Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Steelers-Ravens Week 4 TNF Pick!
Baltimore (-2) over PITTSBURGH: One of the best rivalries in the NFL takes center stage on Thursday Night Football. The Ravens come into Pittsburgh at 0-3. There is no way that they will start 0-4? Right? The Steelers have to go on without Ben Roethlisberger, who will miss the next 4-6 weeks due to a MCL injury. Thursday night Michael Vick gets the start, and he has a chance to give himself one more moment in his career. I think this game is close-as they usually are-but I just can't see the Ravens losing and going 0-4.
Monday, September 28, 2015
Broncos Put Lions Away, Secure 24-12 Victory
Much like the 2015 season has played out, the Broncos defeated the Lions 24-12 in Week 3 on Sunday Night Football. The Broncos improved to 3-0 on the season. Denver's win was hard fought, erratic at times, and once again dominated by their defense. The offense and Peyton Manning looked more comfortable at times, and it seems like the offense was progressing more than it has all year long. It was a good, solid win on the road, and the Broncos have successfully navigated their tricky start to the year undefeated. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) The Broncos defense started off on fire once again. They forced a quick 3 and out on the first two series. Demarcus Ware was all over the place in the 1st quarter. Bradley Roby made a ridiculous interception early in the game off of Matthew Stafford, and it just seems like this defense has a knack for creating the turnover at the right time.
2) Unfortunately, the Broncos couldn't convert because Peyton Manning's pass was tipped and intercepted deep in Detroit territory. It was a shame because Manning was looking to get it to a wide open Owen Daniels, who would have walked in for a surefire touchdown.
3) Denver puts together a sweet 12-play 80 yard TD drive capped off by a Ronnie Hillman 1 yard run. Manning looked good, comfortable, confident, and solid on the drive. Bennie Fowler made some big catches to keep the drive going.
4) Lions respond with a TD drive that was basically all Calvin Johnson. That is going to happen when you have a player like Megatron on the opposing team. The Broncos blocked the extra point and held the lead at 7-6.
5) Manning makes them pay with a 45 yard touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas on a 4th and 1 with only 6 seconds left in the half. It was an interesting call by Gary Kubiak to go for it and finally Manning hit a deep bomb this year. It was a jump ball, and Thomas made a sweet catch and run to give the Broncos a 14-6 lead heading into the half.
6) Terrible play by Demaryius Thomas on 3rd down on Denver's first possession of the half. Careless play with the football as he was trying to stretch it into a first down and it results in a turnover. Detroit converted it with an Ameer Abdullah touchdown reception from Stafford. The two-point conversion failed and it was 14-12 Denver in the 3rd quarter.
7) The teams traded punts until the Broncos defense made another key play. In the 4th quarter, Shaq Barrett strip-sacked Stafford and forced a fumble that Denver recovered at their own 44. This turnover led to a long Brandon McManus field goal and a 17-12 lead.
8) The Broncos defense made another big play when David Bruton picked off Stafford at the Broncos 48 with only 3:44 to go. Bruton made a great play as he lined up close to the line like a linebacker and dropped into coverage on the snap and made a great pick on Stafford.
9) The Broncos made the Lions pay on the next drive. Manning hit another long pass-this time to Emmanuel Sanders- for a gain of 34 yards. It was another jump ball type of play and Sanders snagged it out of air, but it was a confidence booster for Manning to get another long pass completion under his belt. A few plays later, Manning sealed the game with a sweet 11 yard touchdown pass to Owen Daniels. Manning saw the blitz by the Lions, changed the protection, got rid of the ball quick, and put it in the perfect spot to Daniels for the game-clincher. That is why Peyton Manning is Peyton Manning.
10) You have to take your hat off to the defense once again. They got four sacks and forced three turnovers. The amount of pressure they apply in every game is remarkable. They were all over the place. Demarcus Ware looks like he is 25 again. Von Miller was a factor as well. Sylvester Williams played solid, and Brandon Marshall was outstanding as usual. Aqib Talib did as good as a job on Calvin Johnson as you can. They held the Lions leading rusher to only 23 yards on the ground. I never felt like this defense wasn't going to make a play to win this game. They are playing at a high level right now.
11) Peyton Manning played well. It was his best performance of the season, and it was probably his best game going back to November of last year. He finished 31-42 for 324 yards with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He was decisive, threw the ball well, looked comfortable, and he looked confident. Give Gary Kubiak and the offensive staff credit. They adjusted the offense for this week. It featured Manning in the pistol, and they gave him quick throws and let him throw on the early downs. The offensive line protected better, and it showed. Manning also hit two big deep balls and if he continues to hit those, then the offense will open up even more. They still struggled to run the ball, and that is a still a big concern, but the offense generated 24 points on the road against a desperate opponent. It was a positive week for the offense without a doubt.
