Broncos briefs: reality TV show starring Eric Decker, Jessie James debuts Sunday night

By Mike Klis The Post September 28, 2013

Lights, Eric Decker. Camera, Jessie James. Action, .

A few hours after the Broncos-Eagles game in Denver is finished Sunday, the E network will debut the reality TV show "Eric & Jessie: Game On."

The show features Decker, a Broncos , and his wife, a country and pop singer, in the weeks leading up to their wedding in June.

"I'm not nervous about it," Decker said Friday in the locker room at Broncos headquarters. "I decided to do it, so why be nervous? I realize it might change as far as going out and doing things. But we still feel like normal people."

How the public perceives the couple's show is one thing. What the guys in the locker room think about it is another. There's a pretty good chance Decker will be unmercifully ribbed.

"I will say Woodyard is in the first (episode)," Decker said with a smile, referring to one of his best friends on the team and Denver's starting middle . "So if junk is getting passed around, we're going down together."

The show premieres Sunday at 8 p.m.

Champ, Duke questionable. Meaning zero disrespect to a 12-time , the Broncos have become accustomed to playing without this season. It is Duke Ihenacho's ankle injury that might cause the Denver defense to make a significant adjustment.

Ihenacho didn't participate in the Broncos' two full practices this week, though he was out there on a limited basis Friday. Ihenacho, a first-year starting safety, has brought a -like presence to Denver's defense this season.

Ihenacho and Bailey will be game-time decisions Sunday. There seemed to be more optimism earlier in the week about Bailey playing against the Eagles.

Luckily for the Broncos, they have able replacements for both players. Cornerback Tony Carter has recovered from his ankle injury. And strong safety made 17 starts last season. Elsewhere on the Denver injury report, linebacker was listed as doubtful to play Sunday because of a strained quad and Joel Dreessen (knee) was upgraded to questionable.

Protecting the protector. took the blame for the sack that left Chris Clark gave up late in the third quarter Monday night against Oakland.

Gase, the Broncos' fast-starting and play caller, said he should not have put Clark in position to get beat by Raiders Lamarr Houston, who not only sacked but forced a too.

"That was a ball holder," Gase said, meaning the play called for Manning to spend an extra second to look into the for a receiver on the first-down snap from Oakland's 13-yard line. "We didn't need it, and that would be one where I'd want to take back because our guys, if we put them in the right positions, they make it work. I feel like on that play (with) that play call, I didn't put them in the right position. That one bothers me and that's one that I'm going to make sure doesn't happen again." Why the Eagles have a chance to beat the Broncos

By Mike Klis The Denver Post September 27, 2013

I know what you’re thinking. I thought the Ravens had a chance against the Broncos in the opener. I picked the Giants to win at home against the Broncos in week 2. I offered up reasons why the Raiders could give the Broncos a game in week 3.

The Broncos won those games by scores of 49-27, 41-23 and 37-21. And there were times late in the second half of all three games when the score wasn’t that close.

Mind you, none of those games surprised me. OK, maybe the Giants’ game a little. But I do feel a responsibility to caution the masses, especially when there’s mass hysteria about the hometown team.

The NFL is too strange. For some reason, a team can go on the road against a particular opponent and go up 31-3 in the fourth quarter, only to lose at home to that same opponent a month later in the playoffs, 38-35 in double overtime.

So contrary to the widespread belief in the Rocky Mountain region that the Broncos will destroy the Eagles on Sunday at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, I think the visitors have a chance. Here’s why:

*It’s about the matchup, silly. Don’t look at the records. Look at how teams match up. The Eagles are the first opponent since the in week 5 of last season who run the NASCAR-tempo offense. That game also marks the Broncos last regular-season loss. The Broncos’ defense was torched in that game. True, the Broncos’ defense is more accustomed to the hurry-up because their own offense has been playing it since OTAs in May.

But Broncos is huge on substitute packages. Kevin Vickerson and Terrance Knighton have been exceptional against the run. But if they can’t get off the field because of the Eagles’ fast tempo, will they be effective pass rushers? Will they become gassed run stoppers?

*Duke Ihenacho may not play. He may play, but he may not because of a right ankle injury. The strong safety has been a difference maker in the Denver defense. He has brought a John Lynch/Brian Dawkins-like element to the defense. The only problem is Ihenacho at 205 pounds is 15 pounds lighter than what Lynch and Dawkins played. Mike Adams is more than a capable strong safety. But against , LeSean McCoy and the Eagles’ read-option run attack, Ihenacho’s availability may be crucial.

*The Eagles defense is in shape. They may not be any good. But the Broncos were losing to the Ravens at halftime, only to wear them down in the second half. They were only up 10-9 on the Giants at halftime and 17-16 late in the third quarter. The Raiders were gassed in the first series on Monday night.

The Eagles’ defense may be abysmal against the pass, ranking 29th in the league which is why no one believes they can keep up with Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and the NFL’s No. 1-ranking passing offense. But because they practice against an Eagles’ offense that plays at a far-faster speed than the Broncos do, the Philly defense won’t wear down like Denver’s first three opponents did.

*That oblonged, two-pointed ball bounces funny. The biggest difference between the Broncos dominating the Ravens in Baltimore in December and then losing to them in January in Denver? In Baltimore, the Ravens were about to score when intercepted a pass and returned it 98 yards for a . In Denver, a Manning pass was deflected and returned it for a pick six.

A big reason reason why it’s such a thin line between winning and losing, contending and pretending, worst to firs and first to worst in the NFL? Turnovers. They are football’s greatest equalizer.

*I’m not saying the Eagles win. I’m saying they have 25 percent chance of winning. Broncos unveil Ring of Fame monuments

By Mike Klis The Denver Post September 27, 2013

For the unveiling of the Broncos’ new Ring of Fame Plaza at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, it was a dark and stormy night.

“Hey, this is O-line weather,” said , the man of the moment.

The starting center for the Broncos’ two title teams will become the 24th member of the Ring of Fame during his induction ceremony at halftime of the Broncos- game Sunday.

The Ring of Fame is nice, as the names of the former star Broncos are displayed along the upper deck facade of the stadium. The Ring of Fame Plaza brings a classy touch of reverence.

As the skies poured Friday evening, the Ring of Famers were introduced by emcee Jim Saccomano and asked to unveil their own monuments that featured their facial likeness from their playing days.

“This is my favorite one,” said Ring of Fame monument sculptor Brian Hanlon of Toms River, N.J. as uncinched the cover of his

Attending the ceremony Friday were — who had a way of lighting up the tent on the otherwise dreary night — (“This is unbelievable,” he said,) , , Billy Thompson, , Jim Turner, Dennis Smith, , Louis Wright, , , Mecklenburg and Nalen.

Red Miller, coach of the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” 1977 Super Bowl team, represented “Goose” Gonsoulin.

Undrafted linebacker Wesley Woodyard now anchor of Broncos defense

By Joan Niesen The Denver Post September 28, 2013

Eighty-eight years ago, dugout. First baseman Wally Pipp sat out his team's game because of a headache. Lou Gehrig replaced him in the lineup and Pipp never regained his starting job.

What does this have to do with the Broncos?

Everything, according to Wesley Woodyard. Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio has told his players the tale many a time, Woodyard said with a smile. The linebacker laughs: Wally Pipp and the next man up.

Five years ago, as an undrafted rookie, Woodyard was the next man up, a fill-in starter for injured veteran D.J. Williams. When Williams was suspended by the NFL in 2012, it was Woodyard who filled in again, and he became the first player in Broncos history to have 50 tackles along with multiple sacks (three) and (two) in the season's first eight games. Williams was released in March.

The point, of course, is not to steal a teammate's job or doom a career. Woodyard mentions Pipp because the next man up — and what he might become — is the tenet that has guided the Broncos' defensive unit this season, with the sixth-year captain at the forefront. How else can the defense look at the temporary losses of its aging star, cornerback Champ Bailey, and best player, linebacker , without so much as blinking an eye?

"That next-man mentality is so important in this league, and especially on our team," Woodyard said. "That helps everybody jell and bond together, when we get a guy stepping in that doesn't get a chance to play that much, and he comes in, and now he's playing like a starter. It's good to see that happen throughout our defense."

Even if Miller were playing, Woodyard would still be the veteran among the Denver , the player who became a captain before many fans even knew who he was. People ask him how he earned such a designation as a minor player at the beginning of his career, and he's yet to find an explanation beyond the simple fact that that's just who he is.

"My teammates respect me, and they respect everything I say," Woodyard said. "You know, it goes hand in hand, being yourself and just always staying on top of your own game."

Second-year linebacker , who's getting big playing time as a result of Miller's suspension, attended Kentucky, also Woodyard's alma mater. The two never overlapped, but Trevathan said from the minute he put on a Wildcats uniform, he was compared to the older player, Woodyard's name "ringing all around" him.

When he arrived in Denver, Trevathan wasn't sure what to expect from the man he'd heard so much about, but he said Woodyard has become like a brother to him.

"It's just fun to be out there playing with that guy, to see the way he carries himself on the field," Trevathan said. "It's just a fun atmosphere out there, flying around."

Woodyard's brand of play — speed, dedication, humility — has come to define a group of players who could just as easily have been branded the lesser replacements for a suspended star. In the Broncos' 3-0 start, Woodyard already has 13 tackles, 12 assists and one sack, and his leadership by example is paying off. That said, he still sees room for improvement.

"I'll say it: I'm not satisfied, and my teammates aren't satisfied with our play, even though we've been doing some good things," Woodyard said. "We've got to continue to keep that success going throughout the four quarters."

He knows better than most. There's always a next man up. Champ Bailey limited at Broncos practice, questionable for Eagles game

By Joan Niesen The Denver Post September 27, 2013

Cornerback Champ Bailey remained limited at Friday's Broncos practice, leaving his status for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles uncertain. He's officially listed as questionable, just as he was against the Raiders, and John Fox said that no final decision will be made until Sunday.

Tight end Joel Dreessen and safety Duke Ihenacho were also limited on Friday, and they are both listed as questionable. Linebacker Paris Lenon did not participate and is the only player listed as doubtful.

In better news, cornerback Tony Carter, who hurt his ankle against the Oakland Raiders, practiced in full and is listed as probable for Sunday.

Bailey injured his left foot in the preseason in Seattle against the Seahawks. Ihenacho aggravated an ankle injury against Oakland, and Carter left the Oakland game with his ankle injury. Dreessen had his knee scoped during the preseason, and Lenon has been restricted all week with a thigh injury.

"We've done a good job of getting them freshened up," Fox said of his players after their short week.

"We did a lot last week with our extra time on Philadelphia," he added. "We feel good about our plan, and now it's just about executing it."

Hochman's Mailbag: Peyton Manning vs. John Elway, Todd Helton's horse

By Benjamin Hochman The Denver Post September 27, 2013

On Fridays, sports columnist Benjamin Hochman presents his mailbag, which touches on both sports and pop culture. To submit a question for consideration, send an e-mail to Benjamin.

———

@johnasbury: where will Peyton rank against Elway in Denver sports lore?

BH: Peyton Williams Manning will go down as perhaps the greatest quarterbacking talent the game has ever seen (or at worst, top three) — and this is if he retired today. But that does not matter here in Denver. What only matters in Denver is Lombardi (and by that, of course, I mean the irresistible newscasts of sports anchor Vic Lombardi). John Elway won two Super Bowls. Only if Peyton wins two, too, does he even get to be in the same breath in this town as No. 7 (considering Elway also won three additional AFC titles).

Really, the only caveat I can think of is this: What if the Broncos go undefeated this season and win the Super Bowl? It would be historic and stupendous and, at least in the short term, maybe at least leads to the argument about him ranking higher than Elway. Even so, I would say that one undefeated season with a Super Bowl isn't better than two regular Super Bowls.

So the only way Peyton could possibly surpass Elway is:

• If he wins two Super Bowls (and one of them is an undefeated season).

• If he wins two Super Bowls and (both are undefeated).

• If he wins two Super Bowls and also goes to a third, within a three-year period.

• If he wins three or more Super Bowls. As I like to do each week in my mailbag, here are some fascinating Peyton-y stats, courtesy of the analytical site Pro Football Focus:

• Manning has had 13 of his 122 passes dropped, which is the highest amount in the league. That is 10.7 percent of his passes, which is also the highest rate. The league average is 6.1 percent.

• On play action, Manning's 14.6 yards per attempt (YPA) lead all QBs. Without play action, Manning is tied for 12th in the league with 7.4 YPA.

• Against Oakland, Manning (+6.4), (center) Manny Ramirez (+4.3) and (right guard) Louis Vasquez (+4.1) had the highest PFF grades; (tight end) Virgil Green (-2.9) and () Knowshon Moreno (-1.9) graded the lowest.

• The majority of Manning's attempts on the season has been between zero and nine yards in the middle of the field (36). He's graded highest (+3.5) on intermediate passes (10-19 yards) to the left.

@denverguitar1: Who are the top 10 Denver professional athletes of all time?

BH: Let the debates begin.

I say: 1. John Elway; 2. Joe Sakic; 3. Patrick Roy; 4. Champ Bailey; 5. Todd Helton; 6. ; 7. Carmelo Anthony; 8. Floyd Little; 9. Alex English; 10. Larry Walker.

@apdoran: When do you think the Rockies will retire Helton's ? Opening Day? Middle of next season?

BH: Well, if they do it opening day, they don't have to get rid of the 17 that's currently in the center-field grass. I say wait until Aug. 20 against the Royals — that's Helton's birthday.

In the meantime, they can honor him at every game with this unique ceremony I came up with.

@EricMetcalfe: Why didn't Todd Helton ride the horse around Coors, a la Wade Boggs (without the royal mountie)?

BH: That's a fair question, considering the Boggs moment was the second- coolest horse moment in baseball history, besides, of course, Mr. Ed's inside- the-park home run against Sandy Koufax. More horse thoughts:

• I'm totally down with the creative gift. But as my good friend Nate Kreckman suggested — how funny is it that now Helton will have to spend thousands of his own dollars for maintenance of some horse he might not have wanted in the first place?

• Are you allowed to rename horses? Or is it like boats and humans? If so, I suggest Snoopy. Or Prickly Pete.

