FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 21st, 2011 Friday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Is it Tebow Time in Fantasy?
The consensus in Denver may suggest yes it is Tebow time, but if you are a fantasy owner with options you may want to steer the conservative route for the moment. After watching quarterback Tim Teebow inject some life into the Broncos offense two weeks ago, it’s not a long stretch to think he could have a big impact this week in Florida. There will be a lot of pressure going back to Florida so his passing numbers could suffer a bit, but he’s a gamer and will more than likely make it up with his legs. He’s probably better served on your bench for now, but if you had Kyle Orton and need a spark this week too, maybe it is Tebow time.

Carson Palmer unlikely to Start
After six months with a TV clicker in his hand it would be a stretch to expect quarterback Carson Palmer to walk right on the field and have a huge positive impact. This is likely why the Raiders appear to be pulling back the reigns a bit. The most recent update is suggesting that Palmer is not expected to start against the Chiefs on Sunday. This makes great sense with a week 8 bye coming up, the extra time would allow Palmer to get closer to football shape, learn the system and quickly develop some rapport with his receivers. He could be a good stash, but fantasy owners won’t likely see any return on this investment for several weeks.

Where does Brandon Lloyd rank now?
With Sam Bradford iffy for Sunday, I still wouldn’t worry too much about wide receiver Brandon Lloyd. The former Bronco is familiar with McDaniels system and should be on the field plenty against the Cowboys. The Rams aerial attacking has been lacking all season and Lloyd is definitely a huge upgrade. It’s a lot to ask for a huge game out of the gate, but Lloyd should be good for a decent outing and might even find the end-zone against the Cowboys secondary (especially if Bradford plays).

Is Kyle Boller Fantasy worthy?
There are too many available options ahead of Kyle Boller to consider if you need a quarterback this week in fantasy. With the Carson Palmer ERA on hold for the moment, the Raiders are going to try and not let Boller lose their matchup with Kansasy City this week, so they will likely be featuring a heavy-run game-plan. Running back Darren McFadden (must-start) and Michael Bush (a good flex option) should see plenty of action on Sunday.


By David Ortega

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

December 7th, 2010, Tuesday

Monday Morning Huddle
(Tuesday Edition)

It has been a while since I have taken the time to do any extensive ink (or in the digital age, pixel ) work for my usual Monday piece. And well I thought it was time to shake off the cob webs and get things kick started once again. Now I know this piece was intended for a Monday delivery, but better late Tuesday than never. With pen in hand or keyboard to be literal let’s get to what makes football great or at least interesting;

Top Stories

The Impact of No Favre
Could there really be a possibility that the great one they call Brett Favre may actually have to sit out a game on Sunday. Now this is big news considering the last time Brett did not start a game on Sunday the first Bush President was in office; now that’s quite a while.

As most that follow the great game of American football may have suspected the 41-year old gunslinger was banged up pretty good on Sunday suffering a sprained shoulder. Now there have been a few mixed reports, but the gist of it is he’s injured and the shoulder injury is his throwing shoulder. It has yet to be determined and won’t be until Thursday when Favre returns to practice if he will play, but his absence from the lineup appears hardly anything to be of concern for fantasy owners.

Last Sunday when Favre went down early in the first quarter, backup quarterback Tarvaris Jackson took the field in relief and showed folks and fans alike a lot to behold. Jackson had great mobility and awareness in the pocket. He also showed great confidence in his receivers and showed no fear heaving the pigskin downfield.

For most a healthy Brett Favre under center would be the preference, but after watching Jackson complete 68 percent of his throws and connect with fantasy favorite wide receiver Sidney Rice, I would think he’ll do. Jackson also gives the offensive line a little more help with his speed, quickness and mobility. His ability to extend plays could lead to some big plays down the field; which every fantasy owner loves.

No More Josh in Denver
I really don’t believe there is anyone in Denver that could say they were surprised by the move; maybe folks outside of Colorado may have raised an eyebrow. After the recent scandal of Spygate II and another umimpressive effort, the writing was definitely on the wall (more like graffiti on a bill board).

Less than two seasons ago McDaniels ushered in a new Era and borught with him a new attitude; unfortunately an attitude that many of the team’s best players didn’t agree with. In less than two full seasons McDaniels managed to trade away a franchise quarterback, an elite wide receiver, and what we are now seeing a versatile, talented, and productive running back. Most impotantly after starting out his NFL coaching career with an impressive 6-0 record, he was unable to recreate any of that magic at any point since losing the next 17 of his 22 games coached.

Enough with the bad, what McDaniels did manage to do well while on the Broncos sidelines was rejuvenate and elevate a couple of careers. It doesn’t appear to be any kind of coincidence to see quarterback Kyle Orton and wide receiver Brandon Lloyd enjoying career years when you think about what Josh did his last season in New England with Matt Cassel (3,693 yards passing and 21 touchdowns in 2008).