12) The Broncos survived another road game and they get their record to 3-0. They could have easily lost the Baltimore game in Week 1, but they pulled it out. They should have lost Week 2 in KC, but we know how that miracle played out. This game they were the better team throughout. I never really felt like they were going to lose the game at any point. With all the changes and the question marks, the Broncos stand at 3-0, and head home to host the Vikings next Sunday. You have to be happy with that if you are a Broncos fan.
1) The Broncos defense started off on fire once again. They forced a quick 3 and out on the first two series. Demarcus Ware was all over the place in the 1st quarter. Bradley Roby made a ridiculous interception early in the game off of Matthew Stafford, and it just seems like this defense has a knack for creating the turnover at the right time.
2) Unfortunately, the Broncos couldn't convert because Peyton Manning's pass was tipped and intercepted deep in Detroit territory. It was a shame because Manning was looking to get it to a wide open Owen Daniels, who would have walked in for a surefire touchdown.
3) Denver puts together a sweet 12-play 80 yard TD drive capped off by a Ronnie Hillman 1 yard run. Manning looked good, comfortable, confident, and solid on the drive. Bennie Fowler made some big catches to keep the drive going.
4) Lions respond with a TD drive that was basically all Calvin Johnson. That is going to happen when you have a player like Megatron on the opposing team. The Broncos blocked the extra point and held the lead at 7-6.
5) Manning makes them pay with a 45 yard touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas on a 4th and 1 with only 6 seconds left in the half. It was an interesting call by Gary Kubiak to go for it and finally Manning hit a deep bomb this year. It was a jump ball, and Thomas made a sweet catch and run to give the Broncos a 14-6 lead heading into the half.
6) Terrible play by Demaryius Thomas on 3rd down on Denver's first possession of the half. Careless play with the football as he was trying to stretch it into a first down and it results in a turnover. Detroit converted it with an Ameer Abdullah touchdown reception from Stafford. The two-point conversion failed and it was 14-12 Denver in the 3rd quarter.
7) The teams traded punts until the Broncos defense made another key play. In the 4th quarter, Shaq Barrett strip-sacked Stafford and forced a fumble that Denver recovered at their own 44. This turnover led to a long Brandon McManus field goal and a 17-12 lead.
8) The Broncos defense made another big play when David Bruton picked off Stafford at the Broncos 48 with only 3:44 to go. Bruton made a great play as he lined up close to the line like a linebacker and dropped into coverage on the snap and made a great pick on Stafford.
9) The Broncos made the Lions pay on the next drive. Manning hit another long pass-this time to Emmanuel Sanders- for a gain of 34 yards. It was another jump ball type of play and Sanders snagged it out of air, but it was a confidence booster for Manning to get another long pass completion under his belt. A few plays later, Manning sealed the game with a sweet 11 yard touchdown pass to Owen Daniels. Manning saw the blitz by the Lions, changed the protection, got rid of the ball quick, and put it in the perfect spot to Daniels for the game-clincher. That is why Peyton Manning is Peyton Manning.
10) You have to take your hat off to the defense once again. They got four sacks and forced three turnovers. The amount of pressure they apply in every game is remarkable. They were all over the place. Demarcus Ware looks like he is 25 again. Von Miller was a factor as well. Sylvester Williams played solid, and Brandon Marshall was outstanding as usual. Aqib Talib did as good as a job on Calvin Johnson as you can. They held the Lions leading rusher to only 23 yards on the ground. I never felt like this defense wasn't going to make a play to win this game. They are playing at a high level right now.
11) Peyton Manning played well. It was his best performance of the season, and it was probably his best game going back to November of last year. He finished 31-42 for 324 yards with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He was decisive, threw the ball well, looked comfortable, and he looked confident. Give Gary Kubiak and the offensive staff credit. They adjusted the offense for this week. It featured Manning in the pistol, and they gave him quick throws and let him throw on the early downs. The offensive line protected better, and it showed. Manning also hit two big deep balls and if he continues to hit those, then the offense will open up even more. They still struggled to run the ball, and that is a still a big concern, but the offense generated 24 points on the road against a desperate opponent. It was a positive week for the offense without a doubt.
12) The Broncos survived another road game and they get their record to 3-0. They could have easily lost the Baltimore game in Week 1, but they pulled it out. They should have lost Week 2 in KC, but we know how that miracle played out. This game they were the better team throughout. I never really felt like they were going to lose the game at any point. With all the changes and the question marks, the Broncos stand at 3-0, and head home to host the Vikings next Sunday. You have to be happy with that if you are a Broncos fan.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Week 2 Picks!
