catastrophe, sitting at 6-3. But another loss, and you should probably head to the basement with all of your canned goods, bottled water, and flashlight batteries.  Welcome to the Week 10 version of the Stats That Don't Lie. These are the stats that infect the entire population--at least until the 3rd act. They are the statistical little green men locked in your pantry. In short, these are stats to take to the bomb shelter (with the little lady, of course). As always they include Turnovers, Field Position, Time of Possession, and 3rd-down efficiency.  The Broncos continue their downward spiral from last week's ranking in the four categories. But rather than compare this week's rankings to last week's as we normally do, let's instead look at a picture that tells the real story of the 2009 Broncos' season. The following chart is the Broncos' turnover margin from each game of 2009. You may want to hide the women and children before you look at the last three (Note: I "normalized" the New England game and removed Orton's hail mary, so the turnover battle was effectively zero). If you knew nothing about football or had been dropped here from outer space (your average Raiders fan) and you saw this graph, it wouldn't take you long to figure out which games the Broncos had won and which games they had lost.  In fact, if you had no knowledge of Jay Cutler or Kyle Orton or Mitch Berger or Brett Kern, you would probably look at this chart and say, "5-3, no doubt, with the New England game going either way." This makes both intuitive sense and statistical sense. If you've read some of my previous work on turnover margin, you'll probably remember that during the last roughly 360 games, I found the following winning percentages associated with each specific turnover ratio: -2 turnover margin:21.95% -1 turnover margin:28.36% Even Turnover margin:50% (of course) +1 turnover margin:71.64% +2 turnover margin:78.05% Simply put, win the turnover battle and you will win on the scoreboard. And not just for the obvious reasons of short circuiting your drive, taking away potential points off the board, and giving your opponent the chance to score. If you've ever played any sport (although it's particularly pronounced in football), you have probably experienced what happens when you feel momentum and emotion shift from one team to another. It's contagious. It's powerful. The very outcome of a game is often determined by it. Well, a turnover is like a momentum shift on HGH. If you doubt this, simply replay the tape of Champ Baily intercepting Tom Brady in the 2005 Playoffs. That was the BALCO of turnovers. On Sunday the Broncos didn't win the turnover margin against the Redskins, and they are 6-3 because of it. Fake field goals and injured ankles got the headlines. But turnover margin was the dirty little secret. Here are how all 32 teams rank this week in each of the four categories. Remember, I calculate this on an average/per game basis. Denver is now 8th in giveaways, 25th in Field Position, 17th in Time of Possession, and 19th in 3rd-down efficiency. If one wants to begin a descent into mediocrity, these kinds of rankings will certainly suffice. The third downs and time of possession will come along, I believe, but field position remains a primary concern. Mitch Berger continues to be the focus of a lot of friendly fire; but again, I ask, how can Denver kick start its Kick Return and Punt Return game?  The Broncos aren't going to get 2 return TDs again against San Diego, nor is San Diego going to kick the ball out of bounds twice. I make my weekly plea for Alphonso Smith getting some action as a return man.  I like the move for several reasons.   First, Ty Law is now getting most of Denver's Nickel action.  Second, Smith is a playmaker.  He needs to be on the field.  Don't believe his 40 time.  He has a burst.  Third, it can't get much worse. A few other teams stand out from these rankings.  First, notice New England.  Sure, they lost a crazy game to Indianapolis, but despite their 6-3 record, they are battle tested, playoff ready, and they rank in the top 7 in all four categories.  Another team is New Orleans.  For an undefeated team, they sure do turn the ball over a lot, despite their turnover margin being +6.   Even though they are in the top ten in Field Position, Time of Possession, and 3rd-down efficiency, they might run into a game in the playoffs, in which they are not going to be explosive enough to overcome their mistakes, and the other team is going to hold onto the ball.   There are two other teams of curiosity. The first is Green Bay, who ranks 1st in giveaways/game, and is in the top 12 in each of the other categories.  