Pro Bowl, AFC 41 - NFC 55

For those that didn't know the Pro Bowl was played today in Hawaii and two Broncos players participated. The game though was a highlight reel of interceptions and defensive touchdowns as both teams went for high scores. In total 96 points were scored in this game. MVP DeAngelo Hall had one of his team's five interceptions and returned a fumble 34 yards for a touchdown to help the NFC match a Pro Bowl scoring record in a 55-41 victory over turnover-prone AFC in a game not nearly as interesting as the final score might suggest.

AFC quarterbacks Philip Rivers, Peyton Manning and Matt Cassel each threw first-half interceptions as the NFC blew open a 42-0 lead in a performance ugly even by the historically low standards of this game. This what we have come to expect from Rivers and Cassel, how did Cassel even get selected to the Pro Bowl?

Fittingly for this strange contest, center Alex Mack of Cleveland scored the final touchdown with 16 seconds to play on a 67-yard pass play that featured two laterals. I told you this game was all about highlights as there was no real intensity in this game at all. 

Carolina's Jon Beason returned the fifth interception thrown by the AFC, and second by Matt Cassel, 59 yards for the NFC's final touchdown to match the single-team scoring record set in the NFC's 55-52 victory in 2004.

The Broncos plays on the other hand didn't offer much. Champ Bailey played well but then again there was no real defense, bummer he didn't get a pick six, he finished with 4 tackles. Then there was Brandon Lloyd who started off strong but then faded dropping passes and missing catches. Could be because of the terrible QB play? Or the fact Lloyd didn't want to catch passes from Rivers and Cassel. Lloyd finished with 1 catch for 15 yards.

That is it in the news as the season starts to wind down and the Broncos news drys up. Not much will happen in the next week and stuff slows down after the Superbowl to the Combine. I will post stuff up if it is news worthy or interesting but if there isn't anything happening not many posts will come about. I guess I will see everyone after the Superbowl and the Combine. ~ Aussie.

Coaching Staff and Champ to the Pro Bowl

Unlike I thought in the previous post the Broncos staff wasn't complete. Instead they added two more coaches to the staff and have now rounded out and completed the coaching roster. Assistant special-teams coach Keith Burns had been retained and Sam Garnes had been hired as the team's assistant secondary coach. Garnes was on Fox's coaching staff in Carolina last season.

Fox had also interviewed former Titans defensive coordinator Chuck Cecil in recent days as a potential candidate to help coach the safeties, but he hired Garnes. Cecil had been fired by the Titans shortly after the season.

Burns was one of the first Broncos assistant coaches to interview after Fox was hired and had been expected to be retained. Burns, a Broncos player for 11 seasons, has been on the Broncos' coaching staff for four years.

The other really big Bronco news is the Champ Bailey is going to the Pro Bowl. Champ Bailey is headed to Honolulu to replace Nnamdi Asomugha at cornerback on the AFC roster. Bailey’s 10th trip to the Pro Bowl marks the most in league history by a cornerback.

He joins fellow Bronco Brandon Lloyd on the squad, marking the 22nd consecutive year the Broncos have had multiple Pro Bowlers.

The now 10-time Pro Bowler and member of the NFL All-Decade team for the 2000s is currently tied for sixth all-time among Broncos players with 30 interceptions with the club.

Bailey is tied for fifth in team history with six Pro Bowl selections as a Bronco and he now holds the record for most Pro Bowl selections for a Cornerback with 10.

That is all from me, stay tuned for more ~ Aussie.

Broncos Complete Coaching Staff

As the title suggests the Broncos have finished putting together their staff for the upcoming season and are now down at the Senior Bowl having a look at the senior prospects. The Broncos rounded out their staff with the addition of 3 more coaches, this included the most important coach, the Defensive Coordinator.

The Denver Broncos hired the New Orleans secondary coach Dennis Allen to be our defensive coordinator.

Denver also hired linebackers coach Richard Smith and linebacker coach Ron Milus. Both Smith and Milus were with John Fox in Carolina. Fox has now brought five of his Carolina coaches with him to Denver. The pair both coached in Denver under Mike Shanahan and Smith was a defensive coordinator in the NFL.

Allen, 38, is beginning his first stint as an NFL defensive coordinator. He is considered one of the bright young defensive minds in the league and in addition to Smith, Allen can also rely on Fox as he grows into his new job. The Broncos hope Allen will bring stability to a unit that has had six different coordinators in six seasons.

This season, the Saints ranked fourth in the league in pass defense, one of just five teams to hold opponents to less than 200 passing yards per game.

In 2009, he coached a group of defensive backs that posted 20 interceptions -- five of which were returned for touchdowns -- in the regular season.

The 10-year coach also spent two seasons as an assistant defensive line coach for the Saints, and his group combined for 48.5 sacks, 10 forced fumbles and 10 fumble recoveries during that stretch.