This is a desperate week for the 0-2 teams in the NFL. Teams like the Eagles, Ravens, Lions, Saints, and Colts never thought they would be in this spot. You can survive 0-2 in the NFL and rebound to possibly make the playoffs, but it is VERY HARD to survive 0-3. It will be very interesting to see what happens with those teams when they play this week. The desperate teams usually win in those situations because they know that falling to 0-3 is pretty much the death shot to their season. Now, onto the picks for Week 3....
Last Week's Record: 6-10
Overall Record: 13-19
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
ST. LOUIS (+2) over Pittsburgh: I think this could be a very fun and entertaining game, but I will take the Rams and their defense at home to overwhelm the Steelers. I know the Rams took a step back with their loss at Washington last week, but look for them to bounce back at home as an underdog.
San Diego (+3) over MINNESOTA: Tough game to figure out. Both teams come in at 1-1, and we really don't know how good each team is. I'll take Phillip Rivers on the road to pull out a close one.
Tampa Bay (+7) over HOUSTON: I think the Texans will win the game, but I'll take the Bucs to cover. Houston has real problems at QB right now. Ryan Mallett didn't exactly light it up after replacing Brian Hoyer in Carolina in Week 2. I can see Jameis Winston and Tampa Bay keeping this game close.
NY JETS (-2.5) over Philly: This game could not come at a worse time for the Eagles. Their offense is a mess right now, they can't run the ball, Sam Bradford looks scared, and now they have to go on the road and deal with a Jets defense that has forced 10 turnovers in two games and just walloped Andrew Luck and the Colts on Monday Night Football. The Jets will get to 3-0 and the Eagles will fall to 0-3.
CAROLINA (-7) over New Orleans: This all depends if Drew Brees plays or not. You have to be worried about the Saints-especially if Brees misses some time with a shoulder injury. If Brees is healthy enough to play, then the Saints have a chance. If he is out, then the Panthers will get to 3-0.
Jacksonville (+14) over NEW ENGLAND: The Patriots will game the game easily, but I hate huge spreads in a game like this. I could see a late back door cover by the Jags, but in any event the Pats will roll.
BALTIMORE (-2) over Cincy: The Ravens are a surprising 0-2, and the Bengals come to town at 2-0. Could the Bengals be the real AFC contender next to the Pats? This game could have a say in that. I just can't see the Ravens falling to 0-3.
CLEVELAND (-2) over Oakland: Both of these teams look hapless in Week 1, and both of them rebounded in Week 2 with solid home wins. Tough game to call, but I'll take the Browns-even after going back to Josh McCown over Johnny Manziel-because I hate taking the Raiders in the early spot in another time zone.
TENNESSEE (+4) over Indy: The Colts will win, but I think the Titans put up a serious fight. I think Andrew Luck pulls this game out late on a last minute drive, but this will be close throughout. Call it 22-21 Indy.
Atlanta (-1) over DALLAS: When you lose Dez Bryant and Tony Romo to significant injury, it has to take a toll on your offense and your team. Plus, we know where DeMarco Murray is playing right now. Until Brandon Weeden can prove it to me, I can't ride the Cowboys. I like what I have seen out of Atlanta too. Take the Falcons as a road favorite.
ARIZONA (-6) over San Francisco: Could Arizona be a legitimate NFC contender this year? It looks like it through two weeks. I can't see them blowing this game at home over a division rival like the 49ers. I think the Niners came back down to Earth last week in their blowout loss to the Steelers.
SEATTLE (-14) over Chicago: Kam Chancellor ends his holdout. The Seahawks are 0-2 after two tough road losses to start the year. This is their first home game in front of the 12th Man, and they are in need of a win. Oh yeah, Jimmy Clausen is starting for the injured Jay Cutler. I think I'll take Seattle.
Buffalo (+3) over Miami: This is the toughest game for me to pick this week. Both teams come in at 1-1 after disappointing Week 2 losses. Both teams are pretty good, so this game could go either way. I'll take the Dolphins to win in their home opener, but this will be a close game throughout, so I'll take the Bills getting the points.
GREEN BAY (-6) over Kansas City: A rematch of Super Bowl I! It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs will respond after their crushing loss on Thursday Night Football to the Broncos in Week 2.This is a tough way to rebound for them because they have to head to Lambeau to take on the 2-0 Packers. I can't see Green Bay losing this game at home, and they have been pretty dominant at home the last two years, so I would expect that trend to continue this week on Monday Night Football.
DETROIT (+3) over Denver: The Broncos are 2-0, yet they could easily be 0-2. What we know about the Broncos at this point in the season is the following: Their defense is really, really good. They have a dominant pass rush, they can cover, and they force turnovers. Their offensive line is struggling in every aspect. They have no running game at all. Peyton Manning clearly looks more comfortable running the no-huddle, quick passing attack that he is accustomed to. Now, Denver has to travel to Detroit to take on the 0-2 Lions on Sunday night. I just think that the Lions are more desperate right now, and they will find a way to win this game. I know Matt Stafford is banged up, but I don't think the Lions are starting 0-3. I think they find a way at home in front of a jacked up crowd.