As a stats guy, I have to believe what I am seeing with these numbers.  I think they surprise people in the 2nd half, have a chance to beat both Baltimore and Pittsburgh, and get to the playoffs.  The second team is the Cleveland Browns, who are last in giveaways, 30th in Time of Possession, and 31st in 3rd-down efficiency.   Their only bright spot? They are ninth in Field Position. How is this?  Joshua Cribbs (they call me Mr. Cribbs). Why would I focus on the Cleveland Browns?  For one, I enjoy making fun of the Cleveland Browns.  Another reason is for perspective.  Denver would have to sink pretty low to get into Browns territory.  Third, if I can reference Sidney Poitier, you think I'm not going to do it? Week 10 Games Before getting into the individual game stats, I want to bring your attention to a few individual games in interest. The first, of course, is the Denver/Washington game.  I've already pointed out Denver's horrid performance with respect to turnovers, but Washington also beat them in average starting field position.  This happened even in the face of the two kickoffs out of bounds by Washington.  Denver's average starting field position was the 27.91-yard line.  Washington's was the 31.10. Denver also lost the time of possession- and 3rd-down efficiency battles.  Denver's quick-strike offense in the first half helped contribute to this, along with the injury to Orton, forcing Chris Simms into action, and into inaction on 3rd down.  Another game of interest was the Kansas City/Oakland game, for the chief reason that this is the first game of the entire season in which one team lost all four categories (non-ties), yet still won the game.  Congrats, Oakland.  Even when you win, you lose.  Just how was this possible? Rather than say karma, I went back and watched the game again in search of some magic bullet that would tell me how this happened.  But it was just putrid Oakland football that caused their demise. A slew of penalties, dropped passes, and a red-zone interception told the tale.  And if you look at the stat line, it's not as if Oakland dominated all four categories.  So I'm filing this one away as an renegade game.  Al Davis would be so proud. Of course, I can't stop myself from looking at the Chicago/San Francisco game.  Jay Cutler, you are the Frankenstein of QBs.  You have a grotesquely strong arm, but you're going to kill your team with its use.  5 interceptions and a turnover margin of -4.  That's not quarterbacking.  That's a recipe for a Mayan disaster movie.  And finally, we would not be complete if we didn't look at Brady vs. Manning.  While Bill Belichick's 4th-quarter decision will be the focus of the analysis for most of the week, the stats tell the story.  Despite the win by Indianapolis, New England was the better team, and shouldn't be worried about the rematch, which is certain to happen.   Week 10 Summaries: 2-Turnover Rule  (Explained Here) 7 teams had 0 turnovers.  7 won (100%); For the season, 48/58 (83%) 7 teams had 1 turnover.  3 won (43%); For the season, 44/76 (58%) 12 teams had 2 turnovers.   4 won (33%); For the season, 40/89 (45%) 3 teams had 3 turnovers.  1 won (33%); For the season, 8/39 (21%) 0 team had 4 turnovers.  None won (0%); For the season, 4/19 (21%) 1 teams had 5+ turnovers.  None won (0%); For the season, 0/7 (0%) Week 10 Big Picture: The team that won the turnover battle won 13 of 15 games played (87%). In the previous category, remove the ties (3 games) and this changes to 73% The team that won the time of possession battle won 10 of the 15 games played (67%).   The team that had better third-down efficiency won 8 of the 15 games played (53%). The team that had better average starting field position won 12 of the 15 games played (80%). There were 6 games this week in which a team won all four categories.  In 4 of the 6, the same team won on the scoreboard (67%).  For the season, this stat is 48 out of 51 games.  In only 1 game, however, has a team won outright in all four categories (no ties in turnovers) and lost. The winning teams this week averaged .93 turnovers, 30:39  in time of possession, 39.64% on 3rd downs, and their average starting field position was the 31.50 yard line.   Top 5 in Week 10: Top 5 in giveaways: 7 Teams tied with 0 Top 5 in time of possession: 1.GB    2.WAS   3.NE   4.STL     5. ATL Top 5 in 3rd downs: 1.TEN   2.NO    3.JAX, NYJ, CAR are tied    Top 5 in avg. starting field position: 1.CIN    2.NO    3.MIN   4.SF    5.BAL Running Totals, Season (through 10 weeks): 144 games have been played this season 83.33% were won by the team with less turnovers (counting ties as wins) 66.67% with a better time of possession 65.97% by the team who won on 3rd down 72.92% by the team that won the field position battle. 