Broncos Zone

Broncos Found Great Production and Value in Miller, McGahee and Harris

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:43:00 +0000

On Monday afternoon, Patrick Smyth, the Denver Broncos Executive Director of Media Relations tweeted that the Broncos were the only team in the NFL sending a 2011 draft pick (outside linebacker Von Miller) and a 2011 free agent signee (running back Willis McGahee) to the 2012 Pro Bowl, highlighting the Broncos excellent personnel transactions last off-season.

From the draft, to signing undrafted rookies, to signing free agents, the Broncos front office - consisting of John Elway (VP), John Fox (HC) and Brian Xanders (GM) - worked hours-on-end to find the right fits for the team, at the right price. The team's first postseason appearance since the 2005 season can be considerably contributed to the remarkable job done by Denver's new front office.

In addition to the acquisitions of Miller and McGahee, the Broncos also brought in several other players that contributed greatly last season, including rookie defensive back Chris Harris, who was named to the 2011 All-Rookie Defensive Team. Overlooked by every other team in the NFL, the Broncos brought Harris to training camp as an undrafted free agent.

After looking at the salaries* of Miller, McGahee and Harris and reviewing their production, it appears that Denver hit the jackpot last off-season. According to RotoWorld.com, Miller is under a four-year contract worth $21 million dollars. Running back Willis McGahee also has a four-year deal, worth $9.5 million. Finally, defensive back Chris Harris has a three-year, $1.398 million dollar agreement with the club.

If you total up the averages, the Broncos are paying each of those players an average of just over two and a half million dollars ($2.697M) per season. To compare the Broncos salary and production numbers, we totaled up and averaged the contracts of the first defensive player selected after Miller last April (Marcel Dareus), a free agent running back similar to McGahee based on his age and production a season ago (Joseph Addi), and another underrated rookie defensive back performing well (Richard Sherman).

The average contract of those three players (Dareus, Addi and Sherman) was nearly three and a half million dollars ($3.44) per season. Below, we'll compare the player's numbers to see what kind of value the Broncos received.

Miller, a second overall draft selection, had a historic season in Denver, tying the franchise record for the most sacks by a rookie in a single season (11.5). Miller was a disruptive force as a pass rusher and against the pass, recording 64 tackles and 19 tackles for a loss. Named to the 2012 Pro Bowl, Miller cost the Broncos approximately $5.25 million last season.

In comparison, Dareus was drafted third overall by the Buffalo Bills in last years draft and had a similarly productive season, although not one as dominating as Miller's. Finishing the season with 43 tackles and 5.5 sacks, Dareus cost the Bills approximately $5.1 million in 2011.

Based on productivity, team-impact and salary, it is clear that the Broncos made the right selection in Von Miller over Marcell Dareus. Many scouts do not expect to see another player of Miller's mold come around for a long time.

Moving on to the running back position, Willis McGahee had a role on Denver's offense much like Miller had on the Broncos defense last season. The leading rusher of the NFL's best rushing attack in 2011, McGahee finished the season with 1,199 yards on the ground and scored five touchdowns. Selected to the 2012 Pro Bowl, McGahee cost the Broncos approximately $2.375 million for his 2011 services.

A fellow 2011 free agent signee, Indianapolis' Joseph Addai did not fair quite as well as McGahee. Affected by the Colts historically horrendous season, Addai finished the season with 433 yards on the ground and scored one touchdown. Costing the Colts approximately $4.667 million, Addai brought less production than McGahee in 2011, at a higher price tag.

Finally, Broncos defensive back Chris Harris made waves in the NFL as an undrafted rookie, performing better than most of the cornerbacks that were drafted a year ago. Coming in with Denver's nickel defensive package, Harris totaled 72 tackles, defended 16 passes and recorded an interception. Highly praised by Denver's coaching staff for his superb tackling skills, Harris cost the Broncos roughly $465,000 in his rookie season.

Comparable to Harris is Seattle defensive back Richard Sherman, who was drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round. Statistically, Sherman had a great rookie season, recording 55 tackles, defending 17 passes and notching four interceptions. Sherman, a player that appears primed to continue to make big plays in his career, cost the Seahawks approximately $375,000.

The Broncos found great value through rookies and veterans last off-season, both through the draft and free agency. In order to return to the playoffs in 2012, Denver will have to find similar success this off-season by finding players that can contribute to the system at a better-than-average price.

* All of the contract details mentioned above are unofficial and do not include signing bonuses or escalators. To approximately find what each player was paid last season, we divided their entire salary by the number of years they are under contract.

Video: Every Rushing Score of Tebow's NFL Career

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:08:00 +0000

In approximately 115 games dating back to his high school football days, quarterback Tim Tebow has rushed for 7,020 yards and 131 touchdowns in his career. Those are some impressive numbers.

That's 61 rushing yards per game and 1.14 rushing touchdowns per game — from a quarterback. To put those numbers in perspective, Broncos running back Willis McGahee has played in 120 games in his NFL career and has rushed for 61 yards per game and .5 touchdowns per game.

McGahee is Pro Bowl running back that led the Broncos with 1,199 yards on the ground this season. Tebow is a quarterback that plays like a fullback.

If Tebow can hone his throwing game to match the effectiveness of his rushing abilities—it looks like he is making progress—he could become one of the most dominating players in the history of the NFL.

Dolphin Fan's Reaction to Tebow Mania

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:48:00 +0000

By: Kevin English

Let me start by saying I was a huge Tim Tebow fan when he was at the University of Florida. The guy was a winner. He was (and is) tough as nails. He gave you no reason to dislike him.

When he transitioned to the NFL, I thought his chances of developing into a respectable NFL signal caller were slim. The offense he was coming from, his accuracy – I know you guys have heard it a thousand times by now. Ultimately, I thought he was an elite college player. But I (like millions of others) felt his time in the spotlight was coming to an end.

While he’s certainly struggled at times during his two years in the league, I’m convinced he can have success long term. Sunday’s game – albeit just 1 game – impressed me beyond belief. If he can conquer that defense in the pressure packed playoffs – one still rock solid despite the absence of guys like Ryan Clark and Casey Hampton -- he can do it against anyone.

The thing that’s most intriguing to me is how Tebow doesn’t have to be particularly accurate to win games. He completed an ugly 46.4% of his passes in the regular season, and completed just 10 of 21 attempts Sunday. But for the most part, the guy doesn’t turn the ball over. And that’s huge. He also has a knack for the big play, which leads me to my next point.