Final Score: Lions-24 Broncos-17
Last Week's Record: 6-10
Overall Record: 13-19
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
ST. LOUIS (+2) over Pittsburgh: I think this could be a very fun and entertaining game, but I will take the Rams and their defense at home to overwhelm the Steelers. I know the Rams took a step back with their loss at Washington last week, but look for them to bounce back at home as an underdog.
San Diego (+3) over MINNESOTA: Tough game to figure out. Both teams come in at 1-1, and we really don't know how good each team is. I'll take Phillip Rivers on the road to pull out a close one.
Tampa Bay (+7) over HOUSTON: I think the Texans will win the game, but I'll take the Bucs to cover. Houston has real problems at QB right now. Ryan Mallett didn't exactly light it up after replacing Brian Hoyer in Carolina in Week 2. I can see Jameis Winston and Tampa Bay keeping this game close.
NY JETS (-2.5) over Philly: This game could not come at a worse time for the Eagles. Their offense is a mess right now, they can't run the ball, Sam Bradford looks scared, and now they have to go on the road and deal with a Jets defense that has forced 10 turnovers in two games and just walloped Andrew Luck and the Colts on Monday Night Football. The Jets will get to 3-0 and the Eagles will fall to 0-3.
CAROLINA (-7) over New Orleans: This all depends if Drew Brees plays or not. You have to be worried about the Saints-especially if Brees misses some time with a shoulder injury. If Brees is healthy enough to play, then the Saints have a chance. If he is out, then the Panthers will get to 3-0.
Jacksonville (+14) over NEW ENGLAND: The Patriots will game the game easily, but I hate huge spreads in a game like this. I could see a late back door cover by the Jags, but in any event the Pats will roll.
BALTIMORE (-2) over Cincy: The Ravens are a surprising 0-2, and the Bengals come to town at 2-0. Could the Bengals be the real AFC contender next to the Pats? This game could have a say in that. I just can't see the Ravens falling to 0-3.
CLEVELAND (-2) over Oakland: Both of these teams look hapless in Week 1, and both of them rebounded in Week 2 with solid home wins. Tough game to call, but I'll take the Browns-even after going back to Josh McCown over Johnny Manziel-because I hate taking the Raiders in the early spot in another time zone.
TENNESSEE (+4) over Indy: The Colts will win, but I think the Titans put up a serious fight. I think Andrew Luck pulls this game out late on a last minute drive, but this will be close throughout. Call it 22-21 Indy.
Atlanta (-1) over DALLAS: When you lose Dez Bryant and Tony Romo to significant injury, it has to take a toll on your offense and your team. Plus, we know where DeMarco Murray is playing right now. Until Brandon Weeden can prove it to me, I can't ride the Cowboys. I like what I have seen out of Atlanta too. Take the Falcons as a road favorite.
ARIZONA (-6) over San Francisco: Could Arizona be a legitimate NFC contender this year? It looks like it through two weeks. I can't see them blowing this game at home over a division rival like the 49ers. I think the Niners came back down to Earth last week in their blowout loss to the Steelers.
SEATTLE (-14) over Chicago: Kam Chancellor ends his holdout. The Seahawks are 0-2 after two tough road losses to start the year. This is their first home game in front of the 12th Man, and they are in need of a win. Oh yeah, Jimmy Clausen is starting for the injured Jay Cutler. I think I'll take Seattle.
Buffalo (+3) over Miami: This is the toughest game for me to pick this week. Both teams come in at 1-1 after disappointing Week 2 losses. Both teams are pretty good, so this game could go either way. I'll take the Dolphins to win in their home opener, but this will be a close game throughout, so I'll take the Bills getting the points.
GREEN BAY (-6) over Kansas City: A rematch of Super Bowl I! It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs will respond after their crushing loss on Thursday Night Football to the Broncos in Week 2.This is a tough way to rebound for them because they have to head to Lambeau to take on the 2-0 Packers. I can't see Green Bay losing this game at home, and they have been pretty dominant at home the last two years, so I would expect that trend to continue this week on Monday Night Football.
DETROIT (+3) over Denver: The Broncos are 2-0, yet they could easily be 0-2. What we know about the Broncos at this point in the season is the following: Their defense is really, really good. They have a dominant pass rush, they can cover, and they force turnovers. Their offensive line is struggling in every aspect. They have no running game at all. Peyton Manning clearly looks more comfortable running the no-huddle, quick passing attack that he is accustomed to. Now, Denver has to travel to Detroit to take on the 0-2 Lions on Sunday night. I just think that the Lions are more desperate right now, and they will find a way to win this game. I know Matt Stafford is banged up, but I don't think the Lions are starting 0-3. I think they find a way at home in front of a jacked up crowd.