10-week Averages for Benchmarking This Week's Games:   10-week running average/game, turnovers (all teams): 1.69 10-week running average/game, time of possession (all teams): 30:10 (thanks to numerous OT games) 10-week running average/game, 3rd down efficiency (all teams): 37.65% 10-week running average, starting field position (all teams) 29.89 yard line   Here are the individual game stats from Week 10 (including obligatory comments): The Look Ahead Looking ahead to San Diego, here is how the two teams stack up in the four statistical categories (keeping in mind these are averages/game): Team                    Turnovers/Game          Time of Possession          Field Position          3rd-Down Efficiency Denver                  1.22                                   29:41                                     27.72                         37.52% San Diego            1.13                                   27:57                                     30.38                         40.43% The turnover battle is a wash.  Denver has been chewing up more clock, but that's not saying much.  And San Diego has the edge in both field position and 3rd-down efficiency. While these stats point to doom and gloom for the Broncos, one has to also consider home-field advantage. In the NFL, the home team wins about 55%-60% of the time.   Is this enough to overcome Orton's injury, the return game of Darren Sproles, the whining of Phil Rivers, and the momentum that is clearly in the favor of the Chargers? If so, the apocalypse will be with the Chargers.  Denver will have beaten them twice, and tie-breakers won't save them this year. Go Broncos!!! Last Stat:  100% (percentage chance that Phil Rivers wishes he could play Jay Cutler twice a year) Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1029457/horse-tracks-111809-orton-to-give-his-weekly-presser-today-but-will-he-practice.html DB - Weekly Press Release - Patrick Smyth DP - Orton to the podium - Mike KlisHard to say if this means anything, but Orton will take his weekly presser today as the starting QB. DPP - Analysis: Broncos need to remember what made them 6-0 - Jeff Legwold"The last three weeks, they seem to be reaching more, striving for the big plays more, trying to have some pizzazz." DPP - Broncos not fretting about potential repeat collapse - Mike Klis DPP - Broncos expect Knowshon Moreno to continue on learning curve - Jeff Legwold"In their six victories, the Broncos have averaged 25.3 rushing attempts, with a season-most 45 carries for 215 yards against the Raiders in Week 2. In the Broncos' three losses, they have averaged 18.3 rushes...This is the fourth consecutive season the Broncos have had a losing streak of at least three games." LTC - Broncos Safety Renaldo Hill feels right at home - Brian Howell"I don’t know that there’s a player on our team that is more prepared on a weekly basis," McDaniels said. LTC - Broncos need to rush to improve D - Brian HowellCBS - Cutler, Orton living up -- and down -- to expectations - Charley Casserly DB - Providing Another Reason to Give Thanks - Gray CaldwellBDawk made quite a generous donation to the Salvation Army to help provide Thanksgiving meals to those in need. DB - Thanksgiving Comes Early - Broncos TV DB - Bailey Leader Among AFC CBs - Gray CaldwellOnly Champ is currently in line to make the Pro Bowl (no Doom, Clady or Dawkins). DPP - Q&A: Could punter Britton Colquitt find himself back with the Broncos? - Jeff Legwold"Scouts believe Colquitt has the leg strength to have a place in the league over the long term, and he certainly has the pedigree being in a family with such a history on the job. But consistency, not just leg strength, is what keeps punters around." DPP - Krieger: Broncos in hot pursuit of their old mojoOh, my. Is Krieger trying to be Woody? CSG - Hillis playing insignificant role for Broncos - Frank Schwab CBS4 - Chargers Game Could Be Most Important Of Season - Matthew Buettner KDVR - Broncos' Kyle Orton 'questionable' vs. Chargers; can Simms carry the weight? - Zubin Mehenti DP - Elway was paid to speak by firm now probed by SEC - Aldo SvaldiUh-oh. Chargers News SDUT - Scouting the Broncos SDUT - Running back by committee - Chris Jenkins SDUT - It's been a snap for fill-in Mruczkowski - Kevin Acee NCT - CHARGERS: Scouting report vs. Denver Broncos - Scott Bair AFC West News ESPN - How I See It: AFC West Stock Watch - Bill Williamson KCS - Bowe suspended for violating NFL policy on performance-enhancing drugs - Kent Babb KCS - New Bengal LJ craves chance to play against Chiefs - Randy Covitz NFL News NFL - Bengals release TE Utecht, WR