• As is, the horse is currently named A Tru Bustamove. As for the rap song "Bust A Move," I had always wondered something. So you have this verse:

"Your best friend Harry has a brother Larry In five days from now he's gonna marry He's hopin you can make it there if you can 'Cause in the ceremony you'll be the best man"

WAIT, who's getting married, Harry or Larry? If it's your best friend's brother Larry, why would you be the best man?

It was explained to me by a friend that:

Yes, those rap lyrics may have confused the object and subject.

It would seem that Larry is getting married. And that you, Larry's brother's best friend, will be the best man. If the lyrics were changed to reflect the true intent of the rapper (i.e. that Harry is getting married and that you will be Harry's best man) then the two opening lines should read as such:

"Your best friend Harry has a brother Larry In five days from now Harry's gonna marry"

@EvanOnstot: Best sports movie that does not involve baseball, , football, hockey, boxing or soccer?

BH: Easiest answer of my life!

Danny Noonan; Big hitter, the Lama; Judge Smails; Oh, it looks good on you though; Bushwood; SPALDING GET YOUR FOOT OFF THE BOAT!; Ty Webb; Carl Spackler; Cinderella Story; Lacey Underall; You're not a man, you're a bishop, for God's sake!; Al Czervik; Cannonball, cannonball comin'; Pool and a pond; Mitch Cumstein; You'll get nothing and like it!; So what? So let's dance! Fast-break football coming to Denver on Sunday

By Arnie Stapleton The September 28, 2013

DENVER (AP) — The Broncos host the Eagles on Sunday at Sports Authority Field, and the dazzling new 8,800-square foot scoreboard, the largest outside of and the centerpiece of a $30 million stadium upgrade, should get its biggest test yet.

Denver leads the league with an average of 487 yards of offense, and Philadelphia is second at 462.

These are byproducts of the speed philosophy developed at Oregon and took to Philly and Adam Gase's turbo-charging of Denver's offense in his first year as coordinator. It's given a whole new meaning to Peyton Manning's famous cry, "Hur-ry! Hur-ry!"

The Broncos (3-0) move in and out of the no-huddle offense to throw off defenses and they lead the league with a 43-point average. The Eagles (1-2) go full-tilt from the get-go but they've hit some speed bumps along the way.

"I love going fast," Philly's Michael Vick said. "There's nothing better."

Vick echoes Manning, however, in saying no matter how expeditious the offense, it all comes down to execution.

"Just because you lined up fast doesn't mean you're going to line up and do it right," Vick said.

"Speed, tempo, all those things, it just means nothing if you're not executing your assignments," Manning concurred.

Both teams are in the bottom third of the league in pass defense, so everyone's expecting a shootout — unless, of course, all that practice against their respective offenses pays off in shutting down this highly anticipated aerial fireworks show.

Five other things to watch if your neck doesn't get too sore from all the back-and- forth when the Eagles and Broncos meet:

PERFECT PEYTON: Manning is the first quarterback in NFL history to throw a dozen TD passes through three games, and he's the first since Vick in 2010 to have that many touchdown throws without an . Vick's first interception that year came in his eighth game.

Manning is coming off a career-best 86.5 completion percentage against Oakland, when he was 32 of 37 and his receivers dropped four passes.

"We know we have to come out and score points, but our mindset can't be to try to match what they do," Vick said. "We just ... have to do everything right on our part and see where it goes."

MILE HIGH TRAINING: The Broncos believe they'll have a built-in advantage because it's hard for teams to come to Denver and run the hurry-up at altitude. Soon enough, their lungs are burning and they're gasping for air.

"Yeah, I've played here many times as a competitor and early you feel it," Broncos coach John Fox said. "How you adjust is different for every opponent and it's probably the best home-field advantage in the NFL. That's why I think our home record is so good."

Denver middle linebacker Wesley Woodyard said the altitude is no joke.

"There is no hype about that altitude. The altitude is a different beast," Woodyard said. "They're going to get a test. ...We get the advantage of playing in it and practicing in it every day, going up against a no-huddle offense every day."

OLD FRIENDS: Broncos cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie spent the last two seasons in Philadelphia and had plenty of 1-on-1 matchups with Eagles speedy wide receiver DeSean Jackson in practice.

"When that ball's in the air, he hits another gear," Rodgers-Cromartie said. "And it's hard as a corner to try to stay with him, stay with him and then he just takes off. Most people don't have that extra gear that he has."

When Jackson called him this week, D.R.C. asked, "Who's this?"

"I've got to treat him like a stranger, he ain't a friend right now. It's going to be very competitive."

BRONCOS BANGED UP SECONDARY: Champ Bailey hopes to make his 2013 debut on Sunday, 44 days after hurting his left foot at Seattle in the preseason. Also aching with sprained ankles are starting safety Duke Ihenacho and nickel back Tony Carter.

Not exactly good news with the likes of Vick, Jackson and McCoy on tap.

"It's going to be hard," Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie said. "You've got three guys that can take it the distance from anywhere on the field. So, discipline is going to be real big." STAYING ON THE FIELD: The Ravens, Giants and Raiders weren't able to keep Manning & Co. on the sideline, which is probably the best defense for Denver's prolific offense right now.

The Eagles, however, have had just one three-and-out in 38 possessions.

The Broncos have forced a dozen three-and-outs so far.

"Three-and-outs are something that we thrive on," Woodyard said.

Nalen set for Broncos' Ring of Fame induction

By Dennis Georgatos The Associated Press September 27, 2013

DENVER (AP) — Five years after his retirement, Tom Nalen's penchant for anonymity finally is breaking down.

Nalen, the five-time Pro Bowl center for the who shied away from reporters and seldom spoke publicly during a 15-year career that ended in 2009, has been thrust front and center as the latest inductee into the Broncos' Ring of Fame.

And like it or not, he was celebrated as one of 24 honorees with sculpted bronze pillars in the Broncos' Ring of Fame plaza at Sports Authority Field that was unveiled in ceremonies Friday night. The pantheon of Broncos greats supplements the ring around the stadium bearing their names, putting faces and individual stories on embossed 8-foot pillars within sight of fans walking into the stadium. The plaza will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and remain lighted at night.

"I think it helps us remember the past, the history of the Broncos and as one who is in there, it's an honor," said John Elway, the Broncos' Hall of Fame quarterback who now serves as the team's chief executive of football operations. "The older guys, we're the foundation that this franchise was built on as far as the players are concerned. Plus, with the unveiling of these statutes, to me, it's a tribute to (owner) and what he's done in the 30 years that he's been here. For him to do this, it's truly an honor. " In a departure from the code of silence he followed as a player, Nalen, a contemporary of Elway who was a member of two Super Bowl-winning team, said he's looking forward to addressing the crowd publicly following the formal induction ceremonies at halftime of Sunday's game.

"I don't think that will be very difficult," Nalen said. "It will be brief. It shouldn't be a problem. I don't have a problem speaking in front of people. I just felt in my career, it didn't really serve a purpose for me to promote myself, to say dumb things that may come back to haunt me. To say dumb things about other players and other teams. I didn't really see a point in that."

Elway, though, had no problem in piping up and making clear just how important Nalen was to the Broncos' consecutive Super Bowl runs in 1997-98.

"He was the best center that I ever played with and I think one of the top two or three centers to ever play the game," Elway said. "He was a guy who was tough, athletic, physical and very smart. He was a little undersized but he had the strength to stuff the big guys and the quickness to get around them.

"It's a very well deserved honor for Tommy and hopefully the first of many for him."

Nalen said he viewed his induction into the Ring of Fame as a pinnacle in his professional football career.

"It's the best honor I could get," he said. "It's your team, the people that know you, who know how you played football and how you carried yourself, and they decided you were good enough to be in this select group. So, to me it's the highest honor you can get as a football player."

Vick outplayed Manning once before

By Rob Maadi The Associated Press September 27, 2013

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Last time the Philadelphia Eagles faced Peyton Manning, Michael Vick was the better quarterback.

Vick and the Eagles (1-2) are 11-point underdogs against Manning and the high- powered Broncos (3-0) on Sunday. Don't expect Vick or his teammates to be intimidated.

"We don't look at it like we're underdogs," Vick said. "We look at it like we're playing a good football team and we have to go be at our best."

In Week 9 of the 2010 season, Vick outplayed Manning in Philadelphia's 26-24 victory over the . Vick, returning after missing a month following a rib injury, threw for 218 yards and one touchdown, and ran for 74 yards and a score. Manning threw for 287 yards, one TD and two interceptions that day.

"I was consistent all the way through," Vick recalled. "We didn't turn the ball over. Anytime you play against Peyton, you have to capitalize on every opportunity, and I think we were able to do that. We had a great game plan. We were at home, the crowd was great, everything was great, the atmosphere was good, and we were able to put it all together. It was probably one of my better games, but that was so long ago."

Vick went on to win Comeback Player of the Year and led the Eagles to an NFC East title. He also started that season with 12 touchdown passes and zero interceptions. Manning has matched that mark in the first three games this year.

"I know I'm a pretty good quarterback," Vick said. "I understand why Peyton is getting the praise that he gets. I even praise him from afar. He's playing lights-out football. It's something that you can't overlook. It's something that you have to stare dead-on. You accept it. In a way, in a sense, we all kind of appreciate it. That's what the game is all about."

Considering the Eagles have the NFL's 30th-ranked defense and the Broncos are first in points (42.3) and yards (486.7), Vick and Co. will have to play mistake-free football on the road. And, LeSean McCoy and DeSean Jackson need to keep making big plays.

Manning is off to an incredible start. The four-time NFL MVP has completed 73 percent of his passes for 1,143 yards, 12 TDs and no picks for a of 134.7. "I think we can," Vick said about matching Denver's production. "I think for the most part we've shot ourselves in the foot and still have had opportunities to score 30-plus points in all three games we've played. So the optimism is there, we know what we have, we know what we can do, we know how to execute it. And it's just all about putting it all together. It'll come for us at some point."

The key for Vick and the Eagles will be controlling the ball to keep Manning and his slew of receivers off the field. That hasn't worked out for Philadelphia the last two weeks when it held the ball for a total of 40 minutes in two losses.

Ball control isn't Chip Kelly's philosophy. His priority is running as many plays as quickly as possible.

It sets up for what should be a high-scoring game. Oddsmakers have set the over/under at 58½ points. The total is the highest since 2004, when a Kansas City- Oakland matchup was set at 60.

"We're very aware of the kind of challenge our defense is facing playing against Michael Vick, McCoy, Jackson, all their weapons," Manning said. "We have got to be on our game from an offensive standpoint. Protecting the ball, scoring when we have the opportunities because you just can't give Michael Vick a short field or give McCoy a short field. We have to help out our defense just like our defense has to help us out, as well. It's a challenge from that standpoint."

NOTES: Safety is doubtful to play Sunday because of a shoulder injury. Rookie would replace him in the .

Broncos still see '04 in today's Michael Vick

By Jeff Legwold ESPN.com September 27, 2013

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The number is now one. Yes, after all of the games that have passed since, all of the players who have come and gone in the Denver Broncos' locker room since Halloween 2004, cornerback Champ Bailey now stands alone.

A party of one. He is the only player remaining who was in a Broncos uniform for a remember-when game against Michael Vick. At the time, Vick’s jersey sales were off the chart and he was the next level of athleticism with a power arm. Vick represented what the future of the position just might be.

When he was the guy, even those among the NFL’s elite would simply stop to watch when he had the ball in his hands and a small window of open space in front of him.

“At that time, no question, there wasn’t anybody really like him," Bailey said. “That’s how we looked at it that week. We put on the tape and you watched him and he just did things other guys weren’t doing, with speed nobody else had, really. That game, I still look at that even now like that’s still probably one of his best games of his career. We had no answer for what he brought that day."

On that day, Vick was 18-of-24 passing for 252 yards and two in a 41- 28 Falcons win that saw any memory of 's franchise-record 499 yards passing disappear in Vick's jetwash. Vick did not throw an interception and the Broncos sacked him just once. Vick also ran for 115 yards on 12 carries, including a 44-yard, double-take worthy effort on a third-and-3 play during the Falcons’ first possession of the day.

That was all before Vick’s arrest, his incarceration, his life’s rebound and his career resurrection in Philadelphia. Vick returns to Denver Sunday, his first trip back as a starting quarterback since the ’04 affair and he returns as a slightly different player, almost a decade older and once again on the cutting edge of whatever becomes of Chip Kelly’s offense in the NFL. Asked this week if he could recall the ’04 trip to Denver, Vick said; “I think Jake Plummer was the quarterback, was the coach ... and it’s not an easy place to play."

Reminded he had rushed for more than 100 yards in the game, Vick said with a laugh; “Well, I was a lot younger back then."

“He was a bigger threat running the ball back then, I believe," Bailey said. “But he’s still a threat, a great threat running the ball. But he was just on point that day. He didn’t show all that on tape in previous games. That was one of his best games of his career. I know it because he probably ran for 100 and threw for two-something ... I look back and I think that was a big moment for him, because I don't think I had seen him put a whole game together like that, running, throwing, in the pocket, on the move, until that day."

And there have certainly been times in Vick’s career when his NFL peers perhaps appreciated his athletic gifts more than the public at large. In Vick’s time in , players often responded to any question that included “most dynamic" or “most athletic" or “toughest to defend" in it with Vick’s name.

“I think that’s true," said Broncos Kevin Vickerson, an eighth-year veteran. “Guys I knew would always be talking about how (Vick) played, what he did. And then I would talk to friends who weren't in the league or something like that and they would say they didn't see it, or whatever, but I think guys in this league have known what (Vick) can do."

And also in Kelly’s read-option attack Vick, who is suddenly the oldest player on the Eagles’ roster. Another sort of remake for the only quarterback in league history to have thrown for at least 20,000 yards and rushed for at least 5,000 yards in a career. He has a 400-yard passing game already this season -- 428 yards in the loss to the Chargers earlier this month -- and he’s also been sacked six times, by the Chiefs last week, as the Eagles try to settle in to a new way of doing things in a 1-2 start.

“But I just look at it now, he’s still doing those things, he’s still breaking off those big runs, escaping, all those things," Vickerson said. “It all looks the same to me."