Final Score: Lions-24 Broncos-17
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Giants-Redskins Thursday Night Football Week 3 Pick!
NY GIANTS (-3) over Washington: The Giants are 0-2 after blowing 10 point leads in the 4th quarter at Dallas in Week 1 and at home to Atlanta on Sunday. It is crisis time surrounding the team, Tom Coughlin and Eli Manning. All hope is not loss though because with a win here over the Redskins, the G-Men can get their season on track before it possibly falls off the rails. As shaky as the Giants are at this point, I think they are more desperate and will turn back the 1-1 Skins on a short week in the Meadowlands.
Friday, September 18, 2015
Broncos Stun the Chiefs Late and Week 2 Picks
Thursday night's Broncos-Chiefs game will be remembered for many different reasons. The wild finish saw Denver tie the game at 24 with only 36 seconds left, and then Bradley Roby scooped up a Jamaal Charles fumble and scampered 21 yards to win the game 31-24. The game also saw Peyton Manning's career at a crossroad, Andy Reid botching play-calling and game management, and the Chiefs gagging away a game that they never should have lost. This game had everything, and it was about as wild of an ending as you will ever see. Denver rallied from a 14-0 hole in the first half, and Manning drove the Broncos down for the tie late in the game. In a game where Denver probably should have lost, they somehow and someway found a way to win-thanks to Chiefs, of course. Here are my thoughts and observations on a game that will be remembered for a long, long time....
1) The Broncos started slow and they paid for it as the Chiefs built a 7-0 lead on the legs of Jamaal Charles. After Marcus Peters picked off Manning and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown, KC led 14-0, and the game looked like it would be a rout. Manning looked like he was done as an effective QB, and the Broncos season looked like it was going to crumble like their offensive line was crumbling in the first half.
2) Things changed quickly once Manning went to a no-huddle approach and picked up the pace of play. He started completing more passes in the shotgun, got more comfortable, and drove Denver down the field and made it 14-7 after a 16 yard pass to Emmanuel Sanders. That might have saved Manning and the Broncos season right there.
3) Up 14-7, the Chiefs and Andy Reid decided to throw the ball instead of killing the clock on the ground, and Aqib Talib made them pay by jumping a short route and picking it off deep in KC territory. Talib has been great so far this year, and this play was sensational. A Manning to Virgil Green 1 yard touchdown pass tied it up at 14, and now we have a game going into halftime.
4) The third quarter was basically a standstill as both teams traded field goals. Both defenses were able to disrupt the other team's passing games and Smith and Manning were having trouble surviving everytime they dropped back. You still felt the momentum was on the Chiefs side heading into the last quarter.
5) The Broncos defense was bending in the 4th quarter and a interception by Chris Harris looked like it was going to save the day for Denver. Unfortunately, the Broncos offense sputtered and KC got the ball right back and Knile Davis galloped into the end zone to make it 24-17 with only 2:15 to play.
6) Peyton Manning showed the world that he is not done yet, and the Sherriff went to work on a classic 10 play 80 yard drive to tie the game on a 19 yard hookup with Emmanuel Sanders to tie it at 24. Manning was clutch on the drive and so was Demaryius Thomas who made some amazing jump ball catches on the drive. Thomas finished with 8 catches for 116 yards in the night. It was a statement drive by Manning and this offense and something that a lot of people did not think Denver's offense could do at that point in the game against a hostile crowd in Arrowhead.
7) Then, the Broncos got the gift of all time. KC is trying to run out the clock and get the get to overtime, but Jamaal Charles coughs up the ball on a hit by Brandon Marshall, and Bradley Roby is right there to scoop it up and run in for the winning score with only 27 seconds left in the game. Incredible finish. I had to rewind it live on DVR just to make sure I wasn't dreaming. That was one of the craziest endings I have ever seen in a Broncos game in my lifetime.
8) The storylines in this game are numerous, but let's start with the defense. They played great again for a second week. They forced 4 turnovers (2 interceptions and 2 fumbles), scored another defensive touchdown, recorded 4 sacks, and harassed Alex Smith all night long. Yes, they did give up 125 yards to Jamaal Charles, but that doesn't bother me because of the short week of rest for this game. The defense is the strength of this team, and that is the reality at this point.
9) The Broncos offense is a work in progress, but the real culprit is that the offensive line is really struggling. They can't run the ball because their O-Line can't block anyone. They can't pass protect and they are getting Manning killed right now. They gave up 3 sacks last night, and he was pressured a lot more. This offense won't get going until the offensive line gets more consistent. No one really knows how long that will take.
10) Now to Manning. This isn't about his arm strength. This is not about his offense or Gary Kubiak's offense. This is about getting him comfortable. You saw how well he played when the offense was tailored to what made him comfortable. Just let him run the quick, no-huddle pace of play that he likes to throw. Let him get into a rhythm, and let him get off quick passes to get the passing game going and settle down the offensive line. Then, once they get a lead they can work more under center and run the ball-if they can. Just let Manning be Manning please!
11) Forget about the issues the Broncos have because they are 2-0 and they just won a tough road game at KC in a game they were destined to lose. Now, they have 10 days to rest up and get ready for the Lions next Sunday Night. The win also gave the Broncos a NFL record 13 straight road divisional wins breaking the mark by the 1990 Niners. Manning is now 4-0 in Arrowhead against the Chiefs as the Broncos QB. This game will long be remembered, and it might be the turning point of the season even though it was only Week 2. Go Broncos!
Onto the picks for Week 2...
Last Week's Record: 7-9
Overall Record: 7-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Houston (+3) over CAROLINA:
Tampa Bay (+10) over NEW ORLEANS:
PITTSBURGH (-6) over San Francisco:
Detroit (+3) over MINNESOTA:
New England (-1) over BUFFALO:
CHICAGO (+3) over Arizona:
CLEVELAND (+2) over Tennessee:
San Diego (+4) over CINCY:
St. Louis (-3) over WASHINGTON:
Atlanta (+3) over NY GIANTS:
Baltimore (-5) over Oakland:
Miami (-6) over JACKSONVILLE:
PHILLY (-3) over Dallas:
GREEN BAY (-3) over Seattle:
INDY (-7) over New York Jets:
1) The Broncos started slow and they paid for it as the Chiefs built a 7-0 lead on the legs of Jamaal Charles. After Marcus Peters picked off Manning and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown, KC led 14-0, and the game looked like it would be a rout. Manning looked like he was done as an effective QB, and the Broncos season looked like it was going to crumble like their offensive line was crumbling in the first half.
2) Things changed quickly once Manning went to a no-huddle approach and picked up the pace of play. He started completing more passes in the shotgun, got more comfortable, and drove Denver down the field and made it 14-7 after a 16 yard pass to Emmanuel Sanders. That might have saved Manning and the Broncos season right there.
3) Up 14-7, the Chiefs and Andy Reid decided to throw the ball instead of killing the clock on the ground, and Aqib Talib made them pay by jumping a short route and picking it off deep in KC territory. Talib has been great so far this year, and this play was sensational. A Manning to Virgil Green 1 yard touchdown pass tied it up at 14, and now we have a game going into halftime.
4) The third quarter was basically a standstill as both teams traded field goals. Both defenses were able to disrupt the other team's passing games and Smith and Manning were having trouble surviving everytime they dropped back. You still felt the momentum was on the Chiefs side heading into the last quarter.
5) The Broncos defense was bending in the 4th quarter and a interception by Chris Harris looked like it was going to save the day for Denver. Unfortunately, the Broncos offense sputtered and KC got the ball right back and Knile Davis galloped into the end zone to make it 24-17 with only 2:15 to play.
6) Peyton Manning showed the world that he is not done yet, and the Sherriff went to work on a classic 10 play 80 yard drive to tie the game on a 19 yard hookup with Emmanuel Sanders to tie it at 24. Manning was clutch on the drive and so was Demaryius Thomas who made some amazing jump ball catches on the drive. Thomas finished with 8 catches for 116 yards in the night. It was a statement drive by Manning and this offense and something that a lot of people did not think Denver's offense could do at that point in the game against a hostile crowd in Arrowhead.
7) Then, the Broncos got the gift of all time. KC is trying to run out the clock and get the get to overtime, but Jamaal Charles coughs up the ball on a hit by Brandon Marshall, and Bradley Roby is right there to scoop it up and run in for the winning score with only 27 seconds left in the game. Incredible finish. I had to rewind it live on DVR just to make sure I wasn't dreaming. That was one of the craziest endings I have ever seen in a Broncos game in my lifetime.
8) The storylines in this game are numerous, but let's start with the defense. They played great again for a second week. They forced 4 turnovers (2 interceptions and 2 fumbles), scored another defensive touchdown, recorded 4 sacks, and harassed Alex Smith all night long. Yes, they did give up 125 yards to Jamaal Charles, but that doesn't bother me because of the short week of rest for this game. The defense is the strength of this team, and that is the reality at this point.
9) The Broncos offense is a work in progress, but the real culprit is that the offensive line is really struggling. They can't run the ball because their O-Line can't block anyone. They can't pass protect and they are getting Manning killed right now. They gave up 3 sacks last night, and he was pressured a lot more. This offense won't get going until the offensive line gets more consistent. No one really knows how long that will take.