It will be interesting to see what the Broncos Defense will become as a move back to the 4-3 seems very likely. Fox has previously said he was open to running either a 4-3 or a 3-4 defensive front scheme. The key I believe to the switch will be finding to effectively use of Elvis Dumervil who has a huge contract. Dumervil was much more effective in the 3-4 at OLB then he was at DE in a 4-3. He has been known to struggle against the run in the 4-3 and was played mostly in only passing situations. It will be interesting to see how they use him and what look the Broncos use because his huge contract will be an issue (can't buy a DE that much just for passing downs).

The other coaches, Milus is an 11-year NFL coaching veteran. His previous stops include Arizona (2003), the New York Giants (2004-05) and St. Louis (2006-08). He also spent nine years in the college ranks, including eight at Washington.

Smith has coached in the NFL for 23 seasons. He was Houston's defensive coordinator from 2006-08, and held the same position at Miami in 2005.

Smith was the Broncos' special teams coach from 1993-96 and also coached linebackers from 1993-94.

The complete Broncos Coaching Staff can be found here ~ Aussie.

On a side note comments are still playing up, so comment when you can.

Superbowl XLV Preview

Well everybody the teams have been decided for Superbowl XLV. Both the teams that made it through were the teams that I expected to make it through. The Steelers and Packers won their respective games today and will play in a few weeks to decide who is the champ for the 2010-2011 season.

The Steelers did it pretty easy against the Jets today 24-19, even though they had a bit of a late collapse against the Jets in the second. The play of the Steelers' defense to get turnovers that ended up in points really helped them. Plus a strong game from QB Roethlisberger got them over the top against a Jets team I dislike and believe is overrated. The Steelers didn't get out of the game unscathed though. Center Pouncey suffered a ankle injury early in the game.

Pouncey had to be helped off the field after Jets linebacker Bryan Thomas got pushed back into him. He rolled over the back of Pouncey's leg on a 7-yard pass from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to Hines Ward to the New York 1. Pouncey put no weight on the ankle as he hopped off the field with the aid of two trainers. He was later carted to the locker room where CBS cameras showed Pouncey walking with the aid of crutches

If the Steelers are forced to play without Pouncey it would be the latest blow to a patchwork offensive line. Jonathan Scott has started at left tackle since mid November for regular starter Max Starks, who was placed on injured reserve. Right guard Willie Colon, the team's starter since 2007, was placed on injured reserve before the season began. Second-year player Ramon Foster and veteran Trai Essex have combined to fill in. Through it all, the Steelers allowed 32 sacks on quarterback Roethlisberger in the regular season.

This is where the Packers step in. The Packers took on a Bears outfit that didn't show up with any offense, Cutler was dismal, Collins was dismal, Hanie was OK and lead a late charge but was no star. And the Packers got the win 21-14, after also jumping out to a two score lead. The Bears defense played well though and I feel for guys like Briggs and Urlacher who play their hearts out. The Packers out matched the Bears greatly and I believe are the better of the two teams heading into the Superbowl.

The Packers were also helped in this game by the fact Cutler suffered a knee injury, which has since brought his toughest into question. But the Packers advance with a very good defense that evenly matches with the Steelers and both were good at getting points from turnovers.

The only down side from the Packers winning is that it means the Broncos will have to wait until after the Superbowl to interview DL Coach Trgovac for the DC job here at the Broncos. I personally think Trgovac is the best available DC left unless we go for a 3-4 guy like Mangini.

The injuries to the Steelers O-Line could be an concern with the Packers having one of the better defensive fronts, Clay Matthews anyone. So it will be a long day for Roethlisberger in the pocket at the Superbowl. This match will be evenly matched and there isn't much of a weakness on either team, but I think it is time Rodgers stepped out of Favre's shadow and create his own legend.

Packers by 10 ~ Aussie.

Broncos News - 22nd January

Hey everybody how has it been. It has been a quiet few days in Bronco Country as we are still awaiting the final announcement of coaching staff for the new season. Two new coaches were added to that list, but one of the most important parts is still missing and that is the defensive coordinator. But more on that later.

First off the new coaches, on Thursday the Broncos announced Jeff Rodgers will serve as special teams coordinator in 2011, while Adam Gase will stay with the team but as the quarterbacks coach not the wide receivers position he held last year.

Rodgers joined the Panthers in 2009 as the team's special teams and strength and conditioning assistant before earning the promotion. Before arriving in Carolina, he spent one season as the special teams coach at Kansas State and five seasons working with San Francisco's special teams unit.

Under Rodgers, Carolina's special teams unit showed double-digit improvement in its league rankings last season for several categories, including kick return average and opponent's kick return and punt return average. The Panthers ranked sixth in the NFL in opponent average starting field position after a kickoff in 2010.

Rodgers, whose older brother, Jay, will serve as a Broncos defensive quality control coach in 2011, began his NFL coaching career working with San Francisco's special teams unit. With the 49ers, he helped punter Andy Lee and long snapper Brian Jennings earn Pro Bowl berths. DB.com

Defensive Coordinator

There are probably only two candidates left that the Broncos are looking at. That is Dennis Allen and  Mike Trgovac.