Offensive coordinator Mike McCoy should be aggressive, and Tebow should be completing bombs down the field. I won’t pretend that I’ve watched every game Tebow’s started, but I have watched several (including Sunday, and unfortunately, one of Tebow’s comeback victories… over my Dolphins).

Over and over again, I see how easily defenses bite on his play-fakes. Really, they have every right to. After all, Tebow’s best strength remains his legs. Throw in Willis McGahee’s resurgent season and a cohesive run blocking line, and you have even more reason as a defense to focus on the run.

Oh, and there’s that part about defenses not respecting his left arm… What results are some pretty sweet matchups for Tebow. Man coverage across the board, sometimes with a single high safety. Usually no complex reads to be made, no need for Peyton Manning-like audible at the line of scrimmage. Just take the snap, drop back, and find the open man.

Of course, he’s got to make the throw. But it’s hard to understate just how much the threat of Denver’s ground game opens up a world of possibility for the aerial attack. If Demaryius Thomas, Eddie Royal and company can step up going forward, I don’t think there’s any reason he can’t go for another 300+ yards with a couple scores against an underwhelming New England defense.

So congrats Broncos fans on your team pulling off one upset. I might have to order my own #15 jersey if they pull off another one against a Patriot team all of Dolphin nation despises…

Kevin English is a blog contributor for Gold Star Games, a one-stop-shop for tailgating games and much more.

Clutch: Broncos' Kicker Matt Prater

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:42:00 +0000

Clutch (adj.): Tending to be successful in tense or critical situations.

That is the one word that can precisely describe the season—and career—that Broncos fifth-year kicker Matt Prater has had. In critical situations with the game on the line, Denver's placekicker has come through time and time again.

When the NFL announced last year that kickoffs would be moved up from the 30 yard line to the 35 yard line for safety reasons, it made kickoffs easier for Prater, but he was not thrilled about the ruling.

“I don’t like it because kickoffs have always been an area where I can separate myself from other guys in the league,” Prater told Naples News in October. “Now a lot of guys are kicking touchbacks because it’s so much easier. I almost wish it was still from the 30.”

Despite the rule change, Prater still owned the best touchback percentage during the regular season, booting 47-of-his-69 kickoffs for touchbacks (68.1%), proving he has one of the strongest legs in the league. With opponents rarely able to return kicks, the Broncos didn't allow a single return for a touchdown in 2011, which tied for first in the AFC.

As important as they are, kickoffs were not what defined Prater's 2011 season. Clutch field goal attempts were. Prater's right leg— especially at home, in the Denver's mile high altitude—has been a weapon that has served the Broncos offense well.

"There's no doubt his leg strength is a weapon, in particular here at home with the altitude," Broncos Head Coach John Fox said back in December. "He's been great, he's been clutch."

Prater converted 6-of-7 field goals in five games during the final month of the season, two of them longer than fifty yards. The NFL noticed, and Prater was named the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Month for the second time in his career.

After converting all four of his attempts in the fourth quarter or overtime during the regular season, Prater brought his career conversion rate to 28-of-29 in those circumstances. Near perfect in crunch time, Prater made 19-of-his-25 (.760) field goals during the regular season with a long of 59 yards.

When the Pittsburgh Steelers come to Sports Authority Field on Sunday, the Broncos can secure their first playoff victory since 2006. If the situation is right (Denver has the ball in the closing minutes of a close game), Prater may get the chance to win a game for the fifth time this season.

“He could line up from 65-yards out and there’s no doubt,” Broncos receiver Eric Decker said in December. “When you get to 70, maybe he’d be close [to not nailing it through].”

Why Quarterback Tim Tebow Is Fueled By FRS®

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:55:00 +0000

Broncos second year quarterback Tim Tebow has had an endorsement deal with FRS^® Healthy Energy since his rookie season in the NFL, and has become the face of the healthy energy drink product.

By why did he choose FRS^®? Because FRS^® is the only drink on the market that uses Quercetin as its main ingredient, which makes it more of a wellness drink than an energy drink—eliminating the possibility of a crash.

Tebow—who is very conscious about maintaining a healthy lifestyle—has used the product since he broke records at the 2010 NFL Combine two years ago.

“I use their products regularly and can honestly say that I believe FRS^® has helped me perform at my best on and off the field,” said Tebow when his partnership with FRS^® was announced.

Knowing of the benefits of FRS^®, we are giving you a chance to sample a twelve (12) pack of FRS bottles (your choice of flavor) and two (2) packages of FRS Chews for FREE on our Facebook page.

To enter to win on Facebook, just 'Like' this photo, 'Like' FRS Healthy Energy and check out their website. We'll announce a winner next Monday (1/9/11).

Wednesday Practice Notes: Safety Dawkins Held Out

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:11:00 +0000

The Denver Broncos returned to the practice field on Wednesday, veteran safety Brian Dawkins (neck) was again absent. Fullback Spencer Larsen (knee sprain) was also held out of practice.

Dawkins has missed the team's last three games, all of which Denver lost. Larsen was injured last week against Kansas City.

Broncos rookie fullback Austin Sylvester is expected to make his NFL debut on Sunday if Larsen is not able to play. Recently signed offensive lineman Ryan Harris could also make his 2011 debut with the Broncos on Sunday, providing depth to the Broncos offensive line.

Harris and linebacker Brian Iwuh, whom the Broncos signed on Tuesday, have been assigned jersey numbers 72 and 59, respectively. Iwuh most recently played with the Chicago Bears as a special team's player.

Kickoff on Sunday at Sports Authority Field is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. (MT). The game will be broadcast on CBS.

Broncos vs. Steelers TiqIQ Tickets — Pick Your Price

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:36:00 +0000

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Broncos Win AFC West, Postseason-Bound

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 18:58:00 +0000

The Denver Broncos finished the 2011 season with an 8-8 record and won the AFC West, despite losing in their final three matches. Denver will host the 12-4 Pittsburgh Steelers next week at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in the first round of the playoffs.

Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. (MT) and the game will be broadcast on CBS. A win on Sunday would mark the Broncos first playoff victory since 2006.

Five weeks into the regular season, there were few that thought the 1-4 Broncos would make the playoffs. Under the direction of Head Coach John Fox, the team would go on to win seven of their eleven remaining games, marking the first time in franchise history that a coach has led the team to a division title during his first season.

