NFL 2012 Week 1 Primetime and Thanksgiving Predictions

On Tuesday at the NFL Owners Meetings, the NFL announced that the season opening game Wednesday September 5th will feature the Giants hosting the Dallas Cowboys. Usually, the season opening game is slated for a Thursday night slot, but due to the Democratic National Convention, the NFL decided to move the game to Wednesday. It was a bit of a surprise that the league didn't go with the Packers visiting the Giants, but I guess they figured they would wait until later in the season to feature that matchup, and look for FOX to get that game sometime in early November. With that matchup set up, there is speculation that the league would release some of the other primetime games for Week 1. The NFL used to do this all the time at the league meetings in March, and they would also throw in a one or two other featured games for Sunday's slate of Week 1 games and the Thanksgiving games too. They haven't done that the past few years, but there is a sense that the NFL might do that once again. With the way that the NFL has dominated the headlines so far this offseason, why not take the opportunity to release a few games this week? We know that the full schedule won't be released until the middle of April, but it is always fun to speculate and make some predictions for the Week 1 primetime games and the Thanksgiving games as well.

NFL Season Opener (Wednesday Night Football)

Dallas at Giants 8:00pm-NBC

Sunday Night Football Opener ( September 9th)

Pittsburgh at Denver 8:00pm-NBC

Monday Night Football Doubleheader Game 1 (September 10th)

Houston at New England 7:00pm-ESPN

Monday Night Football Doubleheader Game 2 (September 10th)

Seattle at San Francisco 10:00pm-ESPN

Thanksgiving Games

Early game: Houston at Detroit 12:30pm-CBS

Late game: Washington at Dallas 4:00pm-FOX

Night game: Green Bay at Chicago 8:00pm-NBC

Analysis:

-It was surprising that the NFL didn't go with the Packers at Giants for the season opener on NBC, but putting Dallas in that spot instead of Green Bay is still a good choice.

-Rumors have been swirling that the Steelers will open at Denver on SNF, and you have to think that the NFL wants to give Peyton Manning's return to the NFL a big showcase on opening weekend. Throw in the rematch with the Steelers from last year's playoff game, and this seems like a great fit.

-The Patriots seem to fit well in that early MNF opener, and why not pair them with a playoff team from 2011 like the Texans. That seems like a very attractive opener for ESPN.

-The doubleheader usually goes to the AFC West, but this year I think the NFL and ESPN give the 49ers and the NFC West a shot at that late window.

-The Lions only have two options for their Thanksgiving game this year: Indy and Houston. CBS should be happy to get the up and coming Texans against the rising Lions in a matchup of two playoff teams from 2011.

-How about Robert Griffin III coming back to Texas to take on the Cowboys on Thanksgiving in the late game on FOX? Washington and Dallas makes perfect sense here.

-As for Thanksgiving night on NBC, Bears and Packers would be a great setting that night. Two good teams and a classic rivalry on Thanksgiving should be one hell of a game to finish off turkey day.

My Take on the Tebow Trade

Imagine you were down in the dumps and had it with relationships. All of sudden comes along this girl who really doesn't seem to fit the conventional mold of a true girlfriend. You have your doubts about this working, but you give it a shot and you starting going out with her. Well, this girl takes you on one wild ride for a few months. Everything is exciting, new, unconventional, and one hell of a thrill ride. You are not sure how long this is going to last, but you are enjoying every minute of it. Finally, as the relationship starts to quiet down, you start to wonder about the future with this girl. Is she marriage material? Can this new relationship continue to work once the shine wears off? As you are thinking about the long-term commitment from that girl, a new woman enters your life. She is supermodel hot, and she is has a great personality and is everything you look for in a long term companion. In short, she is one woman that you choose over any other girl you were dating at the time. You take a chance, end the relationship with the girl that you just had a short-term courtship with, and you decide to go with the woman who is a 10. Well, everything looks great except for the fact that your old flame has decided to start going out with your brash next door neighbor. Where am I going with this? That was a really long analogy of the Tim Tebow Era and subsequent trade to the New York Jets. On Wednesday Night, the Broncos sent Tebow and a 7th round pick to the Jets for a 4th and a 6th round pick. It was the culmination of a long day in which the following occurred:

-The Broncos and Jets agreed to the trade earlier in the day.

-The Jets didn't read the fine print of Tebow's contract that stated that if he gets traded to a team, then that team must pay the Broncos $5 million dollars in back pay for Tebow's first two years in Denver.

-The trade hits a snag and it looks like it might fall through, and Jacksonville steps in and tries to get Tebow to come back to his hometown.

-Denver gives Tebow the choice to pick either the Jets or Jaguars.

-Tebow finally picks the Jets over the Jags, and the trade is completed.

After all that, the trade was verified, and Tim Tebow's time in Denver is over. If anyone can take the buzz over Peyton Manning signing with Denver a day earlier, then it is Tebow. Tebow to the Jets was the biggest story of the week. He ruled the networks, sports radio stations, internet, blogs, and newspapers the rest of the week. Tebow was no longer a Bronco, and now Tebowmania was heading to New York.

How did I take this trade? I took this trade really hard. I felt personally invested in Tebow as a Bronco. I wanted Denver to draft him in the 2010 draft. I wanted him to be a Denver Bronco. In the 2010 Draft, word had spread early that week that Denver was targeting Tebow. Josh McDaniels maneuvered the draft, so he could move back into the first round and grab Tebow. I cheered as the Broncos moved up and snagged him at number 25 overall. I was estastic. After the Jay Cutler trade, the Broncos had finally moved on and found their quarterback of the future. Tebow gave the Broncos some much needed sizzle again, and if anyone could get this franchise back on track, it was Tebow. I went all-in on Tebow. I bought the jersey, two t-shirts, an action figure, posters, pictures, stickers, books, and just about anything with his picture on it. In my gut, Tebow was going to be a great NFL quarterback no matter what any expert said about him. After Josh McDaniels was fired near the end of the 2010 season, there still seemed to be the thought that Tebow was the man in Denver. The 2011 season seemed like it was going to be Tebow's first year as a starter. Unfortunately, the lockout hit and the entire offseason was lost. After the trade between the Broncos and the Dolphins for Kyle Orton fell apart, Orton returned to Denver and completely beat out Tebow from day one of training camp. Tebow's time in Denver was on hold, and it was very conceivable that he would never get his shot because new Vice President John Elway and new head coach John Fox weren't tied to Tebow since they didn't draft him. After the Broncos started 1-4, Tebow was inserted into the lineup. From there, he took the Broncos on one of the most exciting runs in franchise history. Dramatic victories over the Dolphins, Raiders, Chiefs, Jets, Chargers, Vikings and Bears brought the Broncos all the way back to 8-5 and in first place in the AFC West. Every game was more thrilling than the last one, and each time Tebow delivered in the clutch. Tebowmania was born, and the Broncos were back with #15 leading the way. After the Broncos and Tebow stumbled against the Patriots and Bills, the Broncos still had one game to win over the Chiefs to win the AFC West. This was going to be Tebow's moment. Instead, Tebow went 6-22 with a fumble and a late interception in a terrible 7-3 loss at home. Tebow's time in Denver looked to have run its course, but the Chargers defeated the Raiders that same day, so the Broncos ended up winning the division at 8-8. Tebow had one more shot. In the AFC Wildcard Playoff Game against the Steelers, the Broncos were 8 point underdogs. Tebow played brilliantly and threw for 316 yards and added two touchdowns passing and one rushing. His 80 yard touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas on the first play of overtime won it for the Broncos, and it will go down as one of the greatest plays in Broncos history. The next week the Broncos and Tebow came down to Earth as they were destroyed by the Patriots 45-10. Tebow was named the starter going into training camp, but the Broncos were going to look at free agency and the draft to bring in some competition for Tebow and have a backup plan in case he falters in 2012. Well, the Colts released Peyton Manning, the Broncos threw their names in the hat for his services, and Manning was interested in Denver too. Once word spread that the Broncos wanted Manning, and Manning wanted them, sources started to speculate that if Denver landed Peyton, then Tebow would be traded away. You can't blame the Broncos for going after Manning, and you can't blame them for trading Tebow away if they got him. Two rockstars can't be in the same band, and Tebow certainly wouldn't gain anything if he stayed behind Manning and learned an offense he couldn't run if he ever got in. Plus, Tebow wouldn't be getting reps that he needed to really improve as a NFL passer. Manning finally selected Denver as his new team, and Tebow was sent off in a trade.

The fact that the Jets were the ones who traded for Tebow was surprising. The move reeked of a publicity stunt and something that was done because the Jets wanted the backpages after the Giants won another Super Bowl. The move was also puzzling because the Jets had just given Mark Sanchez a contract extension, and they expressed their faith in him publicly. Why would the Jets even want him? What is the purpose of adding him to a team that spent the offseason embroiled in their own turmoil? The Jets said that Tebow will be Sanchez's backup, but he will have a role in every game as a Wildcat QB, and he will have his own package of plays. The Jets made the move for Tebow, and now Tebow Time has hit New York like a tidal wave. I live in New York, so hearing about Tebow everyday is nauseating. Tebow and the circus that follows him has hit the Big Apple along with billboards, jerseys, commercials, possibly his own radio spot, and his own press conference. All this for a "backup" quarterback.

The truth is that the Jets probably don't have a lot of faith in Sanchez, and Tebow could be a fall back option at QB if Sanchez falters. Sure, they will say that Sanchez is the main guy and Tebow is the backup, but that dynamic will only go so far. Make no mistake about it, Sanchez doesn't stand a chance in this fight. The QB controversy that will commence this season will swallow up Sanchez. Although the move was greeted with a lot of animosity by the fanbase, those same fans will be cheering Tebow's name as soon as Sanchez struggles. He will struggle the same way that Kyle Orton struggled. The constant attention that Tebow brings will put a target on his back. I give Sanchez until Week 8 before Tebow starts at quarterback for the Jets.

From that point, who knows how Tebow is going to play. There are so many questions that still remain about his quarterbacking ability, but one thing that we do know is that he is a playmaker and a winner. Can he develop enough to carry the Jets franchise? Was last year a "lightning in a bottle" moment that will never be reached again? Time will tell, but Tebow will get his chance in New York, and it will be a lot sooner then people think. Rex Ryan is going to have to put his career in New York in the hands of a quarterback that hasn't completed more then 50% of his passes. If he fails, then Rex's time in New York will be over, and the Jets will have to start over from the QB position. The Jets and Tebow just don't seem to fit. Tebow needs to play for an offensive head coach. Someone has to take ownership of him, create an offense around him, and have the ability to expand on his strengths and develop him as a pocket passer. You can't just expect your offense to run the ball all the time, and then ask Tebow to win the game with a great throw or a great run late. Yes, he did that last year for Denver, but there was some doubt that he could do that every year from here on out. It looks good on paper, but a lot of things look great on a grease board in the meeting room. This Tebow-Jets marriage may look like gold, but in reality it might be really flawed. Once again, only time will tell.

Finally, a lot of people were telling me that were sorry for me when they heard that Tebow was traded to the Jets. Why the hell would anyone be sorry for me? My team just signed Peyton Manning for God's sake! I think I will be okay, but of course it does hurt just a bit. I loved Tebow in Denver, and I really think he can become a successful NFL QB. I invested a lot of emotions and faith in Tebow, and it seemed like it was going to work, but he is gone now, and he becomes just another player traded to another team. In other words, he becomes the enemy, and I can't root for him anymore. When Jay Cutler was traded, Tebow filled that void. Now, Tebow is traded, and Peyton Manning takes his place. I'll take that trade any day. That is what happens with sports. You root for the team and not the players. Players come and go, and Tebow is now just a footnote to tell my kids about some day. I'm taking the Tebow trade like any real life relationship once it ends. I'm packing my Tebow jersey, my Tebow t-shirts, my Tebow action figure, my Tebow Sports Illustrated cover, and all of Tebow's Broncos games that I have on tape in a huge box and storing them in my attic. One day when I'm 50, I will break them out and look at them again. I don't have to answer the questions about his ability anymore. I don't have to defend his quarterback skills to people. I don't have to get made fun of by people who are fans of other teams. I don't have to deal with people yelling "Tebow sucks!" at me anymore. I don't have to deal with Tebowing, Tebowmania, and his throwing motion anymore. It is no longer my problem, and the circus left my life and now heads to the Jets. There will be a part of me that misses him, but once Week 1 starts and Peyton Manning is throwing darts for the Broncos, then I'll get over it pretty quick. It the Jet fan's problem now, and that is one thing I am not going to miss.

Broncos Sign Three Free Agents

A few days after the Broncos signed Peyton Manning to become their quarterback, the team added some key players to bolster both their offense and their defense. CB Tracy Porter was signed from the New Orleans Saints to a 1 year deal. Porter owns two of the biggest interceptions in playoff history. His interception of Brett Favre late in the 2009 NFC Championship Game killed the Vikings final drive and sent the game into overtime. Porter's "pick six" of Manning gave the Saints the decisive score in their 31-17 win over the Colts in Super Bowl XLIV. The signing of Porter means that he could come right in and start at CB opposite of Champ Bailey and replace the older Andre Goodman.

Denver also signed a pair of Tight Ends to give Manning some more weapons on offense. Jacob Tamme, formerly of the Colts, and Joel Dressen, formerly of the Texans, both come in and instantly fill one of the Broncos most pressing needs on the offensive side of the ball. Tamme was injured for a large part of 2011, but in 2010 with Manning as his QB, he caught 67 passes for 631 yards and four touchdowns. Dressen caught 28 passes for 353 yards and six touchdowns in 2011. Both players add depth to the position and give the Broncos their first true threats at that position since Tony Scheffler was traded after the 2009 season.

Of course the Broncos made a big trade earlier in the week when they sent Tim Tebow and a 7th round pick to the Jets for a 4th and 6th round pick in this year's draft. There is so much to say about the Tebow trade that I will address it in a separate column. My gut reaction on the trade was that I was very surprised that the Jets were so interested in Tebow, and I don't think it is a good fit for both Tebow and the Jets. Put it this way: I have a lot of emotions about this trade, and I will gather all of my thoughts and put it out there at a later date.

Peyton Manning Chooses the Broncos!

Manning to Denver. Those three words are going to be forever etched into my mind. Peyton Manning's free agent tour concluded with Manning selecting the Broncos as his next team. The Broncos were the finalists along with the Titans and 49ers. Manning called John Fox and John Elway on Monday morning to inform them that he will be joining the Broncos, and the response out of Denver was something that rivaled New Year's Eve. Contract talks were being finalized, but it looks like a five-year $95 million deal for the future Hall of Fame QB. The Broncos went all in for Manning, and it paid off. They landed one of the biggest free agents in the history of the NFL. It sounds like Manning was comfortable with Denver's organization, coaching staff, ownership commitment, and personnel. According to people within the Manning camp, his gut told him to go to the Broncos, and the Broncos and their fans couldn't be any happier. Who would have thought that Peyton Manning would be the Broncos starting quarterback in 2012? The Broncos were considered a longshot at the beginning of this process, but it looks like they were the frontrunners the whole time. There are so many layers to this story much to this story. Here are some of the instant reactions and ripple effects of this mega deal...........

1) Peyton Manning shifts the power of the AFC West strictly into the Broncos favor. Let's be honest: The Chargers, Raiders, and Chiefs couldn't have been too thrilled to see Manning head for the Mile High city. He makes the Broncos the favorites in the AFC West instantly.
2) The Broncos now have to be considered on the short list of teams to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. They haven't been considered in that group since John Elway retired after the 1998 season. If Manning is healthy, then the Broncos are one of the teams to beat in AFC. You can't look at it any other way.
3) This move changes the way the Broncos will play, and it is a style of play that John Elway has envisioned when he took control of the Broncos. Use the passing game to score points early and take a lead on the opposition. Then, use the running game to milk that lead late in the second half. Also, this gives the defense, particularly Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller, a chance to attack the offense with a lead at their disposal. Finally, playing from ahead and with a lead creates an opportunity for that Denver crowd to stay into the game and make it very difficult for opposing quarterbacks. The Manning move might make the homefield advantage come back to Denver.
4) When you have a chance to improve your team, a good organization will look to do just that. The Broncos threw their name into the Peyton Manning hat, he was interested too, and the Broncos went all in. That is why I wouldn't be a great General Manager because I am too conservative. This deal has more to do about Peyton Manning than it does about Tim Tebow (I'll get to Tebow in a bit.) When Peyton Manning is available, then you have to explore that option. It is is a no-brainer.
4) There is some risk involved in this deal. Manning is coming off four neck procedures and turns 36 next week. How will his strength return in his arm? Will he recover enough in a year from now? Are we going to see the Peyton Manning of 2008? The risks are there, but the rewards are so great that you have to take that risk.
5) Forget about the long term outlook because the NFL is a win now league. Other promising young QBs could be on your team one year and out of the organization or the league a few years down the road. Manning gives the Broncos a great chance to win as long as he suits up for them. It is a win now league, and Manning gives them that chance right this moment.
6) It sounds like John Fox triggered this move, and John Elway was the main selling point. It sounds like Manning was really comfortable with those two people involved, and it closed the deal on Manning in Denver. Elway is certainly earning his paycheck as a NFL executive with this move. At least we know going forward that Elway will do what it takes to get this organization back to the Super Bowl.
7) The bittersweet aspect of this deal is the fact that the Broncos will trade Tim Tebow. I love Tebow, and I think he can be a successful NFL QB. I wanted Denver to draft, believed he could be a starter, and I feel personally invested in his development as a Broncos QB. I will never forget what he did for the franchise in 2011. To turn around a 1-4 team, and get them into the playoffs was amazing. How he did week by week was astonishing. The playoff victory over Pittsburgh will always be one of my favorite moments as a Broncos fan. I will always root for Tebow, and I hope he has a successful career. I don't think this was really about him because when Peyton Manning became available, everything changed for the Broncos. Tim Tebow is a class act, and he will always have a place in the hearts of Broncos fans-me included.
8) The Broncos were probably going to get at least four primetime games in 2012 with Tebow, and now with Manning in the fold, I would expect five primetime games. I would look for at least 2 Sunday Night games, 2 Monday Night games, one Thursday Night game, and look for them to be featured on either Thanksgiving Night on NBC or on the Christmas holiday in some capacity. Plus, CBS is thrilled to have Peyton stay in the AFC, and now they can slot the Broncos in that 4:00pm EST window as many times as they can and generate huge ratings over FOX.
9) Overall, I am thrilled that Manning is coming to Denver. I still can't believe the move actually happened. After I heard that the 49ers were involved, I thought Denver was out. If Denver missed on Manning, then it would have been a real big loss for the franchise. Once they went all in to get him, they had to close the deal. They did, and give the Broncos brass credit. It takes some balls to run a franchise, and the Broncos,John Elway and John Fox especially, showed they had the nuts to make a run at one of the greatest QBs in NFL history. Simply put, I can't wait for the 2012 season to begin. Welcome to Denver, Peyton!

The Decision: Peyton Manning Version

When the Denver Broncos reached out to Peyton Manning on Wednesday Night, there was some thought that the Broncos were a long shot to get the future Hall of Famer. That thought changed as the weekend kicked off with ESPN showing live footage of Manning in a private jet flying into Denver with John Elway, John Fox, and Brian Xanders on Friday afternoon. I'm not going to lie here. To see Manning being flown in to Denver on Pat Bowlen's private plane really gave me goosebumps. The idea of Manning coming to Denver became a reality. From the airport, Manning and the Broncos higher ups drove to the Broncos Dove Valley complex where Manning toured the facility, met with owner Pat Bowlen, met with coaches, watched film, and then went to dinner with Elway and Fox on Friday night. Manning stayed over in Denver on Saturday, and he headed to Arizona Saturday night to meet with the Cardinals and their staff as he continued his free agent tour. On Wednesday I thought the Broncos were long shots and by Friday night, I had a feeling that Manning could really become a Bronco. As of Sunday Night, Manning left Arizona to head back to Miami, and it is not known if he will meet with the Dolphins or any other team on Monday. ESPN reported that the Broncos and the Cardinals were the frontrunners to add Manning, and people in Denver feel that Manning was very impressed with what the Broncos had to offer. The Broncos feel that they have a very good chance to get Manning, but so do the Cardinals. At this point, the only person who really knows which team will get Manning is Peyton Manning, but put it this way: The Broncos have a really good shot. They have as good as a shot as anyone would have dreamed. This weekend has been very crazy. I haven't stopped thinking about the possibility of the Broncos getting Manning. I have been checking Twitter, Broncos Country, Profootballtalk, and every other possible media outlet out there to get the updates on what is going on with Manning. I have thought about every possible scenario, and I even sent out a text polling all of my closest friends trying to get their thoughts. Every single person that I have talked to said the same thing: You would be crazy not to want Manning in Denver next year. It already confirmed what I had been thinking: This is a good move for Denver, and if Manning signs with the Broncos, then the Broncos will become a real, legitimate Super Bowl contender for the first time since John Elway retired after Super Bowl XXXIII. Let's break down the positives and negatives of the Broncos going after Peyton Manning.........

Positives:

1-Peyton Manning is the best QB in the NFL if he is healthy. From everything that I have read, Manning's neck is not the concern. It is the regeneration of the nerves in his throwing arm. Manning has steadily progressed, and although he is not 100% right now, by the time training camp or the season starts, Manning should be ready to go. He has already come a long way, and it will continue to get better. It is a risk but if even if he is 90%, he is better than 95% of the other quarterbacks in the NFL. Manning would instantly make the Broncos a Super Bowl threat. He would take an 8-8 team, and transform them into an 11 to 12 win team overnight. He would make Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker big time receivers, and he would give the Broncos a huge recruiting advantage to sign other players like Reggie Wayne, Pierre Garcon, Vincent Jackson, and Dallas Clark. Eddie Royal is a free agent, and you think Royal wouldn't mind resigning with Denver knowing that he had a chance to catch balls from Manning?

2-The Broncos would continue to be a marquee franchise going into the 2012 season. Tim Tebow helped restore the excitement in Denver in 2011, but Manning would certainly make the Broncos one of the most attractive teams in the NFL. The Broncos got back on the map of the NFL scene last season, but it would be nothing compared to the hype and excitement that they would generate with Peyton under center. Manning's new Broncos jersey would be an instant top seller, and they would garner a multitude of primetime and "must see" matchups. This certainly won't hurt at the box office and with the cash registers and all that equals big bucks.

3-With all due respect to the 2005 Broncos, this would be the first time since Elway retired that the Broncos would be legitimate Super Bowl contenders. They would be one of the few teams mentioned as a real Super Bowl contender, and that is the bottom line in the NFL. It is about winning Super Bowls, and without Manning they are probably not there yet. With Manning, the AFC West tilts in our favor, and you can start thinking about division championships, playoff games, and playing the final Sunday of the season in February with the Lombardi Trophy on the line. Think about this: From the 1986 season to the end of the 1998 season, the Broncos made the playoffs eight times in 13 seasons. They made the AFC Championship a total of six times, the Super Bowl five times, and they won two Lombardi Trophies. From the 1999 season to the end of the 2011 season, the Broncos made the playoffs five times in 13 seasons, played in only one AFC Championship Games, only won two playoff games, and no Super Bowl appearances. With Manning, there is a really good chance the Broncos would be back where they belong: In the playoffs and in Championship games with a realistic shot to win the Super Bowl. You can call us Broncos fans spoiled, but we were used to the idea in being in the mix for a title, and we haven't felt that way in a long, long time.

4-As a Broncos fan, I would know that John Elway and Pat Bowlen were committed to winning another Super Bowl for this franchise. Elway would show that he is not here just to be the voice or face of the franchise, but that he is going to do whatever it takes to bring a championship back to the Mile High city. Critics have gotten all over Bowlen in the past few years as a man who has lost touch with the Broncos, and people have suggested he has gotten cheap, and doesn't know what the hell is going on with this team. All that would be put to dead with this move. Elway will prove that he will make whatever move possible to try and get the Broncos that elite, franchise QB, and Bowlen will prove that winning division titles is not what he wants-he wants Super Bowls. Manning to Denver answers those questions about those their motives and desires.

Negatives

1-What would the signing do to the financial structure of the Broncos. I know the Broncos have excess of over $40 million to spend under the salary cap, but does Manning's signing affect them down the line and in the future? Can they resign their top players like Von Miller and Ryan Clady when their contracts are up in the upcoming seasons? Can they still pursue other free agents to help bolster the roster with Manning the next few years? What happens when Manning leaves? Are the Broncos starting from scratch again? These questions must be answered and the future of the Broncos to be a competitive team post-Manning must be answered.

2- Tim Tebow is the biggest and saddest casualty of the Manning signing. If Manning signs, then Tebow is almost certainly shown the door. You can't have two rockstars leading the same band-especially when one of them is an icon. I feel bad for Tebow, and I will never forget what he did for this franchise in 2011. He reinvigorated a fanbase, revitalized a dead organization, and he turned around a lousy 1-4 team into a playoff team and division champion. He pulled off one of the biggest playoff upsets in recent memory, played brilliantly against the Steelers, and gave the Broncos their first playoff win since 2005. He gave hope to a fanbase that was stuck in the midst of a really bad era. The Broncos were a joke and a laughingstock through the hole Josh McDaniels and Kyle Orton regime, and Tebow saved the franchise and made it fun to be a Broncos fan again. Tebow put the Broncos back on the map in the NFL, and his future with the Broncos was something that Denver fans really could hold on to. The 13 week run that he gave us Broncos fans will never be forgotten, and if he leaves town, then I hope he has a long and successful career as an NFL QB and proves all of his critics wrong. Is it worth giving up on Tebow after one season? Is is worth it given the fact that Manning might only play two seasons in Denver? What happens if Peyton doesn't deliver that Super Bowl, and Tebow becomes a star somewhere else? That fact has been keeping me up at night all weekend long.

Final Thought

When it is all said and done, the only person that could take Tim Tebow's spot in Denver in 2012 became available this past week. The Broncos showed interest and Peyton Manning showed interest back. When a player like Manning is available and he shows an interest in your team, you have to go for it. Unfortunately, Tebow will be cast aside, but as unfair as it is, Peyton Manning is just too good to pass up. You would be doing a disservice to your franchise not to take a shot at him. With everything that I have watched and read, I think the Broncos are going to get him. The Broncos haven't been to a Super Bowl since the end of the 1999 season-a span of 12 seasons. If Manning comes to Denver, there is a really good chance that that streak will end. For a franchise that used to be a frontrunner every season, the Broncos would finally be back at that level. It might have taken John Elway a view from the fan's point of view to see how valuable a real franchise QB is to a team, a city, an organization, and fanbase. Elway realized at now that he is in the Broncos front office, and getting Peyton Manning is the only way the Broncos can get there at this point. Manning to Denver is a home run move, and it looks like it has a real possibility of happening. Stay tuned because this story is coming to an end really soon, and Manning's decision will alter the Broncos one way or another for a long, long time.

NFL 2012 Free Agency Preview- Running Backs

We finish up the 2012 NFL Free Agency Preview with a look at the running back position. The value of the running back in the NFL has decreased dramatically over the last five years. Teams don't want to spend too much on running backs-unless they have a top-flight player like Adrian Peterson, Chris Johnson and even Arian Foster. When you sign a running back to a big contract, you are taking a huge gamble. Peterson signed a mega-deal with the Vikings, and last year he was carted off the field with a knee injury in Week 16. Chris Johnson signed a huge deal with the Titans last Summer, and he did not perform at a high level at all and had a down year. If you are going to sign a free agent running back, it will be a huge gamble-the classic high risk and high reward scenario. If you can find value at the running back spot and use that player as a compliment in your backfield, then that might be the best option. Here are the top running backs available in free agency this offseason.

** The top three running backs in the market were all franchised earlier in the week, so those guys will not be included on the list. Those players are Ray Rice, Marshawn Lynch, and Matt Forte. Lynch signed an extension with the Seahawks, and the other big free agent, Arian Foster, signed an extension with the Texans.

RUNNING BACKS
1) Michael Bush (Oakland): At 28, he is still young enough to command a decent price. He will be a great addition as a bruiser in a team's backfield.
2) Ryan Grant (Green Bay): Some people are not that high on Grant, but I like him. If he could be had for a fair price, then a lot of teams should take a look at him.
3) Mike Tolbert (San Diego): He is a bulldog at the running back spot. He is big but also very shifty for a big man. He would be a great addition to a team that already has a slasher.
4) Peyton Hillis (Cleveland): I guess the Madden Curse is alive and well. What the hell happened to Hillis in 2011? Anyway, if he gets his head on straight, I still think he is very talented and can get his career going in the right direction again.
5) Benjarvus Green-Ellis (New England): He is a productive back, and he would benefit if he went to a team that spreads you out like the Pats do.
6) Cedric Benson (Cincy): At 29, he is not going to come in and be your starter and everdown player, but he can be a contributor for a contending team.
7) Kevin Smith (Detroit): After battling injuries, he finally found his way back into the league and he played really well for the Lions. It is a gamble, but if he is healthy, Smith can produce.
8) Justin Forsett (Seattle): At 26, his age makes him an intriguing option.
9) Tim Hightower (Washington): At 26, he could be a very viable option as a complimentary back, but he is coming off an ACL injury, so that will be a huge factor in the market for him.
10) Tashard Choice (Buffalo): He is a backup type of player who might provide some depth for your team.

*Possible Under the Radar Player: How about Khalil Bell from Chicago? He is only 25, and he could be someone that flourishes with an expanded role on a new team.

**Possible Broncos Addition: I would love to see Denver go after Mike Tolbert. He would be a nice compliment to Willis McGahee, Knowshon Moreno, and Lance Ball.

Peyton Manning to Denver? Really?!?

About a month ago, I was talking to one of my friends about the whole Peyton Manning scenario. My friend, a Giants fan, said that it just seems inevitable that when the Colts part ways with Manning, the Dolphins or Redskins will swoop him and grab him, with the Jets as the third team in the mix. I agreed completely and then we started to look at all the other options on the table for Peyton. We talked about how any team without a legitimate franchise QB (Giants, Packers, Saints, Patriots, Steelers, Chargers) should at least bring Manning's name up as a possibility for their franchise. Obviously, teams with established quarterbacks like Dallas, Philly, the Panthers, and Bengals probably would take their names out of the mix, but every other team should at least have the conversation amongst their front office and coaching staff about adding Manning to their team. At one point, my friend asked me, "What would you think if Denver made a serious run at Manning?" My response: "If he is healthy, how could I not want to see Manning come to Denver?" From that point, I knew that it was just inevitable: If Manning became a free agent, Denver would at least put in a call to see if he was interested.

On Wednesday, Manning and the Colts decided to part ways, thus allowing Manning to become a free agent, and within a few hours reports had surfaced that the Broncos had made a call to express interest in him. The other teams that were reported as highly interested included the usual suspects when it comes to Manning's next home. Seattle, Arizona, Washington, the Jets, and Miami have all been reported as teams that are on Manning's tail. The fact that the Broncos are interested should not come as a surprise. Think about it: Tim Tebow deserves to be the Broncos starting QB in 2012. They are not going to be able to draft Andrew Luck, they don't have the ammunition to trade up for Robert Griffin III, and the other free agent names out there (Chad Henne, Jason Campbell, Josh Johnson etc..) aren't exactly going to bring the Broncos a Super Bowl berth. Tebow should be the starter in 2012, but who is the one name that can come in and completely change that fact? The answer is none other than Peyton Manning.

Even if you are the biggest Tebow fan, and I am a huge Tebow supporter, there is no denying that Peyton Manning would give the Broncos the best chance to win a Super Bowl in 2012. He is the only name that could come in, and quiet the Tebowmaniacs and put a hold on Tebow Time in Denver next season. No one else should get that chance to unseat Tebow in Denver next year, but Peyton Manning could trump all of them. He is the one name that the fanbase could accept taking Tebow's spot. There would be no unrest in the streets in Denver, only joy.

Now, there are a lot of dots to connect before Manning to Denver can become a reality. If Manning is not certain that he can be healthy and play to his usual ability, then the Broncos should not consider it, but if Manning is healthy and there are indications that he will be, then the Broncos have to at least see if he is interested. The Broncos were an 8-8 team that made the playoffs and upset the Steelers in the Wildcard Round. If Manning was added to the Broncos, they would instantly win 12 games and become a favorite to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl next year. He would elevate the play of that entire offense, and at 36, he might be able to give the Broncos a legitimate chance to win the Super Bowl for the next three years. He is that damn good.The NFL is a win now league. Yes, I know you have to worry and plan for the future of your franchise, but the bottom line is that Manning would be a direct line to the Super Bowl and at the end of the day, that is the main goal for every team. It is about winning the Super Bowl that season. To me, it is not a knock on Tebow, but how many times do you get a chance to have Peyton Manning quarterback your team? It is a no brainer as long as #18 is healthy. I don't even think Tim Tebow would handle the move like Jay Cutler did a few years ago when his name came up in trade talks. How could Tebow? Remember this is Peyton Manning we are talking about here. He is one of the five greatest QBs in the history the league. He is worth like five wins to your team's record from last year automatically.

The odds of Denver landing Manning are not the best. I'm sure that Pat Bowlen is not hurting for cash, but it might be hard to go toe to toe with the likes of Stephen Ross and Dan Snyder. Maybe the lure of New York will get Peyton to go to the Jets. Maybe the talent in Arizona draws him there. Perhaps a team on the cusp like San Francisco or Houston or Baltimore says, "Fuck it! Let's go for it and get him," and he decides to go to one of those contenders. The Broncos will be considered an outside shot, but the fact that they are in the mix is not surprising. Peyton Manning in Denver? If you thought Tim Tebow sold a lot of jerseys in the Mile High city, wait to see what happens if the Broncos are shopping Manning's jersey. At the end of the day, I don't think the Broncos will end up with Manning, and if that is the case, then I am fine with that. I love Tebow, and I think he can be the long-term answer in Denver, but to just sit back and think about Manning in Bronco Orange is pretty damn enticing. Like I said before why not right?

NFL 2012 Free Agency Preview-Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

We turn our attention to the Wide Receivers and Tight Ends that are going to hit free agency. This year's wideout class is a pretty good one, and each guy could really add some punch to a team's offense. Here is a look at the Top 10 Wide Receivers in the 2012 free agent class:

WRs
1) Wes Welker (New England): He was franchised by the Pats, so he is staying put.
2) Vincent Jackson (San Diego): He wasn't franchised by the Chargers, and he will command a lot of interest around the league. He could very well end up in Chicago.
3) Stevie Johnson (Buffalo): He resigned with the Bills, so he is going nowhere.
4) Brandon Lloyd (St. Louis): Doesn't it seem like a lock that he ends up with the Patriots under new offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels?
5) Marques Coltson (New Orleans): He should get quite a look from a lot of teams, but will his knees hold up?
6) Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City): He was franchised by the Chiefs, so he won't hit the open market.
7) Reggie Wayne (Indy): It looks like he could follow Peyton Manning to his next destination.
8) Pierre Garcon (Indy): How good will he be without Manning throwing him the ball. He is still an intriguing name though.
9) Robert Meachem (New Orleans): He seems to be underrated, and I think he would be a nice fit for a team in need of some help at wideout.
10) Mario Manningham (NY Giants): He is talented, but he might not be able to live up to expectations once he leaves the Giants and Eli Manning.

*Under the Radar Players: Ted Ginn Jr (San Francisco) and Eddie Royal (Denver): Ginn was a valuable member of the Niners this year and contributed in their return game. If he isn't hurt for the NFC Championship, there is strong chance the Niners win that game. Royal has never been able to duplicate his rookie season in 2008 when he caught over 90 passes. He is also a solid returner in the kicking game, and could be a real value pickup.

**Possible Broncos Addition: I would love to see Eddie Royal back with the team, but I think he will end up leaving and signing with the Bears. I would like to see Denver take a look at someone like Meachem or even Harry Douglas. The Broncos need to add another receiver this offseason.

Tight Ends
1) Fred Davis (Washington): He was franchised by the Redskins, so the only way a team could get him would be through a trade.

2) John Carlson (Seattle): He missed all of 2011, but at 28 he could be a viable option for a team like the Giants.

3) Scott Chandler (Buffalo): I like him, and he could be a nice addition at a decent price.

4) Martellus Bennett (Dallas): "High and Tight" Martellus never really lived up to his expectations in Big D. Maybe a change of scenery at age 25 could be good for his career.

5) Daniel Fells (Denver): The Broncos would be wise to keep him. He has really good hands and would be a nice complimentary TE in an offense.

6) Joel Dressen (Houston): He is 30, but doesn't it make sense for him to end up with the Shanahans in Washington?

7) Vishanthe Shiancoe (Minnesota): At 32, he could be on the downside of his career, but if could benefit from going to a contending team.

8) Kellen Davis (Chicago): A forgotten man at times in Chicago, but I like him, and he could be a good fit as a second TE.

9) Jeremy Shockey (Carolina): He is 32 and not the same player he once was, but he would be another good fit as a second TE on a contending team.

10) Jacob Tamme (Indy): Without Peyton Manning in 2011, he was a non-factor, but at 27 he could resurrect his career a little bit.

*Under the Radar Player: Dante Rosario (Denver): After getting cut by the Dolphins, the Broncos signed him and he made some big catches for the Broncos during the Tebow run late in the season.

**Possible Broncos Addition: No one in this group really stands out. Dallas Clark might be available if the Colts cut him, but I don't see him going to Denver. The Broncos would be better served if they resigned Fells.

NFL 2012 Free Agency Preview-Quarterbacks

We continue with the 2012 Free Agency Preview with a look at the most important position in all of the football: The Quarterback. Unfortunately, teams looking for that franchise signal caller are probably not going to find that guy in this group unless the Saints foolishly let Drew Brees hit the open market. Also, the biggest fish to hit free agency since Reggie White could be Peyton Manning. The Colts have less then a week to decide on paying Manning his $28 million option or letting him hit the open market.

Quarterbacks

1) Peyton Manning (Indy): If Manning is healthy, he will lead any team that he goes to into the playoffs in 2012. I know his injury is a mystery and there is no guarantee that he will be healthy come next season, but if he is, then watch out. Look for the Redskins, Jets, Seahawks, Cardinals, and Chiefs all make big plays to get him. There will be a mystery team that jumps in late (Denver?), but whoever gets him will alter the landscape of the league.

1A) Drew Brees (New Orleans): Although there is some hardballing going on between the Saints and Brees, that is all apart of the negotiating process. Brees will stay with the Saints, and he will be nicely compensated as a result.

2) Matt Flynn(Green Bay): In his limited sample of real game work, Flynn has been very impressive. His Week 17 performance against the Lions earned him a chance to become a starter in this league, and he will hit paydirt. I still think the Dolphins are the front runner if they miss out on Peyton Manning.

3) Alex Smith (San Francisco): All indications point to Smith returning to the 49ers where he led them to a 13-3 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.

4) Jason Campbell (Oakland): You can argue that if Campbell doesn't go down last year the Raiders win the AFC West. Campbell would be well served going to someplace like Jacksonville. If Blaine Gabbert fails early on, then Campbell could come in and maybe right the ship and revive his career.

5) Kyle Orton (Kansas City): Orton should go to a place like the Jets. He could be a safety net and push Mark Sanchez, and if he has to play, the Jets are going to play a style that fits him perfectly: A solid run game and emphasis on defense.

6) Chad Henne (Miami): Another name that doesn't wow you, but if he goes to place like Minnesota he could be a cushion in case Christian Ponder falls apart.

7) Shaun Hill (Detroit): A crafty, veteran backup who can step in a win a few games if a team's starter goes down. He should probably just stay in Detroit in case Matt Stafford gets injured.

8) Josh Johnson (Tampa Bay): A lot of people in Denver think Johnson will end up there, but I'm not so sure.

9) Rex Grossman (Washington): You wouldn't want Rex starting for your team, but he could be a decent backup in case your main guy goes down for a couple of games.

10) Drew Stanton (Detroit): At 28, he isn't too long in the tooth, and he could be brought in as an interesting option as a backup.

*Under the Radar Player: Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh): Dixon is intriguing because of his athleticism. Maybe you can bring him in for some change of pace plays and spread packages.

**Possible Broncos Addition: Although he ripped Tim Tebow, I would have no problem if the Broncos brought back Brady Quinn as a backup. If they don't do that, then a guy like Drew Stanton intrigues me.

NFL 2012 Free Agency Preview-Offensive Line

We continue our 2012 Free Agency Preview with a shift to the offensive side of the bal. Nothing is more important and rebuilding and replenishing an offensive line unit, and here is a look at the top names available this free agent period:

Center/Guards
1) Carl Nicks-Guard (New Orleans): The best interior lineman in this free agent class. A blue-chip player.
2) Scott Wells-Center (Green Bay): He has been a solid starter for the Packers, but they might want to go younger and he could be a nice pickup for another team.
3) Ben Grubbs-Guard (Baltimore): Another solid interior lineman. He helps your offensive line instantly.
4) Chris Myers-Center (Houston): He left Denver and became a fixture for the Texans and their zone running scheme. He could be a very valuable option.
5) Evan Mathis-Guard (Philly): A solid addition and an instant starter right away.
6) Samson Satele-Center (Oakland): Another reliable name and another reliable option for a team in need of a center.
7) Dan Connonlly-Center (New England): He is a versatile player on one of the best offensive teams in football.
8) Vernon Carey-Guard (Miami): At 31, he is a bit old, but he can still play at a productive level.
9) Jake Scott-Guard (Tennessee): He is not flashy, but was a solid starter for the 13-3 49ers this past season.
10) Dan Koppen-Center (New Enlgand): Age and injury concerns knock him down quite a bit.

*Under the Radar Player: Adam Snyder-Guard (San Francisco): He is not flashy, but he was a solid starter for the 13-3 49ers this past season.

**Possible Broncos Addition: Everyone would love to have Carl Nicks, but it is hard to see the Saints letting him get away. I wouldn't mind seeing the Broncos go for a guy like Dan Connolly to add some depth to their young offensive line, but the offensive line is really in pretty good shape.

Tackles

1) Jared Gaither (San Diego): He filled in well for Marcus McNeill last year. The Chargers would be wise to resign him.
2) Demetrius Bell (Buffalo): The Bills really would benefit from holding on to him.
3) Kareem McKenzie (NY Giants): A fixture at tackle for the G-Men for a long time.
4) Barry Richardson (Kansas City): At 26, his age makes him appealing for some teams.
5) Jeff Backus (Detroit): At 34, he is probably better off staying with the Lions.
6) King Dunlap (Philly): Another younger guy who could maybe step in a help a team. His age makes him attractive, but he adds depth if anything else.
7) Brandon Keith (Arizona): At 27, he could be worth a look. He has started a total of 20 games the past two seasons for the Cardinals.
8) Khalif Barnes (Oakland): He is 30, so that could bring his market value down. He started all 16 games last season for the Raiders.

9) Max Starks (Pittsburgh): He tore his ACL in the playoff loss to Denver, but if he gets checked out okay, then you could bring him in as a veteran to add depth.

10) Guy Whimper (Jacksonville): At 28, he started 15 games last year for the Jags. Maybe he comes in as another guy who adds some depth.

Under the Radar Player: Trai Essex (Pittsburgh): He is not going to come in and be the guy, but you can get him for a good price, and he can provide some depth and versatility in the offensive line.

**Possible Broncos Addition: There isn't anyone in this crop that the Broncos would want to spend some money on. They have Ryan Clady and Orlando Franklin already as their respective bookends. Denver even signed Ryan Harris before the playoff game against the Steelers, so maybe this is one position they wouldn't need to worry about too much.