Allen, who has been with the Saints for five years and spent four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, has also coached the defensive line in his time as an NFL assistant. Allen currently works under Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.

During Allen's time with the Falcons current Broncos general manager Brian Xanders worked in the Atlanta front office as well. Allen is the second candidate to interview for the position, following Jim Mora. Mora was offered the job, but declined, to some cheering from Broncos fans.

Allen is also interviewing for the Eagles DC job.

It is not known if Fox will wait to interview one of his former Panthers assistants, current Packers defensive line coach Mike Trgovac. Trgovac was Fox's defensive coordinator in Carolina for six years.

If the Packers lose Sunday afternoon, the Broncos can formally request permission, by letter, as early as that evening to interview Trgovac. However, if the Packers win the game, the Broncos would have to wait until after the Super Bowl is played on Feb. 6 to interview Trgovac, who is Green Bay's defensive line coach.

Fox has said he wanted to have his staff in place to attend next week's Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, Ala., as well as meet together with the Broncos scouting staff for the first time, so waiting for Trgovac may not be an option. DP.com

Good Reads
Have a read of this link, it is questions asked by fans that GM X-man answered, click here.

Brandon Lloyd
After a season in which he became the first Bronco to lead the league in receiving yards and earned his first Pro Bowl selection, Brandon Lloyd has a chance to add to his list of accolades — with help from fans.

The wide receiver is one of five finalists for the fourth-annual Vizio Top Value Performer award. Fans can vote for Lloyd through midnight on Sunday.

Lloyd enjoyed a breakout season in 2010, finishing with 77 catches for 1,448 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also led the NFL by averaging 18.8 yards per catch. Those totals were all career single-season bests for the eight-year veteran.

This year’s other nominees for the award, which was created to honor the player who has most exceeded expectations relative to his contract, are Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw, Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson, Browns running back Peyton Hillis and Steelers linebacker Lamarr Woodley.

Vote Here, Top Performer.

Anyway that is it from me, I leave you with this question, who do you want for DC? ~ Aussie.

FYI - comments don't seem to be working, I will keep you posted.

FYI - comments are working now.

Bronco News - 19th January

What up my Bronco loving brothers and sisters? I thought I would do a quick post to update the current Bronco related news around the league. First off lets start with Jim Mora Jr. After all the speculation about Jim Mora becoming the Broncos defensive coordinator today, it just might not happen. Jim Mora is expected to go to Philadelphia where he will interview for their defensive coordinator position.

This is not to say that a deal with Mora "will not happen". There's always the possibility that Mora will search out other options before he decides if Denver is the best fit, and signs a deal later on. But Mora did spend the better part of 24 hours in Denver meeting all the staff and touring Dove Valley.

The Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals are both rumored to be interested in Mora. Mora is a DC that has an interesting or checked past in the league and many fans have said no to Mora, so it is yet to be seen what will happen as the options at DC are starting to get a bit lean.

In other news two of the Broncos former coaches have found jobs. First McD has accepted the OC job with the St Louis Rams and he hopes to shape Bradford into a good QB. The other coaching news is that
Former Broncos special teams coordinator Mike Priefer has agreed to terms with the Minnesota Vikings to run their special teams units.

Priefer, a respected special teams coach around the league, was with the Broncos for two seasons after three seasons in Kansas City. He has also been on the coaching staffs of the New York Giants and Jacksonville Jaguars during his time in the NFL.

The final piece of news I have is about Brandon Lloyd. Lloyd earned an escalator in his contract that upped his 2011 salary from $795,000 to $1.4 million.He got the pay increase for making the AFC's Pro Bowl roster. Lloyd is still vastly underpaid based on his 2010 numbers, so he may angle for a renegotiation of his contract this offseason. In his career season, Lloyd caught 77 balls for 1,448 yards, and 11 touchdowns. His previous highs were 48, 733, and six. Lloyd will turn 30 in July.

Also thought this was an interesting read and you should check it out.
Paige: Read between lines, it's Tebow

Thats all, catch you guys around ~ Aussie.

News and Coaching Staff Update

Hey everybody, how is Bronco Country? Been getting through the week OK? Well I thought it was time to do an update on the Broncos situation. As it stands now John Fox is still putting together his staff for the coming season. There are a lot of names floating around at the moment and a number of current guys will be retained. But we should know the full staff in a few days. As the staff wants to be ready and at the Senior Bowl in a little over a week, I believe Bowlen is sending everyone to the Senior Bowl at great expense. Below though is the information that I have gathered and what looks to be close to what the staff will be.

Fox’s long-time right-hand man, Jim Skipper, could be on the way to Denver. The veteran running backs coach told The Charlotte Observer said he didn’t know what his exact role would be, but that “It looks like I’m going to get (to Denver) in some capacity.” The story also indicated that five members of Fox’s final staff in Carolina could be headed for the Broncos.