McDaniels departure will leave a lot of questions for the franchise to address and answer, but for concerned fantasy owners there should be no cause for alarm. The Bronco’s featured running back Knowshon Moreno has been on a tear of late averaging well over 100 yards of total offense over his past four starts. With the offense playing as well as it has don’t expect interim coach Eric Studesville to tinker with the radio too much. Except for maybe a slight more conservative approach (which could mean more touches for Moreno), I would look for a lot of the same from Orton (3,487 yards passing,20 touchdowns), Lloyd (60 receptions, 9 touchdowns), and the boys on offense.

With their defense ranked 27th overall and allowing nearly 28 points per game, if any changes are to be made that’s likely the best place to start.

Diamonds in the Rough

WR-Anthony Armstrong

The Redskins have had, to say at the very least a tumultuous season and they don’t even have Brett Favre on their roster. Nonetheless their season has not been without its’ fair-share of high noon drama. From Haynesworth to McNabb, from McNabb to Shanahan, and from Shanahan to the carousel of running backs the Redskins carry, there seems to be little inviting for fantasy owners to consider. Once you look past McNabb, Moss, and Cooley, there’s just not much left; with the exception of wide receiver Anthony Armstrong.

The rookie receiver has really made strides this season as a playmaker with four games this season with at least 80 yards receiving; including six catches for 97 yards and a touchdown last week. On the year Armstrong has caught 31 passes for 642 yards, but only two scores. He certainly has big play potential as evident on Sunday as he consistently beat the Giants secondary downfield.

In his last two games he has had 17 targets and since week 10 he is second only to Chris Cooley (36 targets) with 29 targets. After a nice performance this past week, this Sunday will be a nice test for the rook and could ultimately determine if he is fantasy playoff worthy. If the rookie should prove his worthiness on a consistent level this week, with some favorable matchups coming up with the Cowboys (week 15) and Jaguars (week 16) he could be a diamond in the rough ready to shine.

RB-James Stark

The Green Bay Packers have been utterly crippled at the running back position this season, but they don’t let that stop them from telling everyone they are 8-4 and still in the hunt to win the NFC North. Ranked 23rd in rushing this season the Packers have been going through a complete laundry list of running backs (which includes fullback John Kuhn) trying to find the answer for replacing the injured Ryan Grant who was placed on IR back in week one.

Last Sunday against the 49ers stout 10th ranked run defense that only allows 3.6 yards per carry, the Packers may have found what they were looking for; rookie running back James Stark. In his first action this season, Starks debuted in impressive fashion with 18 carries for 73 yards on the ground. It might be a little quick to jump on this ship, but Starks 18 carries tied for the most by a Packer running back in any game this season. Another impressive note to consider, leading up to the Sunday matchup with San Francisco running back Brandon Jackson was expected to be the “main guy.” Starks was so impressive on Sunday running hard and making positive yards with every opportunity that Jackson was limited to just four carries himself.

Great expectations might be a small stretch, but Starks looks like a shiny rock ready to flash some bling-bling in the fantasy playoffs.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

November 17, 2010, Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

JERMAINE GRESHAM HAS BIG SUNDAY
Last week the Bengal’s rookie tight end turned in his best performance of the season against the Indianapolis Colts. Gresham caught nine passes for 85 yards and a score on 10 targets. Gresham has been under utilized thus far, but it was nice to see him more involved in the passing attack.
My Fantasy Read:
With Terrell Owens continuing to play extremely well and Ochocinco drawing extra attention quarterback Carson Palmer was bound to eventually notice his tight end. Grehsam’s 10 targets were the most he had seen since week one. He has the talent and we could finally start seeing the ability. He’s worth keeping an eye on down the stretch.

KYLE ORTON LIGHTS UP THE CHIEFS
The Bronco’s signal caller continues to impress and warrant serious fantasy consideration as a top tier passer (we’re talking fantasy here). Against the Chiefs Orton just missed sixth 300-yard passing game, finishing with 296 yards and four touchdowns. He finished the day 22 of 34 and a passer rating of 131.5.
My Fantasy Read:
Orton does not possess all the physical characteristics of a strong-armed dominant passer, but he has dominating fantasy passing numbers. Whether or not you can accept the obvious Orton is a top-tiered passer and needs to be in your fantasy line-up every week (congrats McDaniels).

FRED JACKSON IS ALL ACTION IN BILLS WIN
The Bills might like their rookie running back, but they have to love Fred Jackson. Last week against the Lions he carried the ball 25 times (highest total this season) for 133 yards and caught 6 balls out of the backfield for another 37 yards. Jackson also added two scores, one rushing and one receiving.
My Fantasy Read:
Jackson was given the role of feature back last week and he shined brilliantly, but he also faced the Lions. It was by far his best performance, but owners should be cautious before starting. A week earlier against a good Bears run defense Jackson was held in check; owners check your matchups.