Vick has been battered at times in his three previous seasons as the Eagles' starter. He missed three games each in the 2010 and 2011 seasons with rib injuries and missed six games last season after suffering a concussion against the Cowboys last Nov. 11. And questions have swirled about whether Vick is the long-term answer at quarterback as for Kelly's offense, or as a long-term an answer as a 33-year-old quarterback who is his team’s second-leading rusher can be. But as far as the Broncos are concerned those are decisions for another day by other people.

They see only Vick now, for the most part, as he was back in 2004.

“Michael Vick has been a talented football player as long as he’s been in the league," Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio said. “He’s been a guy that can beat you with his feet and beat you with his arm … I kind of feel like that’s always been the case and in particular when he’s healthy and part of a good team." Bailey, Ihenacho questionable for Broncos

By Jeff Legwold ESPN.com September 27, 2013

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- With the fast-paced Philadelphia Eagles on deck, the Denver Broncos got a little healthier in the secondary as the week wore on and are still hoping to add Champ Bailey to that mix before Sunday's kickoff.

Safety Duke Ihenacho (right ankle) practiced for the first time this week on Friday. He was limited in the workout and is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s game, but is expected to be ready to play if he has no additional issues in the coming days.

Cornerback Tony Carter (right ankle) practiced fully Friday and was listed as probable. As for Bailey (left foot), he practiced on a limited basis for the second consecutive week. And as the Broncos did last week, they formally listed Bailey as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Eagles.

Asked if he could make a decision on Bailey’s status after Friday’s practice or would have to see Bailey work on the field in the hours before Sunday’s game, Broncos coach John Fox said: “We’ll make it official an hour and half before kickoff on gameday." Bailey characterized his status as "close, very close.''

Linebacker Paris Lenon (thigh) was the only player held out of practice Friday and was formally listed as doubtful. Lenon is not expected to play against the Eagles. Tight end Joel Dreessen (knee), who like Bailey has yet to play in a game this season, was limited Friday and listed as questionable.

Safety David Bruton (neck), wide receiver (left ankle), Aaron Brewer (rib), running back C.J. Anderson (knee), cornerback Omar Bolden (left shoulder), wide receiver (left ankle), wide receiver Eric Decker (right shoulder), tackle Orlando Franklin (shoulder), guard Chris Kuper (ankle) all practiced fully and were all listed as probable.

What to watch for: Broncos-Eagles

By Jeff Legwold ESPN.com September 27, 2013

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Speed first, mistakes second.That's the order of things for the NFL offenses that want to go faster, run more plays, and push the pace against the defenses facing them.

“That’s what those offenses want to do," said Broncos linebacker Wesley Woodyard. “They want you to mess up. They want you not to get lined up, not to get your calls, not to be where you’re supposed to be, then they hit you with a big play."

So, as the Broncos and Eagles -- two of the fastest offenses in the league -- gather Sunday in Sports Authority Field at Mile High, here are some things to consider:

• Get moving: The Broncos can’t waste time on defense. That whole "stroll to the line of the scrimmage" thing isn’t going to work. Neither will being slow with the calls or sluggish in their alignments. When the play finishes the Broncos defenders simply have to get over the ball and be ready to go. The Chiefs were able to limit the Eagles last week, at least in part, by consistently getting themselves over the ball and ready to go, even as the umpire is placing the ball. Because if you snooze, you lose. And lose big.

Mind the gap: Like most of the pick-up-the-pace attacks, Eagles coach Chip Kelly is looking to spread out the defense’s resources and then run though the gaps. The Eagles currently lead the league in rushing, at 209 yards per game. With their offensive alingments, Kelly often creates situations where the defense only has six players in the box and then quarterback Michael Vick or running back LeSean McCoy only have to make one defender miss before they are at the second level with big plays on their minds. One of the more effective formations the Eagles have run is a “double stack" look where Kelly takes four receivers and lines two out wide on each side of the formation with one receiver right behind the other on each side. That pulls four defensive backs outside the numbers and six defenders in the tackle box. It makes tackling a premium and a single missed tackle can turn into a 50- yard run. Vick had a 61-yard run out of the formation against the Chiefs. Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio knows the deal: “It’s all about leveraging and tackling ... always has been, always will be."

• Air mail: The Eagles, in Kelly’s first season, have taken a page out of the Seahawks’ playbook. They opened the checkbook in free agency to get bigger at cornerback, signing the 6-foot, 200-pound Bradley Fletcher (Rams) and the 6-foot-1, 190-pound (Ravens) in the offseason. Essentially the Eagles were hoping Fletcher, who started more than four games in just one of his four seasons in St. Louis, could make the transition to front-line starter. But they’ve been spotty at times -- their three opponents have found enough room to attempt 49, 47 and 35 passes over the first three weeks of the season -- and all three opposing have completed at least 61 percent of their passes. connected on 77 percent in a Week 2 Chargers win. Defensive coaches in the league say they believe Peyton Manning is as dialed in as he’s ever been. And Manning will get a secondary that is starting a backup safety. Earl Wolff is expected to start for the injured Patrick Chung and the other safety, , has struggled mightily at times this season. In the three-wide look, the Eagles will have a difficult choice over who they will put in the slot on Wes Welker. The Eagles have struggled to tackle well much of the time, so the catch-and- run opportunities have been there for opposing receivers.

• Could be a special day: In the Eagles’ loss to the Chiefs, the game was just a few minutes old and the Eagles had already surrendered a 57-yard kickoff return and fumbled a . Philadelphia, like any roster in the transition that comes with a new coaching staff, has shown some bobbles in special teams. The Broncos’ will have some opportunities to make a play in this one. Also, from the Eagles’ perspective, Kelly will try some things on special teams to shake things up. He attempted a fake extra point out of a swinging gate look with the kicker and holder lined up. The attempt failed, but the Broncos will need to be aware.

• Get heat on: Vick has been sacked 11 times this season -- he was tied for second-most in the league after three games -- including six by the Chiefs last week. It means, given the Eagles’ read-option look on offense, the 33- year-old has taken his share of punishment already. The Broncos will have to be disciplined in their lanes as they move up the field. And they’ll have to live by the basic rule of rushing a mobile passer -- don’t get deeper into the backfield than the quarterback so you don’t leave an escape route. The Eagles may move to more two-tight-end looks at times to give a little help up front. But the Broncos should be able to get some pressure and keep Vick hemmed in. Peyton's passing fuels Denver win streak

By ESPN Stats & Information ESPN.com September 27, 2013

Broncos pick up where they left off The Denver Broncos have won 14 straight regular-season games dating back to last season, and they'll go for 15 in a row Sunday when they host the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 14-game regular-season win streak is tied for the longest in team history (also won 14 from 1997-98) and is the longest in the NFL since the Packers won 15 straight games from 2010-11.

All of the Broncos wins have come by at least seven points. That's the second- longest such streak in NFL history behind the 1941-42 Bears (16 games).

Denver has scored 127 points this season, tied for the second most by a team through three games in NFL history (1968 Cowboys – 132). Denver will need to score 56 points in Week 4 to match the 1968 Cowboys record of 183 points through four games. The Eagles haven’t allowed 56 points since 1972 when they allowed 62 to the Giants.

Peyton Manning’s amazing start Peyton Manning has thrown an NFL-record 12 touchdown passes through three games. He’ll need two this week to tie the record for most through four team games, held by (1943), (1966) and (1999).

But it's not just touchdown passes where Manning is excelling. Entering Week 4, he also led the NFL in completions (89), completion percentage (73.0), pass yards (1,143), yards per attempt (9.4), pass TD (12), interception percentage (0.0) and Total QBR (89.7).

Manning isn't doing it alone, he's been getting help from his receiving corps. The Broncos have 551 yards after the catch this season, second-most in the NFL behind the Lions.

Look for the Broncos receivers to continue running against Philadelphia. Only the Redskins have allowed more yards after the catch this season than the Eagles (535).

Which defense is best suited to stop the Broncos? It might be the , who match up well against Denver's passing attack.

All 12 of Peyton Manning's touchdown passes this season have come on sets that used at least three wide receivers. The Chiefs defense owns the league’s second- best Total QBR on plays when the opposing offense uses at least three wide receivers, which is the best among teams on the Broncos' schedule.

The Chiefs and Broncos meet twice in a three-week span (Weeks 11 and 13). The games bookend Denver’s Week 12 matchup against the Patriots in Foxborough.

The Eagles, on the other hand, rank 29th this season in opponents' QBR when using three or more wide receivers. Chiefs looks to make things difficult in AFC West

By Nate Scott USA Today Sports September 27, 2013

NFL.com’s Judy Battista made an interesting point in a column arguing that the Chiefs will make the Broncos fight for the AFC West crown.

It’s not inconceivable.

Both teams are 3-0. Both have strong defenses. Both have incredible home field advantages. Both win turnover battles.

The big difference is that Broncos have Peyton Manning, of course, who is playing the quarterback position better than anyone alive right now.

ESPN Stats & Info ✔@ESPNStatsInfo Peyton Manning has 12 TD passes this season. No other team has more than 12 TOTAL TD in 2013 #BookofManning 6:52 PM - 24 Sep 2013

“That seems to be what separates the Broncos and Chiefs,” writes Battista, “the feeling that while Kansas City is loaded with talent and playing mistake-free games, Denver has a much higher ceiling.”

When you take a look at the teams’ remaining schedules, though, it becomes easier to imagine Kansas City making a run at the Broncos.

If the Chiefs can split their two games against the Broncos, they’ve got games against the Raiders twice, the Chargers twice, the hapless Giants, the Browns, the Bills…it’s completely possible that they could go 12-4. Their toughest opponents aside from the Broncos will be the Texans, and the Chiefs get them at home.

The Broncos, on the other hand, have games remaining in New England and in Houston for the Texans, as well as a game away in Dallas for a suddenly frisky- looking Cowboys team. They could easily win all those games, of course, but their climb to 13-3 or 12-4 is a little steeper.

The guys from PredictionMachine.com, which simulates a season 50,000 times to predict the outcome, agree that the Chiefs are a playoff team. But those 50,000 simulations say they won’t challenge the Broncos for first place in the AFC West, or the AFC in general.

Paul Bessire@predictmachine Projected AFC Playoffs: 1) Broncos 2) Patriots 3) Texans 4) Bengals 5) Chiefs 6) Dolphins ... http://ow.ly/pdCLA 7:35 PM - 25 Sep 2013 Will the Chiefs challenge the Broncos for the division crown? Not if Manning continues to play like this. But it’s going to be a lot closer and a lot more interesting than many people think. Ten things that intrigue me about NFL Week 4

By Pete Prisco CBSSports.com September 27, 2013

Will do enough against the Steelers to keep the job? -- With out with a rib injury, the Vikings will turn to Cassel as their starting quarterback. Ponder didn't play well the first three weeks, so if Cassel does it would seem to be his chance to win the job. Really, though, is there much difference?

Eagles and Broncos trying to run as many plays as they can with their no-huddle offenses -- How fun will this one be? It features two teams that love to play fast on offense. That will be enjoyable to watch. How many plays can they get off between the two of them? How excited is Peyton Manning to face that Eagles defense?

Texans WR Andre Johnson vs. Seahawks CB Richard Sherman -- Johnson is bothered by a shin injury, but he is expected to play. He had a big game the first game, but then had a concussion followed by the shin injury. Sherman loves a challenge, and two weeks ago he took out of the game. Johnson will be a much tougher challenge in man coverage for Sherman. Funny thing is, Sherman talks and Johnson doesn't.

Mike Glennon as the starting quarterback for the Bucs against the Cardinals -- I don't like the move to go to Glennon, but it's always interesting to see a rookie passer make his first start. Glennon has limited mobility, so it will be interesting to see if the Bucs change some of their deep passing routes, even if he has a big arm.

Larry Fitzgerald vs. -- This is one of the best vs. one of the best. Revis has done a nice job coming back from his torn ACL, and I would expect him to be on Fitzgerald a lot. They faced each other once before in 2008, and Fitzgerald had over 100 yards receiving. It was clear last week that Fitzgerald wasn't 100- percent healthy. He's closer to that now. Should be fun.

Can the Giants line protect to try and save their season against a fierce Kansas City pass rush? -- The Giants gave up seven sacks last week to the Panthers, and this Kansas City pass rush is fierce. and gang should get after Eli Manning. The Giants will also be without guard and center , although Snee has been struggling. Can the Giants show improvement up front with their backups? If not, their season could be done early.

Ryan Tannehill on the road vs. that Saints defense in the Superdome -- Did Tannehill have his moment of arrival last week with his game-winning drive against the Falcons? Can it carry over against the Saints? New Orleans has been impressive on the defensive side so far, and they are tough to beat at home. In front of a prime-time audience, we will find out a lot about Tannehill. Is a one-hit wonder or can he build to something? -- Hoyer did some really good things in beating the Vikings last week. But he also made some mistakes. It will be interesting to see how that carries over this week against the Bengals. If he plays well, it should be his job the rest of the way.

What does Falcons defensive coordinator have in store for and his young receivers? -- Nolan did some really innovative things to slow down Peyton Manning last year in Week 2. I imagine he will have a lot of those same types of things for Brady. It's not that Brady won't be prepared, but it's his young receivers I worry about. Reading on the run might be complicated for them against this defense.

Does have any carryover from his impressive play last week? -- Locker had a nice game last week against San Diego, even if he did run too much. Now he gets to show he can build on it against a good Jets defense. Locker has been way too inconsistent in his career so far. This is a big week for him. NFL Overseas Makes All The Cents In The World

By Andrew Brandt September 26, 2013

Sunday marks the first of two games of the 2013 NFL International Series as the “host” the at in London (the meet the next month). With this year’s doubling of NFL inventory previously available to the English market, one can surmise that two games eventually will become three, three will become four, four will become six … until we have an NFL team stationed in London.

Although many dismiss the notion of an overseas NFL franchise, I certainly do not. Commissioner is intent on growing the game beyond our domestic borders, starting in London. More importantly, NFL owners—in case you haven’t been paying attention—care deeply about creating and capitalizing upon every possible revenue stream. Playing a game or two abroad is not maximization of that income. Owners start to see dollar signs from entry into the European market and beyond.

Yes, there will be logistical, operational and competitive challenges with a London team, but we are talking about a league approaching $10 billion in gross revenue. Simply, these issues can be worked out. My perspective is one of experience: I served as the first general manager of the Barcelona Dragons in the NFL-backed World League. In my opinion, solving the logistics of a potential NFL team in London would be a cakewalk compared to the NFL’s maiden voyage in Europe more than 20 years ago.

‘Do you speak Barcelonan?’

In 1991, I was a few years into a career as an agent when I was presented an interesting opportunity. I was negotiating a contract for client with Vikings general manager/part-owner, Mike Lynn.

When we finished negotiating Doleman’s contract, Lynn lit up a cigarette (one of a dozen he smoked in our two-hour meeting), eyed me closely and asked: “Do you speak Barcelonan?”

I thought this was an interesting question. “Does that mean Spanish?”

“Yeah, Spanish.” (It turned out he was wrong; Catalan is spoken in Barcelona.)

“Yes, I speak Spanish.” I took it in high school; I could fake my way through.

“How would you like to be the general manager of the Barcelona Dragons?” “The what?”

“We’re starting a league overseas. We’re going to spread football around the globe. It’s going be bigger than the NFL!”

I enjoyed the agent business (I would later return to it) but could not pass up the opportunity at a very young age to run a professional football team, albeit one in a minor league in another country. Three months before opening day on ABC television and with no coaches or players, I became general manager of the Barcelona Dragons.

Goalposts in the corners

After being turned down by some top NFL assistant coaches, such as , who was intrigued but not by moving to Spain, I hired former College coach Jack Bicknell. Within a week, we drafted 80 players, had training camp in , cut 40 players (some with Spanish heritage) and boarded a plane to Spain. Instant football team!

When we arrived in Spain, our marketing director proudly announced: “Andrew, for our opening game we have sold 173 tickets!”

“How many does the stadium hold?”

“40,000.”

“That’s not good.”

“Don’t worry. In Spain, everyone walks up.”

Thankfully, the night before our game, we were allowed to have the team run around at halftime of an FC Barcelona game with the public address announcer promoting our game the next night (or at least I think that’s what he said). Those five minutes in front of 100,000 people, combined with our handing out tickets to whomever we met, resulted in 18,000 fans for our opening game, clearing the 15,000 number we had targeted. On to the game.

Our first touchdown was a seam pattern to the tight end, who broke three tackles en route to an exciting 70-yard touchdown. I jumped for joy, but the stadium only had a murmur of muted golf applause. Hmmm. Then our kicker came on and kicked the extra point and … the crowd went nuts!

American football, for the fans that came, was a diversion, a curiosity far different than their passion for soccer. They cheered at all the wrong times, did “the wave” and sang “Ole” throughout the game. They just wanted to have some fun. So we made it a party.

We changed our entire marketing approach from selling to selling an American event. We sold hot dogs and hamburgers; we brought over marching bands and Frisbee dogs; we blasted American rap music at every stoppage of play. I hired two NFL cheerleaders to teach the women of Barcelona to dance as they did, creating “Las Chicas Del Dragons.” They became more popular than the team and were booked throughout Spain.

Logistically, there were some obstacles. When the goalposts were first installed at the stadium, they were mounted in the corners of the end zones. The laundry service ruined our uniforms countless times. Getting equipment out of customs always required some negotiating and a greased palm or two.

Perhaps the biggest obstacles were food and lodging. We could never get enough food. The hotel staff constantly complained, They eat so much; they are too big! We put night tables with a pillow on top at the end of each bed so players’ legs wouldn’t flop over. And dealing with the wives and girlfriends visiting players while navigating the new Spanish girlfriends (and one wife) was a full-time job in itself.

To borrow a U.S. Navy tagline, the Barcelona Dragons experience was not just a job, it was an adventure. However, Barcelona was then and London is now.

London and the logistics

Even back in the World League 22 years ago, the sophistication of American football fans at Wembley Stadium was vastly greater than what we experienced in Barcelona. When we played in the inaugural World Bowl in London (against the London Monarchs), it was very similar to playing in front of an American audience, just with some English flair.

Yes, soccer will always be the bellwether sport for London and all of Europe, but there is a recognized market for American football. The NFL is increasing its output there to set a floor for further offerings in the future.

On the team level, when the St. Louis Rams had to back out of previously scheduled London games due to their own stadium issues, Jaguars owner Shahid Kahn pounced, strategically positioning his franchise as the closest thing there is to a “home team” in London. Khan, also the new owner of English Premier League team Fulham, represents an aggressive player for international opportunities in the NFL ownership circle.

I understand and hear anxieties about travel, pay, competitive balance, etc. Change is scary and logistical concerns are real. However, we are far removed from our days in the World League, where our road trips would take two days.

Flights to London from the East Coast take similar (or less) time as cross-country flights, and all team travel is done on private charters. Bye weeks for teams playing in London can be scheduled for the following week, as they are now. And the London team would likely have two or three-week road trips in the United States, something that happens in the NFL with teams playing consecutive West (or East) Coast games. For instance, the are staying in Florida this week after a Week 3 game in New Orleans and a Week 4 game at Tampa Bay. As to issues with player compensation and increased costs for housing, travel, etc., this will be part of the collective bargaining process with the NFLPA. Everything is negotiable. Perhaps players will not be required to stay in London beyond the season, with potential for training camp and offseason workouts at a designated facility in the United States. As to equalizing tax and contractual imbalances, that too can be handled in discussions with the union.

To dismiss the idea of an NFL team in London is folly. With NFL owners looking to unlock every untapped income source, an opening into the European market makes obvious sense. The internationalization of the NFL is not going to remain fixed at a couple games per year. It will not happen soon, perhaps not even during the present CBA that runs through 2020, but it will happen eventually. NFL international expansion is not a matter of if, but when. Chiefs will make Broncos fight for AFC West; 10 things to watch

By Judy Battista NFL.com September 26, 2013

When Peyton Manning emerged from a cold tub late Monday night, shivering and trying to catch his breath in the middle of a news conference, it was a rare uncomfortable moment in the Denver Broncos' otherwise steely-eyed assault on defenses.

Really, this was Manning's way of speeding his physical recovery during a short week of preparation for the Philadelphia Eagles, an extra step that, to the untrained eye, hardly seems worth the teeth chattering. Manning had just completed an especially surgical performance, one that included just five incompletions -- and three of those, maybe four, were drops -- three touchdown passes and no interceptions in the Broncos' 37-21 dissection of the Oakland Raiders. It was the Broncos' third jaw-dropping victory, consistent with how everybody expected their season to go.

A funny thing has happened on the way to the cakewalk, though. The Kansas City Chiefs, who were supposed to be rebuilding like the rest of the AFC West, are 3-0, getting nearly error-free play from and fielding the rare defense that could provide at least some threat to the Broncos, although there are doubts that they're deep enough at cornerback to contain Denver for an entire game. The Chiefs have held opponents to 11.3 points per contest and lead the league with 15 sacks. Outside linebacker Justin Houston leads the league with 7.5 sacks, an ominous threat considering the Broncos have lost left tackle for the season.

Even as the speculation about the Broncos going undefeated begins, a more urgent question is being asked: Could the Chiefs challenge Denver for a title that seemed a foregone conclusion just two weeks ago in a division that is now -- along with the AFC East -- one of two divisions with two undefeated teams?

Well, maybe not yet.

"Denver has too much firepower on offense," said one former NFL personnel executive who has studied both squads. "Smith can't match him (Manning) -- too conservative in his approach as a passer."

That seems to be what separates the Broncos and Chiefs -- the feeling that while Kansas City is loaded with talent and playing mistake-free games, Denver has a much higher ceiling. That is especially true because, remarkably, the Broncos have been dominating their games without two of their defensive stars on the field. They already are halfway through linebacker Von Miller's six-game suspension, and cornerback Champ Bailey has not played yet this season while recovering from a sprained foot he suffered last month. Still, Denver is tied for the league lead in interceptions, a byproduct of exactly what the Broncos want their defense to do: Give Manning the ball again and again.

In a scheduling quirk, the Chiefs and Broncos don't face each other until Nov. 17, and then play twice in a three-week span, the games bookending another installment of Manning's epic rivalry with Tom Brady.

Before they meet, both teams will have had plenty of opportunities to gain blemishes on their respective records. It seems unlikely to happen this week, though. In the Philadelphia Eagles, Manning will face the league's 30th-ranked overall defense and 26th-ranked scoring defense and a team that has been intent on playing fast, a strategy whose ugly underbelly should give Manning the ball even more often than usual. The Chiefs will have a chance to harass Manning's brother, Eli, who already has been sacked 11 times this season behind the aging and injured offensive line.

If the Chiefs and Broncos both get to 4-0, the comparisons inevitably will grow. But as the perception of the Chiefs shifts, the Broncos -- and overblown expectations for a team that won just two games last season -- loom.

"I think that, in-house, I really feel like we have a great group," Smith said this week. "A group that understands what's gotten us here and that we're not there yet. The group has really stayed short-sighted, so that's good. The outside mentality changed a little bit. Everybody wants to be quick to jump to conclusions and make their own assumptions. This is football. This is a week-to-week deal."

That's certainly true. And here are 10 more things to watch in Week 4:

1) What will happen to the Patriots' defense in its first look at an elite offense? New England held its first three opponents to 11.3 points per game, tied for the second- fewest in the league. But EJ Manuel, and Josh Freeman are not Matt Ryan, and the average 23.7 points per game.

2) Can the Raiders take advantage of the Redskins' epically bad defense, even if Terrelle Pryor sits out with a concussion? Oakland ranks third in the league in rushing with 148.7 yards per game. Washington has allowed 1,464 yards in its first three games, ahead of the pace set by the historically bad defense last season.

3) What, exactly, has happened to Chip Kelly's offense? The Eagles have scored 10 fewer points per game and have been losing the turnover battle since they beat Washington in Week 1. And 14 teams have run more plays than Philadelphia. Picking up the pace won't be easy at altitude against the Broncos.

4) Could this be the week the NFC gains ground on the AFC? The AFC is 11-3 head- to-head against the NFC this season, which is surprising, since the NFC usually is considered to have the better, more dominant teams. Among the interconference games on tap: Patriots at Falcons, Seahawks at Texans, Dolphins at Saints. 5) Can stop two really troubling trends against the Seahawks, who lead the league in scoring defense? The Texans quarterback threw a pick-six in each of his last two games, and last week, he didn't have a touchdown pass against the Ravens, the fourth time in his past seven games that has happened.

6) Keep an eye on the perhaps-surprising pace of the Ravens-Bills game. Baltimore has run the second-most plays in the league, behind only New England. Buffalo runs the fastest offense in the NFL, taking just 21.4 seconds per play.

7) And when the Ravens do have the ball, can Joe Flacco spark his downfield passing attack? Flacco is just 3 of 15 on passes that travel at least 21 yards in the air, but he'll be facing a Bills secondary that allowed the to create a vertical passing game last week.

8) Will the Buccaneers' move to make any difference? Opposing quarterbacks have an average passer rating of 102.0 against the Arizona Cardinals, who have given up at least 21 points in each of their first three games. Tampa Bay had the NFL's second-worst scoring and total offense under now-benched Josh Freeman this season.

9) Will the Steelers finally get a turnover? This was the first time since 1950 that Pittsburgh didn't force a turnover in its first three games. But Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel, who is set to start for the injured Christian Ponder, coughed up 21 interceptions and nine in 18 games over the past two seasons. The man he's replacing hasn't been any more sure-handed; Ponder has five interceptions this season, third-most behind Eli Manning and Geno Smith. That goes a long way toward explaining why both teams are winless.

10) Can anybody pass-protect? NFL teams combined for 101 sacks in Week 3, the second-most in a single week in league history and the most in a week in 12 years. Bad news for Eli Manning, who was sacked seven times by the last Sunday: Justin Houston had 4.5 sacks last week for the Chiefs, and Dontari is a beast getting inside pressure.

Roger Goodell discusses NFL's season structure, player safety

By Judy Battista NFL.com September 26, 2013

The NFL continues to consider changes to its season structure -- from altering the preseason to expanding the postseason -- but Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday it is extremely unlikely those changes would be made in time for 2014. That means at least another year of the four preseason games that almost nobody - - including the league -- loves and a 12-team playoff field.

But Goodell, in an interview in his New York office, indicated the timing for altering the calendar of games is right. The league is locked into long-term labor and television contracts and recently settled the mammoth concussion litigation involving thousands of former players.

Goodell said there haven't been any recent conversations about the most controversial change to a season -- going to an 18-game regular-season slate. The idea is not dead, he said, but there haven't been any internal talks nor talks with the NFL Players Association, which would have to agree to the change.

But there is some urgency to decide whether to reduce the number of preseason games or somehow change the complexion of the games to create more competitiveness and fan interest. Any changes would have to be discussed at the league's annual meeting in March, and Goodell said there still is a lot of work to be done on the possibilities, making it unlikely significant alterations to the season could be decided upon by next spring.

A reduction to two preseason games is likely to be considered too drastic for coaches, who need time to evaluate young players and prepare those who will play in the regular season. But the league is considering myriad scenarios -- from replacing games with scrimmages, to dropping some games off season-ticket packages -- to improve the preseason.

Goodell also said he has not decided if expanding the playoffs beyond the current 12-team format is best for the league. Critics of the idea fear adding another layer of playoff games will dilute the importance of the regular season. But more playoff teams keeps interest in the season alive in more areas of the country and would provide another lucrative TV package of games.

"With the competitiveness of the league, you see teams get hot the second half of the season. A reasonable argument could be made that there are teams that should qualify for the playoffs and don't and could win the Super Bowl," Goodell said. "I don't think we want to expand just to have more teams. We want to create more excitement, more interest and give teams a chance to win the Super Bowl."

One change that could be made for next year: The NFL is considering playing a third game in London as part of its evolving International Series. Goodell said a final decision hasn't been made, nor is there a timeline for deciding if a franchise will be permanently placed in London.

Goodell addressed many other topics in the interview:

» He was adamant that the NFL will not let slide enforcement of rules designed to enhance player safety or programs that the league hopes will provide better knowledge now that the concussion litigation has been settled.

"The simple answer is no, we took on these initiatives to make the game safer and we're going to continue that, whether it's making sure the rules take those dangerous techniques out of the game or whether it's improvements in equipment or pioneering research," Goodell said. "If anything, we'll continue to accelerate as necessary."

Goodell said players' concerns that the emphasis on hits to the head and neck have resulted in low hits that are causing knee injuries -- like the one to tight end Dustin Keller in the preseason -- are not new. But he said that when the NFL Competition Committee reviews the consequences of rules changes, it has not seen low hits as an unintended consequence of a crackdown on high hits.

"We really don't want to see either," Goodell said. "There's a large target area to hit in, between the thighs and the shoulders and chest area. But it's a fast game. You're going to have times when someone is going to have it, that's why we have penalties, that's why we have a discipline process. It will happen. You try to limit that. Fortunately, it is limited."

Goodell said he believed the diagnosis of Terrelle Pryor's concussion was handled appropriately. An athletic trainer stationed in the press box spotted the hit to the head that the Oakland Raiders quarterback took Monday night against the Denver Broncos, then alerted doctors on the sideline. Pryor showed no symptoms immediately after the hit and briefly continued to play before he was tested for a concussion.

"You obviously want to have him evaluated as soon as possible," Goodell said. "But again, he showed no symptoms, he jumped right up. The reason we were able to detect it was we saw the impact of the hits. That means the system worked. Would I like to see it happen faster? Yes."

» Goodell said his comment in an interview two weeks ago -- in which he said, if the Washington Redskins name offends even one person, the NFL has to listen -- should not be interpreted as a shift in his position from a letter he sent to several members of Congress in June, in which he defended the name. In recent weeks, the Washington Post's editorial page called the name a racial slur that no longer should be tolerated, and several prominent writers and outlets said they no longer will use the name.

"I don't think that's softening," Goodell said of his recent comment. "I think the name is done in a way that they always presented it as a source of pride, honor and tradition. But I also have been very open, and I feel this way about any issues, we need to listen, particularly if people are offended."

On if he believes the Redskins should change their name, Goodell said: "I think they should listen to the people. Fans feel very strongly about the name. The last polling I have of Native Americans, nine out of 10 were not offended by the name. You have to look at listening to people who are offended by it and see if you can address those issues."

» Goodell considered the $765 million concussion lawsuit settlement a victory for the players and their families: "We now have a fund that is there for players and their families if they are having any issues. We also are going to baseline (test) those players. If they develop neurocognitive issues, there will be a fund there for them."

When asked if the settlement, in which the NFL did not have to admit any responsibility for how it treated concussions and its players, also was good for the league, Goodell said: "I don't think anyone ever wants to be involved in litigation. Litigation is time-consuming; it can be distracting because you've got to focus on it. I think getting that resolved is a good thing."

» Negotiations to begin HGH testing remain at a standstill, but there is more than one issue separating the sides. Goodell said he will not compromise on his authority to decide discipline in cases involving drug-related violations of the law, a power given to him in the collective bargaining agreement two years ago. But he said the league and players' union also have not agreed to the number of games a player would be suspended for a second violation under the performance-enhancing drug policy.

The league had wanted a 10-game suspension but agreed to come down to eight games as part of negotiations. But Goodell said the union never agreed to the league's terms for the eight-game suspension, so that issue remains outstanding.

» Without directly commenting on Broncos linebacker Von Miller's suspension or the circumstances of his violation, Goodell said the league and union, after meeting with the company responsible for collecting urine samples from players, were making changes to the protocol in hopes of assuring that tampering with samples could not happen. Goodell declined to provide specifics on what would be done, saying he did not want to provide a "road map" for those who might try to circumvent the security measures.

» Goodell said he did not have a problem with playing Sunday, little more than 48 hours after San Francisco's star pass rusher was arrested for driving under the influence and hours before the 49ers announced he would leave the team for an undetermined period to seek in-patient rehabilitation for a drinking problem.

Twitter Strikes Deal With NFL

By Amol Sharma Wall Street Journal September 26, 2013

The has reached a deal with Inc. to make football highlights and other content available on the social-media service, the latest big partnership aimed at capitalizing on the intersection of tweeting and TV.

The NFL will have a team dedicated to producing "programming" for Twitter users seven days a week, including in-game highlights from Thursday night games on the NFL Network, and clips from games on other networks such as CBS and Fox once they have aired. In addition, the NFL will serve up content including news, analysis and fantasy football advice.

The initiative is part of Twitter's Amplify revenue-generating program that lets TV content owners distribute programming in users' Twitter feeds, with short ads embedded. The companies share the ad revenue.

The NFL and Twitter have pre-sold ad inventory, netting cash in the low eight-figure range, according to a person familiar with the situation. One of the main sponsors for the regular season and playoffs is expected to be Verizon Wireless, a joint venture of Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group PLC.

Verizon will be the exclusive Twitter advertiser for the Super Bowl. Earlier this year Verizon agreed to pay $1 billion over four years to significantly expand its rights to air NFL games on cellphones through an NFL Mobile app.

In recent months, Twitter has signed up an array of media partners for Amplify including A+E Networks, The Weather Channel and BBC America. This week, CBS Corp. CBS -0.65% said it would participate by, for example, tweeting out clips that promote some of its shows.

Sports-TV giant ESPN, majority owned by Walt Disney Co., was an early pioneer of the Amplify initiative last year and expanded the relationship significantly this spring. For this season, ESPN is embedding highlights of games in Twitter feeds, each with an eight-second Verizon Wireless ad.

But the NFL hasn't granted ESPN the rights to tweet clips from , its highly watched pro football telecast, according to a person familiar with the matter. The NFL will be able to tweet highlights of Monday Night Football games itself once they air.

The partnership with Twitter is a significant move for the NFL, which is generally very protective of its digital distribution rights. The deal will significantly expand the audience that can view NFL content on mobile phones. Currently, Verizon subscribers have the NFL Mobile app, and DirecTV Sunday Ticket subscribers also can get football content on their phones, but any Twitter user would be able to see the Amplify highlights.

Hans Schroeder, senior vice president of media strategy and development for the NFL, said the league sees the opportunity to take advantage of the "real-time nature and the broad reach of the conversation on Twitter" and to "take some of our best content to our most avid fans."

Media companies and Twitter are aiming to take advantage of the high usage of Twitter to comment on TV programming, especially sports events. Advertisers are looking for every avenue possible to get their message through to consumers who now often time-shift TV and fast-forward through ads.

Twitter is ramping up the TV partnerships as it prepares for an initial public offering. The company filed confidential paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission earlier this month. Currently, the company mostly generates ad revenue from sponsored tweets that appear in users' feeds.

EMarketer Inc. estimates Twitter will generate around $1 billion in ad revenue globally in 2014, up from $583 million this year. The company hasn't disclosed its ad revenue.

Adam Bain, Twitter's President of Global Revenue, said putting the NFL's "highly coveted content" on Twitter "will not only offer our users a unique programming schedule which will deepen their engagement with our platform but will also provide our sponsors with a value proposition that few other partners can bring to the table." How The NFL Built A 25 Million Person Hispanic Fan Base

By Alicia Jessop Forbes September 26, 2013

When it comes to assessing market trends and identifying growing contingencies of potential fans, the NFL is on top of its game. From September 15 through October 15, the NFL will recognize Hispanic Heritage Month by engaging in league-wide and team-sponsored initiatives focused upon the Hispanic community.

The month-long celebration comes in the wake of significant research depicting the fast and significant growth of the Hispanic population–and associated spending power–in the United States. According to 2010 Census data, between 2000 and 2010, the United States’ Hispanic population increased by 15.2 million. This number represents over half of the United States’ total population growth during the decade. The 2010 Census found that 50.5 million of the 308.7 million people living in the United States on April 1, 2010 were of Hispanic or Latino origin.

Internal research likewise demonstrated to the NFL the growing presence of the Hispanic population. However, for the NFL, the realization of the role the Hispanic community could play in expanding its fan base began years before the 2010 Census data confirmed the growing importance of the Hispanic population in the American economy.

In 2002, former NFL commissioner launched an internal task force for the NFL to begin researching and learning about the Hispanic fan base. By 2005, that group’s efforts culminated in the NFL hosting a game in Mexico City. “The 2005 game in Mexico City was a galvanizing moment. It was a great springboard for bringing the commitment to the Hispanic population across the league. From there, it really started to institutionalize the notion of designating a time period in our year to celebrate Hispanic fans and in a consistent way that is really visible,” said the NFL’s vice president of fan strategy and marketing, Peter O’Reilly.

The NFL’s efforts to attract the Hispanic population to its product have not gone unnoticed. A 2012 ESPN Sports Poll found that 25 million Hispanics in the United States identify themselves as NFL fans. The popularity of the league amongst the Hispanic population allowed Super Bowls XLVI and XLVII to become the most- watched TV programs (English or Spanish) on record among U.S. Hispanics. The growth of the NFL’s Hispanic fan base has yet to plateau. This is demonstrated in part by a Nielsen Media 2012 NFL Season Reach study, which found that 2012 was the most-viewed NFL regular season on record among U.S. Hispanics.

Today, as the NFL continues to work to grow its Hispanic fan base, it has created an internal steering committee. That committee serves as a conduit for the league and teams to share research on attracting the Hispanic fan base. “We have regular calls and meetings where we share what is working and what is resonating,” O’Reilly explained.

What then, is resonating amongst Hispanic NFL fans? What is driving the growth of the NFL’s Hispanic fan base?

As it turns out, the biggest factor driving growth of the NFL’s Hispanic fan base is the media access the NFL gives to its Hispanic fans. “We have spent a lot of time really working with and asking Hispanic fans how they want to consume the NFL. For us, it is about making sure that we are delivering the game in customized and unique ways to serve the Hispanic population’s needs,” O’Reilly noted.

One thing unique about the NFL’s distribution of its games to its Hispanic fan base, is that the NFL is the only major league in the United States to televise all of its games in Spanish. That the number of games it hosts each season pales in comparison to the other three leagues in the United States, gives the NFL a leg up in winning over the Hispanic market. It is much more financially feasible to televise a 16-game regular season in Spanish, than it is to say, televise an 82-game regular season. “There is a media piece that’s bringing the NFL to places it hasn’t been. Some of this is tied to the number of games the NFL has each season, as we are the only sports league that delivers all of its games in Spanish,” O’Reilly pointed out.

In addition to televising all of its games in Spanish, the NFL has utilized other innovative media endeavors across a wide variety of channels to send the message about its product to the Hispanic population. These endeavors include programming with ESPN Deportes, Telemundo, Univision, and the NFL Network. Additionally, the NFL has utilized its own website to attract Hispanic fans. “A lot of what we continue to do, is make sure we can teach the basics of the game in fun and accessible ways in Spanish. There is a section of our website that allows fans to go in and get answers to basic questions about the game in Spanish. We recognize that for some, understanding the game is a barrier to enjoying it,” O’Reilly said.

NFL teams have fallen in step behind the league’s efforts to attract a wider Hispanic fan base. One team leading the charge is the , who recently spent over two years researching Hispanic consumers in Chicago before launching the team’s “Vamos Bears” engagement platform. Realizing that ticket sales would not be the team’s priority when it came to attracting a Hispanic fan base, as Bears tickets have been sold out for 28 seasons, the team looked to building a wider Spanish media presence.

In 2012, the Bears partnered with Chicago Spanish radio station, La Ley 107.9, to air the team’s games in Spanish on the radio for the first time. Initially a one-year test deal, the team quickly realized that partnering with a well-respected Spanish station could not only increase their reach amongst Hispanic fans, but could also help the team gain insight into the Hispanic community. “We saw that La Ley was a group living and breathing in the Hispanic community. We rely upon them not only as our radio partner, but as our community guide,” said the Chicago Bears’ vice president of sales and marketing, Chris Hibbs.

Going forward, the Bears plan to expand into other media markets to grow the team’s Hispanic fan base. “We are working right now on digital content. What should our web presence be for Vamos Bears? How much of that presence is in Spanish and how much is in English?” Hibbs remarked.

For teams, spending money on research and campaigns to engage Hispanic fans is a smart business strategy. “On our side, it’s a vehicle to drive advertising revenue. Brands are looking for ways to engage this very important demographic of Hispanic consumers,” Hibbs noted.

Yet, for all that teams gain monetarily by attracting a wider Hispanic fan base, they are also quick to note that they have a responsibility to serve the demographic. “We had two to three business meetings with the NFL to talk about future development and growth where we were hearing a ton about Hispanic consumers and seeing lots of great data and trends about the predominance of this consumer in the country and how thirsty they were for sports. We had to listen. There was an opportunity for us to really engage this consumer. We’ve under-served them. The Bears have been around for 93 years, and we have done very little with this community,” Hibbs explained.

Likewise, while the NFL is focused upon growing fans of its product, it is cognizant of the role that its product plays in building the future of American culture. “Without overstating our role, there is a role the NFL can serve in terms of being a bridge to American culture. The NFL is such a strong American passion and a badge of our culture. In a lot of American communities, football is a glue. Hispanic fans tell us it’s a connection point. It’s certainly about making sure our fan base grows, but beyond that, we believe that given the unifying nature of the NFL, there’s a role we can play beyond that,” the NFL’s O’Reilly remarked. 5 Broncos observations you may not have heard

By Jimmy Kempski Philly.com September 27, 2013

I took a look at all three of the Broncos' games this year, and made some observations that perhaps you haven't heard just yet.

1) Peyton Manning is even more accurate than you think.

Peyton Manning has a completion percentage of 73%, but he has been even more accurate than that. In watching the Broncos' 3 games, I nooticed that his receivers have dropped a boatload of passes. I went to ProFootballFocus to seee how many they saw. Here's what they came up with:

If you just took those drops away and subtracted them from Manning's pass attempt total, his completion percentage would be 82.4%. It's unlikely that the Broncos' receivers are going to keep dropping passing at that rate, whhich is bad news for the Eagles.

2) Broncos receivers do a great job of getting yards after the catch. More coverage

While the Broncos' receivers have had their issues with drops, they do an outstanding job of getting yards after the catch. In my opinion, Demaryius Thomas is clearly among the 10 best wide receivers in the game, and might even be top 5. He has everything you want in a receiver: Size, speed, and the ability to break tackles and make plays once he has the ball in his hands. Take a look at his 78 yard TD reception Week 1 against the Ravens. For a guy who is 6'3 and 229 pounds, that kind of speed is special.

Meanwhile, Eric Decker is tied for the league lead among wide receivers in broken tackles, with 5, according to ProFootballFocus. Thomas is right behind him at 4. Obviously, the Eagles' safeties have had their tackling issues.

3) The Broncos have some fumblers.

Rookie has 2 already this season on just 31 carries. But more troubling for the Broncos is that his fumbles were of the careless variety. Ball didn't take a big hit on either of them. Defenders were simply able to jar the ball loose by swatting it out.

Ball is the mark. If he's in the game, Eagle defenders need to be mindful to try to strip the football.

Demaryius Thomas has also had his issues with fumbles. Since 2012, Thomas has 114 catches. He fumbled after 4 of them.

4) KR/PR Trindon Holliday can either win a game for you, or lose it.

A guy who is often overlooked is the Broncos kick/punt returner, Trindon Holliday. Holliday had 4 return TDs last season, including 2 in the playoffs against the Ravens. He already has a punt return TD against the Giants this year. However, like some other players on this Broncos team, he's a fumbler. He had 6 fumbles on just 68 returns last year. That's a fumble for every 11.3 returns. Here they are:

Fortunately for Holliday, he only lost one of those fumbles above. If I were the Broncos, while I would like the playmaking ability Holliday gives me, I'd be terrified of him wrecking a game for me, especially if I know that more often than not I have the more talented team.

5) The Broncos secondary is overly aggressive.

The Broncos have had a high number of pass interference and defensive holding calls this year. In fact, They have the NFL's co-leader in defensive penalties, CB Tony Carter, and another player high on the list, S . Here are the NFL's league leaders in defensive penalties, not including the Niners-Rams Thursday night game:

CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and S Duke Ihaanacho each have 2, while CB Chris Harris has 1. The Broncos secondary has 12 penalties, which leads the NFL. The Eagles need to use the Broncos over-aggressiveness against them and take shots down the field. The Inquirer’s Eagles-Broncos Predictions

By Jeff McLane Philadelphia Inquirer September 27, 2013

Since almost no one expects the Eagles to win, particularly in Philadelphia, a moral victory could be had if Chip Kelly’s offense is as potent as it was in the first two games. This game is a microcosm of how many felt about the Eagles’ prospects this season. Many thought the team wouldn’t win more than they’ll lose, but as long as Kelly delivered on the offensive side of the ball and there was overall improvement they would be satisfied. The Eagles’ opener against the Redskins skewed expectations, but most are back to seeing the Eagles for what they are: A team with an explosive, if still mistake-prone offense, and a defense that can’t stop most teams, let along Peyton Manning and the Broncos.

So most would take a loss as long the Eagles put up another 30 points. But if Kelly’s offense has another turnover-filled day and can’t sustain drives there will be howling all of next week. That doesn’t mean the Eagles can’t win. Anything is possible.

Manning and the Broncos will march up and down the field. But if Bill Davis’ defense can force field goals and get a red zone turnover or two (!), they have a fighter’s chance. The Eagles are eighth in the NFL in red zone defense, allowing only five touchdowns on 13 possessions. Manning kept saying during Wednesday’s conference call with Philly reporters that the Birds defense inside the 20 was something Denver needed to be wary of. While he was probably grasping for compliments, it’s something the Eagles can hang their hats on.

Davis had to trick his defense up some to keep the Chiefs in check for three quarters last Thursday, but he managed to do so without blitzing much. He can help his secondary again by reeling in the and trying to create pressure with the illusion of blitz. Manning has seen every type of blitz, every type of disguise. The Eagles should rely on their three-man defensive line and another pass rusher to create pressure and hope that a few players win individual matchups.

If the Eagles can’t get any immediate pressure, it could get ugly. Patrick Chung (shoulder) is likely out at safety, and while he hasn’t been playing well, his replacement is rookie Earl Wolff. Manning will know where Wolff is at every moment and will go right at him.

On offense, the Eagles have to eliminate the turnovers. Michael Vick has to play smarter. And Kelly has to establish the run and stay with it. The strength of this offense is LeSean McCoy and the running attack. There is no excuse for the Eagles running back getting less than 25 total touches. The Chargers and Chiefs had an extra safety down in the box for long stretches against the Eagles and McCoy was still very productive. Give him 25 carries and throw in another 7-8 for .

Time of possession is overrated and has little to do with why the Eagles defense has struggled. But it wouldn’t hurt to control the clock some and keep Manning off the field. A lot has been written about the Eagles' lack of a true No. 2 receiver this week. It didn’t seem to hurt them the first two weeks. That being said, has to get some separation from time to time to keep defenses honest and help DeSean Jackson. It might be time for to play a little more than 25 percent of the snaps. has a done a good job staying into block, something Eagles tight ends have been asked to do more of this season, but more two tight end sets couldn’t hurt. Cooper and are expendable.

If the Eagles can execute Kelly’s offense and limit the mistakes they should be able to score 30 on Denver’s missing-Von-Miller-and-Champ-Bailey defense. The Broncos still have a few pass rushers, Wesley Woodyward is a sideline-to-sideline inside linebacker and former Eagle Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie has done fine work in Bailey’s absence. But Jack Del Rio’s unit isn’t as strong top to bottom as the Chiefs defense.

The Eagles have hope. Unfortunately, it won’t be enough.

Prediction: Broncos 40, Eagles 30

What goes right: The Broncos offensive line has a hard time containing without double teams.

What goes wrong: Eagles linebackers DeMeco Ryans and get torched by Broncos tight end Julius Thomas.

ZACH BERMAN

The mystique of Peyton Manning makes for good stories, and the week leading up to the game has included legitimate respect from the Eagles about the Broncos quarterback. But from a pure football perspective, talking about Manning is legitimate because this is an incredibly difficult matchup for the Eagles.

When you go look at the Broncos offense this season, what’s striking is how the ball is distributed. They play 11 personnel for most of the game – Wes Welker, Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, and Julius Thomas – and the defense can pick their poison. It’s a different player each game. All four pass-catchers have at least 194 yards this season.

The player who poses the biggest challenge for the Eagles is Julius Thomas, the tight end. Thomas is such a dynamic athlete at that position, and the Eagles simply don’t have a player on defense who can match up with a player of his size and speed at that spot. I’m curious to see how the Eagles try to defend him, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Julius Thomas has the most catches of any Broncos receiver on Sunday.

The Eagles defensive backfield must have their finest game of the season. It’s that simple. With Patrick Chung’s status in question, that’ll be even more difficult. I thought the Eagles might play three safeties more frequently in this game, although Chung’s injury could complicate that. Maybe gets in there in a dime look. It will be intriguing to watch.

New left tackle Chris Clark had a solid start last week replacing Ryan Clady. The Eagles need to somehow find a way to pressure Manning, and you’d think a backup would be an area to exploit. I expect to be active, and they need him to penetrate the backfield. Fletcher Cox must be a presence on the interior.

On offense, I think the Eagles can move the ball. They’ll need to if they want to keep pace with Denver. Chip Kelly is a smart coach, and the extra few days of preparation will be an advantage for him. LeSean McCoy will have another big day – he’s that good. If I keep predicting that Zach Ertz will have a strong performance, I’m going to be right at some point. I just don’t know what personnel groupings that will come from. Jason Avant is playing well, and there haven’t been many spots to take them off the field.

The variable that is difficult to predict is turnovers. Michael Vick must take better care of the ball. It’s that simple. The Eagles will have a hard time winning if Vick throws two interceptions. But if they win the turnover battle, they’ll be in the game in the fourth quarter. Vick will have a nice bounce-back game, but it won’t be enough.

Ultimately, it’s hard to go against the better team. The Broncos win this game, and it won’t be in doubt. This is just too difficult of a matchup for the Eagles, even with more time to prepare.

And remember: take the over.

Prediction: Broncos 42, Eagles 31

What goes right: McCoy with another 100-yard rush performance. The passing game looks better than it did last week.

What goes wrong: Julius Thomas has a 100-yard receiving performance for the Broncos. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie intercepts Vick. Broncos' prolific offense isn't all about Peyton

By Reuben Frank CSNPhilly.com September 28, 2013

It’s the Broncos’ secret weapon: Running the ball.

Seriously.

The Broncos’ offense is not all Peyton Manning. It’s mostly Peyton Manning, but the Broncos want to run the football and like to run the football, and they’re actually not bad at running the football, and it’s one more thing for the Eagles to worry about Sunday afternoon in Denver.

In their win over the Raiders Monday night, the unbeaten Broncos rushed for 164 yards, including 109 in the second half.

Overall, only 10 NFL teams have run the ball more than the Broncos, who are averaging 30 carries per game.

It’s just that because Manning has been so insane, you never hear about it.

“The running game is a huge part of this offense and will continue to be a huge part of this offense,” Manning said. “If we can run the ball -- this is from the beginning of time -- it just opens up so many things in the passing game and hopefully keeps the defense off balance. We still try to be balanced every single week.”

Central Jersey native Knowshon Moreno has been the Broncos’ primary ball carrier, but Montee Ball and Ronnie Hillman give Denver a decent three- headed monster.

Moreno has the most rushing yards of the group (160), but Hillman (9 for 66) and Ball (11 for 61) did the most damage against the Raiders Monday night.

“It’s whoever has the hot hand,” Hillman said.

The Broncos use the running game mostly after they build a big lead. They’re not much of a first-half running team, with just 107 yards on 33 carries before halftime so far.

After halftime, they’re 54 for 229.

So that’s 3.2 yards per carry and an average of 36 yards in the first half and 4.2 yards per carry and 76 yards per game in the second half.

In the second half against the Raiders, the Broncos actually had more rushing yards (109) than passing yards (108).

Believe it or not.

“I think we made some strides last week,” Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase said. “It was good seeing us get some more chunks as far as our 10-plus (yards) running game. We hadn’t been doing that. We were kind of sticking to that three-, four-yard range per rush.

“We were 5.2 ... if you take away the kneel downs. It was good to see for us.”

Manning won’t hesitate to check out of a pass and into a run if he recognizes a defense deploying most of its resources in coverage.

“Peyton right now at the line of scrimmage is checking in and out of run games and pass games on what you present to him,” Eagles defensive coordinator Billy Davis said.

“When you have the light box, he's running the ball. When you have the heavy box, he's throwing the ball. Sometimes he's throwing you off. You can have a heavy box, he can still run it. He's calling the plays at the line in a great fashion. We have to stop that run equally well as a pass.”

The Chargers and Chiefs both ran the ball enough against the Eagles the last two weeks to keep the chains moving and the clock running, especially late in the game after they built a lead.

The Eagles held the Redskins to 74 rushing yards, but the Chargers and Chiefs combined for 272 yards on the ground.

Ironic that of all people ran the ball 38 times against the Eagles. But teams know that the best way to slow down the Eagles’ offense is to keep the clock rolling, and the best way to keep the clock rolling is to keep the football on the ground.

The Chiefs’ 38 carries are second-most against the Eagles in the last five years. The last 60 times a team has run the ball 38 or more times against the Eagles, they’re 55-4-1.

The Eagles have been solid against the run for the most part, but the Chiefs wore them down late, pounding out 83 rushing yards on 15 carries in the fourth quarter against a tired defense.

That’s the risk of a hurry-up offense. When the offense isn’t clicking and the defense has to play 40 minutes, stopping the run can be an issue late.

The Broncos might not run the ball quite that many times. After all, they have one of the most high-powered passing games the NFL has seen in a long time.

But they did run 35 times against the Raiders.

“I don't think it gets overlooked by us,” Chip Kelly said of Denver’s ground attack. “I think obviously the notoriety goes to Peyton and the receivers (but) they're running the ball very effectively.

“Doesn't matter whether which back is in there -- Ball, Hillman, Knowshon. They're still running the same plays. It's not like they have a package just for this guy and they're featuring these certain type of players. Seems like they’re running their game, doesn't matter who the back is.

“When we defend them or we're defending everybody, we're looking at everything.

“There may be more stories written about the [Broncos’] passing game, which is understandable. I know our defensive coaches are not saying, ‘Let's not worry about the run game, let's concentrate on the pass.’” Eagles' young DBs can't be in awe of Manning

By Reuben Frank CSNPhilly.com September 27, 2013

Brandon Boykin was eight years old when Peyton Manning made his NFL debut. Earl Wolff was nine, and even Nate Allen and Kurt Coleman, four-year veterans, were just 10.

They’ve all grown up being wowed by first-ballot Hall of Famers like Peyton Manning, and Tom Brady, and on Sunday afternoon, they’ll try to defend Manning in a stadium where he’s never had a bad game.

Imagine being 22, 23, 24 years old and going head-to-head with a legend?

DeMeco Ryans, one of the few older veterans on the Eagles’ defense, said his advice to his young teammates this week was to forget what name is on the back of that jersey. Forget how many Pro Bowls that guy across the line of scrimmage has been to. Clear your mind.

Just play football.

“My message to the guys, our mindset is go win the game, it doesn’t matter who’s throwing the ball, it doesn’t matter who’s at quarterback,” Ryans said.

“It doesn’t matter. You can’t get in awe of Peyton Manning. Yeah, he’s a great quarterback. Get over it. Everybody knows that he’s a Hall of Fame guy, get over it. Now, what do you have to do for us to win this game? That’s the mentality we all have to take. That’s the approach we have to have.”

The 3-0 Broncos face the 1-2 Eagles at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver.

Manning is 9-1 with 32 touchdowns, three interceptions and a 120.3 passer rating in Denver since joining the Broncos last year.

In his only home loss, he threw for 330 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions against the Texans a year ago this week.

“You can never go in enamored or in awe of a guy on the other side, because you’re already beat,” Ryans said. “I don’t see any of our guys blinking an eye or being in awe of Peyton. We’re going there to get a win.