The same report from the Observer indicated that Denver defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely could be heading to the Panthers to work under new head coach Ron Rivera. Nunnely and Rivera worked together on the Chargers’ staff in 2007 and 2008. Also there are reports that Nunnely may stay and work under Fox, coach Wayne Nunnely has spoken with Fox about staying on the staff, but this is still up in the air.

Fox has spoken with offensive coordinator Mike McCoy. It isn't official but it looks like McCoy may be staying in Denver. McCoy reportedly interviewed with the Cleveland Browns and has been speculated to be a candidate with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Among the coaches in line to be on Fox’s staff other than Mike McCoy (offensive coordinator) will be Eric Studesville (running backs), and likely Adam Gase, who would move from wide receivers to quarterbacks (Bye Ben McDaniels).


Fox is expected to bring several of his assistants from Carolina as well, a list that is expected to include his assistant head coach Jim Skipper, as stated above(he coached running backs in Carolina but role in Denver is not yet defined), special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers, wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert, offensive line coach David Magazu and DBs coach Mike Gilhammer are also possibilities.

The most important hire though would be that of the new Defensive Coordinator. There has been speculation that Jim Mora Jr will be the next DC, but he is also looking at the same position with the Eagles. Which was recently emptied when Sean McDermott was fired, McDermott is now the front runner to become the next DC for the Broncos. Here is a link with a bit of information on McDermott. This is also interesting about McDermott.

Danny Smith from the Redskins is a possibility as Special Teams coach.

That is it on the Coaches front. The only piece of news or information that I have is this article I came across, it is an interesting read. John Elway and the Front Office.

Other than that who do you want to see in the Superbowl? For me Packers-Pittsburgh ~ Aussie.

John Fox Announced as Denver's New Head Coach

The Denver Broncos have very suddenly announced their new head coach, former Panthers coach, John Fox.

I'm really surprised they chose someone this quick and not conducting anymore interviews. Not really sure about the choice either. I was really becoming certain Dennison would be chosen. I guess I just didn't expect them to make a decision so quickly especially since Fox' interview was just yesterday.

But they have made their decision and so here we go with another wild offseason ahead of us. I need to have this choice sink in before I can really say anything of value. For now, I will say its a weird choice and in my opinion, too sudden but I'll trust the new front office and pray to God they made the right choice.

Here are the details & quotes straight from DB:

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- With an eye on bouncing back after a 4-12 season in 2010, the Broncos have turned to a coach with a track record of doing exactly that.

On Thursday, John Fox agreed to terms to become the 14th head coach in Denver Broncos history.

"I am very thankful to (Owner and CEO) Pat Bowlen and (Executive Vice President of Football Operations) John Elway for giving me the opportunity to coach a football team with such a proud tradition," Fox said. "The Broncos have a culture of winning, and I am excited to continue that legacy.

"I can't wait to get to work, pushing our players to be the best they can be and representing this community as head coach of the Denver Broncos."

The man who took over a 1-15 Carolina Panthers club in 2002 and two years later led the team to the Super Bowl has a chance at a similar turnaround in Denver.

"It was very similar, a second (overall) pick, much the same situation," Fox told reporters at Denver International Airport before heading to Dove Valley for his initial interview. "I think I have a blueprint that we executed in Carolina, and I don't see any reason why it can't work here in Denver."

Fox's first year in Carolina resulted in a six-win improvement, and the team's run to Super Bowl XXXVIII the following season put the head coach in select company -- he joined Vince Lombardi and Bill Parcells as the only coaches in NFL history to inherit a one-win team and lead it to the playoffs two years later.

In his first eight seasons in Carolina, the Panthers averaged nearly nine wins a season, including three years with 11 or more wins. By the end of his nine-year tenure, he was the winningest head coach in Panthers history and had led the team to three playoff appearances, one NFC Championship, two NFC South titles, two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. His ninth season ended with a 2-14 record and his overall mark as a head coach stands at 73-71.

The Panthers won five playoff games under Fox, including four consecutive on the road, which tied Tom Landry's record as coach of the Dallas Cowboys. Eleven Panthers made the Pro Bowl under Fox's tutelage.

"Coach Fox is a great fit for us not only with his coaching ability but also with his personality -- he's a dynamic and proven leader," Elway said via Twitter. "He's coached great defenses, turned teams around and been to Super Bowls. We couldn't be more excited to have him lead our football team."

Fox described himself as extremely competitive, passionate and enthusiastic, and said he hopes to be able to inject that attitude into Dove Valley alongside Elway.
"Much like I think as I watched John (Elway) and his dad in their careers, both in coaching and in playing, I have that same shared passion, and I think it's a good match," Fox said prior to his interview.

The Broncos' newest head coach said he is excited about the prospect of working with Elway and General Manager Brian Xanders to come to the best conclusions for the team.

"I had that relationship with (Panthers General Manager) Marty Hurney for nine years, and I think it's imperative that you do that," Fox said. "You've got to be arm-in-arm. You can't have egos involved -- who gets the credit, who gets the blame -- it's shared amongst the top and that's how you go about your business."

Prior to coaching in Carolina, Fox served as defensive coordinator for the New York Giants from 1997-2001. With Fox at the defensive helm, the Giants notched 230 sacks, which ranked third in the NFL during that stretch. In addition, New York amassed 153 takeaways, resulting in a plus-25 turnover differential that ranked third in the NFC and fourth in the NFL over the period. His defense helped pave the way to an appearance in Super Bowl XXXV against the Baltimore Ravens by shutting out an offensive-minded Minnesota Vikings team in the NFC Championship game.

His previous coaching experience includes 12 more positions in a 17-year span, which began in 1978 when he was a graduate assistant at San Diego State University and went on to include positions with four other NFL teams.

"I've been doing it," Fox told reporters of his coaching history. "I have a plan, whether it's a bye week schedule, a training camp schedule. It's not my first rodeo, so to speak. So, I think I do have a blueprint to do it. We've had success, some years more than others. But the full body of work I think holds a blueprint for success."

Next up for the Denver... get a new & more solid coaching staff and prepare for the 2011 NFL Draft.

Congrats to Fox for earning the job. Bring this team back to life, PLEASE!!!!!!!

Updates:

Fox now will fill out his Broncos coaching staff, and former Seattle Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons coach Jim Mora is candidate to be defensive coordinator, a league source told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora. Before becoming a head coach, Mora was the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers from 1999 to 2003. He's now an NFL Network analyst.

La Canfora reports, via a league source, that Washington Redskins special teams coach Danny Smith is a candidate to be the Broncos' special team coach.

Fox asked the Redskins for permission to interview Smith last year, when Fox was seeking a new special teams coordinator in Carolina at the time. The Redskins blocked the request, according to sources, but Smith declined to sign an extension with Washington and will be in essence a coaching free agent.

Fox also has strong ties to Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy, as McCoy worked for Fox in Carolina.

McCoy already has a year working with Tim Tebow, which is vital at this point, and it would be logical for Fox to keep some of the offensive staff in place after a productive offensive season and with Tebow's development so vital to the organization.

"Mora has head coaching experience and Fox has recently been in contact with him. Fox wanted to hire Smith last year and Skins blocked it. But Smith did not sign an extension with the Skins and would be a free agent. Would be the makings of a strong staff."

Fox's thoughts on Tebow:
"[Tebow] had a very, very good workout, He doesn't lack in the work ethic department, so whatever needs to be done, he'll do. I definitely saw some adjustment and I thought he executed very well." He said later that Tebow is "a guy that has a great work ethic ... that if there's something that needs to be fixed, he can fix it." Asked about his talent compared to his intangibles, Fox referenced another quarterback who was overlooked by some. "Did you ever watch Bernie Kosar play?" Fox said at a league meeting last year. "Bernie might not appreciate it, but I call it as I see it. He won a lot of games. So it's not all just how pretty they are [or] how big."

Fox said he wouldn't have a problem if the Broncos want to stick with the 3-4 defensive scheme they've employed since 2009 even though he mostly used a 4-3 look in Carolina.

Check Out:
Broncos Organization Structure

Coaching Search - Fox

Hey everybody how is it going? The search for the new Head Coach in Denver I think is coming to a close. The Broncos interviewed their fifth and probably final head coach John Fox today. There is a video on DB.com with a little of an interview with him. With Fox interview today it probably marks the end of the head coaching search depending on if they still want to interview the OC from the Falcon Mike Mularkey or the DC Dom Capers of the Packers. Both of these guys teams face off on Sunday, and depending on which one the Broncos like they may wait to then (depending on who loses). But they may already have their guy so an announcement could come as soon as next Tuesday. Now though lets have a look at John Fox.

Coaching Search

John Fox is the former Head Coach of the Panthers, who this year finished with the worst record in the league, one below us. Fox as a person is a great leader, is well driven and knows how to run a football team. He is the most experienced head coach of all the candidates that have interviewed for the position. Andrew Mason at MaxDenver.com said that "John Fox made sure everyone got the details right.", for more check out the article.

John Fox has done well over the years with a poor team that has struggled to draft good talent year in and year out. Compared to a Broncos team that has a lot of potential. Fox knows how to motivate players and tries to get the best out of them.

The one problem and major issue I have with Fox is he lacks vision. He sticks to his plan of an aggressive defense and an offense that runs the ball and is conservative. His teams don't have flare and imagination on offense and I think that may clash with Tim Tebow. I think Fox can do well with the Broncos even a few playoffs but we will never be great under him until he learns more about offensive and learns to adapt. That is why I say no to John Fox (sorry).

Insight into Cox.

Thought this was a good read for information into the situation about the chargers Perrish Cox is facing.

Have a good one folks ~ Aussie.

Coach Search continues and News

Well the coaching search continued today with Dennison and Koetter coming in for a interview for the head coaching position. John Fox is scheduled for tomorrow and Gregg Williams has turned down the job preferring to stay with the Saints. So I guess lets have a look at the two guys that interviewed today for the job. I am basing my opinion on the two videos of each candidate and a few other things that I have read.

Coaching Search
Rick "Rico" Dennison was the first to interview today, and I believe he probably is going to be the next head coach, he makes a lot of sense for the job. Dennison has been around and with the Broncos for a long time. And he said it best, he bleeds Orange and Blue. He only lacks head coaching experience. He comes across as a strong man who is professional and understands what he is walking into. Dennison is the prospect that interests me the most.

Dirk Koetter was the second candidate to interview today. Koetter is probably the least hyped of all the candidates. He was the head coach of Boise State and then Arizona state, therefore he has head coaching experience at the college level. But as the OC of the Jaguars they have done nothing overly impressive. Koetter may be a better HC then OC? But for Koetter to be selected as the new HC it would depend on the DC and OC he could bring to the Broncos. The complete package I kept talking about. But in the interview Koetter comes across as a strong leader and a complete professional. I would not be too disappointed if he was the new HC but he isn't my number one choice.

Coaching News
For the second time in as many days, former Carolina Panthers head coach John Fox had his flight to Denver cancelled because of weather issues in the Charlotte, N.C., area.

Fox will try again Wednesday morning and is now scheduled to meet with Broncos officials about the team’s vacant head coach position during the early-afternoon hours. Fox had his original flight cancelled Monday morning because of weather problems and had another flight cancelled Tuesday evening.

And as it says above Gregg Williams has turned down an interview for the head coach position of the Broncos.

News

The other news that involved the Broncos is that of Elivs 'Doom'ervil. Judge Johnny Barajas set a trial in Denver County Court after Dumervil pleaded not guilty to charges of assault and disturbing the peace. Denver Broncos star pass-rusher Elvis Dumervil will be tried April 5 on charges he allegedly assaulted a parking lot attendant at Invesco Field in October.

He has said he got into a minor altercation before the Broncos played the Oakland Raiders on Oct. 24 when the attendant didn't let him use the players' entrance because he wasn't carrying his proper credential.

That is all folks ~ Aussie.

News, Observations and Reactions

Hey everyone, how has the holidays been? Well I am back into it and been reading up on the events that I missed in the previous weeks and the things going forward. A lot of interesting stuff happening at Dove Valley these days and there are a few interesting videos over at the DenverBroncos.com homepage of the interview process with the head coaches. Well lets get into some news, a few observations I have made and what reactions I had and will open it up for discussion.

News

First off the news, as we all know now Elway has joined the front office. But the news of the day is the being of the search for the new head coach. Perry Fewell and current HC Studesville interviewed today for the head coaching position of our team. I liked what I heard from Fewell in his interview on DenverBroncos.com, I like him as a HC and would prefer him over Studes. Though Studes interview looked good as well.

The other news would be the other candidates that the Broncos are looking at. The Broncos have got permission to interview with Dirk Koetter and asked for permission to interview Rick Dennison and John Fox. I believe interviews are planned for Koetter and Dennison on Tuesday. John Fox is slated for an interview on Monday.

Elway also said the team is considering calling former Giants coach Jim Fassel, who tutored Elway in college and in the pros. "Jim is a possibility," Elway said. "I know him really well from him being my college coach and for two years here, and he definitely got some experience with the Giants. So, he's been on the list. We've thrown his name around a little bit. So, we haven't finalized anything on him." Fassel went 58-53-1 from 1997 to 2003 in New York and led the Giants to the Super Bowl following the 2000 season, but they lost to the Baltimore Ravens.

Broncos general manager Brian Xanders said Friday on Sirius/XM Radio that San Diego Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams are among those the Broncos are targeting. I have gone a little cold on Williams, he needs to teach his players to tackle.

Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey canceled his Broncos interview that was slated for Friday night in Atlanta, saying he wanted to focus on the playoffs, although he kept his scheduled interview with the Cleveland Browns on Saturday. Mularkey indicated he'd like to talk to the Broncos if the job is still open when the Falcons finish their season -- but that could be a while as the Falcons are the top-seeded team in the NFC playoffs.

That is it for the news, the search for the next head coach is under way and it will be interesting to see what happens, but lets move one.

Observations

These are a few things and thoughts that I have had while and after I watched the press conference of Elway joining the front office. If you haven't watched the hour long presser please do because there is a lot of interesting information and you can understand Elway's view on many issues. Part 1, Part 2 are here.

First off lets start with Joe Ellis. He spoke from a script and congratulated Studes on the job he had did. But to me Ellis comes across as a weak man (expands how McD wowed him). He has this sense of weakness, I don't know I just get that from him. It may be the fact he knows that the McD fiasco is on his shoulders. What you guys think?

Second we move on to Pat Bowlen, to me he seemed disinterested in the presser and at times struggled for words. But that could be put down to the fact he didn't have a script and made it all up. But he came across as tired and disinterested. Again what is your view?