DWAYNE BOWE CONTINUES HIS RISE
Maybe a lot of his numbers came in garbage time, whether or not they are still impressive. Against the Broncos Bowe finished with 13 receptions for 186 yards and two touchdowns on 18 targets (highest in week 10). It was his third game this season with multiple scores.
My Fantasy Read:
Over the past several weeks he has been one of the most targeted and most productive fantasy receivers. Since week 6 Bowe has been targeted 50 times, caught 30 balls with 8 going for scores; including five straight games with at least one touchdown. Shame on you if he ever makes it to your bench; he’s a must play every week now.

FSH: THAT'S MY TAKE

September 29th, 2010

That's My Take

Quarterback Kyle Orton: Fantasy Phenom or Mile High Mirage

There’s no doubt that Kyle Orton is more unlikely to be any fantasy owner’s first choice at quarterback, but this season you could do a whole lot worse and not be any more wrong. Don’t worry I won’t parade around and sing his high praises as the second coming of Elway, but the former Boilermaker is quickly changing the opinion of many of today’s fantasy owners. Nothing more than a mid-round fantasy back-up quarterback, Orton is raising some eyebrows.

If anyone would have told me that the Bronco’s quarterback Kyle Orton would have more passing yards than Peyton Manning, Matt Schaub, Aaron Rodgers, and Drew Brees after three weeks I would have told that person to find a bed and lie down. They must be sick.

What is sick is Orton’s 359 yards passing per game, his 68% completion percentage, and his 21 fantasy points per game thus far this season. His four touchdown passes are nothing to jump up and shout about yet, but when you consider the full package Orton is playing at a high level and there seems to be much room for improvement. We must also take note that his most potent and best scoring threat was traded in the offseason, once his gets the new horses fully broken in the scoring numbers could change; scary!

So what has been the biggest difference, why the jump into the fantasy scoring stratosphere this season? It’s not easy to put a finger on just one thing, but really should anyone be surprised?

It’s easy to say Kyle Orton has yet to reach his full potential as a passer since arriving in the NFL. After four lack-luster seasons in Chicago where he managed basically a run-oriented offense, it appeared the NFL had seen all it would see of Orton as a signal caller; this was until his arrival to the Mile High City.

When you trace his steps Orton has always been a capable quarterback, but capable of so much more we are finding out. Back in the days of Purdue, we saw some of the Orton we are seeing today. What was missing for Kyle in Chicago; he had no real deep threats or playmakers, and the offense lacked any kind of imagination.

In 2009 head coach Josh McDaniels and the Bronco’s traded their franchise quarterback away for the services of Orton. On the surface it didn’t really appear to be their first choice; something about a kid in New England, but it certainly appears to be working out just fine for the folks in Denver.

Since he arrived in Denver Orton has done played pretty well under center, but without question he’s elevated his game this season. With a full year under McDaniel’s tutelage, he’s grown at the position and now has full command of the system.

Sure we are talking about Kyle Orton who is a veteran in his sixth year, but who says you can’t teach a not-so-old dog new tricks. Let us also not forget that McDaniels is the same coach and then offensive coordinator who took Brady to new fantasy heights in 2007 (50 touchdowns, 4,800 yards passing). He also resurrected an irrelevant and non-existent Matt Cassel who had not started a game since high school, to the tune of 21 touchdown passes and 11 wins in 2008.

And that’s the fantasy secret here that is no mirage my friends. We are just now seeing what Kyle Orton is capable of when in the right system, in the right situation, and with the right weapons. What Orton currently has could certainly be classified as a cast of misfits, but a group of unheralded and perhaps under-rated and very talented receivers might be more fitting.

With second year receiver Eddie Royal (91 catches as a rookie) he slot and a pair lanky and very athletic receivers (Brandon Lloyd and Jabar Gaffney) on the outside, the Broncos and Orton truly have a nice compliment of pass catchers to distribute the ball too. They also drafted a very nice looking up and coming talent in rookie Demaryius Thomas (arm injury).

It’s no coincidence that this array of weaponry is a huge contributing factor to Orton early passing success in 2010. With Lloyd (leads the team with 339 yards), Royal (17 receptions-tied for team lead), and Gaffney (leads team with 26 targets) each playing significant roles in the passing attack it makes it difficult for opposing defenses to know where to key. One of Orton’s strongest assets has been his decision making, couple this with his accuracy and he is one of the leagues top passers (97.4 passer rating-7th in the NFL) in this early 2010 campaign.

The Bronco’s are without their best ball carrier (Knowshon Moreno-hamstring) and likely won’t see him for another week or two. As long as the running game is second best, the team will likely continue to lean heavily on its’ flourishing and effective passing game.

Even with the team’s current struggles in the red-zone don’t expect Josh McDaniels to veer too far from what’s working, but rather focus more on finding ways of getting his ball club into the end-zone. And that’s good news for Orton who has benefited greatly through the air this season. His four touchdowns thus far are rather pedestrian and a far cry from a fantasy phenom, but leave it to McDaniels to correct that.

As the team works toward finding a better balance I expect to see Orton’s success continue and actually help the team find the answers they seek. He won’t be posting 50 plus passes very often, but in the neighborhood of 40 looks realistic and only means good things for fantasy owners.

Some experts believe success on the ground can open up things in the air, but maybe for Kyle Orton and the Denver Broncos some mile high magic in the air can create some space for the running game. One way or the other Orton looks like the real deal in Denver.

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 28th, 2010


David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

KYLE ORTON POSTS A HUGE NUMBER ON SUNDAY
The Bronco’s signal caller passed for 476 yards and a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in the team’s 27-13 loss on Sunday. Orton used 57 passes on the day to post his huge numbers, but struggles in the red-zone kept the Bronco’s off the board limiting his overall production.
My Fantasy Read:
Without a healthy Knowshon Moreno the Broncos may struggle to find their ground game, but their 2010 passing game is no anomaly. It’s a safe bet to expect Orton to continue his flourishing ways in the short passing game. He may not launch another 57 passes, but he should continue to complete a high percentage, chew up the yards, and the team is bound to improve in the red-zone.

LANCE MOORE HAS BIG DAY IN LOSS TO FALCONS
Without their explosive running back Reggie Bush, the Saints looked to another source for playmaking on Sunday and found wide receiver Lance Moore. Against the Falcons Moore caught six passes for 149 yards and found paydirt twice.
My Fantasy Read:
With Bush out, it’s no surprise that Brees was able to find another go to especially Moore. Remember in 2008 Moore was his main target with 79 receptions and 10 touchdowns. On Sunday Moore led the team with seven targets and should continue to be a regular source of production.

PEYTON HILLIS POUNDS THE RAVENS ON SUNDAY
The Brown’s running back Peyton Hillis became the team’s featured back on Sunday against the Ravens. Hillis carried the ball 22 times for more than 140 yards on the ground against one of the leagues toughest defenses. He also added seven receptions for another 36 yards.
My Fantasy Read:
Hillis basically proved he can be a dependable and impressive every down back. Even when Harrison returns, expect to see Hillis carry the brunt of the load. He should be a dependable fantasy option going forward.

JABAR GAFFNEY FLOURISHES AGAINST THE COLTS
The Bronco’s receiver is no stranger to McDaniel’ system and on Sunday he was a huge benefactor catching 12 passes for 140 yards. It was a breakout game for Gaffney who is tied for the team lead with 17 receptions.
My Fantasy Read:
Gaffney was targeted a team high 14 times on Sunday, This is probably not something he will see too much more of going forward (at least not that many targets in a game), but as the team's passing has success so should Gaffney. He’ll have some value in deeper leagues, but owners may want to hold off rushing to the wires just yet.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 23rd, 2010, Thursday



David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

THOMAS HAS BIG GAME AGAINST HAWKS
Last weekend the Bronco’s rookie receiver and top 2010 draft selection Demaryius Thomas had a breakout game on Sunday with eight catches for 97 yards, including a touchdown. It was his first game in the lineup this season and his eight grabs came off of nine targets.
My Fantasy Read:
It may be a little too soon to be christening Thomas the next heir apparent, but with his 6’3” frame and Kyle Orton’s accuracy in the passing game he looks like a good bet to succeed quickly. He’s definitely a weekly consideration in deeper fantasy leagues.

LION’S BEST IS A BEAST ON SUNDAY
The Lion’s rookie runner had a huge game last Sunday with multiple big plays and multiple visits to the end-zone. Jahvid Best scored three times against the Eagles, while totaling over 200 yards of offense. He averaged nearly nine yards each time he touched the ball.
My Fantasy Read:
It’s pretty easy to see that Best is a bonafide playmaker and with no competition in the backfield, there is no worry of any kind of committee in Detroit. Best should be a weekly safe play going forward.

D-MAC BREAKS OUT AGAINST RAMS
The Raiders have not had a lot to get excited about over recent times and McFadden has been something and someone fans have been waiting on most. Last week D-Mac showed the Raider nation just what they have been waiting for rushing for a buck forty-five on 30 carries. This season he is averaging a stout five yards a pop, is healthy, and appears ready to carry the mantle as the Raider’s primary ball-carrier.
My Fantasy Read:
The news wires are reporting that running back Michael Bush is likely to make his return this week, but his presence shouldn’t detract too much from D-Mac’s production. McFadden has been solid in two outings this season and should continue to see his fair-share of touches in the offense.

ORTON CONTINUES STEADY PLAY
Last Sunday Orton passed for more than 300 yards and two touchdowns to lead his team to a week two win over the Seahawks. In two games this season the Bronco’s signal caller has been solid and efficient averaging over 300 yards passing per game and completing over 67% of his throws.
My Fantasy Read:
It looks pretty apparent in Denver that there is no quarterback controversy going on and Orton is the man. Orton has shown great command of McDaniel’s system and is again playing at a high level. With a nice compliment of receivers this season the Bronco’s field general should remain a reliable play this season.