“Every team is beatable. I wouldn’t be out here working if I didn’t [believe that]. They’re a beatable team. But we have to be on top of our game.”

Manning is one of three sure-fire Hall of Fame quarterbacks who’s active, along with Tom Brady and . Eli Manning has a good chance, and is possible, although he probably hasn’t done enough yet.

The Eagles spent a few days practicing against Brady during joint practices in August, and for a young secondary -- seven of 10 are 25 or younger -- maybe that will help remove the awe factor when it’s Manning lining up across from them on Sunday.

Rookie safery Earl Wolff could be making his first NFL start Sunday, but he said he’s not worried about getting wrapped up in facing Manning.

“Honestly, when I go out there, I don’t look at, ‘Oh, that’s Peyton Manning, I’m playing Peyton Manning,’" Wolff said.

“I just look at [opponents] as, 'I’m playing football. He’s a quarterback, he’s a receiver,' I don’t look at any names. I don’t get caught up in that.

“When you’re watching film, yeah, you’re like, ‘You see that ball Peyton just threw?’ But in the game … he’s a quarterback, and you don’t even think about the rest of it.”

Boykin just turned 23, but he’s already faced Roethlisberger, Eli Manning twice, Brees once and Brady during training camp.

That’s eight Super Bowl trophies he’s gone up against before the middle of his second NFL season. So even though he’s one of the youngest players on the Eagles’ roster, he said he’ll hardly be in awe Sunday afternoon when facing Peyton Manning.

“You're a professional player too,” he said. “I understand that. As a college player, you think, ‘When I get into the league, I’ll be playing against so-and-so,’ but when you get here, you realize you put in the same amount of time as they do, you watch the same film, and that type of stuff.

“You’ve got to go out there and play and react and do what you’re supposed to do. He’s a good quarterback, but he’s not perfect, and he makes mistakes too.”

Nate Allen and Kurt Coleman were 22-year-old rookies in 2010 when the Eagles last beat Manning.

Allen said Manning is doing so much pre-snap that you don’t have time to be distracted or think about who you’re facing and just how brilliant a player he’s been since entering the league in 1998.

“You can’t,” he said. “Because he’s going to be out there checking stuff and making dummy calls and looking right at guys and pointing, and it kind of messes with you, because you’re like, ‘Oh, does he know what I’m doing now? OK, I should move here.’

“But he’s dictating and trying to get you off-balance. You just have to know what you’re doing, do what you want to do and execute. You don’t have time to think about anything else.”

3 reasons the Eagles could upset the Denver Broncos on Sunday

By Andrew Kulp CSNPhilly.com September 27, 2013

Somewhat lost amid all of the hoopla over the buzzsaw known as Peyton Manning is the fact that the Eagles are an NFL team with a chance to win a football game this Sunday. Sure, you hear a few people touting this idea, but it sure seems like most are chalking this up as a loss already.

To be fair, the Birds probably will lose. The Denver Broncos have been nearly perfect through their first three games, and the firepower in that offense is unreal. The person who figures out how to contain Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker, Eric Decker, Julius Thomas and those running backs with Peyton Manning at the helm should instantly win some kind of lifetime achievement award.

The Eagles could go into Denver and get absolutely steamrolled and not one person would be caught off guard by that. The Broncos are 11-point favorites, and it’s probably safe to say we’re all prepared for the worst on some level.

But as the old cliché goes, that’s why they play the game. If you don’t think the Eagles have even a remote chance of pulling off the upset over Manning this week, well that’s your opinion, but it’s not one I happen to agree with. There are actually some relatively important details working in their favor going in to this encounter. Whether or not it’s anything that can swing the outcome remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t rule out any of this stuff coming into play.

Extra Rest/Short Week

As much as nobody wants to hear Peyton whining about the schedule after Philadelphia just played three games in 11 days, he has a point. The fact that the Eagles have 10 days between games and the Broncos have a short week with only six creates a significant advantage for the Birds.

For one, the Eagles should be a little less beat up than their opponent. Their players have nearly twice as much time to rest up, so at least in theory Philly should be the fresher ream.

What really seems to have Manning concerned though is the extra time the Eagles have to prepare. They already own the NFL’s second-ranked offense to begin with, and now Chip Kelly spent last weekend in his laboratory coming up with all sorts of ways to attack Denver’s defense. Oh yeah, I suppose defensive coordinator Bill Davis might benefit from the additional time to work on the game plan as well. If this stuff didn’t make a difference, nobody would be talking about, least of all the opposing team’s quarterback. The players still have to go out and execute on Sunday, but their bodies should be ready, and the coaches able to put them in optimal positions to come away victorious.

Injuries

The only injury that’s prevented anybody from practicing for the Eagles this week is Patrick Chung, who is dealing with a shoulder contusion and is listed as doubtful. Assuming he can’t go, rookie Earl Wolff will likely make his first career start, which is a little scary given the opponent.

That said, Denver’s injury report reads like a novel these days, and the climax is in the secondary. Seven-time All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey has yet to suit up this season, and is still limited in practice by a foot injury – even if he is active, he could be rusty. Bailey’s backup Tony Carter is dealing with an ankle himself and was limited this week. And at safety, starter Duke Ihenacho had not practiced at all as of Thursday.

Add in the suspension to outside linebacker Von Miller – the club’s most dangerous pass rusher – and you have a defense that very well could be vulnerable on Sunday.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the ball the Broncos lost left tackle Ryan Clady for the season last week. Any Eagles fan can tell you how difficult that is to overcome.

Other than Miller and Clady, we’ll have to wait and see who’s playing and who isn’t, but the real upset here would be if all three of those defensive backs returned in time for the game and looked their sharpest. Maybe the Broncos have people who can step up in a pinch, but it’s hard to imagine any team can be that deep. These injuries could potentially create a huge advantage for the Birds’ offense.

Offense Can Hang With Anybody

Not that the Eagles necessarily needed those other advantages, although they help of course. Yeah, Manning is great, but Philadelphia’s offense is right behind Denver’s in the rankings – they’re one and two.

The only thing that’s stopped the Eagles so far this season is the Eagles. In Washington, they took their foot off the gas pedal too early. Against San Diego, dumb penalties and lack of execution prevented them from running up the score. Versus Kansas City, it was entirely too many unforced turnovers.

You’re not going to get away with much of that against the Broncos, but even with all of that going wrong for the Birds, again, they have the second-ranked offense in the NFL – eighth-highest scoring offense. Theoretically, they should be able to run with almost anybody. It’s very possible the Eagles will have to score upwards of 40 points to have a chance to win on Sunday, but it’s not an implausible number. They probably could have done that in Weeks 1 and 2 with the most minor of tweaks. Now they have a Denver defense on a short week with a bunch of injuries, and you’ve got to think Chip has something up his sleeve with the extra days to prepare.

For the Eagles to have any shot at winning on Sunday, they’ll likely need a perfect storm of sorts. The offense can’t leave a bunch of plays on the field, and Peyton Manning can’t go all 158.3 on them which seems like a real possibility with their defense.

That said, I think there’s enough here to feel somewhat upbeat about the Birds’ chances on Sunday. I’m not bold enough to predict a Birds victory based on this, but I doubt it would even be the most shocking thing that happens in the NFL this weekend. Manning: Eagles' Red Zone 'D' Is Stingy

By Dan Klausner PhiladelphiaEagles.com September 27, 2013

Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning held a conference call with the Philadelphia media earlier in the week and addressed questions pertaining to Sunday’s upcoming game against the Eagles in Denver.

In a matchup where the two teams only meet once every four years, all the coaches (except for tight ends coach Ted Williams) and most of the players on both sides have changed since the Eagles and Broncos’ last game in 2009. For Manning, it is the first time he will face the Eagles since 2010, when he was still a member of the Indianapolis Colts. On a short week following Monday night’s win over the Oakland Raiders, the decreased amount of preparation time for an out-of- conference foe has made things more difficult than usual.

“It’s always a challenge with a short week playing an unfamiliar opponent with a new defensive coordinator,” Manning said. “It’s early in the season, so you’re still not exactly sure what you’re going to get, and it’s not like it’s a division game where you’re very familiar with the players and the scheme.”

As for Manning’s initial impressions of Bill Davis’ Eagles defense:

“I see a defense that’s flying around,” he said. “I see a defense that’s stingy down in the red zone.”

With the implementation of as a season-long showcase, there are issues with the amount of time teams get to prepare for one another and how that inherently impacts competitive fairness. Whereas the Eagles began game- planning for the Broncos immediately following their loss to the Chiefs last Thursday night, the Broncos could not begin their preparations for the Eagles until Tuesday.

“It’s a challenge,” Manning said of the scheduling. “Everybody has to go through it at some point, but it is a challenge. It’s a physical challenge and a mental challenge. It’s a grind all week, and every single repetition in practice and every second of a meeting and walkthrough are all crucial.

“It’s the way it is. We have to handle it, we have to adjust to it. … We’ve known this schedule for a long time, and it’s up to us to get ready physically and mentally.”

The Eagles offense is the only one in the NFL that ranks ahead of the Broncos in yards per play, albeit by the slimmest of margins (7.0 to 6.9), and Manning feels the Broncos offense will be just as vital as the defense in stifling the Eagles’ high- flying attack. “Coach (John) Fox has made it clear that our defense is in for a tremendous challenge playing against (the Eagles’) explosive offense,” Manning said. “So from an offensive standpoint, we have to be on our game. We have to be executing. We have to protect the ball because if you give Philadelphia and Michael Vick and (LeSean) McCoy short fields, if you’re not doing your job, they are capable of scoring a lot of points and a lot of points quickly. It makes for a tough, tough day.”

Aside from the players who were with the Eagles on defense – , Nate Allen, Kurt Coleman and – when they last faced Manning, inside linebacker DeMeco Ryans went against him twice a season during his time with the . Ryans has a unique understanding of Manning’s tendencies, and the quarterback respects his game.

“Smart player, real heady player,” Manning said of Ryans. “He has a lot of experience and was the captain of the defense all the times I played against him. It’s always a challenge going against him.” Bill Davis: Manning Has Seen It All

By Alex Smith PhiladelphiaEagles.com September 28, 2013

For the past 16 years, defensive coordinators around the NFL have been faced with the dubious task of stopping, or at least slowing down, Peyton Manning. During this season, perhaps more than ever, those attempts have been ineffective, as Manning has thrown for 1,143 yards and 12 touchdowns in just three games. As the Eagles travel into the thin air of the Rocky Mountains to face Manning’s Broncos, that duty now falls on the shoulders of Bill Davis.

“You're looking at a second year in a system where Peyton is running it,” Davis said of the Broncos offense. “The players around him are understanding it thoroughly and you're watching a system right now offensively that's hitting on all cylinders. They're efficient and executing their offense at a high rate right now. The running game is going. Peyton is distributing the ball all over the place to the open receiver with whatever coverage you're presenting. You're seeing year two of guys settling into a system and really working together.

“I've studied a lot of different defensive coordinators and how they tried to stop Peyton. This offense is carried over from Indianapolis. I think the biggest thing about playing well against Peyton Manning, it's a simple thing, is the executing of your techniques within your call. He has seen every coverage you can throw at him. He sees disguises. … Everybody always has something. The teams that beat them execute their defensive techniques and they get turnovers. Turnovers are the part, if you're going to have success against a Peyton Manning offense, or slow it down at least, turnovers are a huge part of that. He hasn't (thrown an interception). They're really operating at a high efficiency.”

Davis has prepared for Manning in the past, including last season as the linebackers coach in Cleveland. In Week 16, the Browns limited the Broncos to just 14 points through the first two-and-a-half quarters, before Manning turned it around and led the Broncos to a 34-12 victory. Davis knows that stopping Peyton is a 60-minute affair.

“You can never relax against Peyton because you have four quarters to play against him no matter what the score is,” said Davis. “He is constantly grinding on and figuring out what you're doing. People try to change the target and change up what they're doing, but at the end of the day, whatever it is you're doing, the execution of that coverage overrides you moving it around to where he can't figure it out. He has seen it all. He's played so long, there's only so many ways you can deploy your coverage.”

The last time that the Eagles faced Manning was in 2010, when then Indianapolis Colts came to Philadelphia. On that day, the Eagles defense did a great job with savvy signal-caller, holding him under 300 passing yards and intercepting him twice in a 26-24 Eagles win. Though that game was played three years ago, Davis still refers to that defensive game plan.

“We talked a lot about that last year in Cleveland with Dick Jauron, who was part of that (Eagles) staff,” Davis said. “We put a plan together largely off of what they did in Philadelphia with Sean McDermott. I've studied that plan thoroughly and implemented parts of it. Really you go back and look at all the teams that have had success against Peyton and you try to see what they do. They're all running the same coverages. There's really nothing new. You're not inventing coverages out here. It's really about how you're putting some pressure on him. You have to get around him and not let him get in rhythm like most offenses. Then the way you play your coverages has to be on point, (you need to) be where you're supposed to be and have the right technique in order to have success.”

One of Manning’s greatest strengths as a quarterback is his ability to get to the line of scrimmage and change the play based on what he sees. With that in mind, disguising the defensive looks seems like the obvious strategy for the Eagles, but Davis warned caution in trying to do that.

“I think that's the mystique that goes with Peyton,” Davis explained. “You try to get too cute and you get away from technique football - advantage to him. You have to have a confidence about your scheme and ability and really have a single-minded focus on getting your technique done one play at a time and just play as well as you can play one single play at a time and don't get outside of ourselves and I think we'll be fine.”

The Eagles defense looked terrific in the first half of the season opener against Washington, creating turnovers and swarming to the ball. Since then, the defense has had its share of struggles, which is something that Davis attributes to inconsistent fundamentals.