Next would have to be John Elway, compared to the other two you could see the difference in his voice and the way he carried himself. It is like he is breathing live into a dieing franchise. I really liked what he had to say, he may not have the experience but he will be interesting to follow going forward. He also had a number of things to say about Tebow, all of which were good. So all this talk about Tebow being traded is false, just watch the press conference.

A few other things I have noticed is if you have watched the videos of the interview process you can notice that Pat is not involved in the interview process for the new head coach. My question is why not? Does this sort of thing bore him?

I am starting to become a fan of Dennison as head coach, as long as he brings in a good OC and DC. Here is a bit of a read up about him. Dennison, a former Broncos linebacker who appeared in three Super Bowls in his nine seasons, has coached 16 seasons in the NFL, including four as an offensive coordinator. He served as special teams coach for both of Denver's Super Bowl-winning clubs, making him a part of five of the organization's six Super Bowl teams.

In all, Dennison spent 15 seasons on the Denver staff before moving on to Houston in 2010. His 24 combined years as a Broncos player and coach represents the longest tenure in franchise history.
In his first season with the Texans, Dennison's unit finished No. 3 in the NFL in total offense, averaging 386.6 yards per game.

That included a breakout campaign for Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who became the first undrafted player since Priest Holmes to win an NFL rushing title. Led by quarterback Matt Schaub and Pro Bowl wide receiver Andre Johnson, Houston also finished fourth in passing yards per game.

In Denver, Dennison helped lead one of the league's top offensive lines from 2001-2009. In that span, the team posted four of its top-10 single-season totals for rushing yards and total offense in club history and produced five individual 1,000-yard rushing seasons by four different players.

In his third and final season as offensive coordinator of the Broncos, the team finished with 6,333 yards of total offense -- good for second in the league that year and the second-highest total in team history.

And I also dislike the idea of John Fox as HC, why hirer a coach that had the worst record this year?

Also to note, I said that the day after the Broncos played, Elway would be announced, I was a few days off. I said the day after we would know the GM, Elway announced Xanders as GM during his presser. And I said that a week after that we would have a new HC, which would be in 2 days. So since I was close but not right on those I think we may have a HC by the end of the week.

Reactions

Now I want to talk about the reactions that I had to two things and try to get your views on the situation. The first is Elway being brought in. I always liked the idea of bringing John in but I have been skeptical of what he could bring to the team. But after the presser I am completely sold, thoughts?

The other and more major issue is the role Xanders now plays. I am OK with the idea but would have liked to bring in someone more proven. But like Elway said Xanders is accountable, so he better get it right. It will be interesting to see how the next few months pan out. I for one will give Xanders the chance but I hope he does a great job for the Broncos, your thoughts?

Well that is it from me ~ Aussie.

Who Wants to Be A Denver Bronco Head Coach?

Come on down!!! lol Just a little 'Price Is Right' humor. Oke doke......

Here's an update on who the Broncos are looking to interview for their new head coach.

First off, John Elway's guy Jim Harbaugh is definitely out of the picture after he inked a deal with the 49ers. Can't blame the guy for wanting to stay close to home.

Meanwhile, the newest contestants on who wants to be an HC for Denver are Jacksonville's OC Dirk Koetter and the Texans OC Rick Dennison. On Sunday, Denver will be interviewing interim head coach/RB coach Eric Studesville (I think he'll be retained as a RB coach, I'm leaning towards Denver should be looking at more defensive minded coaches but what the hay...). Also on Sunday, the Giants' DC Perry Fewell will get his interview.

Right now, we have just four contestants. Personally, I think we need a bit bigger list. Give ourselves some options here. This was the problem last time we had to do this... Bowlen only interviewed so many people before making too quick of a snap judgment with what's his face. Won't kill anyone to get more interviews and at least say "we tried".

I think its far-fetched but wouldn't hurt to put a bug in Cowher's ear and at least ATTEMPT to get an interview. I haven't heard his name thrown in the pool at all. I don't think he'd go for it nor do I think Bowlen would be willing to pay him what he probably wants but you won't know until you try. Give it a whirl Elway... c'mon man! My word if our very own Aussie can come up with the biggest list of names for HC that I've ever seen then by George I think Mr. Elway can add a few more names to the list or at least consider more than just four.

Alright, maybe I'm being harsh or getting ahead of myself. I can't imagine Elway wouldn't attempt to call more people to ask for interviews, etc but I'm seeing little effort for what is a BIG task for this team.

The search continues and I guess I'm getting impatient & anxious, ha.... Alright, alright, I'll go chill. lol

Hall of Famer John Elway Returns To Denver!!!!!!!!!!!!!

After a crap of a season, the Broncos finally have some AWESOME news... John Elway has officially returned to the Denver Broncos!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THE Greatest QB of all time (in this #1 fan's humble opinion) has been announced at Executive Vice President of Football Operations for the Denver Broncos. Do you have ANY idea how long I've waited for his return like this?? His presence alone will make a HUGE difference for this very troubled organization, as they've only managed to go downhill in the past few years.