FSH: MONDAY NIGHT MATCHUP

October 19th, 2009 3:30pm

Monday Night Matchup

Denver Broncos

Vs

San Diego Chargers

Redemption!

It’s probably much more than anyone would have thought when the 2009 regular season began, but the importance of tonight's Monday Night matchup is magnified for many reasons. This has become much more than a simple divisional rivalry game; for both teams tonight will be about "Redemption."

The defending AFC West Champions are in trouble; struggling with their ground game and their defense playing very poor of late getting punched in the mouth and surrendering 38 points to the Steelers back in week 4. With harsh criticism coming from their own front office after being called out by their GM, the Chargers will be looking to re-establish themselves as AfC contended. A win tonight will not put them back in first place, but it will give them much needed momentum and a huge step in the direction of recapturing (the AFC West Division) what they feel is rightfully theirs.

On the other side, things could not be any better for the Denver Broncos winners of their first five games this season. Following their stormy and humble beginnings, first year head coach Josh McDaniels has brought this team a long way. After his questionable moves in the offseason it appears McDaniels has had the answers all along. Part of the answer to those intriguing offseason equations, was the hiring of defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. With a lot of the pieces starting to come together and the Broncos playing well, there is still much to prove and for many of the Denver players last season's finale loss to San Diego 52-21 weighs on the mind.

With one team flying a mile high and the other trying to stay afloat this tale seems to be of two teams heading into opposite directions. Tonight they meet and we'll see if the Broncos are the real deal and in control of the West or if the Chargers can get this thing (their season) turned it around. Either way one team will find "Redemption" at the conclusion of tonight's affair.

Monday Night's Fantasy Notes:

Broncos:
Kyle Orton is starting to blossom into another Cassel, but with as many weapons as there are in Denver, his numbers could become more Brady-like. This season Orton has passed for 1,236 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009. For the Broncos the passing game will be key and wide receivers Brandon Marshall (24 receptions) and Eddie Royal (18) will play a big part. The Bronco's will have an added bonus tonight with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter (267 yards rushing). Rookie running back Knowshon Moreno (337 yards rushing) anchors the ground game.

Chargers:
For San Diego the offense starts with quarterback Philip Rivers. Since the recent decline of running back LaDanian Tomlinson (recent injuries have limited his play) over the past couple of seasons, Rivers has really blossomed into the teams most consistent playmaker. Without missing a beat, the Chargers quarterback continues to make plays with his arm passing for 1,245 yards in four games and throwing six touchdowns. He most reliable targets have been his tight end Antonio Gates (24 receptions) and wide receiver Vincent Jackson (20 receptions). With LT being limited this season, the Bolts have had to look to scat back Darren Sproles (90 yards rushing).

Prediction:
The Bolts can be an explosive offense, but facing a much improved Bronco's defense they may need more than a passing game to compete in this one.

Broncos 33, Chargers 20.

Remember to check back each week for "Monday Night Matchup"

FSH: THAT'S MY TAKE

October 15th, 2009 10:37pm PST

THAT’S MY TAKE

Flying A Mile High



When NFL Training camps opened back in late July, very few people, if any thought the Broncos would have a 2009 season to savor. With a new regime taking over and many changes taking place this team had more of the look of rebuilding, than contending.

Following what could only have been described as a disastrous and tumultuous beginning with the trading of former franchise quarterback Jay Cutler, the Broncos new Head Coach Josh McDaniels appears to have made a complete one-eighty. After all McDaniels was replacing what some may have considered to be one of the leagues best head coaches and offensive masterminds (Mike Shanahan). Shanahan had led the Broncos to back to back Super Bowl victories with the last coming in 1999, but after a decade of struggling it seemed change was overdue.

When Pat Bowlen made the decision to go in a new direction this past offseason, even with his credentials McDaniels hardly seemed to be the right fit. The young up and coming offensive coordinator was busy making a name for himself in New England as an offensive guru himself.

For the past several seasons one of the Broncos major deficiencies and their biggest Achilles heel last year was the defense. A season ending meltdown (three game losing streak), culminated by a 52-21 loss that ended any postseason hope told Bowlen all he needed to know; new blood was in order.

Enter the young Mr. McDaniels, whose youthful exuberance and charismatic spirit has breathed new life into the franchise and the city. With his arrival came difficult, but needed changes. One of his first and perhaps least publicized (at least didn’t cause much of a stir), yet key decisions that has this team riding a wave of orange was the hiring of Mike Nolan.