Chatman NFL - Steelers respond to specials teams issues by cutting Harrison NFL - Mangini regrets play that resulted in Cribbs' injury NFL - Saints add Chris McAlister with Porter out 4-6 weeks NFL - Eagles' Westbrook will visit two concussion specialists NFL - Dolphins RB Brown to miss Panthers game with foot injury NFL - No-helmet practices? Could happen in NFL's push for player safety - Jason La CanforaHopefully some progress in how the NFL prevents and handles concussions is coming... NFL Opinion NFL - For unbeaten Colts, it's better to be lucky AND good - Vic Carucci SI - Bill Belichick fallout was comical, but Patriots aren't laughing - Don Banks Y! - Risky call puts Belichick in bad company - Mike Silver Y! - Patriots' defense put Belichick in tough situation - Jason Cole SI - Bill Belichick sends wrong message in Patriots-Colts game - Jerome Bettis"Maybe we were right about the Denver Broncos and, more importantly, Kyle Orton after all. Teams let this guy sit back and do his thing for the first few weeks and his stats were eye-popping. Now that he has our attention, people are finally getting after him, and I think we're seeing a truer picture." Umm, did you even WATCH Sunday's game, Bus???? SI - Lovie Smith bearing brunt of Chicago Bears' disappointment - Dan McGrath FH - Worst Show on Turf: Eric Mangini's Cleveland Clowns - Jay Mariotti NFP - Diner morning news: Bad night for the Browns - Mike Lombardi NFP - Quinn’s NFL numbers don’t lie - Matt Bowen FH - Dear Redskins, Do the Right Thing - Kevin Blackistone FOX - Schein 9: For Chargers, it's in Rivers we trust"It's San Diego and Denver in Colorado this weekend. I love the Chargers in this game. Orton is banged up. The Broncos lost their swagger. And Rivers loves playing against the Broncos and wants revenge from earlier this year." NFP - Scout’s notebook: defensive review - Wes Bunting Special Dick Jauron Got Canned Section NFL - Bills fire Jauron; defensive coordinator Fewell is interim coach NFP - Tavern talk: Bills need a team for the elements - Mike Lombardi NFP - Jauron’s dismissal is business as usual - Matt Bowen ESPN - Who will be Buffalo's coach in 2010? - Tim Graham SI - Rudderless Bills need direction more than they need a new coach - Jim Trotter FH - Dick Jauron the Latest Example of Damage a Bad Quarterback Can Do - Dan Graziano SN - Firing Jauron just a start for overdue Bills - Clifton Brown PFW - Lack of continuity, direction do in Jauron - Michael Blunda Power Rankings, etc. NYT - Week 10 Passer Rankings: On the Bright Side With Cutler - Luis DeLoureiro ESPN - NFL Power Rankings Week 11 CBS - Power Rankings: Manning, Brady remind us how great they are - Pete Prisco SN - NFL Power Poll: Chargers following familiar pattern - Clifton Brown FH - NFL Power Rankings, Week 11: Hanging On to the Top for Dear Life - Josh Alper Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1028356/broncos-report-card-vs-redskins.html Check out how the Broncos graded out against the Washington Redskins. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1028355/broncos-update-insider-111709.html Perhaps it is Knowshon Moreno's time to show what he can do with a majority of the carries for the Broncos. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1028354/reasons-to-believe.html Twenty-seven points without a defensive or special teams touchdown. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1027208/providing-another-reason-to-give-thanks.html Brian Dawkins, with King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairy, donated $11,000 to the Salvation Army to help provide meals for 250 families this Thanksgiving. A Salvation Army coordinator called the contribution "immeasurable." Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026841/juggled-oline-drops-ball.html NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Buffalo Bills' offensive line continued its knack for committing false start penalties. Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025455/orton-to-podium.html The Broncos have sent out their media schedule for the week. And the guy who will handle the obligatory starting quarterback press conference Wednesday is Kyle Orton. Its still another indication the Broncos are hoping Orton will play despite his severely sprained left ankle in the monumental AFC West showdown with the San Diego Chargers on [...] Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025454/giants-owner-complains-to-nfl-about-playing-on-thanksgiving-yahoo-sports.html John Mara will apparently be having some whine with his Thanksgiving dinner. The New York Daily News reports that... Denver Broncos - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates