Eagles Edge Broncos 30-27- Broncos On the Verge of Another Disaster

Denver's 30-27 loss to Philly on Sunday was another tough defeat at the hands of a quality opponent. Denver trailed 27-10 late in the third quarter, but they were able fight back and tie the game up valiantly at 27 late in the fourth quarter. The key play was Donovan McNabb's scramble for a first down on 3rd and 25 from his on ten yard line. The Eagles eventually punted, but that play flipped field position and it backed Denver up. The Broncos were forced to punt, and the Eagles got the game-winning field goal with four seconds left. The field goal was set up by a dynamic McNabb to Jeremy Maclin throw and catch on a second and eight to give the Eagles the ball at the Bronco 11 yard line. It was a fantastic throw by McNabb and an even better catch by Maclin. David Akers' game winner gave the Eagles the victory and sent the Broncos hobbling into the last game in the season. Denver's playoff chances took a big hit, and the Broncos now have to rely on the following unlikely scenarios to make the playoffs: A Denver win over KC (Not a formality), and either a Jets loss (Unlikely since the Bengals are going to rest their starters) and a Pittsburgh loss (50/50 shot at Miami) or a Baltimore loss (Highly unlikely as they head to Oakland). The Broncos could also get in by beating KC, having Houston beat New England and getting either a Jet loss or a Baltimore loss. The bottom line is Denver should not be in this position because it should have found a way to defeat the Raiders last week. With that said, I'm not going to go into all the details of this latest Broncos' collapse until after the season is completed. I'll save that column for another day because that will break the record for longest column of my career and the number of expletives uttered in my column. I will say this: The Broncos swoon at the end of the season simply comes down to execution and making the plays at the opportune time of the game. They made those plays in wins over Dallas (Champ Bailey's goal-line stand on Romo), New England (Orton's big throws late in the game and in OT), and San Diego (The defense shutting down Rivers in the 2nd half). The Broncos could not make those same type of plays in losses to Pittsburgh (Big Ben's late 3rd and long TD pass), Washington, Indy (Giving up a game clinching TD to Manning), Oakland (JaMarcus Russel's game winning drive late in the fourth) and Philly (McNabb's two big plays). Bill Parcells always said that you are what your record says you are, and the Broncos are 8-7 and that is basically what they should be. The difference is that Denver started out 6-0, and by going 2-7 since it then confirms the fact that this season is a huge disappointment and another second half collapse.

Here are my other random thoughts on the playoffs and the Colts lack of perfection technique.

1) I understand the fact that the Colts don't care about going 16-0, and that their philosophy dictates that they would rather rest players than risk injury when everything is locked up, but what transpired on Sunday was a crime. The fact that Jim Caldwell pulled Peyton Manning and the rest of the starts when they were winning 15-10 midway through the fourth quarter at home was a disgrace. If he was going to do that, then just let Peyton start the game, run the ball three times, punt and then call off the dogs. I really hope the Colts lose in the playoffs. I think team's should embrace the 16-0, and at least give your home fans the chance to close out their home schedule with a win. It was awkward, weird, and it felt like it was shady. I don't like it, and I hope it comes back to bite them in the playoffs.

2) The Jets will go down as the luckiest team ever to make the playoffs. They were given a gift by the Colts. I'm not saying it isn't fair to Denver because if Denver didn't lose to the Raiders, then they wouldn't be in this mess, but the Jets are so lucky it isn't even funny. I don't want to hear Rex Ryan talk about respect and how the Jets earned the victory over the Colts. The bottom line is that the Jets would have lost to the Colts in that game. There is no doubt in my mind. The Jets got lucky and got a forfeit from the Colts. They also will get another break this week because they play Cincy, who also will rest their starters with nothing to play for as well. So, the Jets, who were 7-7 after losing at home to Atlanta, now will make the playoffs at 9-7 by beating the Colts and Bengals, who both rested their starters. All I will say is that I can't wait to be against Mark Sanchez in the first round of the playoffs. The Jets will be at Cincy in the first round, and they will be one and done. You can mark it down now.

3) The Ravens are also lucky to be in a win and in game at Oakland. The Raiders won't show up, and for the second year in a row, the Ravens will have an easy opponent to beat in Week 17 to get in the playoffs. The Ravens haven't looked like a playoff the second half of the season, but they will get in because they played Detroit, Chicago, and Oakland in three of their last four games.

4) The Eagles are flying and the Chargers are rolling right now, so my Super Bowl prediction looks like it has a very good chance of actually taking place.

5) The NFC is wide open, and the AFC looks like a two horse race, but watch out for New England in the AFC. Everyone has kind of forgotten about them.

6) If next week's games play out like they should here is what the playoff schedule for the Wild Card will probably look like:

Saturday 1/9/2010

4:00 pm (NBC) Green Bay (5) at Arizona (4)

8:00 pm (NBC) Baltimore (6) at New England (3)

Sunday 1/10/2010

1:00 pm (FOX) Dallas (6) at Minnesota (3)

4:00 pm (CBS) Jets (5) at Cincy (4)

*If Dallas beats Philly in Week 17, then just insert Philly (5) at Dallas (4) on Sunday at 1: 00pm on FOX

I'll be back later in the week with my Week 17 picks!

Broncos Ready To Collapse Again

Once again the Denver Broncos are hitting full stride in their annual December collapse. Sunday's 20-19 loss to Oakland in Denver was a carbon copy loss of the other brutal and dissapointing losses the Broncos have suffered since 2006. This was just as bad as the '06 Niner Game, the '07 Bears defeat, and the '08 Raiders and Bills games. I was just numb as JaMarcus Russell drove his team down the field late in the game to bury the Broncos. It doesn't matter if it is a different head coach, defensive coordinator, quarterback or anyone else, this collection of Broncos from the last four years is nothing but choke artists. My one suggestion for the organization is that the Broncos should draft a quarterback in the first round this year. That is the way you win and how you win big games in the NFL. You need a game changer at QB. Ask the Chargers about that. Look how good they've become with Philip Rivers calling signals for their franchise. I don't care if it is Jimmy Clausen, Sam Bradford, Ryan Mallet, Colt McCoy or even Tim Tebow. Give us some hope for the future please. Anyway here are my Week 16 picks....

Last Week's Record: 6-9-1
Overall Record: 107-110-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

TENNESSEE (-2) over San Diego
Seattle (+15) over GREEN BAY
Oakland (+3) over CLEVELAND
CINCINNATI (-13) over Kansas City
ATLANTA (-7) over Buffalo
MIAMI (-3) over Houston
NY GIANTS (-3) over Carolina
NEW ORLEANS (-14) over Tampa Bay
Jacksonville (+8) over NEW ENGLAND
PITTSBURGH (-2) over Baltimore
St. Louis (+15) over ARIZONA
SAN FRANCISCO (-10) over Detroit
INDIANAPOLIS (-3) over New York Jets
Dallas (-4) over WASHINGTON
Minnesota (-6) over CHICAGO

PHILADELPHIA (-7) over Denver: The Broncos are done. They are walking into a lion's den this week in Philly. Another December collapse will be complete on Sunday. Eagles-31 Denver-10

Playoff Itinerary

With the Broncos at 8-5 and looking to secure a playoff berth, I decided to play around with the Yahoo playoff generator. This is one of the greatest technological devices ever created. Seriously, this is up there with NFL Sunday Ticket and NFL Redzone channel. Anyway, after playing around with different results and combinations, I came up with a realistic view of what could take place the last three weeks. Also, I broke down what teams we should root against and what games will have the most significance.

Here is what I came up with:

1-Denver could go 10-6 and not qualify for the playoffs. If we go 10-6, then the best situation for us is to win the games against Oakland and KC and lose the Philly game. The Oakland and KC wins would help us in tiebreakers because of conference record.

2-Root for Miami to lose this week at Tennessee. The Dolphins have a better chance of losing this week at Tennessee than losing at home to Houston in Week 16 and Pittsburgh in Week 17.

3- Root for Pittsburgh to play spoiler against Baltimore in Week 16 and at Miami in Week 17. Even if the Steelers win out, it will be hard for them to get a wild card berth based on tiebreakers, but the Steelers still have pride and are the defending Super Bowl Champs. Hopefully, they can play like it the last two weeks.

4-Root for Atlanta to upset the Jets this week or Indy to play their starters and defeat the Jets in Lucas Oil Stadium in Week 16.

Week 15 Picks!

Here we go with Week 15 picks in the National...........Football.............League......

Last Week's Record: 11-5

Overall Record: 101-101-7

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NEW ORLEANS (-7) over Dallas: It is hard to pick against the Saints in the Dome. The Cowboys aren't totally dead in the NFC playoff picture, but it is hard to see them picking off the Saints this Saturday.

PITTSBURGH (-1) over Green Bay: The Packers are going to win 10 games and get the 5th seed in the NFC, but they will fall at Heinz Field this week. The Steelers should play hard until the end of the season.

TENNESSEE (-2) over Miami: The Fins will have a chance to make the playoffs after starting -3, but they will fall to the Titans this week. Chris Johnson will make too many plays to help the Titans keep their faint playoff hopes alive.

New England (-7) over BUFFALO: The Pats get it going this week with a rare and solid road win in Buffalo.

Arizona (-10) over DETROIT: The Lions can't stop anyone, and the Cards will be ready for a big bounce back game after their loss to the Niners on Monday Night.

San Francisco (+9) over PHILLY: The Eagles should win, but this game will be closer then you think. Philly is hot right now, but don't you get the sense they are suckering in their fans for another January disappointment?

Atlanta (+4) over NY JETS: The Jet fans are already figuring out how they are going to make the playoffs with Mark Sanchez and Rex Ryan leading the way. I think their dreams end this week at the hands of the banged up Falcons. Call it the "Hunch of the Week."

BALTIMORE (-10) over Chicago: The lock of the week in the NFL. This line can't be high enough. The Bears are done, and Jay Cutler is one of the biggest disappointments of the 2009 season. The Ravens have a very viable chance of running the table and making the playoffs.

KANSAS CITY (-2) over Cleveland: The Chiefs are in danger of not selling out Arrowhead for the first time since 1990. Plus, doesn't it seem that every home game the Chiefs played this year was a dark, cloudy, and cold day? It is symbolic of the Todd Haley Era.

Houston (-10) over ST.LOUIS: Do you wish the Giants and Steve Spagnuolo were still together on the same sidelines. Of course the Texans will play hard and win this week. There is no pressure on them. They will crumble next week at Miami to put an end to their playoff dreams.