Things are starting to come together. We have a 100% reliable QB in Tim Tebow, he will only get better with time. He's definitely different then the rest. Different than Cutler (most of us made shameful comparisons of Cutler to Mr. Elway and it was so far-fetched, I'm sad to say I was one of them). lol Orton made an OK fill-in but every citizen of Bronco Country knew Orton wouldn't be our future like what we see in Tebow. Tebow has a legit chance of being our next best shot at a "second Elway".

Second, we got rid of McDaniels. I gave him a shot cause he deserved that much but he royally screwed up this team on so many levels by immediately getting rid of at least 1 critical player in Peyton Hillis and getting rid of so many people on the coaching staff it was ridiculous. Not to mention his questionable playcalling and much more. The only credit I will give this guy is that he drafted Tebow. Some still question that move as many thought Tebow shouldn't have been a 1st round pick but it was a smart move, nonetheless, to draft him. He gave the Broncos that much hope but oddly enough, he only played Tebow, literally, once in a blue moon. Glad to say we'll be much better off without an ex-Patriot running this team.

Third, we now have Elway back in the trenches, so to speak. Whether he's playing quarterback or running this organization from the front office, it will be exciting & a major plus for this struggling team. This offseason will be more crazy than the recent ones but with Elway in tow, at least I know we have a reliable & very well-respected man behind the scenes. He'll be able to be involved with the players and the thought of him possibly passing along any knowledge to Tebow is just what we need!!! haha Tebow in charge with the help via Elway.

Now, I know it sounds like I'm getting ahead of myself but I'm staying grounded. I know we have so much to fix within this team it will take time, trust me I know this. But let me just enjoy the fact that Elway has rejoined this once winning & successful team and the thought of what he could do for this team leads me to be more optimistic than I ever have been. This organization still has a lot on their plate... next step getting a new HC. After that hopefully a much better coaching staff that will actually help this team get back on the right track. Only time will tell how far we've come but bringing Elway on board will definitely NOT be a bad move. At least he can be trusted. So long McDoodles, hello to a bright and more successful future for Denver.

Here are the details and some quotes about Elway rejoining his team (info straight from the Denver Broncos official website):

"John Elway's leadership, competitiveness and passion for the Denver Broncos will position this team for long-term success through his work leading our football operations," Broncos Owner and CEO Pat Bowlen said. "John has won championships as both a player and executive, and his experience will be a valuable addition to this franchise. He is the perfect fit for this role, and I am excited to welcome him back to the Denver Broncos."

Elway will direct the Broncos' football operations, working closely with general manager Brian Xanders and the team's head coach while supervising the club's personnel department.

The 16-year Broncos signal caller will hold final authority over the team's football operations -- reporting directly to Bowlen and Ellis -- and will lead the search for a new head coach.

He steps into his new role after spending the 2010 season as a consultant for the team's marketing initiatives following eight seasons as a co-owner and CEO of the AFL's Colorado Crush.

He ran the Crush's day-to-day operations beginning with its founding in 2002, spearheading its football operations and maintaining a presence in all of its marketing and promotional activities. He was named the league's executive of the year in 2003, led the Crush to a World Championship in 2005 and was elected chairman of the AFL's executive committee in 2007.

"He's a very knowledgeable individual, obviously, or he wouldn't be coming back in," Brian Dawkins said. "Obviously he has a love for this organization, so you know he's going to put his best foot forward on a consistent basis to make sure that we get back to where the Broncos should be. I believe it's a positive thing, and I'm pretty sure you won't find anybody that's going to think that's a negative thing to have John back in our house."

The players in the locker room expressed excitement about Elway's involvement, and many believed his influence wouldn't be limited to the front office.

Elway, who retired as the all-time winningest starting quarterback in NFL history, spoke with the team "a couple of times" throughout the season. Most notably, he rallied the team before a game against the Chiefs in Week 10.

Denver responded with a 49-29 win.

"The guy, he's everything to this franchise," Mario Haggan said at the time. "I think he's probably the most popular guy ever for this franchise and to see him around, to have him talk to us and everybody was at attention -- the respect that he demanded -- everybody got down on a knee and listened to what he had to say. When you have an icon like that around to talk to you, it's very important and a big deal."

Joe Ellis, was also named the team's new president, who has been the chief operating officer for the club for the past three years and is a 16-year club employee. He has ultimate responsibility for the organization as team president, and his responsibilities with the club's business operations will include speaking on behalf of Bowlen on all matters involving the franchise.

Welcome back Elway, welcome back. As your self-declared #1 fan, I'm truly excited to see what you do for this organization both in the front office and directly with the players. Now I know for a fact there is hope for the future of this team.

GO BRONCOS!!!!!!!!!! 2011 will be the year of change for this team. Can hardly wait!!

Game Day Thread - Broncos Vs Chargers

Hey guys and gal, I should be around for most of the game to discuss what is happening and current Bronco news. I will also try to help out with video if that need be. Enjoy the game everyone, Go Tebow and Go Broncos! ~ Aussie Out!