"We're AFC West champs. It doesn't matter how you do it," Fox said Sunday evening. "Once you get into the dance, they can't kick you out, so what we do with it we will be determined here next weekend."

They can't kick you out, but you have to win in order to advance. If they do not perform better than they did on Sunday against Kansas City, Denver will not last long in the playoffs, and they know it.

"To play the way we did... It's not going to cut it (in the playoffs)," said cornerback Champ Bailey after the game. "To go into the playoffs with losing the last three games, it sucks. But, we’re in it. We just have to keep preparing, stay positive and move on.”

There were positives to take away from the team's 7-3 loss on Sunday; the team broke a franchise record with 2,632 yards in a single season. A large chunk of those yards (1,199 of them) came from the legs of veteran running back Willis McGahee, who seven times topped the 100-yard rushing mark this season, which tied for the NFL lead.

“We didn’t do a good job. You can run the ball and get three or four hundred yards. But, we didn’t get a touchdown running the ball," a frustrated McGahee said following the season finale. "It’s over with now, and we’ve got a big game coming up this weekend.”

If the Broncos are going to have better success going forward, second year quarterback Tim Tebow will have to start performing at a higher level. After winning seven of his first eight starts in 2011, Tebow has lost three straight games and has had seven turnovers in those games.

“Well, obviously when you lose it’s just not good enough, and for me it wasn’t good enough,” Tebow said. “I just have to get better and learn from my great coaches and just come out next week and try to be a better quarterback, a better leader and be a better player.”

Tebow's teammates are confident that their quarterback will get back on the right track.

“He’s not going to have a great game every week, so that’s our job to give him a pat on the back like, ‘Man don’t worry about it. That’s behind us. We’re in the playoffs. Start fresh come this week,’” said McGahee.

Injuries: Broncos offensive guard Chris Kuper will miss the playoffs with a broken leg, and Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall will miss Sunday's game with a knee injury.

Broncos' 2012 opponents announced: Next season, the Broncos will face the Browns, Steelers, Saints, Buccaneers, Texans, and their AFC West rivals at home. On the road, Denver will play the Ravens, Patriots, Falcons, Panthers, Bengals, Chiefs, Raiders and Chargers.

For up-to-the-minute Broncos news and notes, 'Like' Broncos Zone on Facebook.

2011: Year of the NFL Pass Rusher

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:44:00 +0000

Due to recent rule changes in the NFL designed to protect receivers and quarterbacks, the league has become a passing-friendly league, which has resulted in a pass rushing-friendly league as well. As more and more teams take to the air, opposing defenses are doing whatever it takes to get to the quarterback.

As a result, three players have recorded 17.0 or more sacks this season, as opposed to zero last year and one in 2009. Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller and defensive end Elvis Dumervil have combined for 21.0 sacks this season, with 9.5 of them coming from Dumervil over the past eight weeks.

On Sunday in Denver, two of the AFC's top rushers — Miller and Kansas City's Tamba Hali — will face off a month before playing as teammates in the NFL's Annual All-Star Game in January. If the Broncos win on Sunday, they'll clinch the AFC West and their first post-season appearance since the 2005 season.

The winner of Sunday's game may be the team that applies the most pressure on defense. During Denver's five game winning streak from Week 9 through Week 13, Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow was sacked six times. Over the past three weeks, Tebow has been sacked 13 times and Denver has gone 1-2.

When the Broncos started the year 1-4, quarterback Kyle Orton was sacked nine times. Over the past two weeks, Orton has been sacked just once and the Chiefs have gone 1-1, defeating the Green Bay Packers before losing to the Oakland Raiders a week later in overtime.

The Broncos and Chiefs — as well as every other team in the NFL — perform best when their quarterbacks are protected. When Denver and Kansas City met in Week 11, the game was somewhat of a run-fest. While the same may be true this week, the team that disrupts the opposing quarterback the most will come out on top if recent trends continue.

When the Broncos were defeated in Buffalo last week, it marked the first time in Tebow's career that he had lost back-to-back games as a Pro — he has never lost three consecutive games.

“At the end of the day it comes down to beating the man across from you and us executing well,” Defensive end Robert Ayers said on Wednesday. Ayers has recorded career highs in sacks this season (2.0), benefiting from Denver's disruptive pass rush.

Last season, the Broncos recorded a league-low 23 sacks. This season, under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, Denver's defense has recorded the seventh most sacks (40), following Dumervil's return from injury and the arrival of Miller via last April's draft.

Forcing Orton to make mistakes and preventing Tebow from committing mistakes will be Denver's keys to victory on Sunday. A victory over the Chiefs or an Oakland loss will win the division for the Broncos.

For up-to-the-minute Broncos news and notes, 'Like' Broncos Zone on Facebook.

Bailey, Miller and Dumervil Selected to 2012 Pro Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 04:23:00 +0000

On Tuesday afternoon in Dove Valley, the Broncos were informed that three Denver defenders have been selected to the 2012 NFL Pro Bowl.

Cornerback Champ Bailey, rookie outside linebacker Von Miller and defensive end Elvis Dumervil will fly to Honolulu, Hawaii this January to participate in the game, marking Bailey's NFL-record eleventh selection, Dumervil's second and Miller's first of many more expected Pro Bowl seasons to come.

“It’s always exciting when you have guys going to the Pro Bowl,” Executive Vice President of Football Operations John Elway told DenverBroncos.com on Tuesday. “They’re three guys that are very deserving.”

Running back Willis McGahee, left tackle Ryan Clady and safety Brian Dawkins were announced as first alternates. If a player at their respective position cannot play in the NFL's annual All-Star Game, McGahee, Clady and Dawkins will be the respective replacements.

Quarterback Tim Tebow, punter Britton Colquitt and kicker Matt Prater are second alternates. Among Denver's alternates, Tebow seems to have the best shot of making the Pro Bowl — as fellow AFC quarterbacks Tom Brady and Ben Reothlisberger may not play in the game due to possible Super Bowl appearances and injury concerns.

The 2012 Pro Bowl will be played at Aloha Stadium on Sunday, January 29th and will be broadcast on NBC. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. (ET).

Brady has Respect for Broncos' Tebow, Defense

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 21:37:00 +0000

Every NFL quarterback has a team that haunts him his entire career. For New England Patriots three-time Super Bowl Champion quarterback Tom Brady, the Denver Broncos may be that team.

In six career games against the Broncos, Brady has a win-loss record of 1-5 (1-6 if you include the playoffs) and a stat sheet of 134-of-236 (56.8%) for 1,517 yards and ten touchdowns against five interceptions. Against the Broncos, Brady's 96.2 career passer rating drops to 81.5.

Needless to say, Brady has had little success against the Broncos in the past, and respects the team. On Sunday in Denver, Brady will face off against the Broncos again, and second-year quarterback Tim Tebow.

“They play for 60 minutes. They’ve obviously closed a lot of games and finished very well. We have a huge test. We’ll all be excited, and hopefully have a good week of preparation and be ready to go,” Brady said earlier in the week.

Brady only had praise for Tebow, “Everyone says he struggles throwing the ball. What I saw [Sunday] night, he had no problems throwing the ball,” Brady said. “He threw the ball extremely well when I was watching.”

History may be on their side (Denver owns a 25-16 all-time record against New England), but the Broncos are taking this week's game extremely seriously, with as much respect for Brady — if not more — than Brady has for the Broncos.

"(The Patriots) are a very potent offense," Fox said. "They're a very good football team, that's why they're 10-3. They've got world championships. They're well-coached. They have outstanding personnel. There's no doubt it will be a big test."

To try and slow down Brady and the Patriots potent offense, Denver will frequently blitz star linebacker Von Miller, who leads all rookies with 11.5 sacks this season.

“He’s really an impressive player. I haven’t seen anybody any better than him on film,” said Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. “He does everything well. He plays the run well; he’s strong; he’s very explosive; he’s fast. He's as good as anybody we’ve faced all year.”

The Patriots offense is averaging 30.5 points a game this season and the Broncos offense knows that they'll have to bring their A-game.

"We want to go down and score a touchdown or get a field goal and take pressure off our defense because they have been amazing," receiver Eric Decker said. "Field position is a big part of football."

On the defensive side of the ball, New England has not been as impressive. The Patriots have allowed the most yards through the air this season (308.7 a game) and will be featuring former Bronco defenders Gerard Warren, Niko Koutouvides and Nate Jones on Sunday.

Nonetheless, the Broncos know New England's defense will show up. "We don't spend a lot of time in stats," Fox said. "You look at results, and they're 10-3 as a football team. They've done a great job with takeaways (plus-9 in giveaways-takeaways). They're a very formidable opponent."

Denver is on a six-game win streak; New England is on a five-game win streak. One of those streaks will end on Sunday. If it's the Patriots' streak that ends, the Broncos will emerge as one of the top teams in the AFC playoff race.

Bears' linebackers Keep Talking Tebow

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:34:00 +0000

Heading into last week's game against the Broncos, the Chicago Bears' linebackers sounded pretty confident in their ability to contain quarterback Tim Tebow and Denver's offense. On Sunday, the Bears' defense squandered a ten-point fourth quarter lead and lost to the Tebow-led Broncos.

So, following their 13-10 defeat, the Bears' stayed classy — or not.

"What Tebow did wasn't anything special," said defensive end Julius Peppers. Well, if leading five comeback wins in eight games is nothing special, then yes, Peppers hit the nail on the head.

Chicago's middle linebacker Brian Urlacher added, "He's a good running back." Well, 48 rushing yards isn't exactly "good running back" material, but he sure is a versatile running back. I could be wrong here, but I think Sunday was the first time in NFL history that a running back completed eighteen passes in the closing minutes of a game. We'll see if we can get that confirmed.

In response to Urlacher's comment, Tebow did stay classy. "Coming from a really good player, that means a lot," said Tebow following the game.

Bears' linebackers confident about defending Tebow

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:17:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, the New York Jets will talking smack about the Broncos option offense and quarterback Tim Tebow leading up to their Week 11 game in Denver. From the linebackers to the defensive backs, it seemed like everybody had something to say about Tebow.

“We know what they’re doing," cornerback Darrelle Revis said in November. "And we feel comfortable in our game plan.” That week, Revis and the Jets lost to the Broncos by a score of 17-13 when Tebow lead the Broncos offense 95-yards for the game-winning score — on national television.

This week, the Chicago Bears are singing a similar tune.

"If we lost to Tebow, I would be freakin' pissed," said Bears linebacker Lance Briggs on Thursday before adding, "we’re going to have to stop that crap." Fellow linebacker Brian Urlacher noted that Tebow isn't as athletic as Michael Vick; Briggs added that Carolina's Cam Newton is much faster.

"It’s not a lot of adjusting for us,” said Urlacher. "Carolina ran a similar offense." In Week 4, the Bears defeated the 34-29 in overtime. Newton — the player that Chicago's defenders insist is much more explosive than Tebow — scored three touchdowns that day.

Several times this season, Tebow has tweeted a Bible reference prior to kickoff. This week, we suggest Proverbs 16:18.

200+ Tickets Still Available to Bears @ Broncos Game

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 23:55:00 +0000

Looking for a last minute ticket to the Denver Broncos game this week against the Chicago Bears? Our partners at TiqIQ have you covered.

The average ticket price for Sunday's Week 14 match up at Sports Authority Field is $311.27, but TiqIQ's tickets are starting at $136. TiqIQ's official NFL TicketExchange inventory consists solely of E-Tickets so you can be sure you can get a guaranteed great deal right up until game time.

The Broncos will be looking for their sixth straight win and seventh win in eight weeks against the Bears, find great seats to the game here. The Broncos haven't beaten Chicago since the 1996 season, and look to change that this week.

Kickoff is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. (MT) and the game will be broadcast on FOX.

Broncos' rookie LB Von Miller expects to play Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:46:00 +0000

Broncos' rookie linebacker Von Miller had to watch from the sidelines last week as Denver defeated Minnesota for the team's fifth straight win. This week, Miller hopes to be back on the field.

At practice on Thursday, Miller (thumb), safety David Bruton (Achilles) and offensive lineman Ryan Clady (knee) were all limited. While receiver Eddie Royal (concussion) and running back Willis McGahee (knee) did not participate.

McGahee however says he will play. "It's good, I'm good," McGahee told the Denver Post. "Everything is good."

On Sunday, Denver will face off against the Chicago Bears at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. (MT) and the game will be broadcast on FOX.

Broncos Fans Can Be Part of History on Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:34:00 +0000

Tied with Oakland for the division lead in the AFC West, the Denver Broncos (7-5) look to extend their five-game winning streak when they return home to face the Chicago Bears (7-5) on Sunday, December 11th. Kickoff for the game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High is set for 2:05 p.m. (MST).

Since second year player Tim Tebow was named the starting quarterback, the Broncos have gone 6-1 and are on a historic run. Over the past five weeks, Denver has entered the fourth quarter within three points of their opponents — only two other teams have ever had such a scenario, and the Broncos are the only team in NFL history to win five straight games in that manner.

On Sunday against the Bears, the Broncos will be looking to put themselves in the history books again, by beating Chicago for the first time since the 1996 season. Since Tebow took over, the average price of tickets to a game at Sports Authority Field have gone up 47%, as is illustrated below:

There are still good deals available, despite the price jumps. Fans can be apart of history on Sunday by purchasing tickets through the NFL's TicketExchange. Our partners over at TiqIQ have an official NFL TicketExchange inventory that's all E-Tickets so you can be sure you can get a guaranteed great deal right up until game time. Check out their official inventory here.

The Broncos swept November going 4-0 in the month for the first time since the 2005 season — in which they made it all the way to the AFC Championship game. The Broncos are currently 1-0 in the month of December with three games remaining. A perfect December run would put the Broncos at 11-5 and lock up a playoff birth.

First things first though, the Broncos have to focus on the Bears this week before thinking about the playoffs. A win over the Bears would probably come in historic fashion, if it follows the trend in Denver this season.

In Tebow's first start against the Dolphins, the Broncos became the first team in NFL history to win a game after trailing by 15 points or more with less than three minutes to play. Since then, Tebow has seemingly broken or tied a quarterback record each and every Sunday.

Nobody knows what's in store for Sunday's game. Those at the game however have a good chance of witnessing history.

Again, find great seats for great prices at TiqIQ's TicketExchange inventory.

Foxball: Run; Defend; Win

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:40:00 +0000

The style of football John Fox has brought to the Denver Broncos is nothing new in the NFL, although some analysts may think so. Since second year quarterback Tim Tebow took control of the offense, the Broncos have become a ground and pound team — ranking first in the league in rushing and getting after opposing quarterbacks on defense.

Successfully operating a run heavy, option oriented offense, quarterback Tim Tebow has taken criticism for only completing 45.5% of his passes. Some have questioned how far the Broncos rushing attack and formidable defense can take them, pointing out that all the "contenders" in the NFL have a talented throwing franchise quarterback.

Fox however, has won before using the same formula Denver has installed.

"It's a proven formula in this league," said Fox on Monday. "It just takes awhile to implement."

In 2003, Fox was a second-year head coach of the Carolina Panthers and took the team deep into the post season using the same philosophy he has installed in Denver. That season, the Panthers scored 20.3 points per game and rushed for 2,091 yards.

The Panthers quarterback, Jake Delhomme, completed 59.2% of his passes that season and turned the ball over 22 times yet still managed to lead the team to an 11-5 record due to a consistent rushing attack and reliable defense. The Panthers made it all the way to Super Bowl in 2003, only to lose 32-29 in overtime to the New England Patriots.

This season, since quarterback Tim Tebow was named the starter, the Broncos have scored 19.3 points per game and rushed for 1,248 yards. Tebow meanwhile has only completed 47.1% of his passes but has also only turned the ball over twice — twenty times less than Delhomme, albeit in fewer games; Tebow has done a great job of protecting the football this season.

In order to completely emulate the Panthers 2003 season, Denver would have to win out, by finishing 11-5 and winning their division. That seems unlikely, but the AFC West crown is not yet out of reach.

At 6-5, the Broncos are just one game behind the division leading 7-4 Raiders. Coming off an undefeated November run in which they defeated all three of their division rivals on the road in a four week stretch, the Broncos have built up confidence heading into December.

The remaining five teams Denver will have to play include the Vikings (away), Bears (home), Patriots (home), Bills (away) and Chiefs (home). If the Broncos can win four of their remaining five and the Raiders lose at least one game in the same time period, Denver could be headed to the playoffs for the first time since the 2005 season.

Foxball has won the Broncos five of their last six games. Only time will tell how much farther it can carry them.

Kansas City claims quarterback Kyle Orton off waivers

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 22:12:00 +0000

On Tuesday, the Denver Broncos waived veteran quarterback Kyle Orton, ending his stint with the team. According to a league source, Orton and his agent, David Dun, requested that the Broncos waive Orton after learning that Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler broke his thumb last week.

The Broncos obliged, and placed Orton on waivers. The Bears, Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs all placed waiver claims on Orton. The Chiefs were awarded Orton because they had the worst record of the three teams that placed a claim.

Orton struggled early in the season, throwing eight touchdown passes and seven interceptions while going 1-4 through Denver's first five games. Against the San Diego Chargers in Week Five, Orton was benched at halftime in favor of second year quarterback Tim Tebow.

Tebow rallied the Broncos to a narrow 24-29 defeat and has kept the starting job. Since the loss to the Chargers, Tebow and the Broncos have gone 4-1; San Diego has gone 0-5. The Broncos play San Diego again this week, on the road.

The Chiefs found themselves in need of a quarterback after starter Matt Cassel broke his hand, an injury sustained when his hand was wedged between his chest and the helmet of Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller on November 13th. On Tuesday, the same day Denver waived Kyle Orton, the Kansas City placed Cassel on injured reserve.

Orton will return to Denver on January 1st when the Chiefs play the Broncos in Week 17. The game could have playoff implications, as both the Chiefs and Broncos are in the thick of the AFC West race.

Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn are now the only two active quarterbacks on Denver's roster. Undrafted rookie Adam Weber is also on the practice squad, and may be activated by the club.

Fans Vote Willis McGahee Broncos' Mid-Season MVP

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 23:53:00 +0000

Halfway through the 2011 season the Denver Broncos are sitting at 3-5 and just one game back in the AFC West. This week seems like a good time to hand out mid-season awards.

We asked fans on our Facebook page who they thought was the Broncos Most Valuable Player through the first eight games and the vote was almost unanimous. Broncos veteran running back Willis McGahee received nearly 64% of the votes. Receiver Eric Decker and rookie linebacker Von Miller came in second with approximately 13% each.

Here's a quick look at each of the players nominated:

Running back Willis McGahee.