10) Now to Manning. This isn't about his arm strength. This is not about his offense or Gary Kubiak's offense. This is about getting him comfortable. You saw how well he played when the offense was tailored to what made him comfortable. Just let him run the quick, no-huddle pace of play that he likes to throw. Let him get into a rhythm, and let him get off quick passes to get the passing game going and settle down the offensive line. Then, once they get a lead they can work more under center and run the ball-if they can. Just let Manning be Manning please!
11) Forget about the issues the Broncos have because they are 2-0 and they just won a tough road game at KC in a game they were destined to lose. Now, they have 10 days to rest up and get ready for the Lions next Sunday Night. The win also gave the Broncos a NFL record 13 straight road divisional wins breaking the mark by the 1990 Niners. Manning is now 4-0 in Arrowhead against the Chiefs as the Broncos QB. This game will long be remembered, and it might be the turning point of the season even though it was only Week 2. Go Broncos!
Onto the picks for Week 2...
Last Week's Record: 7-9
Overall Record: 7-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Houston (+3) over CAROLINA:
Tampa Bay (+10) over NEW ORLEANS:
PITTSBURGH (-6) over San Francisco:
Detroit (+3) over MINNESOTA:
New England (-1) over BUFFALO:
CHICAGO (+3) over Arizona:
CLEVELAND (+2) over Tennessee:
San Diego (+4) over CINCY:
St. Louis (-3) over WASHINGTON:
Atlanta (+3) over NY GIANTS:
Baltimore (-5) over Oakland:
Miami (-6) over JACKSONVILLE:
PHILLY (-3) over Dallas:
GREEN BAY (-3) over Seattle:
INDY (-7) over New York Jets:
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Week 2 Thursday Night Pick: Broncos-Chiefs
KANSAS CITY (-3) over Denver: Brace yourselves Bronco fans because this is going to be a rough one. A fired up Chiefs team is at home and licking their chops at a chance to get to 2-0 win a win over their rival on a short week with a banged up 39 year old quarterback. I'm not try to sell the Broncos short here, but I would be SHOCKED if they won this game. This has all the makings of a beatdown. It doesn't mean the season will be a disaster, but this will be a very tough game for Denver to win-especially after the physical nature of Sunday's win over the Ravens. Denver has won their last four games in a row at Arrowhead, but this will be a tall order.
Final Score:
Chiefs-27 Broncos-10
Final Score:
Chiefs-27 Broncos-10
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Broncos Outlast Ravens 19-13 in Season Opening Win
It was an old fashioned defensive slugfest at Mile High on Sunday, and the Broncos outlasted the Ravens 19-13 to win the 2015 season debut. This was not the same Broncos we have seen in the Peyton Manning era. This game was won by the Broncos defense, and in the process it showed the rest of the NFL what we have suspected about this version of the Denver Broncos: The defense is the strength of this team now. A late, game-saving interception in the end zone by newly acquired Darian Stewart sealed the victory as the Broncos begin the season 1-0. Here are my thoughts and observations about the game....
1) The story about this game will be about Peyton Manning. What did we see from Manning and the offense? It is indeed a work in progress. Manning's numbers were not classic Peyton type numbers: 24-40 for 175 yards, 0 touchdowns and 1 interception for a passer rating of 59.9. We saw some of the same things that troubled Manning at the end of last season: He was just out of touch on some deep passes, he missed some wide-open receivers, and he looked uncomfortable at times. He ran a bootleg on the first drive and Demaryius Thomas wide open and missed him badly. There were some good signs for Manning and the offense. He did look fine and solid at times on some throws-particularly in the middle of the field and short passes. The offense got stymied by some penalties on some drives as well. The last drive was a good drive in which they took time off the clock and moved the ball effectively enough to give them a 19-13 lead. Look, the offense is a work in progress, and I wouldn't bury Manning or the new scheme just yet. As long as Manning can remain healthy, give it some time, and I think the offense will work itself out.
2) The other parts of the offense that didn't seem to work were the lack of running game and the inability to protect Manning. It seemed like Gary Kubiak didn't even attempt to try to line up and run the ball with C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman until the last drive of the game. There wasn't the classic "Zone" style running game that we were looking forward to all offseason. They actually ran so many plays from the shotgun that it looked like the offense that Manning was running the last three years in Denver. Also, Denver's offensive line has four new starters and it showed. Manning got sacked four times and he was pressured and hit throughout. The Broncos have to get their offensive line issues fixed as soon as possible if this offense is going to get going.
3) Forget about the offense for a minute because the defense stole the show. They harassed, beat up and dominated the Ravens offense. Demarcus Ware and Von Miller were all over Joe Flacco all game long. The secondary played great, and Brandon Marshall picked up where he left off last year as he was all over the field. It seems like they are really buying into Wade Phillips new scheme. The story of this team right now is the defense.