SAN DIEGO (-5) over Cincy: The battle for the number 2 seed in the AFC goes to the Chargers. The Bengals lack the big play and big score ability on offense and the Chargers are flying right now. Indy wants no part of SD in the playoffs.

SEATTLE (-6) over Tampa Bay: Josh Freeman looks very JaMarcus Russell-like the last few weeks. The Seahawks are better at home and get the job done this week.

Minnesota (-8) over CAROLINA: The Panthers will play hard and this game has all the makings of a back door cover, but the Vikings want to keep the train rolling and they will this week. Why was this game not flexed out by NBC and the NFL. SNF should be Dolphins-Titans this week.

WASHINGTON (+3) over New York Giants: The 'Skins have played hard the last four games, and Jason Campbell has played well. They will give the Giants all they can handle in this NFC East rivalry on MNF.

Oakland (+13) over DENVER: How bad is JaMarcus Russell? The Raiders are starting 3rd stringer Charlie Frye this week in Mile High. I know this is great matchup for Denver, but divisional and rivalry games make me nervous. The Broncos should win, but it will be closer than people think. Final Score: Denver-17 Oakland-10

Thursday Night Pick!

Indy (-3) over Jacksonville

Week 15 Picks!

Broncos Fall to 8-5 with Loss at Indy

The Broncos bid to topple undefeated Indianapolis did not come to fruition as the Colts beat Denver 28-16 in Indy on Sunday. The Colts raced out to a 21-0 lead early into the second quarter. The Broncos rallied to make the game a 21-16 affair with just over nine minutes left in the fourth quarter. From there it was all Peyton Manning. He directed an 80 yard drive and nailed Dallas Clark with the game-clinching touchdown pass. The loss puts Denver at 8-5, but the Broncos still hold on to one of the wild card spots in the AFC. Here are some of my game points regarding Sunday's game against Indy.....

1) I don't understand all of the hoopla surrounding Josh McDaniels' decision to defer to the second half and give Peyton Manning the ball to start the game. The Broncos even had an opportunity to take advantage of that decision because they were trailing 21-7 with the ball at the end of the half, and they received the ball first in the second half. The Broncos failed to convert those opportunities into points. If they did, they might have won this game.

2) The Broncos offense has been inconsistent all season long, and it will prevent them from beating a good team on the road or in the playoffs. The Broncos moved the ball up and down the field on the Colts, but the same miscues keep stalling drives. Penalties, short-yardage issues, a turnover, and a missed field goal really killed Denver in the second half. Their offense really had the chance to win this game, and they weren't able to capitalize.

3) Kudos to Brandon Marshall for breaking the NFL single game record for receptions. Marshall's 21 catches were amazing, and it seemed like he was open every throw. Now, please pay the man this offseason, and give him an offer more than someone like Roddy White in Atlanta got.

4) Tip your cap to the Broncos defense. They picked off Manning three times and really kept him and the Colts offense out of rhythm from the beginning of the second quarter until the last drive of the game in the fourth quarter. If the Bronco defense can play like this, especially their secondary, they will have a very good chance of making the playoffs.

5) Josh McDaniels didn't have his best day calling a football game. When you play Indy, you have to take chances and play for touchdowns and not field goals. You have to call plays with a gambler mentality- high risk and high reward. McD failed to do that. Twice he was conservative on third down calls the first three series of the game. At that point the Broncos were down 21-0. Also, his play calling on short-yardage situations was awful. It was obvious that they weren't going to be able to run the ball in those key moments on the Colts defense, and he still called runs up the middle, and Indy stuffed it every time.

6) Denver now stands at 8-5. Three games left and two of those three games are at home against Oakland and Kansas City. If they can't beat the Raiders and Chiefs at home, then they don't deserve to make the playoffs.

Week 14 Picks!

As we head into the last four games of the NFL season, here is the playoff landscape up to date:

AFC
1-Indy
2-Cincy
3-San Diego
4-New England
5-Denver
6-Jacksonville

NFC
1-New Orleans
2-Minnesota
3-Arizona
4-Dallas
5-Philly
6-Green Bay

The one thing to be aware of is that this is not how the final playoff structure will pan out. Although there are four games left, people get caught up in the moment. Just because Green Bay is playing well right now, doesn't mean they are going to finish off their last four games like that. Just because Denver leads the wild card race right now in Week 14, doesn't mean it is going to end up like that. Some of those teams will not be there at the end of the regular season. It is hard to believe with how some of them are playing right now, but it is the reality. It is going to get very interesting the next four weeks. Onto this week's picks......

Last Week's Record: 5-11
Thursday Night's Record: 1-0
Overall Record: 90-96-7
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

MINNESOTA (-6) over Cincy: The Vikings come back home after a tough loss at Arizona. I can't see Minnesota losing back-to-back games. Cincy gets a little break with Pittsburgh and Baltimore falling back in the pack. The Vikes take care of business in the Metrodome.

TAMPA BAY (+4) over New York Jets: Kellen Clemens on the road in a big game is a scary thought. The worst news the Jet fans could have heard this week was that Clemens would be starting a must win for them this week. Tampa Bay is terrible, but you just can't trust Clemens right now for the Jets.

KANSAS CITY (PICK) over Buffalo: Arrowhead Stadium was like a morgue last week against Denver. The Chiefs used to be a solid franchise. I know that haven't won a Super Bowl since 1970, but they were always in playoff contention during the Marty Schottenheimer Era, and Dick Vermeil always had them as contenders in the AFC West a few years ago. The last three years have been horrific for the Chiefs and their fans. It is actually kind of sad. Who is calling this game? It's gotta be Don Criqui and Randy Cross.

CHICAGO (+3) over Green Bay: This is the Bears moment this year. They will put everything they can into beating the Packers. You can't trust the Bears, but this is a rivalry game, and the Bears will treat this as their Super Bowl.

ATLANTA (+11) over New Orleans: I'm done picking huge favorites this year. It's just not working. The Falcons will probably be without Matt Ryan, and Michael Turner is questionable, but they will keep it closer than people expect.

BALTIMORE (-11) over Detroit: I know I said I'm done picking huge favorites, but this is the lock of the week. The Ravens have to be ecstatic that Pittsburgh keeps losing, and the Ravens still have a good shot to make the playoffs. They get it going at home against the Lions and Daunte Culpepper.

Miami (+4) over JACKSONVILLE: For the sake of every NFL fan out there, please let the Dolphins beat the Jags. Nobody wants to see Jax in the playoffs. There is zero interest in that team or that franchise. The Fins are a better team, and they prove with a big win in Jacksonville. Serious question: How many fans show up for the game on Sunday in Jacksonville?

NEW ENGLAND (-12) over Carolina: It is gut check time for the Pats. No way the Patriots lose this game at home. They are a very different team in Foxboro. The Pats get back on track.

HOUSTON (-5) over Seattle: The Seahawks are playing for the future. Adding Mike Holmgren this week as a team president was a very solid move. The Texans are playing for their coach this week. At 5-7, the Texans have proven to be the frauds that many people expected-including myself- this year. They get the win at home vs. Seattle, but the questions will still linger about Gary Kubiak's job security.

TENNESSEE (-12) over St. Louis: A rematch of Super Bowl XXXVI! The Titans will win this one, but their train has been derailed a bit after last week's loss at Indy. They will still play hard down the stretch, but now need a minor miracle to make the playoffs.

Washington (-1) over OAKLAND: Jason Campbell hasn't played that bad as of late. The Raiders shocked the world by beating Pittsburgh in Heinz Field last week, but they come back to Earth this week.

DALLAS (-3) over San Diego: The Chargers are playing great but look who they have beaten during their seven game winning streak: KC, Oak, Giants by 1, Philly at home, Denver with Chris Simms starting, KC, and Cleveland. Everyone is already predicting the Cowboys' demise in December, but I'm not so sold that it is going to happen. The Cowboys edge the Chargers in a great matchup.

Philly (+2) over NEW YORK GIANTS: I thought the Giants were done, but they found a way to beat the Cowboys last week. They won't be so fortunate this time. The Eagles will find a way to beat the Giants on SNF.

San Francisco (+4) over Arizona: The Cards will start to take it easy the next few weeks and glide into the playoffs. No one in the NFC wants to see Arizona in the playoffs.

INDY (-7) over Denver: This would be a perfect spot for Indy to lose their first game, but I don't see it happening. The Broncos offense will not be able to keep up with Indy. The Colts will stuff the box and stop the run, and Denver's passing game will have trouble against that Indy pass rush. Defensively, Denver can think of every scheme possible to stop Peyton Manning, but he is just too good. The Colts are going for homefield advantage and a NFL record 22 game winning streak. I think they get it done: Colts-31- Denver-20

Thursday Night Football Pick!

Pick for Thursday Night Football

CLEVELAND (+14) over Pittsburgh

Broncos Bury Chiefs in Arrowhead to get to 8-4

Put it this way, the Denver Broncos never have any success at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. They were 1-15 all time there in games in the month of December. The key word is were. The Broncos buried the Kansas City Chiefs 44-13 on Sunday to move to 8-4 and take command of one of the two wildcard spots in the AFC. The win also keeps Denver only a game out of the lead in the AFC West with four games to play. This was a game that you never really felt worried about as the game started and progressed. Even after Kyle Orton threw an interception in the end zone on Denver's opening drive of the game, did it feel like Kansas City was going to upset the Broncos. The key moments in this game involved the Broncos defense and special teams units. With Denver up 7-0, the Chiefs put together a long drive to set up a first and goal at the Denver one yard line. Brian Dawkins stopped Jamal Charles for a three yard loss on first down, and then Dawkins hit Matt Cassel and forced an errant throw in the end zone on third and goal. The Chiefs settled for a field goal and Denver still maintained a 7-3 lead. The other moment came in the first series of the second half. The Chiefs had cut the lead to 14-6 at the half, and they faced a fourth down in their own territory. Chiefs coach Todd Haley elected to go with a fake punt and inserted backup QB Brodie Croyle into the game to throw the ball. Although it appeared that Denver was outflanked, backup TE Richard Quinn rushed Croyle and deflected the ball giving the Broncos possession deep in KC territory. The Broncos settled for a field goal and a seemingly insurmountable 17-6 lead. From there it was all fun and games for Denver. A TD pass from Kyle Orton to Brandon Marshall, an Andre Goodman fumble return for a TD, two interceptions by the defense, another Elvis Dumervil sack, two Matt Prater field goals, and a final nail in the coffin on a touchdown run by Knowshon Moreno. It was a terrific effort by the Broncos, and a completely dominating performance over an inferior team.

It now sets up Denver at 8-4. With the Ravens losing on MNF to the Packers, the Broncos stand alone as the top wildcard in the AFC. Denver has a one game lead over Jacksonville, and a two game lead over Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Miami, and the Jets, all of them have 6-6 records. The Broncos remaining schedule is not easy. They hit the road for Indy this week, come home to play Oakland, hit the road to play Philly, and finish the season at Mile High against the Chiefs. If they win the games they are supposed to win, and lose the games they are supposed to lose, they will finish 10-6 and that should be enough to get in. The bottom line is just getting into the playoffs. At this point, no Bronco fan cares about where they end up or seeding- just get in the tournament. By gaining entry to the playoffs, the Broncos would have officially exceeded all expectations for this season, and it has been way too long without playoff football in Denver. Last year, the Broncos were 8-5, and lost their last three games to finish 8-8 and out of the playoffs. This year, they stand at 8-4, and now they need to finish the job. In 2006 and 2008, the Broncos didn't finish, and they led to the dismissal of Mike Shanahan. It is the time to finish, there is no other option. Finish the job and get into the dance because we all know that if you just get into the playoffs, anything can happen.

Week 13 Picks!

The playoff picture will start to come into full bloom as we hit the month of December. Just remember that it is too early to start looking at seeding and potential playoff matchups right now. I looked back to this point in the season a year ago. What I found was that in the NFC the Eagles were out of the playoff picture, and the Redskins were firmly in the wildcard spot. The Buccaneers were battling for homefield advantage and a first round bye. In the AFC, the Broncos looked like they were about to wrap up the West, and San Diego looked like it was headed to a disappointing season. The AFC East was a two horse race between the Patriots and the Jets. Those same Jets were looking like a lock for the #2 seed in the AFC. The Dolphins weren't really a threat in the East or in the wildcard picture for that matter. We saw how much changed after Thanksgiving last year. Don't count out a 6-5 team like Baltimore and Jacksonville or a 5-6 team like Tennessee or Miami. Also, could an 8-3 team like Cincy fall apart and miss the playoffs? Look for a team like Atlanta at 6-5 to make a run or a team like 5-6 San Francisco to make some noise. This time of year in the NFL, nothing is guaranteed. On to the picks for Week 13.....

Last Week's Record: 8-7-1

Overall Record: 84-85-7

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

New York Jets (-3) over BUFFALO: This game takes place in Toronto. Sunday's Grey Cup will be more exciting than this AFC East clunker. The Jets win in a snoozefest.

Oakland (+14) over PITTSBURGH: I see this one 23-10 Steelers. Although they lost on SNF at Baltimore, the Steelers are in prime position to make a wild card run. They get it going this week versus the Raiders. This isn't exactly Chuck Noll and the Steel Curtian vs. John Madden and his renegade Raiders from the 70s.

Houston (PICK) over JACKSONVILLE: Both of these teams are tough to figure out. A lot of people are going to count out the Texans after last week's loss to Indy, but I think they bounce back and knock off the Jags.

Tennessee (+7) over INDY: This is the one that Indy loses. The Titans always play Indy tough, and they are playing so well right now. I say it every week: I love watching Chris Johnson play. Vince Young established himself as a viable NFL QB with his performance against Arizona last week. The Colts' undefeated run ends here.

Philadelphia (-4) over ATLANTA: I don't trust the Eagles at all, especially on the road, but the Falcons are too banged up for me to pick them. Without Matt Ryan and a beat up Michael Turner, the Falcons are not a threat. They will get healthy, and they will make a run at the Wild Card, but I think they fall to the Eagles this week.

CINCY (-13) over Detroit: The Bengals take care of business in one of those humdrum, matter-of-fact wins over the Lions. Call it Bengals-24 Lions-7.

New Orleans (-8) over WASHINGTON: The Redskins have played hard the last three games, but I think they are in over their head this week. The Saints are rolling towards the #1 seed in the NFC. The Saints will lose a game this season, but it won't be this week.

CAROLINA (-5) over Tampa Bay: It might be a blessing for Carolina if Jake Delhomme can't play due to injury. The Panthers are playing out the string, and John Fox is coaching for his job. As for the Bucs, Raheem Morris is just in over his head. The fact that he was so well thought of after his interviews, shows that he is just that- a good interviewer.

CHICAGO (-9) over St. Louis: This is a Jay Cutler special. Against an awful team and a depleted defense, Cutler will go 24-31 for 330 yards and 3 TDs on Sunday.

San Diego (-13) over CLEVELAND: The Chargers got the Chiefs last week and the Browns this week. What a gift from the scheduling gods! The Chargers are steamrolling for the #2 seed in the AFC and that quest continues with a pounding of the Browns in Cleveland this week.

San Francisco (PICK) over SEATTLE: I know Seattle is good at home, but the 49ers are just a better team. San Fran stays in the playoff picture with a gutty win at Quest Field.

ARIZONA (+5) over Minnesota: I have the right to change this pick if Kurt Warner doesn't play. If he plays, I like the Cardinals in an upset at home. Minnesota is due for a slip up, and the Cardinals can match score for score with the Vikings.

Dallas (-2) over NEW YORK GIANTS: The G-Men are finished for 2009. I would like to congratulate myself for picking the Giants to go 8-8 when I made my season predictions back in August. The Cowboys roll into to the Meadowlands and bury the Giants.

New England (-5) over MIAMI: Miami is still only two games out of the division, but the Pats will be focused and ready to roll in Miami this week. New England won't lose two in a row.

Baltimore (+3) over GREEN BAY: Everyone is talking about how the Packers are on a tear towards the playoffs. I'm not so sure. They were due to play well when they beat the Cowboys at home, just held on to beat SF at home, and pounded the beat up and inept Lions on Thanksgiving. The Ravens got a huge win over Pittsburgh on SNF, and now they will make their run for the wild card. The Ravens beat up Aaron Rodgers and the Packers and win in Lambeau.

KANSAS CITY (+4) over Denver: As much as I wanted to take the Broncos, the specter of Arrowhead looms too large for me. Arrowhead Stadium has been a graveyard for the Broncos in my lifetime. Many great Bronco teams couldn't win there, so I'm going with history on this one. I know the Chiefs aren't very good, but I still can't trust Denver even after their dominating performance over the Giants on Thanksgiving. This will be close, but the Chiefs win late in another Arrowhead nightmare. FINAL SCORE: Chiefs-26 Denver-23.

A Thanksgiving Stuffing in Denver

Hopefully, Denver's 26-6 beatdown of the New York Giants on Thanksgiving night will be what gets the Broncos back on track. The win moves Denver to 7-4 and back into the thick of the AFC playoff picture. Here are a few tidbits from the game before get onto my picks for Thanksgiving week picks.

1) That was an "A" game for Denver. Suffocating and pressuring defense, efficient offensively, solid running game, solid special teams, and fundamentally sound football on both sides. That was exactly how Denver got to 6-0, and that is how they played against the G-Men.

2) Run the ball. Josh McDaniels must have listened to the fans this week because he gave the rock a lot to Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter. Denver can run the ball very effectively, but they have become too pass happy the last four weeks. They won't break a lot of big runs, but they can be steady will it and it will work as the game progresses.

3) The Bronco offense is too inconsistent. They can move the ball, but penalties and red zone problems still persist. That game could have been 27-0 at halftime had Denver not committed so many penalties and inconsistent play inside the red zone.

4) Rush the quarterback. The Broncos defense is at its' best when they bring their multiple pressure schemes. They got away from that the last four weeks, but last night they brought a lot of different looks and blitzes. They confused Eli Manning and pressured him throughout. They need to take more chances every week. Elvis Dumervil is a great third down pass rusher. They must get him going early and often for their defense to be successful.

5) The Broncos benefitted from playing this game at home. It was apparent that the Giants weren't ready for this game. The short rest combined with the long flight seemed to give the Giants a disadvantage. I'm not making excuses for New York, but the Broncos got the right team, at the right time, at home on Thanksgiving.

6) Rest up for the stretch. The Broncos now have 11 days to get healthy, rest up, and prepare for the final five games. They head to Arrowhead to face Kansas City on December 6th.

Last Week's Record: 7-6-3

Thanksgiving Record: 2-1

Overall Record: 78-79-6

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

INDY (-3) over Houston: Every time I pick Houston in a big game, they burn me. I'll take my shot with Peyton Manning this week. The Colts will lose a game this year, but not this week.

CINCY (-12) over Cleveland: The Bengals slipped up last week at Oakland. They will rebound nicely with a romp over their rivals.

MINNESOTA (-10) 0ver Chicago: I love rooting against Jay Cutler. I would normally pick the Bears this week, but it is just too much to fun to pass up the chance to root against Cutler. Lovie Smith's days are numbered in Chicago. The Vikings continue to impress every week, and that are such a loaded team. They continue their march towards the first round bye with a whipping on the Bears.

PHILLY (-8) over Washington: I don't love this game, but I think the Eagles are going to win the NFC East, so I'm going to take them here.

Miami (-2) over BUFFALO: The Dolphins are such a well coached and disciplined team, that I actually find myself rooting for them a lot of weeks. They continue their late season surge, and put the Bills to rest in Buffalo.

TENNESSEE (-3) over Arizona: The Cardinals have to lose on the road sooner or later, so why not this week. The Titans are playing very well right now, and Chris Johnson is so much fun to watch. They have something to build upon with the combo of Johnson and a seasoned Vince Young. The Titans won't run the table and go 10-6, but they get to 5-6 this week.

Seattle (-3) over ST.LOUIS: An awful, cheap NFC West matchup this week. I was wrong about Seattle because I thought they were going to be a good this year. They need to really rebuild this team this offseason.

ATLANTA (-10) over Tampa Bay: This is the lock of the week. Even if Michael Turner, doesn't play, Matt Ryan gets it going against that Buc defense. Jim Bates got demoted as the DC of the Bucs this past week. He might be the only DC to get demoted midseason twice. It also happened to him in Denver in 2007.

Carolina (+3) over NEW YORK JETS: Jet fans overhyped Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez way too much after three games. Since then, the Jets have come back to reality. The Panthers spoil the Jets Thanksgiving weekend.

SAN FRANCISCO (-3) over Jacksonville: No one wants to see Jacksonville make the playoffs. The Niners help out the league this week by taking care of the Jags in SF.

SAN DIEGO (-11) over Kansas City: This is one of those games where the Chargers sleepwalk through and win 20-16. I can't go against the Chargers at this point because they are rolling. It is too much to ask the Chiefs to knock off San Diego on the road.

BALTIMORE (-1) over Pittsburgh: Game of the Week on Sunday Night Football. The Steelers have lost their way, and the Ravens are shockingly 5-5. I see the Ravens winning on a close field goal at the end.

New England (+2) over NEW ORLEANS: Another great game on Monday Night Football to finish off the week. I'll take the Pats to outscore the Saints and knock New Orleans off their undefeated perch. Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are great in these types of games. They should have beaten the Colts two weeks ago, and this week they finish the job in the Superdome.

Choke City in Denver

I'm just sick and tired of it. Really, I just can't take it anymore. The Denver Broncos have become the equivalent of every choke artist team this decade. For the second year in a row they held a nice 3 game lead in the AFC West, and for the second year in a row they began to collapse and watch the San Diego Chargers rally back and take possession of first place. Last year, Denver held first place from Week 1 all the way to the end of Week 17. This year, the Broncos were leadin the division from Week 2 to Week 11. As I said last week, new coach, new veterans, new philosphy equals the same result. I'm just tired of watching a second rate football organization. The Broncos are chokers, that's just what they are. With the exception of 2005-How long ago was that?- the Broncos always start fast and fade at the end. As other teams play better and adjust, the Broncos play worse and can't adjust to the other teams' adjustments. The Broncos are a mediocre and disappointing franchise right now. Sunday's loss to San Diego 32-3 was so matter of fact, that it felt like a preseason game. Forget about homefield advantage because that is a thing of the past. The Broncos lose big games at home and on the road. At 6-4, Denver's amazing 6-0 start is tarnished. Their cinderella story is reduced to a blip on the NFL radar. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, they are cooked. What will happen the rest of the way? Well, if you can't score in the NFL, you won't win. The Broncos have score 37 points in their last four games. Put it this way, the lowly Browns scored 37 points in Sunday's game at Detroit. Josh McDaniels is supposed to be an offensive genius, but this is one of the worst offenses I've ever witnessed in Denver. They are bad in the red zone, they constantly get killer penalties, they turn it over, and their playcalling has failed them. The offense needs a makeover, and it looks like it won't happen this year. The defense is just as worse. They have officially fallen apart. They can't stop anyone on third down, can't stop the run, and can't create turnovers. Doesn't this sound a lot like last year's defense? The Broncos are done, and all we can do is stand by and watch it. This franchise has fallen on hard times, and we must be resigned to the fact that the Broncos are just another average, middle of the road NFL team. It's hard to swallow, but it is the truth.


THANKSGIVING PICKS:

New York Giants (-7) over DENVER: The G-Men spoil the Broncos' Thanksgiving, and sent the Broncos packing for 2010.

DALLAS (-10) over Oakland

Green Bay (-11) over DETROIT

Week 11 Picks!

CUE NFL FILMS MUSIC

John Facenda's Voice Starts In: "The Autumn leaves have turned completely.... The crisp Fall has given way to a sudden chill in the air....The games become more crucial...Playoff teams begin to make their run....Every game carries a steep importance... The playoffs are around the corner......And only one team will be left standing alone atop the Professional Football World."

If the great John Facenda were still alive, I think that is how he might set up Week 11 in the NFL. The stretch run begins, and this week should start to provide some real answers about who will be playing in the playoffs come January. As usual, I like to try and take a peek at what I think the playoffs will look like. It is amazing how much the seeding, divisional winners, and wild card teams can change week to week. Here is my look at who I think will get in prior to Week 11:

AFC

1-Indy(South)

2-Cincy(North)

3-NE(East)

4-San Diego(West)

5-Pitt(WC)

6-Baltimore(WC)

NFC

1-New Orleans(South)

2-Minnesota(North)

3-Arizona (West)

4-Dallas (East)

5-Atlanta (WC)

6-Philly (WC)

Onto the picks for Week 11.....

Last Week (8-7)

Overall Record (69-72-3)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

CAROLINA (-3) over Miami: Huge game for two 4-5 teams. NFL Network lucked out when these two teams won last week. No Ronnie Brown really hurts the Dolphins. I'll take the Panthers at home.

DETROIT (-3) over Cleveland: If Detroit vs. St. Louis was the "Toilet Bowl," what do you call this stinker? I like "The Dust Bowl." It just sounds like a crappy bowl game. How about a cheap sponsor? Let's go with the "Mello Yellow Dust Bowl." I like it, and I like the Lions.

Buffalo (+9) over JACKSONVILLE: This has the classic "Our Coach got fired, so let's play hard for the new guy this week" type of game written all over it. Could Jacksonville actually be a playoff contender? The Jags are a weird team, and I just have a feeling the Bills will keep this one close, and then pull it out with a late field goal.

Pittsburgh (-9) over KANSAS CITY: The Steelers are coming off a loss, and Troy Polamalu may be sidelined with a knee injury this week. His absence really affects the Steelers. Their defense is just different without him. With that said, the Stillers will be angry and have too much for the defenseless Chiefs.

Indianapolis (-1 ) over BALTIMORE: I'm still not impressed with the Ravens, especially after they slept through their win over Cleveland on Monday Night. I don't think the Colts lose this week. Peyton Manning meet Domonique Foxworth and Fabian Washington. Those are the names of the Cornerbacks that Manning will abuse on Sunday.

Atlanta (+7) over NEW YORK GIANTS: I can't trust the Giants. I trusted them for four consecutive weeks, and I'm not going to do it this week. Win or lose this week, the Falcons are making the playoffs. Just trust me and mark it down: Atlanta will be the 5 seed in the NFC.

GREEN BAY (-6) over San Francisco: The Packers are getting going. I'm telling you this is going to be hot team in the NFC during the stretch. The Pack take care of business this week over the Niners.

MINNESOTA (-10) over Seattle: The Vikings are rolling, and I have to admit I did not buy into the Vikings this season, but I have been dead wrong. Think of how many great players they have on their team: Favre, Peterson, Hutchinson, McKinnie, Allen, Kevin and Pat Williams, Winfield, Percy Harvin. Jesus Christ, they are loaded! The Vikes pound the 'Hawks at home.

DALLAS (-9) over Washington: The Redskins showed some life last week, but the Cowboys will take care of them this week. This game will be close for awhile, but I see the Cowboys pulling away.

New Orleans (-10) over TAMPA BAY: Everytime I pick against the Bucs, they screw me. If they are an underdog, I have mostly picked the favorite and somehow the Bucs have covered. If I pick them, then they lose and don't cover. I'm just gonna pick the Saints and hope for a blowout. For this game only, I think the Bucs should warm up in their current uniforms, and then change into their "Creamsicle" uniforms before the game starts. The fans would love it. How great would that be?

Arizona (-8) over St. Louis: You can lock the Cardinals in for either the 3 seed or the 4 seed in January. Who is going to want to see Warner, Fitzgerald and company coming into their building in round two?

NEW ENGLAND (-9) over New York Jets: The Jets have faded after their 3-0 start, and the Pats want revenge after their Week 2 loss in the Meadowlands. This has the makings of a classic "Thanks for Coming Down" game. I see the Pats winning big.

Cincy (-9) over OAKLAND: The Bengals are playing so well right now. I just can't see them slipping up in the Black Hole. The Bengals could be on their way to the #2 seed in the AFC. By the way, I just want all of those draft experts to eat crow on Rey Maualuga. He is a run-stuffing force. The Bengals keep it going another week.

Philadelphia (-4) over CHICAGO: I don't think the Bears are dead just yet. I look for Jay Cutler to bounce back after having 11 days to think about his five interception performance against the Niners. I just can't put my finger on Philly. Two weeks ago they looked like a lock to win the NFC East, now at 5-4 they look so shaky to me. It is just so much fun to root against Cutler, so I'm taking the Iggles.

HOUSTON (-4) over Tennessee: Three weeks ago this game looked like a complete dud, but now I'm actually looking forward to it. The Titans have won three in a row to improve to 3-6, and they are officially playing the classic spoiler role. The Texans are in a dogfight, and I think this game will be very close. The Texans pull it out, and begin to make their run for their first ever playoff appearance.

San Diego (-3) over DENVER: I guess you knew where I was going with this one. The Broncos had trouble stopping Phillip Rivers and the passing game in the first matchup, so I expect the same this week. Also, LT was having a solid time, until Norv Turner took the ball out of his hands in the redzone and in the second half. I look for the Chargers to put a whippin on the Broncos. If Kyle Orton starts, then Denver might be in for a half. If Chris Simms starts, this thing is over at the coin toss. Chargers roll and Denver's slide continues.

Final Score: San Diego: 34 Denver: 13

Here We Go Again!

New coach. New philosophy. New players. Same result for the Denver Broncos. The Broncos 27-17 loss to the Washington Redskins was discouraging and disheartening for many reasons on many levels. The main thing is that it reminds us that no matter what changes we went through, and no matter what we did the first six games of the this season, we are in the same predicament we were in just 11 months ago. It really is deja vu all over again. Let's first start with Sunday's game vs. the Redskins, and then we can get to the bigger picture. Here is my take on some of the details of Sunday's loss in D.C. First, if Kyle Orton doesn't get hurt, the Broncos win the game. He directed three scoring drives, and would have been able to put enough points on the board in the second half to secure the win. I know Chris Simms hasn't taken any meaningful snaps since 2006, but he was flat out awful. He didn't even look like an NFL backup quarterback. Second, there is absolutely no excuse to give up a fake field goal for a touchdown. Especially, SINCE THE REDSKINS LINED UP FOR THE FAKE AND THEN CALLED TIMEOUT TO SET IT UP!!!! That was one of the most embarrassing sequences of Broncos football I have ever seen. That can't happen, and it's on the coaching staff for that one. Third, our defense is crumbling and it is nowhere near what it was three or four weeks ago. For the third straight game, the defense got pushed around at the line of scrimmage. The defense got gashed by Ladell Betts. Really? Are you kidding me? Our defense couldn't stop Washington's run game, and they completely controlled the game down the stretch. This is shades of 2006 for our once heralded defensive unit. Finally, the Broncos have lost their confidence and their way. They just don't seem right, and I don't know if they will be able to get their swagger back.

As far as the rest of the season and this week's game, here is why I feel like it is 2008 all over again. Last year, we were 8-5 and the Chargers were 5-8. Of course, we remember how San Diego got hot and finished 8-8, and how we fell apart in losses to Carolina, Buffalo, and then the disaster in Week 17 at San Diego. Well, this year it is the same exact result, expect that Denver's decline started about a month early, and San Diego actually woke up as earlier in the season. Just like last year when we blew a critical game at home versus a 6-8 Buffalo team, and we had San Diego staring at us the next week. Well, we just blew a critical game at 2-6 Washington, and we have red hot San Diego rolling into Mile High this week. IT'S THE SAME SHIT-DIFFERENT YEAR!!!!! Frankly, I'm tired of it. I don't want to hear that this year is a rebuilding year, and that it is the first year of the Josh McDaniels era, and there are going to be some years like this. I don't want to hear it. When your team starts out 6-0 and beats teams like Dallas, New England, and San Diego (I'm not even counting Cincy), then you should be setting yourself up for a first round bye. Now, Denver is battling SD for the division, and if they are lucky they are fighting for a Wild Card and a 5th or 6th seed. This Bronco team is headed in the wrong direction, and there is nothing we can do about it. Just like 2006, just like 2008, we start fast and can't finish. The Broncos changed the script of the season when they started 6-0. They need to win the division or at least make the wild card comfortably. If they fade again this year, it will be just as worst as last year- I don't care who the coach is or who the quarterback is. On a final note, I am going to change my approach. I said last year the 2008 Broncos drove me to drink an enormous amount during their games. As their season crumbled, I also crumbled into a drunken nightmare. This season was not like that until Sunday's debacle. I drank myself into a stupor watching them blow this game, and I ended up passing out on my couch with my mouth wide open and droll sliding down my cheek. The 2009 Broncos may be collapsing, but I'm not going down like I did last year. I'm not going to drink a lot during Sunday's game. Even if San Diego wins 41-10, I'm not going to drown myself in beers. I'm going to watch the game and not get upset. Why should I put myself through this like I did last year? I'm going to simply watch the game, have a beer or two, have some Gatorade and Pepsi, make myself a nice meal, and observe what takes place. No jumping up and down, no bitching and complaining, no screaming and yelling and no expectations. Whatever will happen will happen, and there is nothing I can do about it. I expect the Broncos to lose and lose badly because this is what the most recent Broncos do. They can't finish and they can't collapse. It looks like the 2009 Broncos will pick up where the 2008 Broncos left off at the end of last season. I'm not going down the same road, and I'm not going out like that. Maybe the Broncos will actually follow my lead this time.

Thursday Night Pick Change!

Chicago (+3 )over SF: I'm calling an audible and changing the pick. The Bears gut one out.

Week 10 Picks!!!!

We have hit full stride into the month of November, and in the NFL it is time to start separating the contenders from the pretenders. The best quote I heard about this time of the year in the NFL is this: "In November, the next game is the toughest." Every game is so important at this time and nowhere is this more evident than in Denver. Once the darlings of the NFL about three weeks ago, Denver has lost two straight, and critics are starting to swarm at the idea of the Broncos falling apart. Although Denver has some issues in all three phases of the game, they still are a good team, and I think their demise is being greatly exaggerated. The Broncos need to get back on track, and it starts this week in D.C. Onto the Week 10 picks....

Last Week's Record: 3-9-1
Overall Record: 61-65-3

SAN FRANCISCO (-3) over Chicago: The Bears defense is a mess. I could see Cutler putting the Bears on his back for this game, but I'm going to go with the Niners at home on a short week.

NEW YORK JETS (-6) over Jacksonville: The Jets need to start their run for the playoffs now. They get the medicore Jags to get them going.

PITTSBURGH (-7) over Cincy: I am a believer in the Bengals, but this is the perfect spot for the Steelers. This game will be close, but the Steelers pull away at home.

Buffalo (+7) over TENNESSEE: I'm not buying stock in the Vince Young Era just yet. This is where the Bills are sneaky, and there is no way you can give the Titans a touchdown advantage over anyone.

MINNESOTA (-15) over Detroit: This is like Florida playing Coastal Carolina or Texas playing Louisiana Lafayette to start the season. A complete mismatch and a complete dismantling in the Metrodome.

New Orleans (-13) over ST. LOUIS: The Saints roll to 9-0 after a dominating performance in St. Louis. Can you believe that the Saints and Vikings both play the Lions and Rams respectively this week? What a scheduling disaster!

Atlanta (-1) over CAROLINA: I loved the Panthers early in the week, but a lot of people must have been putting money on the Panthers. I will take the Falcons, but this is going to be a tough battle.

MIAMI (-9) over Tampa Bay: The Bucs got their first win last week, and the Dolphins played another tough game and lost to the Patriots. I love the Fish this week. Easiest game to pick on the board.

Kansas City (+2) over OAKLAND: The Raiders suck badly, and the Chiefs are about to pass them for third in the AFC West.

ARIZONA (-7) over Seattle: This is a game that the Cards will usually lose, but I can't be confident in the Seahawks on the road. The Cards get it done this week at home.

SAN DIEGO (-2) over Philadelphia: Toughest game to pick of the week. Part of me is not buying into the Chargers resurgence, and part of me isn't ready to trust the Eagles on the road. Norv Turner vs. Andy Reid. Wow, what a matchup this will be. Anyway, I'm going with the Chargers at home because I'll take Philip Rivers over Donovan McNabb in a big spot.

GREEN BAY (+3) over Dallas: I LOVE THE PACKERS THIS WEEK! This is a perfect setup for the Cowboys to fall. The Packers are not dead yet, trust me. The Pack win it in Lambeau.

New England (+3 ) over INDY: The best rivalry in the NFL renews on Sunday Night. Manning vs. Brady is all you need to know getting ready for this game. I'll take the Pats on a late field goal to end the Colts undefeated run.

Baltimore (-10) over CLEVELAND: It doesn't matter if Brady Quinn, Derek Anderson, Bernie Kosar or Brian Sipe are starting for the Browns, their offense still blows, and it will not matchup well with the Ravens. You know it's bad when a team's fanbase is starting petitions to boycott games. This line can't be high enough. The Ravens roll on a Monday Night snoozefest.

WASHINGTON (+4) over Denver: It is gutcheck time for the Broncos. Their offense needs to start producing and it starts with the quarterback, Kyle Orton. This team needs a big win, but I just don't see it happening against the Redskins. The Skins aren't as bad as their 2-6 record indicates. This game scares the hell out of me. Also, the Broncos never play well on the road at early starts. The Skins shock Denver in D.C, and Broncos Country gets elevated to DEFCON 4.
Final Score: Washington-19 Denver-16.

The Steelers Bully the Broncos on Monday Night

The Broncos fell to 6-2 after a 28-10 loss at home to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football. The Broncos dominated the first half and moved the ball well, but a Kyle Orton "Pick Six" to Tyrone Carter gave the Steelers a 7-3 lead. The second half belonged to the defending Super Bowl champs. Denver took a 10-7 lead on a Robert Ayers 64 yard fumble return early in the third quarter. From there, Ben Roethlisberger brought the Steelers right back with a short touchdown pass to Hines Ward to take a 14-10 lead. The Steeler defense shut down the Bronco offense repeatedly, and the final dagger was after Troy Polamalu intercepted Orton midway through the fourth quarter. Big Ben threw a touchdown pass to Mike Wallace on a 3rd and 6 and that was the ballgame. The Steelers flat out dominated Denver in the second half, and they basically bullied the Broncos around. Denver's defense played well, but once again they got no help from the offense, especially in the second half. The once undefeated Broncos were the talk of the NFL after a 6-0 start. Following their bye week, Denver has dropped two in a row, and both losses have brought a lot of concerns to forefront. To put a little perspective on the first half of the Broncos season, we will play a little question and answer game....

How would you grade Josh McDaniels' performance so far as a head coach? After the 6-0 start, you would have given McD an A. At 6-2, it would be fair to say that he deserves an A-. He has done a nice job with playcalling, but the last two weeks were not his best moments. His emotion and intensity is greatly infectious and energizing. Overall, McDaniels looks like he could be a very good head coach, but there will be some bumps in the road. It will be interesting to see how McDaniels gets him team ready for the second half.

How would you grade the Kyle Orton Era so far in Denver? At 6-0, Orton was considered a MVP candidate. After the last two losses, everyone is questioning his ability to play QB in the NFL. The bottom line on Orton is that he is an average NFL QB. He is not in the top tier or the lowest tier, he is a middle-of-the-pack NFL starting QB. Against average or weak defenses, he can be very successful. Against a solid or very good defense, he is going to struggle. I don't think you can count Orton out right now, but you have to deal with his good and bad moments. Right now he is our only option. I would say Orton deserves a B for his performance so far this season.

What about our vaunted offense? Denver's offense has been a disappointment so far this season. With that talent, the Broncos should be averaging way more then the 19-20 points they are averaging. An A game for the Bronco offense should be: Brandon Marshall- 9 catches for 120 yards, Eddie Royal- 7 for 75 yards, Tony Scheffler- 5 catches for 50 yards, and the combination of Jabar Gaffney and Brandon Stokley for about 4 catches and 3 big first down conversions. Throw in 20 carries from Knowshon Moreno for about 90 yards, and Correll Buckhalter adding about 10 carries for 40 yards. That should be viable every week, especially with the Bronco defense. The offense needs to get better. There is too much talent for it to wallow in mediocrity. They get a C for a first half grade.

Is our defense falling apart? No, the Bronco defense is not falling apart. Every unit needs help from the other unit, and the Bronco defense is not getting any help from the offensive unit. The Broncos defense has played very well, and although they got beat the last two second games, the Bronco defense is here to stay. It would be nice for them to get a two score lead once in a while? Unless there is a rash of injuries, I look for the Bronco defense to continue to excel. First half grade: B+

The bottom line is that the sky is not falling. The Broncos are still 6-2, and they still have a game lead on the Chargers in the AFC West. They have a bunch of winnable games the second half of the season. They host Oakland, travel to Washington, and have two games with the Chiefs. They get the Chargers and Giants at home as well. I think Denver could get 10 or 11 wins, which would equal a very successful season. The Broncos aren't dead yet, and there is a lot of football left to play.

Week 9 Picks!

The NFL hits full stride as we approach Week 9 and the halfway point of the NFL season. It is amazing that we are already at the midway spot in the season, but it is November and now teams begin to make their move, and the games become really important. There are always one or two teams that are like 6-2 or 5-3 and fall apart to finish 8-8 or 7-9. Conversely, there are usually at least two teams that are at 4-4 or 3-5 and get hot to finish 10-6 and vault into a wild card spot. Who are this year's candidates to make a run? Miami is a perfect choice. They are 3-4, but they could easily be 5-2. Watch out for the Dolphins as they could make a run to the playoffs. Also, San Francisco fits into this category. They are 3-4 as well, but they have played hard each week, and almost beat the Colts in Indy last week. In a weak division, they could still make a run and snag the NFC West from the Cardinals. As far as the teams that could fall off in the second half of the season, there are a few teams that people think could fall off. In the AFC, the Broncos (6-1), Bengals (5-2), and Texans (5-3), could all struggle down the stretch and miss the playoffs. In the NFC, Dallas, the Giants, and Philly, one of them will struggle down the stretch and miss the playoffs. With that said, here are my Week 9 picks.....

Last Week's Record: (7-6)
Overall Record: (58-56-2)

JACKSONVILLE (-6) over Kansas City: The Jags are a weird team, but KC is a mess. The Todd Haley-Matt Cassel Era has not started the way Chief fans have envisioned.

Baltimore (-3) over CINCY: The Ravens are a legit Super Bowl contender. They will avenge a loss to the Bengals a few weeks ago. This is one of the best games of the weekend, and it should be a slugfest.

INDY (-8) over Houston: The Texans are good, but they aren't ready for Peyton Manning and company just yet. The Colts had their snoozer last week over the Niners, and they will bring the "A" game this week.

Washington (+10) over ATLANTA: There has to be a week when the huge underdogs rise up and meet the challenge and cover the ridiciously high spreada. I'll roll the dice with the Skins this week. Call it the upset special.

Green Bay (-9) over TAMPA BAY: The Packers will feast on the Bucs this week in the "Bay the Pigs." The Bucs have turned to Josh Freeman, which means the Pack's secondary has a big day.

Arizona (+3) over CHICAGO: The Cards get it done this week in Chicago. Kurt Warner will play lights out on the road to defeat the Bears.

Miami (-10) over NEW ENGLAND: This is the most ridiculous line of the year. The Dolphins are good. This is my lock of the week.

NEW ORLEANS (-13) over Carolina: The Panthers saved their season last week in Arizona, but they will get smoked in the Superdome this week. The Saints roll to 8-0.

SEATTLE (-10) over Detroit: The Seahawks get back on track at home this week against the hapless Lions.

SAN FRANCISCO (-4) over Tennessee: The Niners played hard the last two weeks on the road and lost close games. The Titans finally won their first game last week. This sets up perfectly for a Niner win 20-10.

NEW YORK GIANTS (-4) over San Diego: The Giants need to step up and stop the bleeding. This game could go either way. I'll ride the Giants at home in a must win for both teams.

PHILLY (-3) over Dallas: The Eagles take care of business on SNF. I think the Cowboys are good, but I like the Eagles better. Philly is the team to beat in NFC East.

Pittsburgh (-3) over DENVER: Another bad matchup for Denver. The Steelers defense is too fast and physical for the Broncos. Big Ben makes too many plays, and Denver falls to 6-2. Final Score: Steelers-24- Denver-13

Just Not Their Day

There are games in the NFL where it just seems that it is not your day. For the Broncos their game in Baltimore was as simple as this: It was not their day. Denver suffered their first loss of the 2009 campaign as the Baltimore Ravens pounded the Broncos 30-7 on Sunday. The defeat drops Denver's record to 6-1, but the Broncos still hold a two game lead in the AFC West. No one expected the Broncos to win every game, and this game was supposed to be a test, but there is no such thing as a good loss in the NFL. The Broncos 6-0 start has given them the luxury of a few slip ups this season, but the Broncos have to go back and look in the mirror because they were dominated by the Ravens. They couldn't run the ball, they couldn't get open, and they couldn't protect the QB very well. Everytime you looked up it was 3rd and 10 or 3rd and 12. The Broncos offense is not going to be able to constantly overcome a lot of third and long situations. Also, the field position battle was completely in the favor of the Ravens. The Bronco special teams played terrible yesterday. They were terrible in kick coverage, couldn't generate any returns in the kicking game, and their new punter, Mitch Berger, was flat out awful. The pressure was constantly on the defense. For the first time this season, the defense cracked in the second half. They gave up 17 crucial points, and the Ravens killed the Broncos on third down. Once again, there are some days like this in the NFL. On the road and against a very good team that is desperate, is a tough game to win in the NFL. The Broncos found that out the hard way. Now the only the thing to do is regroup, put this game away, and get ready for the Pittsburgh Steelers next Monday Night. It will be interesting to see how Josh McDaniels and the rest of the Broncos respond against the defending Super Bowl Champions next week.

Week 8 Picks in the National...... Football..........League!

I have a few things I need to get off my chest before we get into the Week 8 picks. First, why can't the NFL schedule all the byes into a two week period? I hate how the bye weeks start in Week 4 and go until Week 10 or 11. Let's just give 16 teams a bye week at Week 9, and then the rest of the 16 teams a bye week at Week 10. That way everyone gets a bye week in the middle of the season, and it is actually beneficial. Also, it will avoid teams like Atlanta having to play three straight games against teams coming off bye weeks. If 16 teams have off, that still leaves 16 teams to play on Sunday and Monday Night for a total of eight games. You can have four early games, two late games, one Sunday Night game, and the MNF game. Plus, the Week 9 or 10 usually falls on the weekend of the World Series, so you can go without a Sunday Night game for one of the bye weeks. It makes sense. Instead of worrying about putting games in London, building a stadium in Los Angeles for a team that doesn't exist there now, and adding two more games to the season, the NFL should be fixing this bye week mess it created years ago. Also, many people are wondering if the Broncos would be 6-0 with Mike Shanahan and Jay Cutler at the helm of the franchise. I think it is tough to say because if Shanny was still the coach, then Bob Slowik would still be the DC. Also, who knows if Pat Bowlen would have given Shanny the freedom to sign the amount of players that Josh McDaniels signed in the offseason. There are too many variables to really get a definitive answer, but I would say that Denver would probably be at least 4-2. They always got off to good starts under Shanahan, and Cutler would have another year in the system with all that offensive talent that the Broncos have. Lastly, I don't know how either situation will play out this year, but I still think at the end of the year Cutler and McDaniels are going to think about how good the two of them would have been for each other in Denver. Onto the picks for Week 8....

Last Week's Record: 8-5

Overall Record: 51-50-2

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

CHICAGO (-13) over Cleveland: The Bears were terrible against the Bengals last week, but they get the perfect rebound game at home against the Browns. Cutler lights it up and the Bears roll easily to get to 4-3.

Houston (-3) over BUFFALO: I don't trust Houston, but I'm going with them in this spot. The Bills have played hard the last two weeks and save their season with road wins over the Jets and Panthers. This is the type of game that the Bills lose in the Dick Jauron Era. Unfortunately, this is the kind of game that the Texans lose in the Gary Kubiak Era. I'll take Houston close.

Minnesota (+3) over GREEN BAY: Brett Favre returns to Lambeau. This is one of the most anticipated regular season games in my lifetime. It ranks up there with 2007 Pats-Giants, 2007 Colts-Pats, 1990 Giants-49ers, 1994 49ers-Cowboys, and 1985 Bears-Dolphins. The Vikings take command of the NFC North in this statement game of their year.

San Francisco (+13) over INDIANAPOLIS: I just have a hunch that the 49ers will hang around with the Colts this week. Indy is due for a close game. I see Indy winning 20-17.

NEW YORK JETS (-3) over Miami: A lot of people will pick the Dolphins to beat the Jets because the Jets lost Kris Jenkins for the season, and Miami can run the ball effectively. Football doesn't work that easy. Miami does not do a good job of controlling the situations that they put their offense in; therefore, the Jets take control of the game and pound the ball themselves with Shonn Greene and Thomas Jones. The Jets win by 10 points.

DETROIT (-4) over St. Louis: Right now the Rams are worse than the Lions. This game shouldn't even be shown anywhere in the country. The Lions win the "Toilet Bowl" with a score of 9-3.

Seattle (+9) over DALLAS: I'm going to ride the Seahawks until they are dead in the NFC West. Dallas is up and down, and the Seahawks pull the upset in Big D.

SAN DIEGO (-15) over Oakland: The Chargers have won like 50 in a row over the Raiders. The demise of the Chargers is overrated, especially when they beat up on Kansas City last week, and they get to feast on the Raiders this week.

TENNESSEE (-3) over Jacksonville: The Titans get revenge for the 37-3 beating the Jags inflicted on them in Week 4. Tennessee gets their first win of the year. The only suspense in this game is if Vince Young will start or play a lot.

Carolina (+10) over ARIZONA: The Cardinals have beaten me the last two weeks, but I'm going against them again. The Panthers haven't played well all year, and there is a chance this good be 21-0 Cards after the first quarter, but Carolina shows up and plays hard this week. They cover and might even pull off the outright upset.

New York Giants (PICK) over PHILADELPHIA: What a sports day in Philly on Sunday. Giants-Eagles from the Link at 1, followed by World Series Game 4 Yanks-Phillies. The Giants have lost two in a row, and they won't lose three in a row. The Giants are the better team and show it on Sunday.

NEW ORLEANS (-9) over Atlanta: The Falcons are not the same team on the road. The Saints get off to fast starts at home. That is a bad combination. The Saints jump out early on the Falcons, and the Dirty Birds can't recover. The Saints will remain undefeated.

BALTIMORE (-3) over Denver: This is tough game for the Broncos. The Ravens are 3-3, but they could easily be 6-0 or at the least 5-1. They lost to NE on a dropped pass, got beat by Carson Palmer late against Cincy, and rallied from 20 down against Minnesota in the fourth and lost on missed field goal at the end. Denver will have trouble being balanced on offense this game. The Broncos will try to attack the Raven corners, but the Ravens could get pressure on Kyle Orton. The Baltimore offense now has a dual threat with Joe Flacco and Ray Rice. The Bronco secondary should be able to cover the Ravens' wideouts, but Rice is the "X Factor." The Broncos undefeated run ends in Baltimore. Final Score: Baltimore-23 Denver-16

Week 7 Picks!

As the 6-0 Broncos head into their bye week, one statistic that I keep thinking about is the fact that since Week 2 Denver's defense has only allowed two first down conversions on third down in the second half. Think about that for a second. In a five game span, 10 quarters, against the likes of Tony Romo, Tom Brady and Philip Rivers, the Broncos have given up a first down only twice on all of their third down conversion situations. That is the main reason why they are standing atop the AFC West undefeated. Anyway, as Denver goes into the bye week, I need to step up my game and get over the hump on my picks. I currently stand two games below .500, so I'm poised for a big week to get me going and on the plus side. Here we go with Week 7 picks......

Last Week's Record: 7-7

Overall Record: 43-45-2

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

San Diego (-5) over KANSAS CITY: I can't put the nail in San Diego's coffin until they are officially dead and buried. The Chargers aren't the same Chargers right now, but I think they do enough to get by the Chiefs in Arrowhead.

Indianapolis (-13) over ST. LOUIS: Wouldn't be cool if the Rams left St. Louis and moved back to Los Angeles? With news that L.A. has cleared the last obstacle to get their new football stadium constructed, and the fact that the Rams are for sale, maybe a return to the left coast would be a good thing for the Rams franchise. We know the NFL would love it. In any event, Peyton Manning should have some fun at the expense of the Ram secondary. Colts continue their undefeated march.

CINCINNATI (-1) over Chicago: Jay Cutler's performance last Sunday night in the loss to the Falcons, summarized everything he did in Denver. He made some sick throws, kept his team in the game, and he almost carried his team to the victory. Of course, he also threw two costly interceptions, including one in the red zone, and his team lost a close one. Cutler is a franchise QB, but he is a few close losses away from getting the label of "Great QB Who Can't Win a Big Game." I like the Bengals in this one because they are going to ticked off after their performance last week against Houston. Carson Palmer outduels Cutler.

CLEVELAND (+8) over Green Bay: I have just a hunch on this one. You can always make the case for an underdog who is playing at home against a team from the opposite conference. Call it a lack of familiarity for the Packers against the Browns. The Browns shock the Pack in a rematch of the 1965 NFL Championship.

PITTSBURGH (-4) over Minnesota: I loved the Steelers all week. After quietly taking care of business the last two weeks over Division 1-AA Detroit and Cleveland, the Steelers will knock the Vikings off the perch of the undefeated. I'm thinking three picks for the Steeler defense.

TAMPA BAY (+15) over New England (In London): The Pats will win, but the Bucs will cover the double digit spread. Also, can we please end the International Series in London? It is the dumbest idea the NFL has thought of since the two bye weeks back in 1993. I hate the London game.

San Francisco (+4) over HOUSTON: The Texans win on the road last week at Cincy was so typical for them the last few years. Everyone will buy back into the Texans, but I can't do it just yet. The Niners continue to surprise in a game that many people believe they will lose. Gary Kubiak's seat gets hotter after this loss.

New York Jets (-6) over OAKLAND: Last year, the Raiders actually showed up and played hard when they defeated the Jets in October, Denver in November, and Tampa Bay in Week 17. The Raiders showed up in Week 1 against San Diego, beat KC in Arrowhead in Week 2, and upset Philly last week. The Raiders go back to being the Raiders at least for another month. Things aren't so bad as Jet fans may claim. Forget about rookie QB, Mark Sanchez. The real worry for the Jets is the performance of head coach Rex Ryan. He has been awful the last two weeks. In any case, the Jets and Sanchez show up to play on Sunday and pound the Raiders.

CAROLINA (-6) over Buffalo: This game was actually tough for me to pick. I loved how the Bills played last week, and by losing Trent Edwards that could actually be a positive. Bills fans are calling Edwards, "Trentative Edwards" and "Checkdown Trent." As bad as Carolina started the season, they have gutted out two wins in a row. The Panthers get their third straight on Sunday.

MIAMI (+6) over New Orleans: The Saints can score on anyone, but the Dolphins are the best underdog team to pick. Miami is at home, can pound the shit out of the ball, and control the clock. The Saints are due for a letdown after the big win over the Giants, and Atlanta looming next week.

DALLAS (-4) over Atlanta: The Falcons are for real, but Dallas does enough to win a close game by a touchdown. The Cowboys will be in the playoff hunt all year, and the Falcons are just a different team on the road.

NEW YORK GIANTS (-7) over Arizona: The G-Men were embarrassed last week by the Saints. They will be waiting like a pack of wolves for the Cardinals to make their cross country trip to the Meadowlands. This game won't even be close.

Philadelphia (-7) over Washington: As much as the league and the teams change, one thing stays the same in Philly. Every year, the Eagles lose a game to a really crappy team, and everyone starts to doubt Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid. It wouldn't be crazy to pick the Redskins, but when your head coach had his play calling duties stripped of an offense he brought in, then you just can't pick them. Philly in a snoozer on MNF.

Lights Out for Chargers in San Diego

Move over San Diego, there is a new sheriff in town in the AFC West. The Denver Broncos defeated the San Diego Chargers on Monday Night Football to take a 3 1/2 game lead in the division and move their undefeated record to 6-0. I think we can confirm now that the Broncos are for real. This was a big test- on the road, division rival, and a supposedly superior team- and the Broncos aced it. The 34-23 win over the Chargers in the Whale's Vagina could potentially be the statement game in this season. It was so satisfying to beat the Chargers because of the dominance the Chargers has established over the Broncos the last three. Maybe this game turns the series around and shifts the balance of power just like it was shifted when the Chargers beat the Broncos in Mile High in 2006. As far as the game goes here are my thoughts. First, the big series of the first half was when Denver trailed 10-7. After Phillip Rivers hit Vincent Jackson for a touchdown pass, Denver needed to respond with points. Kyle Orton completed a few big passes on the drive and Denver was able to get a field goal to make it 10-10. Obviously, Eddie Royal's two returns were fantastic, but that drive was huge to get points. The other big aspect of the game, was how the defense completely shut down Rivers and the Charger offense. The Broncos defense get coming and coming the entire second half and harassed and dismantled the Charger offensive unit. I think Jon Gruden's quote for ESPN said it best. He commented, "The Bronco defense are a like sharks smelling blood in the water." Philip Rivers must have been shellshocked to face this new Bronco defense. Down 23-17, Kyle Orton went to work again and found Tony Scheffler on a hookup to take a 24-23 lead late in the third quarter. Once again, Denver's offense exploited a favorable matchup on the defense. Tony Scheffler killed the Charger secondary all day long. An Elvis Dumervil sack and strip of Philip Rivers, and the final nail in the coffin delivered by Orton to Brandon Stokley put the game away late in the fourth. It was one of the most satisfying wins in recent memory. The Broncos are 6-0 for the first time since 1998. The team has a commanding lead in the AFC West, and they head into their bye week as the surprise of the NFL. Monday Night in San Diego was the crossroads. Hopefully, this year the Broncos will stay on the right road and not collapse down the stretch. Perhaps this game has changed the balance of power in the AFC West. Can we start to talk about Super Bowl aspirations? I won't go there because I'm buying into Josh McDaniels philosophy of one game at a time. I'll take that approach and enjoy the bye week. The Broncos are 6-0, on top of the AFC West, and the story of the NFL. All I can say is that I'm going to enjoy the ride and enjoy the journey.

Week 6 Picks Are Here!

Last Week (8-5-1)

Overall Record (36-38-2)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Kansas City (+6) over WASHINGTON- The Jim Zorn watch continues. Jon Gruden in Washington in 2010 sounds pretty good.

Houston (+5) over CINCINNATI- The Bengals let down at home after an emotional win at Baltimore. I can't figure Houston out. This is a make or break game for Kubiak and the Texans. I'll take them one more week.

PITTSBURGH (-14 ) over Cleveland- The Browns got their first win last week. The Stillers couldn't cover over Detroit. Both of those facts mean a beat down at Heinz Field on Sunday.

Baltimore (+3) over MINNESOTA- I still don't believe in the 5-0 Vikings. The Ravens will attack and attack Brett Favre all day long. I like the Ravens to win it by more than a touchdown.

JACKSONVILLE (-8) over St. Louis- I feel bad for anyone that has to watch this game. If this was the game on in my area, that would make me go buy DirecTV on the spot. The Jags in the Chris Myers-Trent Green matchup of the week.

NEW ORLEANS (-3) over New York Giants- Best game of the week. I love this matchup. I will take the Saints based on these facts: Drew Brees, The Superdome, and Eli's suspect heel. The Saints win it 27-20.

Carolina (-3) over TAMPA BAY- The Bucs are feisty, but I gotta think that the Panthers can get this one on the road. If Carolina loses, then Bill Cowher can get his resume ready for Charlotte in 2010.

GREEN BAY (-13) over Detroit- The Lions are walking into a rough one on Sunday. Green Bay is angry and rested after their defeat at the hands of Minnesota two weeks ago. The Pack roll at home.

Philadelphia (-13) over OAKLAND- The difference between the good teams and shitty teams in the NFL is huge this year. It is not even close. Philly rolls easily in the Black Hole.

SEATTLE (-3) over Arizona- The Seahawks are such a different team with Matt Hasselback and when they are at home. The Cards shocked me with their win over Houston last week. Seattle takes care of business in this pivotal NFC West matchup.

NEW YORK JETS (-8) over Buffalo- The Jet fans are all jumping off the cliff after their head coach completely mismanaged the end of the game against Miami on Monday Night. Good thing for Jet fans because they get Buffalo this week. The Jets rebound nicely and get back on the winning track. Buffalo is awful and their game against Cleveland last week was worse than a high school game.

Tennessee (+9) over NEW ENGLAND- I don't know why but I like the Titans this week. I don't think they are that bad to be 0-5, and sooner or later they are going to get it going. Everyone loves the Pats this week, so why not take a shot with the Titans. Whatever happens this week, just remember that the real Tom Brady will be back soon, and the Patriots will get going very soon.

ATLANTA (-3) over Chicago- The Falcons at home are a tough team to beat. I love them in this game. Cutler is good on the road because he is so good, and when he makes big plays on the road it can kill the home crowd. This is a good Sunday Night game and should be entertaining, but I see a Michael Turner late touchdown run to seal the game for the Falcons.

SAN DIEGO (-4) over Denver- The last time Denver visited the Whale's Vagina Mike Shanahan was the head coach, Jay Cutler was the QB, and the AFC West title was on the line. San Diego destroyed Denver 52-21 and the game sent Denver's franchise into shockwaves and instability. This time Denver comes in 5-0 and San Diego is doubting themselves at 2-2. I know that San Diego is due and is desperate, but their defense is not the same that it once was. The Broncos should be able to move the ball, but the Broncos have to finish drives with touchdowns not field goals. The pressure is this game is on San Diego not Denver. The Chargers were supposed to be the big dogs of the AFC West, and they have been overshadowed by Denver's fast start. I think this game comes down to the Denver defense vs. the San Diego offense. The Broncos must get after Philip Rivers. He is a gamer, and I think he does enough to help the Chargers pull away. I see the Chargers pulling out the victory and keeping themselves in the AFC West race. The Broncos will get their revenge next time. The Chargers win in by 10. Final Score: San Diego-27 Denver 17

Are the Broncos Really 5-0?!?!