McGahee, a nine year veteran, has started six games this season and rushed for an NFL-best average of 103 yards in those games. Despite suffering a broken hand two weeks earlier, McGahee gashed the Oakland Raiders defense on Sunday for 163 yards on the ground Sunday and scored two touchdowns in the process. Heading into this week's game in Kansas City, McGahee has rushed 123 times for 623 yards (5.1 average) and scored four touchdowns on offense this season.

Wide receiver Eric Decker.

After catching just six passes in his rookie season, receiver Eric Decker has emerged as the Broncos -- and quarterback Tim Tebow's -- favorite target in the passing game. Starting in five games, Decker has caught 33 passes for 406 yards and six touchdowns, which is the second most among receivers in the NFL this season. Decker has also returned five punts for 128 yards and another scoring, bringing his touchdown total to seven this season.

Linebacker Von Miller.

The second overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, rookie linebacker Von Miller has been everything the Broncos could have hoped he would be. Miller has started in every game this season and his 6.5 sacks are tied for the most among rookies this season and is the second most by an AFC defensive player. Miller has also recorded 31 tackles and two forced fumbles this season, playing better each and every week.

Punter Britton Colquitt.

Entering his second season as the Broncos full-time punter, Britton Colquitt is playing like a Pro Bowler. Punting 44 times this season, Colquitt is averaging 49.8 yards a punt (3rd best in NFL), averaging 43.1 net (3rd best in NFL) and has a long of 66 yards (10th best in NFL). His 2,192 yards and 1,895 net years rank fourth and fifth respectively. Colquitt has also had eleven of his punts fair caught (due to good hang time) and has landed ten of his punts inside the twenty yard line. Colquitt has played a big part in the Broncos success on special teams this season.

Quarterback Tim Tebow.

Named the starting quarterback four weeks ago, Tim Tebow has gone 2-1 over the past three weeks and played a big role in the Broncos rushing attack. Starting in the last three games, Tebow has gone 45-of-97 for 536 yards and six touchdowns (against one interception) and rushed 38 times for 277 yards and another score. The Broncos can only go as far as Tebow can take them. With Denver just one game back in the AFC West, Tebow may be able to take the team to the playoffs this season.

Cornerback Champ Bailey.

A ten-time Pro Bowl selection, Champ Bailey was the final candidate nominated by Broncos Zone. Playing in five games this season (starting all of them), Bailey has recorded 16 tackles, four passes defended, intercepted two passes and forced one fumble. An anchor on Denver's defense, Bailey has been his usual self this season -- dominant.

Those were the nominations, here are the results in the voting:

"He gives the offensive side of the ball a ground game that none of the other RB's on the roster can seem to supply in his absence," said Broncos fan Paul Hesketh. The stats verify Hesketh's comments, as third year running back Knowshon Moreno has only been able to produce outputs of 22 and 69 yards in two games McGahee has missed this season.

"McGahee's currently 9th in the league in rushing yards, and I think if he can stay healthy might even crack the top five when the regular season is over," noted Hesketh. McGahee is on pace for 1,246 yards this season, which would make him the first Broncos running back to rush for 1,000 yards or more in a single season since Tatum Bell did it in 2006.

"No one saw this kind of performance coming," added Edgar Luna, a member of the U.S. Army. Though many fans may not have foreseen Willis' productive season, McGahee did. Before signing with the club in the offseason, McGahee told his agent that he saw Denver as a place where he could re-emerge as a starting running back again. Seven starts and over 600 yards later, McGahee is making fans "glad Denver got him!"

Stephanie Krizman commented that with the addition of McGahee, the Broncos running game is making a comeback, and Jose' Archuleta added that McGahee has been the most consistent player on offense each week.

"I haven't seen a smooth running back like McGahee in a long time here in Denver," said Nik Persons. "He has great balance and patience, and even at 30 years old, still has that speed that NFL running backs need." The Raiders defense can certainly attest to that.

Find Broncos Zone on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.

Film Study: Broncos' Read Option Stumped Raiders

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 19:15:00 +0000

When Broncos second year quarterback Tim Tebow was named the starter three weeks ago, Denver's coaching staff quickly adjusted the offense to fit his style of play. One of the plays that offensive coordinator Mike McCoy and quarterbacks coach Adam Gase implemented in the offense was the read option run.

Knowing that Tebow's legs are more of a threat to opposing defenses than his arm, the Broncos used the play several times successfully in Miami against the Dolphins in week seven before the Detroit Lions contained the play last week in Denver. Against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, the Broncos offense executed the play to perfection and ran for 298 yards on the ground.

The play is a simple one and is run by high schools and colleges across the country on a regular basis. In the screenshot below, you'll notice that the offensive linemen block down and the quarterback rides the hand off. The key to the play is the quarterback's ability to read the outside linebacker.

If the outside linebacker bites on the run and crashes down, the quarterback keeps the ball and runs (see below).

The Broncos ran the play several times early in the game and each time Tebow gave it to running back Willis McGahee and the play resulted in minimal gains. When Tebow pulled the ball and ran for the first time, the result was a 30+ yard gain.

After the outside linebackers realized that Tebow was a threat to run on the play, they started playing their outside contain responsibilities better, which opened running lanes for McGahee.

The Broncos ran the play seventeen times in all, with McGahee rushing for 125 yards off of twelve carries in the read option, including his 60 and 23-yard touchdown runs. Tebow kept the ball three times for 68 yards and reserve back Lance Ball saw two carries for three yards.

Denver is now 3-5 and just one game behind in the AFC West. The Broncos will travel to Kansas City (4-4) to take on the Chiefs next week and will play the Chargers (4-4) in San Diego three weeks from today. If the Broncos play as well against the Chiefs and Chargers as they did in Oakland on Sunday, they could find themselves back in the AFC West race very quickly.

Adjusting the offense to fit their players' skill sets played a huge role in the Broncos success on Sunday. It will be interesting to see what the team has planned for future games and how defense are able to defend the read option run down the road.

Field images were courtesy of Getty Images; screenshots courtesy of the NFL/CBS Sports.

Join linebacker Wesley Woodyard for an MVP Dinner benefiting his 16Ways Foundation on Nov. 1st

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:46:00 +0000

On the field, Denver Broncos fourth year linebacker Wesley Woodyard is a special teams captain and tackling machine, leading the team with 43 stops through five games this season.