A New Improved D…


Nolan brings with him the pedigree of winner as a defensive coordinator. His defenses of the past have built a reputation for being aggressive, bringing pressure, and most critical causing turnovers; all areas that the 2008 Broncos lacked. This season playing a new 3-4 scheme under Nolan the defense has racked up 16 sacks, held their opponents to 43 total points this season, and recorded 11 takeaways.

Of course Nolan is only as good as the talent he coaches and another credit to McDaniels, the key free agent signings made in the offseason. Like a glove Andra Davis (former Brown), Renaldo Hill (former Dolphin), and Darrell Reid (former Colt) have all stepped in to play a big part in the defenses turnaround. Without question the biggest signing was the acquisition of former Eagle’s safety Brian Dawkins. His leadership and infectious sell out attitude has this defense playing at a level like the city hasn’t seen in some time.

Offense is coming around….

Just as the firing of Shanahan was blasted in some circles, McDaniel’s hiring came with its’ own criticism. A franchise that needed a defensive injection instead brought in the next Mike Shanahan. The comparisons were obvious; McDaniels had accomplished great things as the offensive coordinator in New England with Tom Brady and helped a seeming mid-level talent like Cassel blossom. It was McDaniel’s offense that Brady ran in 2007 when he rewrote the record books with 50 touchdown passes.

With the defense suddenly playing inspired ball this season, it has taken McDaniel’s “Patriot’s West” offense a little more time to get simmering. Only last Sunday against the Patriots did the Bronco’s offense start to resemble something of what many that they would see in 2009. In their win over New England the Broncos had 27 first downs, ran up 424 yards of offense, and held the ball for over 36 minutes; characteristic of a McDaniels offense. The next step in their evolution will obviously be more points.

With players like Marshall and Royal beginning to hit their stride in the passing game and the rookie Knowshon Moreno anchoring the ground game (when he holds onto the ball), the Bronco's have what appears to be a potented offense. And with a supporting cast of Gaffney, Scheffler, Buckhalter, and Hillis; these guys are only going to make for long days for opposing defensive coordinators. If last Sunday against the Patiriots is any indication of the potential of this unit, their ceiling appears to be a mile high.

A Big Test Lies Ahead……

With everything starting to click in Denver and McDaniel’s team 5-0, there is still much to prove for this highly scrutinized over-achieving ball club. In the first couple of weeks, it was “they haven’t played anyone” and then last week, "well they’re always better at home." This may very well be a recurring theme all season long, but one fact that is hard to escape, this coming Monday night is going to be a tough road test no matter how you look at it. In recent history, the Chargers have owned the Broncos and with their team sputtering, this divisional matchup will be critical.

So far the Broncos have yet to really be perfect this season, but with a little lady luck they stand 5-0 and atop the AFC West with a two and a half game lead over the Chargers. Monday night is yet another test for McDaniels and his boys, but one if passed should not only satisfy the critics, but legitimize this team as the 'real deal.'

That’s my take.


By David Ortega

Check back every week for more of “That’s My Take”

FSH: TUESDAY (FOOTBALL) TALK

October 13th, 2009 9:37pm PST

TUESDAY (FOOTBALL) TALK

What to make of Week 4

The Broncos appear to be the real Deal

With five wins down it’s hard to deny McDaniels and his boys. Looking back it’s hard to imagine where the Broncos are today, sitting atop the AFC West at 5-0 when you consider everything they endured during the offseason. Even without the miracle tip in week one, it’s hard to escape the fact that this team has not only improved, but they have arrived. With wins over the Cowboys and Patriots the last two weeks they have the look of contender heading toward a clash with their division rivals, the San Diego Chargers. Certainly the Monday night matchup will be considered another large hurdle for this team working hard to earn respect and credibility, but regardless of the outcome McDaniels has him team believing they are for real.

Can anyone stop the Mannings?

After five weeks of action, the Manning brothers are 10-0. While older brother (Peyton) is using a high-powered passing game (330 yards per game) to obliterate the competition (outscored opponents 137-71), little brother (Eli) is using a just as effective balanced attack to subdue his adversaries. Both brothers that are the Mannings are also enjoying great success in the pocket; Peyton has 12 touchdown passes, while Eli has 10. Both quarterbacks are also relying on a common factor this season; the defense. The Giants are suffocating ranked first against the run, while the Colts despite injuries have been solid versus the pass ranked 7th in the league. With a defense to go along with two of the leagues best offenses (Colts are ranked 4th, Giants are ranked 2nd), can anyone stop the Mannings?

Looking under the microscope


Edwards is ready to breakout and soon!
For those of you wondering just what did the Jets see in Braylon Edwards that the Browns could not; the Jets are 3-2 tied for first in their division and the Browns are not. When you are not winning, it’s tough to know what a winner looks like. The Jets didn’t waste anytime putting their new toy to work on Monday night. Edwards quickly made his mark with the team catching five passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. The former Brown’s receiver definitely made a splash Monday night and maybe it was not a huge one, but with 11 passes thrown in his direction you can bet it’s not going to take long!