The Broncos extended their surprising start to 2009 with a 20-17 overtime win over New England on Sunday. The win gives Denver its' first 5-0 start since the 1998 Super Bowl season. The Broncos win over the Pats proved a few things. First, Josh McDaniels has done a very good job so far. Aside from all the distractions and offseason turmoil, McDaniels has proved what he was brought to Denver to do- he can flat out coach football. He implemented his own version of the "Wildcat," and he forced Bill Belichick to burn a timeout early in the game. When you are forcing Belichick to take timeouts like a basketball coach, you know you are doing well. Also, Denver was able to throw the ball at will out of that formation because they knew that New England couldn't change coverages in that look. McDaniels' handle of game management, attention to detail and game planning has been very impressive through his first set of games as an NFL head coach. Secondly, Kyle Orton is very underrated. He can make every throw. When you go 35-48 for 330 yards and two touchdowns against the Pats, then you are pretty damn good. His two touchdown drives were both over 90 yards, and he put together a nice drive to set up the game winner in overtime. Yeah, he is no Jay Cutler, but the guy does enough to win games. He is 26-12 as an NFL starter, and a lot of QBs would take that winning percentage. Thirdly, the defense makes great adjustments after halftime. It is so refreshing to watch a Bronco game and know that the defense will settle down and pitch a doughnut in the second half. It happened twice the past two weeks and the opponents were Dallas and New England. Mike Nolan continues to dial up the right blitz, and different guys take different turns at making the big play. Vonnie Holiday game up big with his strip sack of Tom Brady near the end of the game to send the game into OT. When was the last time a Denver defense made a huge stop like that on defense in a big game? Throw in the fact that it was against Brady and the Patriot offense, and it is completely stunning. Lastly, the Broncos are buying into McDaniels' program and the "Us vs. the World" mentality. Anytime you can get a team to believe in the fact that no one else believes in them, it can really motivate and help a team get going. Look, after the offseason that Denver endured, no one thought they would be 5-0. I'm stunned and so is everyone else, but as I said before I am just enjoying this ride. The offense is coming along, I and I really enjoy watching this defense every week. Seeing McDaniels get emotional after the win on Sunday was fun and contagious. Many people are starting to believe in these Broncos and why not? I'm going to enjoy this ride and see where it takes us. Who knows maybe McDaniels and company have some more thrills up their sleeves. For now though, the Broncos are back to respectability, and they head to San Diego for a date with the Chargers Monday Night. A lot has changed since the last time Denver was in San Diego. Here's hoping the ride continues.

Week 5 Picks!

A few thoughts on Denver's 4-0 start. There are a few settings or scenes in the NFL that are noteworthy. Lambeau Field in Green Bay, the old Soldier Field in Chicago, the beat up RFK Stadium in D.C, the old Orange Bowl in Miami, Pittsburgh's cookie-cutter Three Rivers Stadium, and Denver's old Mile High Stadium come to mind as some of the best in my generation. A game just feels different when it was played at one of those stadiums. Although the old Mile High has been knocked down and demolished, that stadium just had a feeling to it. I can't really explain it, but when there was a big game or a primetime game, and it was from Denver's Mile High, it just felt special and unique. It hasn't really translated over to the new Broncos' stadium- Invesco Field at Mile High. Since Denver has moved into the new stadium in 2001, the best atmosphere was the 2005 playoff run. The Divisional Round victory over the Patriots felt like an old Mile High game, and the scene for the AFC Championship felt like an old 1980s Elway-Browns AFC title moment-except for the fact that Pittsburgh ruined the moment and buried the Broncos 34-17. Sunday's win over the Cowboys made me feel like maybe some of that Mile High magic is back. The atmosphere seemed really on par with some of the older Mile High crowds. Although the Cowboy fans travel well, the setting was perfect. Late game, national television, and Denver on a big stage. The Broncos are one of the top draws in the NFL. They have a unique spot in the league. They have become one of the flagship teams of the AFC in the past 30 years. Perhaps this new revival and new chapter of Broncos football can really bring back the home field advantage that Denver hasn't enjoyed since it moved into the new Mile High. Also, I loved hearing Josh McDaniels mic'd up for Sunday's game against Dallas. The way he was ripping the refs, talking to Orton and the offense, congratulating his team, rooting on the defense at the end, and the hug with Brian Dawkins was some really good television. I was impressed. It seems like McD was simply born to be a head coach in the NFL someday. Finally, the Broncos are a surprising 4-0, but maybe we shouldn't be so surprised. They got better on defense because they added a new DC, some unknown role player free agents, a veteran All Pro Safety, and they stressed fundamentals like tackling. Their offensive line was considered one of the best before the season, and everyone raved about the talented skill players at TE, WR, and RB. Orton was the question mark, but other than that it's not like Denver was starting from scratch with a 1-15 team and rookie QB. Let's hope the fun continues with the brutal four game stretch ahead of us. Onto the picks for Week 5.......

Last Week's Record (8-6)

Overall Record (28-33-1)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Minnesota (-9) over ST.LOUIS- Favre looked great on Monday Night. I'm still not sold on the Vikes, but they are starting to resemble a 12-4, first round bye kind of look.

KANSAS CITY (+8) over Dallas- Dallas and Tony Romo are overrated. Can we start penciling in Mike Shanahan in Dallas right now? I'm waiting for the Matt Cassel-KC breakout game. This might be it.

CAROLINA (-3) over Washington- Easiest game to pick on the board.

Tampa Bay (+15) over PHILADELPHIA- Giving 15 is too much. I think the Bucs are feisty, and Philly gives one of those ho-hum performances that they give every year when they are huge favorites over crappy teams. Philly wins, but they win ugly.

NEW YORK GIANTS (-14) over Oakland- The Giants are the anti-Raiders. Very professional, great ownership, fantastic organizational structure, and take care of business on the field. JaMarcus Russell vs. the Giants Defense- not a good matchup for Raider fans. Giants win big.

Cleveland (+6) over BUFFALO- Buffalo is done. They are shot. The Browns play loosey goosey and steal their first victory.

BALTIMORE (-7) over Cincinnati- I loved the Ravens in this one. Baltimore is too good at home for Cincy to pull the upset. Ravens harass Carson Palmer all day long.

Pittsburgh (-9) over DETROIT- Steelers jump on the Lions early in what could be a home game for the Steelers at Ford Field.

Atlanta (+3) over SAN FRANCISCO- Good game early in the NFC season. I just think Matt Ryan is really good. The Falcons aren't great on the road, but I'm not ready to buy into the Niners.

Houston (+5) over ARIZONA- Houston is the better team, and they will take care of business. Houston might be making their run. Arizona is in trouble.

SEATTLE (-1) 0ver Jacksonville- Matt Hasselback returns, and so do the Seahawks. Second easiest game to pick this week.

Indianapolis (-4) over TENNESSEE- Peyton Manning is on another level this year. It reminds of Montana in 1989. He just has this look about him this year. The Colts officially end the Titans' season on Sunday Night.

MIAMI (+2) over New York Jets- I love the Dolphins in this game. Many people think that the Jet defense will feast on Chad Henne, but I just have a feeling that the Fish find a way to beat the Jets. I don't know why, but I see Miami-19, Jets-17

New England (-3) over DENVER: Denver's 4-0 start is so surprising that Sports Illustrated put the Broncos on the cover this week. This was the first time Denver was solely featured on the cover of SI since 2003, when Denver started 4-0, and Jake Plummer graced the magazine's cover. What happened the next week in '03? Denver lost to Kansas City 24-23 in the "Dante Hall Memorial" Bowl at Arrowhead. Will the SI Jinx strike the Broncos again in 2009? Forget the Jinx, Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are enough to strike down the Broncos and hand them their first loss. The Pats have put together two solid wins over Atlanta and Baltimore the last two weeks, and they might be able to figure out the Denver defense. If he gets time, Brady can shread any defense. The Broncos will play hard and be in the game, but I see the Pats taking over and finishing off Denver early in the fourth. Final Score: Patriots-27 Denver-17

The Orange Crush is Back in Denver!

The Denver Broncos won back to back Super Bowls in the late 90s with an explosive offense and a opportunistic defense. Trust me, Denver's defensive units in 1997 and 1998 were not lock down groups, but they made enough big plays and turnovers to compliment that historic offense. It seemed from then on that was the only way that Denver could get back to the Super Bowl. Everyone forgets they heyday of the suffocating "Orange Crush" defense that fueled Denver's run to Super Bowl XII in 1977. The Broncos were known for hard hitting and stifling defensive teams. For the first four games of 2009, Denver's defense and the orange crush is back. Denver's 17-10 win over Dallas was impressive because of the way the defense played after spotting Dallas to a 10-0 first quarter lead. The Broncos defense forced two turnovers- a strip sack by Renaldo Hill and a pick by Champ Bailey. They harrased Tony Romo, and they completely overwhelmed the offensive line of Dallas- thought to be one of the best in the NFL. The Broncos' defense made big stop after big stop and gave the offense a chance. Kyle Orton's 51 yard TD pass to Brandon Marshall with just under 2 minutes left gave the Broncos the lead, and set up the climatic series by Denver's defense. After Romo hit Sam Hurd on a broken play on fourth and 2, Denver stopped Dallas inside the five. Twice Romo went after Champ Bailey in the end zone and both times the All-Pro knocked the ball away to preserve the victory. The Broncos move to a surprising 4-0, and defense is the story once again at Mile High. The Orange Crush is back...How bout them Broncos?

Week 4 Picks!

Last Week: 7-9

Overall Record: 20-27-1

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

HOUSTON (-7) over Oakland

Tennessee (-3) over JACKSONVILLE

NEW ENGLAND (-2) over Baltimore

CLEVELAND (+6) over Cincinnati

KANSAS CITY (+9) over New York Giants

CHICAGO (-9) over Detroit

WASHINGTON (-7) over Tampa Bay

INDIANAPOLIS (-9) over Seattle

New York Jets (+7) over NEW ORLEANS

MIAMI (+1) over Buffalo

SAN FRANCISCO (+8) over St. Louis

San Diego (+6) over PITTSBURGH

Green Bay (+3 ) over MINNESOTA

DENVER (+3) over Dallas: Vegas has not given the Broncos respect all season long. It continues this week when they made the Cowboys a three point favorite in Denver. The Broncos come in 3-0, and this marks their real first big test. A lot of people don't think Denver is for real, and many expect the Cowboys to take care of Denver on their home field. I see this game being really close. I think Dallas will have success running the ball and will get some big plays in the passing game, but I see Denver being very resilient and making some big plays on defense. I think the Broncos will be able to run the ball better than people expect. Look for Kyle Orton to make one more big play than Tony Romo. Final Score: Denver:23 Dallas-20