Off the field, the former Kentucky Wildcat is one of the more active players in the community. In 2010, Woodyard was the Broncos recipient of the Walter Payton Man of the Year honor, an award that recognizes players that personify leadership on and off the field and who have demonstrated significant impact through community service.

Since his rookie season in the NFL (2008), Woodyard has been a role model in the community, from supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver and the NFL's Play 60 movement to participating in the team's annual Shop With A Bronco holiday program for children.

Most recently, Woodyard has founded 16Ways, a foundation which supports at-risk youth and their families with the goal of helping youth achieve the highest academic and social success. On Tuesday, November 1st, Wesley Woodyard will host an MVP dinner to benefit the 16Ways Foundation at Sullivan's Steakhouse in Denver.

Woodyard will be joined by several teammates (who are still to be announced) at the dinner and is inviting everyone in the Denver area to join them for a five star, four course meal and silent auction benefiting the 16Ways Foundation.

The dinner will be held at 7-10 p.m. (the doors will open at 6:30 p.m.) and space is limited. Tickets to the event, which are inclusive of tax, gratuity and Valet, are $250 a person, with all of the proceeds going to Woodyard's foundation.

Sullivan's Steakhouse is located at 1745 Wazee Street, Denver Colorado, 80202.

For more information on the event, email 16Ways@mvpdinners.com or visit the event's website. For reservations call (424)-256-2022. Woodyard and his teammates will be attending to benefit the youth, will you?

Game day images of Woodyard were provided courtesy of Paul Cloud Photography.

Broncos' Tim Tebow named starting quarterback

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 16:44:00 +0000

Denver Broncos head coach John Fox announced on Tuesday that Tim Tebow will start at quarterback against the Miami Dolphins following the team's bye week.

“I think (being) 1-4 has a lot to do with it," said Fox on Tuesday following practice. "We haven’t gotten it done as a football team—it’s not one guy. It’s not all Kyle Orton’s fault, but we do have to make adjustments and we do have to change. We have to do something to win football games.”

Active for twelve career games, Tebow has thrown for 733 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions, while rushing for 264 rushing yards and seven touchdowns (which the second-most rushing touchdowns by an active quarterback since 2010).

“I’m just very honored to get this opportunity," said Tebow on Tuesday. "I’m very excited. I’m just blessed to be a Denver Bronco, and to go out there and play for this organization is truly a privilege.”

The Broncos decision couldn't have come at a better time for Tebow, who will have extra time to prepare for the Dolphins during the bye and have two receivers back from injury. Second year wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, who has been explosive when healthy, is expected to be back and slot receiver Eddie Royal is also hopeful to be back from a groin injury.

Joining Royal and Thomas as Denver's four main receivers will be Pro Bowler Brandon Lloyd and second year star Eric Decker, who is having a career year.

“One thing you can’t take away from him is that heart, that emotion," said Decker. "That’s something he carries on his sleeve and brings every day to work. He’s a guy that won’t be outworked and that rubs off on people. It might not be the most conventional way but he finds a way to get it done.”

Decker is not the only one that has noticed Tebow's overachieving style of play.

“He’s going to do whatever it takes. He’s going to work harder than anybody else and he’s going to make sure he does what needs to be done to be successful,” said linebacker Joe Mays.

Tebow's throwing motion and passing game in general have been under heavy scrutiny, but if he is able to wins games, his teammates and coaches will be satisfied.

“Some people may call him unorthodox, but at the end of the day he gets the job done. When his number is called he’s always looking to go out there and perform and make plays.”

There are certain rules about what players can and cannot do during a bye week, but thanks to modern technology, Tebow will be able to study up on the Dolphins defense for the next two weeks.

“That’s a great thing about iPads. You can put all the film on there now. So, it’s good.”

Images used in this article were provided courtesy of Paul Cloud Photography.

Tebow's 2nd half comeback against San Diego falls just short

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:32:00 +0000

Trailing the San Diego Chargers 23-10 following halftime on Sunday, Denver Broncos head coach John Fox sent second year quarterback Tim Tebow out on the field to lead the offense.

The move came after weeks of fans chanting for Tebow and continued mediocre play from starting quarterback Kyle Orton. On Sunday, Orton seemed out of rhythm from the start, leading several 3-and-out drives and throwing an interception.

The defense had been on the field for much of the first half but was still able to hold the Chargers high powered offense to field goal attempts on three drives which could have resulted in twenty-one points. In the second half, Tebow was aided by the defense which stepped up, allowing just two more field goals and forcing two turnovers.

On his first few series, Tebow struggled, throwing several passes at the feet of open receivers. Once he started playing his game however, Tebow warmed up and the offense rallied behind him. Tebow finished the game 4-of-10 for 79 passing yards with six carries for 38 yards and two touchdowns (one rushing, one passing).

Tebow benefitted from the outstanding play of running back Willis McGahee, who finished the game with 125 yards off of 16 carries. Fellow running back Knowshon Moreno also made Tebow look good taking a screen pass 28 yards for a score. The offensive line also did a nice job of giving Tebow relatively good protection.

The Broncos were just one two-point conversation away from tying the game at 26 late in the fourth quarter. Star receiver Brandon Lloyd, who hauled in an incredible sideline catch earlier in the scoring drive, couldn't hold on to Tebow's two point conversation attempt and the Broncos ultimately fell to the Chargers by a score of 29-24 (following another Chargers field goal).

Although it was a loss, the game gave hope to Broncos fans across the country. For a change, Broncos fans actually had exciting football to watch and felt like the team had a chance to win down to the last second.

The Broncos have a Bye week next followed by a Week Seven match in Miami against the Dolphins. Speculation is that the Broncos will keep Tebow the starter moving forward. Coach Fox hasn't made any official announcement as of now, but we expect one to be coming soon.

For up-to-the-minute updates on the quarterback situation, follow Broncos Zone on Facebook.

Don't throw in the towel on the Broncos' season

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:48:00 +0000

A popular cliché in the football world goes something like: It's not how you start, but how you finish (just ask the 2009 Denver Broncos, 2007 New England Patriots and 2010 Green Bay Packers). After four weeks of play, the Broncos are 1-3 and near the bottom of their division, but the season is far from over.

Denver has played four good football teams this season. Through the first four weeks of play, the Broncos opponents have gone 11-5.