How bout some Royal with Cheese?
There was a lot of talk earlier in the week leading up to Sunday about Eddie royal’s sub-par numbers this season. Quarterback Kyle Orton was also questioned about his chemistry with Royal. Some experts went as far to say that Royal was not the “Welker” of this “Patriot’s West” offense. We certainly don’t want to be too quick to vindicate Royal after just one game (10 catches for 90 yards, targeted 15 times), but then we shouldn’t be too fast to discount the second year wideout either. With Orton and company starting to look like they could be hitting their stride, we should realize there could be more cheddar coming for Mr. Royal.

More fantasy Notes

The Bronco’s quarterback finally found that passing form many fantasy owners had hoped they see in a McDaniels offense. On Sunday against the Patriots, Orton put the ball in the air 48 times and completed 35 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns. It was the first game this season that Orton looked Brady-like with the numbers. Could the fantasy sleeper finally be awake?

In Kansas City young Mr. Matt Cassel is slowly beginning to show glimpses of his 2008 form. On Sunday he completed 23 of 41 passes for 253 yards and for the third straight game he tossed two touchdowns. He is also starting to show some chemistry with his big time wideout Dwayne Bowe, who was targeted 10 times.

The St.Louis Rams have had very little to cheer about this season at 0-5. If not for running back Steven Jackson, they might not have any sign of an offense this season either. Last week, wide receiver Donnie Avery and quarterback Marc Bulger tried to spark the passing game. A late insert Bulger come on to complete seven straight passes and found Avery three times including one pass for 27 yards and a score. With Bulger returning to the lineup, it could be a preview of more to come or just something Rams fans would love to see more of.


By David Ortega

Check back every Tuesday for more “Tuesday (Football) Talk”

FSH: ON THE COVER

September 28th, 2009 11:00pm PST

This Week on the Cover….

Real or Fraud!!

Are these teams leading a deception….
Through the first three weeks of the 2009 NFL season many of us may think we have seen enough, from Peyton Manning's dominance, to Brett Favre's heroics, and the Raven's look of a complete team, but have we seen enough from other teams that are trying to sell their kool-ade?

In San Francisco, the Niners came one fantastic finish of a play away from a 3-0 start. While it was a heart breaking loss on Sunday, one thing we learned Singletary has changed the culture and has this team playing like they're winners. At 2-1 and the Rams up next, the future for the Niners only looks brighter.

In Denver not many folks may be quite ready to buy what new Head Coach Josh McDaniels is selling, but at 3-0 the price may be right. McDaniels has the new look team playing very well and while the jury remains out for the moment, a week four matchup with the Cowboys could be all that is needed for the Broncos to prove their authenticity.

Sure it was only a fluke play in week one and the only thing that has prevented Cincinnati from being undefeated thus far this season, but that is why they play the games. This is also why head coach Marvin Lewis and his Bengals haven't hung their season on the one play of misfortune. With an impressive week 3 win over their division rivals (Steelers) the Bengals may not have yet climbed over that hump, but they are definitely steps closer to being where they want to go.

While the city that never sleeps continues to get excited, there’s plenty in the Big Apple these days to make Jet fans true believers. Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez continues to make plays and dazzle the fans in New York, while Head Coach Rex Ryan has his top rated defense playing to the tune of 3-0. Are the Jets contenders, if not they are doing a great job of pretending.


Check back everyday for more football!

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

September 28th, 2009 10:37pm PST

[Evening Edition]

So What I Saw in Week 3

After watching all of the action on Sunday, I saw plenty, but a few things I could not avoid noticing were the Bronco’s new rebuilt defense, the Raiders awful offense, and the Saints can actually run the ball and play defense. There was plenty more to see and note in week 3 like the end of Terrell Owens streak of a least a single catch in a game. It looks like the black hole is not the only place were things go to die, some things can die or come to an end at the hands of quarterback Trent Edwards arm.

Denver defense looks dominant….

It's only week three, but you can only play who they put on your schedule and through their first three games the Broncos have looked strong. In particular Denver's new rebuilt defense has been impressive. What is most eye catching is not just that this team was supposed to be awful, but it's the fashion in which they have won.

Sure folks will argue they should have lost their opener, but it was the defense that kept the Bronco’s in the game and gave the team that opportunity that fell into Brandon Stokley’s hands back in week one. Two weeks later the Bronco’s defense has now thoroughly throttled two inferior foes and the team stands alone atop the AFC West.

Raider’s offense looks awful…..

Sure we can credit the Bronco’s defense for many of the reasons on Sunday, but the fact is the Raider’s offense is just plain bad. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell has only completed 41 percent of his passes and has thrown four interceptions. His 39.8 passer rating ranks amongst the worst for starters in the league. On Sunday the team totaled just 137 yards and ranks near the bottom in many offensive categories; scoring-12.0 (30th), total yards-223.0 (31st), passing yards-119.7 (32nd), firstdowns/gm-13.0 (32nd), and yards/play-4.1 (31st).