4) After stifling the Ravens offense and Flacco through three quarters, the Broncos found themselves down 13-9 late in the third quarter. Aqib Talib made his biggest play of his Bronco career by stepping in front of a Flacco pass and picking it off and returning it 51 yards and a touchdown to give Denver the 16-13 lead. That was already one of the biggest plays of the Broncos season and we are only one game in.
5) You knew the Ravens wouldn't go quietly into the night and it took a great play by Darian Stewart to seal the victory. He literally took the ball away from Ravens TE Crockett Gilmore's hand in the end zone with time running out. It was fitting that the defense made the play to win the game.
6) Brandon McManus was great yesterday as well. He nailed four field goals including two from 57 and 57 yards. As long as he is consistent, then he will be a huge factor this season for the Broncos.
7) The debut of Gary Kubiak was good in my opinion. I thought his game management, clock management and overall decision making was fine. No issues there in Kubiak's first game as Broncos coach.
8) This was a great team win for the Broncos. No matter how you slice it, a win is a win. It was a tough game against a very good opponent. The defense played great, made the plays to win the game, and you take it and move on. You don't have to apologize for being 1-0 at this point. There are 16 teams who would like to be 1-0 at this point too.
9) This will be a tough week as Denver has to rebound quickly and play at Kansas City on Thursday night. The Broncos just played a very physical game on Sunday, there are a bunch of guys banged up and sore, and now they have to get to ready for a really tough game on a short week. This will be a very difficult game for the Broncos to win on Thursday.
1) The story about this game will be about Peyton Manning. What did we see from Manning and the offense? It is indeed a work in progress. Manning's numbers were not classic Peyton type numbers: 24-40 for 175 yards, 0 touchdowns and 1 interception for a passer rating of 59.9. We saw some of the same things that troubled Manning at the end of last season: He was just out of touch on some deep passes, he missed some wide-open receivers, and he looked uncomfortable at times. He ran a bootleg on the first drive and Demaryius Thomas wide open and missed him badly. There were some good signs for Manning and the offense. He did look fine and solid at times on some throws-particularly in the middle of the field and short passes. The offense got stymied by some penalties on some drives as well. The last drive was a good drive in which they took time off the clock and moved the ball effectively enough to give them a 19-13 lead. Look, the offense is a work in progress, and I wouldn't bury Manning or the new scheme just yet. As long as Manning can remain healthy, give it some time, and I think the offense will work itself out.
2) The other parts of the offense that didn't seem to work were the lack of running game and the inability to protect Manning. It seemed like Gary Kubiak didn't even attempt to try to line up and run the ball with C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman until the last drive of the game. There wasn't the classic "Zone" style running game that we were looking forward to all offseason. They actually ran so many plays from the shotgun that it looked like the offense that Manning was running the last three years in Denver. Also, Denver's offensive line has four new starters and it showed. Manning got sacked four times and he was pressured and hit throughout. The Broncos have to get their offensive line issues fixed as soon as possible if this offense is going to get going.
3) Forget about the offense for a minute because the defense stole the show. They harassed, beat up and dominated the Ravens offense. Demarcus Ware and Von Miller were all over Joe Flacco all game long. The secondary played great, and Brandon Marshall picked up where he left off last year as he was all over the field. It seems like they are really buying into Wade Phillips new scheme. The story of this team right now is the defense.
4) After stifling the Ravens offense and Flacco through three quarters, the Broncos found themselves down 13-9 late in the third quarter. Aqib Talib made his biggest play of his Bronco career by stepping in front of a Flacco pass and picking it off and returning it 51 yards and a touchdown to give Denver the 16-13 lead. That was already one of the biggest plays of the Broncos season and we are only one game in.
5) You knew the Ravens wouldn't go quietly into the night and it took a great play by Darian Stewart to seal the victory. He literally took the ball away from Ravens TE Crockett Gilmore's hand in the end zone with time running out. It was fitting that the defense made the play to win the game.
6) Brandon McManus was great yesterday as well. He nailed four field goals including two from 57 and 57 yards. As long as he is consistent, then he will be a huge factor this season for the Broncos.
7) The debut of Gary Kubiak was good in my opinion. I thought his game management, clock management and overall decision making was fine. No issues there in Kubiak's first game as Broncos coach.
8) This was a great team win for the Broncos. No matter how you slice it, a win is a win. It was a tough game against a very good opponent. The defense played great, made the plays to win the game, and you take it and move on. You don't have to apologize for being 1-0 at this point. There are 16 teams who would like to be 1-0 at this point too.
9) This will be a tough week as Denver has to rebound quickly and play at Kansas City on Thursday night. The Broncos just played a very physical game on Sunday, there are a bunch of guys banged up and sore, and now they have to get to ready for a really tough game on a short week. This will be a very difficult game for the Broncos to win on Thursday.
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