Against the Oakland Raiders in week one, Broncos fans were disgusted to see quarterback Kyle Orton sacked five times and Oakland's Darren McFadden run all over Denver's defense. The game however was no fluke for the Raiders -- who are 2-2 after falling to the New England Patriots on Sunday -- as Oakland's defensive line has played dominantly this year, recording eleven sacks (compared to their opponents two) and McFadden is leading the NFL in rushing.

When the Broncos faced off against the Cincinnati Bengals in week two, Denver got their sole win of the season against a rebuilding Bengals team. Though many fans feel Denver should have blown the Bengals away, Cincinnati is an improving team and rookie quarterback Andy Dalton has been playing extremely well. On Sunday, the Dalton-led Bengals upset the undefeated Buffalo Bills.

When the Broncos traveled to Tennessee to take on the Titans in week three, Denver simply couldn't win the game in the end. The Titans however, are standing at 3-1 atop their division behind quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who is well on his way to having a career season. It's not as if the Broncos lost to a bottom of the barrel team in week three.

On Sunday, the Broncos ran into a Green Bay Packers team that was simply the better football team. Denver was over matched from the get go and they were never expected to pull off a victory on the road in Green Bay. With that said, the Broncos, despite having four of their drives end in turnovers, scored 23 points against the Packers high-ranked defense. Had the Broncos scored 23 points against the Raiders, that game would have gone into overtime. Had the Broncos scored 23 points against the Bengals, they still would have won. The story stays the same against the Titans, Denver would have won if they had scored 23 points.

Granted, everything mentioned above doesn't change the fact that the Broncos are 1-3, but the season is not yet lost. Broncos fans have been spoiled with two World Championships, six Super Bowls appearances, eight AFC Title Games, ten AFC West Titles, seventeen Playoff Berths and twenty-four winning seasons. We can't abandon our team when the going gets tough, the Broncos are going through a rebuilding process, and there is hope for the future.

The Broncos defense will have cornerback Champ Bailey back from injury next week, along with defensive end Elvis Dumervil and linebacker D.J. Williams, who each missed at least two of the team's first three games. Joining the veterans on Denver's defense is rookie linebacker Von Miller, who has looked about as impressive as any rookie defender to come around in a long, long time.

Over the past three games, Miller has consecutively recorded at least one sack and has totaled four through the first four games, which is the most ever recorded by a Broncos rookie through the first four games of a season. Thus far, Miller has recorded sixteen tackles, four sacks, two passes defended and two forced fumbles. Each and every week Miller has improved; he is going to be the cornerstone of this defense for years to come.

On the offensive side of the ball, there are several more young players that have shown great potential. Receiver Eric Decker has been on fire, scoring five touchdowns through the first four weeks of play, which is the first time a Broncos non-running back has done so since Steve Watson in the 1981 season. Thus far, Decker has caught 20 passes for 270 yards and four receiving touchdowns. Decker looks to provide a solid receiving option for the Broncos for many years to come.

The season is still young, Denver still has twelve games left to play. Up next is a home game against the San Diego Chargers. Let's see how the Broncos fair against a division rival this week before giving up on the entire season. Starting 1-4 would be a rough start, but a 2-3 start would not be unacceptable from a rebuilding team that has had a hard schedule.

On a different note, the Broncos announced on Monday that the NFL has approved the team's request to wear its orange jerseys as the primary home jerseys beginning in 2012.

Broncos aiming to upset the Packers this week

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Heath) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:32:00 +0000

The Denver Broncos (1-2) will travel to Green Bay to take on the defending Super Bowl Champion Packers (3-0) this week. Kickoff at Lambeau Field on Sunday, October 2nd, is schedule for 4:15 p.m. (ET).

The game will be broadcast by CBS's Jim Nantz and Phil Simms, and will be aired across most of the country. The game is not thought of as a must-watch (the Broncos are 14-point underdogs), but America is certainly interested in following the reigning Super Bowl Champions.

Just over a decade ago, the Broncos were 14-point underdogs against the Packers in Super Bowl XXXII.

A lot of things have changed in Denver and Green Bay since then, but at least one aspect of Sunday's game will be similar to the 1998 Super Bowl: Green Bay's potent passing attack.

The Packers' Aaron Rodgers comes into Sunday's game having thrown for 917 yards, eight touchdowns and just one interception this season. Green Bay's offense has been next to unstoppable.

Fortunately for the Broncos, their defense has been playing much better than it has in previous seasons, and the Packers defense is susceptible -- especially against the pass. The Packers defense has allowed 359.3 passing yards per game, giving them a second to last ranking in the NFL in that category.

That's the good news for Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton, who's played inconsistently in recent games. Orton has reliable targets in veteran receiver Brandon Lloyd and rising star Eric Decker. On paper, Orton seems primed to have a solid performance.

The bad news for Orton is Green Bay's outside linebacker Clay Matthews. The Broncos offensive line has been struggling this season, allowing 8 sacks and 13 quarterback hits, while Matthews has recorded 12 tackles and a sack. Denver's offensive line will have their hands full on Sunday. Expect the offense to get at least two players on Matthews every time his rushes the passer.

Teams have "double teamed" Matthews this season and limited his effectiveness, much like Denver's opponents have keyed on Broncos rookie outside linebacker Von Miller. Despite drawing a lot of attention from offensive lines, Miller is one of just two players in the league (Baltimore's Terrell Suggs) to have recorded at least 10 tackles, two sacks and two forced fumbles in September.

The Broncos are hopeful that Miller will be joined by fellow pass rusher Elvis Dumervil this week, who is recovering from a shoulder injury and hasn't played since being limited against the Raiders on opening weekend. When healthy, Dumervil is one of the most effective edge rushers in the NFL. If he is able to play on Sunday and pressure Rodgers, the Broncos defense would benefit tremendously.

Another starting defensive player that is battling an injury is cornerback Champ Bailey (hamstring), who could end up being one of the most important players on Sunday for Denver. Without Bailey, the Broncos secondary has struggled against the pass the previous two weeks and blown coverage has accrued more than once.

If the Broncos are going to slow down the Packers pass-happy offense, they'll have to play close to mistake free. Having perennial Pro Bowler Champ Bailey in the secondary would be a huge boost for the defensive unit.

If the Broncos are able to upset the Packers on Sunday, it would mark their 400th franchise victory and bump their all time record against defending Super Bowl champions to 16-10.

If you live in the Wisconsin area, you may want to check out tickets to the game on our TiqIQ widget. The average price of tickets to the game is $274, with prices starting at $174. View more tickets and prices by clicking here.