Terrell Owens needs to get out of Buffalo….

How this guy has not lost it yet, I can’t imagine. He’s one of the leagues best run-after-the-catch (RAC) in the game today and the Bill’s can’t get the ball in his hands. Granted that Edwards has taken a few shots downfield, what I can’t imagine is why the Bills are not getting the ball to T.O. in the flat or using quick bubble screens and turning him into a runner. Owens has usually been on the wrong end of many situations he has put himself in and he may well have put himself here, but if the offense doesn’t change their gameplan soon he needs to consider a change of venue.

Trent Edwards has no confidence downfield….

You can count the passes and say that Edwards is not afraid to go downfield, but in this case it would seem the numbers lie. Looking at game film, there have been ample opportunities for the bills to strike downfield, but time and time again Edwards will not pull the trigger. And when he does choose to let it fly, he often not only over throws coverage, but his receivers as well. In order to make big plays downfield, you have to give your playmakers a chance to make a play.

Saints can run the ball….

And for those not paying attention, not only can the Saints put up points on the board with their high-flying passing game, but this team can run the ball. In three weeks of action the Saints offense is ranked second in rushing with 170.7 yards per game and an impressive 5.0 yards per carry (ranks 5th). They have also punched it in on the ground five times this young season.

Worst of the worst

This season there are some pretty bad teams playing in the NFL. Without discussion this list would obviously include the winless teams like the Browns, Dolphins, and Titans, but who are the worst teams this year? After watching the Lions finally show some spark with the team’s first win since 2007, could they actually not be the worst in the league.

Against the Broncos on Sunday the Raiders looked pretty bad only able to muster three points and 137 yards of offense. Over in Tampa the Buccaneers could not even conjure up a single point and on Sunday their offense managed just 86 total net yards. While both the Raiders and Bucs could be considered worthy candidates, it looks like the Rams take the honors this week. An 0-3 start, the leagues worst scoring offense (ranked 32nd) and one of the worst defenses (ranked 29th) has the Rams and their fans feeling pretty bad in 2009. If not for the play of running back Steven Jackson, this team would have no offense or any chance to score. Move over Detroit, the Rams are bad and 0-16 is not out of the realm of possibility.

The Jury is still out

While a few teams this season have been early surprises out of the gate, the jury is still out on these teams the Broncos, Niners, and Bengals. While both the Niners and Bengals have managed a couple of impressive wins this season, we’re still reluctant to crown them as having achieved anything. Mind you both are much closer to being the real deal than the Denver Broncos, recipients of the luckiest play in 2009 and beneficiaries of an early soft schedule, it’s still too early to tell. All three teams have played well so far in this young early season, but let’s not jump the gun.

With the Niners playing in the weak NFC West their early wins have yet to prove anything. There is no question that head coach Mike Singletary has this team headed in the right direction and they certainly appear ready to compete for the division.

The Bengals will face a much stiffer test this season with the Ravens off to a hot start, but their recent win over the defending Super Bowl Champion goes a long way. The 2008 Bengal’s team without question was decimated by injury, but this year’s healthier version is loaded with more talent and greater focus. From what we saw on “Hard Knocks” this may not be a mirage we’re looking at.

In Denver what we are seeing could be classified as nothing less than a full-blown metamorphosis or one fantastic illusion. The last time we checked head coach Josh McDaniels was not wearing a cape or holding a wand, but he certainly has some kind of magic act going on a mile high. The undefeated Broncos, aside from the one lucky fluke play have looked steady on both fronts. With a top-10 offense and a number one ranked defense the jury may be out, but it not for long if they keep this up.

10 Things I remember from Sunday Week 3...

1. Joe Flacco and the Ravens look like one of the best teams in the NFL; with a dominant defense, power running game, and now a strong passing game.
2. The Jets are a team to be reckoned with and quarterback mark Sanchez is not playing like any rookie I know.
3. Peyton Manning is king and without a doubt the best quarterback in the NFL today. His dominant performance Sunday night was just a friendly reminder to all.
4. The Redskins may not be the worst team in the NFL, but on Sunday they sure looked like one of them.
5. That quarterback Brett Favre and his heroics are one of the biggest reasons I keep watching the NFL every Sunday.
6. Tom Brady may not be quite back to his 2007 form, but the Patriots are still the Patriots and always tough at home.
7. The Saints are more of a complete team than most thought; add a running game and a defense, Super Bowl talk doesn’t sound so silly now does it.
8. The Texans have a lot of talent on offense, but they still need to play defense to win in this league.
9. The Bills are not going to compete in the East if they don’t learn how to get better; they need to get T.O. more involved.
10. With Earth (Jacobs) and Fire (Bradshaw) in New York, who needs wind. The Giants running game appears to be in fine form.
    

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle!"