“We have to play our individual techniques better,” said Davis. “If you look at the first three games defensively, there are times we played third down very well and there were times we played it awful. (There were) times we've been in the red zone and we've been great and responded to adversity - last week, (we were) off the charts. (I was) proud of the way the guys handled the adversity and turned it into a positive, (but) there are times we don't. “We are too inconsistent in every little phase right now. We're in the growth process, and we have to play the techniques of every coverage better than we're playing them. The better word would be 'more consistent.' When we hit the consistency mode, we're going to be right where we want to be.” Week Four injury report roundup

By Josh Alper Pro Football Talk September 27, 2013

Over the course of the week, there are a lot of posts about the most prominent injured players but we know that you might not see all of them and that some others may fall through the cracks. As a result, we’ll comb through all the injury reports every Friday afternoon so that there’s one stop for all the news from every team playing on Sunday.

Ravens at Bills Ravens running back (hip) is questionable, but sounded optimistic about playing if there were no setbacks. Several other Ravens are questionable, including defensive tackle Chris Canty (thigh) and linebacker Arthur Brown (chest). The Bills will play another week without (wrist) and (foot) again this week, but are holding out hope for safety (foot) and cornerback Leodis McKelvin (hamstring).

Bengals at Browns Doubtful is the word of the week in the Bengals secondary. Cornerback , safety and cornerback are all listed that way with hamstring injuries. All the better, then, that cornerback (knee) is probable. The Browns are without quarterback (thumb), linebacker Quentin Groves (ankle) and defensive lineman Billy Winn (quadriceps). Linebacker Jabaal Sheard (knee) is doubtful, opening the door for to start, while defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin (calf) is probable.

Bears at Lions Bears cornerback (knee/groin) is questionable for the second straight week. The Lions look like they’ll be down two wide receivers with Nate Burleson (arm) out and Patrick Edwards (ankle) doubtful. Defensive end Ziggy Ansah (abdomen) is questionable for the Lions. So are tackles Jason Fox and Corey Hilliard, both of whom have groin injuries.

Seahawks at Texans The Seahawks are ailing on the offensive line with center (arm) and tackle (knee) both listed as doubtful. Cornerback (hamstring) and defensive end (back) are both questionable. For the Texans, wide receiver Andre Johnson (shin) is expected to start and left tackle (toe) will be a game-time decision. Cornerbacks Jonathan Joseph (toe) and Kareem Jackson (illness) are also questionable.

Colts at Jaguars The Colts will head to Florida without running back (neck), defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois (groin) and safety LaRon Landry (ankle). Wide receiver T.Y. Hilton (toe) didn’t practice Friday, but he’s probable. The Jaguars won’t have two wide receivers — Mike Brown (back) and Stephen Burton (concussion) — and two defensive backs — Dwayne Gratz (ankle) and (concussion) — on Sunday. Tight end (calf) is set to play for the first time this season and quarterback (thumb) will be back under center.

Giants at Chiefs Eli Manning may have to deliver the ball quickly behind an offensive line that’s missing center David Baas (neck) and guard Chris Snee (hip). Cornerback (hip) will miss his second straight game while safety Cooper Taylor (shoulder) and linebacker (knee) are questionable. Chiefs tight end (knee) is out, while guard Jeff Allen (groin), cornerback Brandon Flowers (knee) and tight end Anthony Fasano (ankle/knee) are questionable.

Steelers vs. Vikings (in London) Steelers Running back Le’Veon Bell (foot) is on track to make his NFL debut after being listed as probable. Defensive end (hamstring) and tight end (knee) are also probable. The Vikings will be missing cornerback Chris Cook (groin) and safety (hamstring) from their secondary while Matt Cassel takes over at quarterback for Christian Ponder (rib).

Cardinals at Buccaneers Defensive tackle Dan Williams will miss a second straight game while away from the Cardinals following the death of his father and linebacker Kevin Minter (hamstring) will miss the game as well. Safety Rashad Johnson is questionable after losing part of a finger in last week’s game. Mike Glennon’s first start for the Buccaneers could be impacted negatively if questionable wide receivers Vincent Jackson (rib) and Mike Williams (hamstring) can’t play. Cornerback Michael Adams (knee), offensive lineman Gabe Carimi (illness), tight end Tom Crabtree (ankle) and defensive tackle Derek Landri (knee) are all out.

Jets at Titans The Jets ruled out running back Chris Ivory and cornerback with hamstring injuries. Rookie tackle Oday Aboushi is also out with a knee injury and a slew of Jets, including tight end (knee) and defensive lineman (shoulder), are probable. Running back Shonn Greene (knee) and defensive tackle Sammie Hill (ankle) are out for the Titans, while wide receiver Kenny Britt (neck/ribs) and tight end Delanie Walker (toe) are both questionable.

Eagles at Broncos Safety Patrick Chung (shoulder) is doubtful after missing practice all week, but the only other Eagle on the injury report is probable tackle (finger). Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (foot) is questionable once again for the Broncos, a designation he shares with safety Duke Ihenacho (ankle) and tight end Joel Dreessen (knee).

Redskins at Raiders Tight ends (ankle) and (thigh) are questionable for the Redskins, as are kicker Kai Forbath (groin), linebacker Brandon Jenkins (ankle) and cornerback Jerome Murphy (non-football related). The Raiders won’t have safety (ankle) or left tackle Menelik Watson (knee) on Sunday, but they’re waiting to make a call on quarterback Terrelle Pryor (concussion).

Cowboys at Chargers The Cowboys will play without wide receiver Miles Austin (hamstring), but wide receiver Dwayne Harris (hip) expects to play after being listed as questionable. Cornerback (shoulder) and defensive end DeMarcus Ware (neck) are listed as probable. Wide receiver Malcom Floyd (neck) remains out for the Chargers, who may also be shorthanded on the offensive line. Guard Jeromey Clary (clavicle) and guard Chad Rinehart (toe) are doubtful and tackle King Dunlap (concussion) is questionable. Cornerback Shareece Wright (hamstring) is also questionable.

Patriots at Falcons Patriots wide receiver (groin) and tight end (back, forearm) are questionable again this week and there are conflicting reports about their chances of being on the field. Wide receiver Matt Slater (wrist) is out and right tackle (foot) is questionable after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday. Running back Steven Jackson (hamstring) is out for the second straight week and the Falcons listed wide receiver (ankle), left tackle Sam Baker (knee, ankle), cornerback (thigh) and wide receiver (knee) as questionable.

Woodyard not fined for hit on Pryor

By Darin Gantt Pro Football Talk September 27, 2013

Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor thought Broncos linebacker Wesley Woodyard should be fined for the hit that gave him a concussion.

The NFL said Friday it did not agree, and Woodyard was not fined.

Once Pryor took off running, he was not offered the same protection by the rules as if he was a stationary target.

Even Raiders coach Dennis Allen didn’t have a problem with it, which should have been the first sign Woodyard was going to be OK. Ring of Fame Plaza Unveiled

By Gray Caldwell DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

Friday night, Ring of Fame Plaza opened on the south end of Sports Authority Field at Mile High. DENVER -- On a rainy Friday night outside Sports Authority Field at Mile High, 24 of the most important Broncos in franchise history were honored -- again. The Ring of Fame Plaza officially opened on the south end of the stadium in a ceremony emceed by Broncos Vice President of Corporate Comunications Jim Saccomano.

“I think this is a great event," Hall of Famer Gary Zimmerman said. "(Owner and CEO) Pat (Bowlen) brings in all the players and I think it’s a great thing to come back and honor somebody you played with. I wouldn’t miss it for the world."

The plaza features 24 pillars made of steel honoring the Ring of Famers, and each pillar is adorned with a bronze likeness of each individual's face. The players' names and uniform numbers as well as a plaque detailing their accomplishments sits underneath each bronze face.

One by one, the pillars were unveiled Friday night.

"That's awesome," Craig Morton said as the curtain was dropped from his pillar. Each bronze likeness of the players was sculpted by Brian Hanlon, a classically trained master sculptor who has sculpted more than 200 public art pieces. He also explained a unique feature of the base of each pillar.

“The pillars are constructed in corten steel, which was the material your original building () was made out of, and that’s why it was so loud," Hanlon said. "So the design was amazingly creative that the architect and the designer came up with the idea that they should be this material that intimidated so many other teams."

Seeing all the pillars in a row and having so many former Broncos back together stood out to Executive Vice President of Football Operations John Elway -- one of the Ring of Famers honored in the new plaza.

"It’s a great night," Elway said. "Number one, we get to see old pals and guys that we played with and the guys that have been so important in Broncos history. Plus, I think with the unveiling of these heads and these statues, I think – to me I look at it as a tribute to Pat Bowlen and what he’s done in the 30 years he’s been here. For him to do this for the Ring of Famers, it’s really an honor, so I give him all the credit."

The Ring of Fame was originally created by Bowlen in 1984 to honor former players and administrators who played significant roles in the franchise's history.

After Tom Nalen is inducted at halftime of this Sunday's game, 24 names will adorn the Level 5 facade at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

Now, with Bowlen in his 30th year of ownership, the Ring of Fame Plaza stands as a unique public addition -- open at all times -- that fans can visit free of charge.

That was the most exciting part of the new addition for Karl Mecklenburg.

"That’s great. It really is," he said. "I know there are some other organizations that have kind of squares or halls or whatever honoring players and allowing people to come in without having to go in the stadium. So that’s really cool.”

After the Ring of Fame plaza ceremony, the guests of honor headed inside the Broncos locker room for a banquet celebrating the newest Ring of Famer, Nalen.

“It’s the best honor I could get," Nalen said. "It’s your team and people that know you, know how you played football, know how you carried yourself. And they decided that you were good enough to be in this select group, so it’s the highest honor you can get as a football player.” Ring of Famers React to ROF Plaza

By Gray Caldwell DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

Read what the Ring of Famers and other guests of honor had to say about the opening of the new Ring of Fame Plaza.

DENVER -- Friday night, Ring of Fame Plaza on the south end of Sports Authority Field at Mile High was unveiled. Below is what many Ring of Famers and other guests of honor in attendance had to say about the ceremony.

JOHN ELWAY

On the event “It’s a great night. Number one, we get to see old pals and guys that we played with and the guys that have been so important in Broncos history. Plus, I think with the unveiling of these heads and these statues, I think – to me I look at it as a tribute to (Broncos Owner and CEO) Pat Bowlen and what he’s done in the 30 years he’s been here. For him to do this for the Ring of Famers, it’s really an honor, so I give him all the credit."

On if he’s disappointed that Bowlen is not in the Ring of Fame “Sure, I think he’s the one that allows us all to be there and make it all happen. I have a feeling that some day he will be there.

On his reaction when he initially saw his statue “I liked it. I thought they did a nice job. I was excited to see it. it was a very nice honor.”

On if it’s nice to have a number of the Ring of Famers together “It’s always a great night, especially with (2013 Inductee and former center) Tommy Nalen who was a tremendous player for the Broncos. I had a chance to play with him for five years and he’s a very deserving next member of the Ring of Fame. But yeah, to be able to see everybody, a lot of camaraderie, be able to talk about old times when we used to play but also be able to honor guys like a Tom Nalen.”

On if having the faces on the statues helps fans understand more about these important figures in Broncos history than just a name and a number “I think it helps. I think it helps remember the past of the Broncos and the history of the Broncos. So as one that’s in there, it’s an honor to be in there, but like you said, I think it’s also great for the old guys. We’re the foundation of this franchise was built on, as far as the players are concerned, and the great players the Broncos have had over the years.”

On his reaction to Nalen’s induction “He was the best center I ever played with, and I think one of the top two or three centers to ever play the game. He’s a guy that was tough, athletic, and physical and very smart. He was a little bit undersized but had the strength to stop the big guys and the quickness to get around them. So, it’s a very well-deserved honor for Tommy and hopefully the first of very many for him because I think he’s very deserving of consideration for the Hall of Fame.”

GARY ZIMMERMAN

On being together with the Ring of Famers “I think this is a great event. Pat brings in all the players and I think it’s a great thing to come back and honor somebody you played with and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I haven’t missed one since I’ve been in and hopefully I can keep the streak going. To me it’s an honor to come back honor these guys. I enjoy it a lot.”

On being excited about the statue unveiling “Probably more than the other guys are because I only played here five years so I think I’m the guy with the lowest time in Denver and to be honored with that having only played five years is a great honor. I’m very impressed and Mr. B is the best.”

On Mr. Bowlen “I’ve said in the past that he changed my life. I played for another team and you got treated like a number, and I came here and I almost thought it was a gag the way he treated people. But you can see – he’s been to the Super Bowl so many times, his style really works where he treats you like a human. He treats you like a man and I think if every team had an owner like Mr. B, there’d be no issues in all of football.”

RANDY GRADISHAR

On Ring of Fame Plaza “Well looking at it, it’s certainly different than the last time that I saw it. Knowing that there’s going to be a presentation for our Ring of Fame members and having that opportunity to be one of them, its going to be an exciting evening. Knowing what Mr. Bowlen and the Bowlen family does with events like this, it’s going to be really special.”

On having a lot of Ring of Famers together “All the guys showing up tonight, it’s going to be a great reunion. And all the guys showing up for Tom (Nalen), who is coming in (to the Ring of Fame).”

On Mr. Bowlen “Mr. Bowlen for the last 30 years – came originally with the idea to keep improving the franchise, winning Super Bowls – he certainly has done that. Not just with the organization, not with just the football side of it winning a couple of Super Bowls and hopefully on his way to winning another one, but what he’s done in the community. I’ve always been very impressed with what he’s done representing the Broncos and the community and helping. To me that been really impressive to see what that has done and certainly what he’s done from a football organization standpoint.”

ROD SMITH

On Ring of Fame Plaza “Awesome. This is awesome. It’s another way of Mr. Bowlen showing gratitude to the guys that came through here. He’s just an awesome owner. He’s one of the top-notch owners in sports.”

On Mr. Bowlen “One thing about Mr. Bowlen is that he’s been one of the most consistent owners in sports and for him to come on his 300th win is awesome. He’s done an amazing job, honestly. To take this organization from one that had never won a Super Bowl to all of sudden you get two, back-to-back, you have Hall of Famers now. We have four in the Hall of Fame right now and things are just happening for this organization and we’re excited about the future.”

On what he thinks his bust will look like on the pillar (before it was unveiled) “I have no idea. Hopefully it looks me. I actually have no idea what it looks like. The beauty of it is, they kind of hide this kind of stuff and all of sudden they call you up, ‘Hey listen we have this event going on. We’re definitely recognizing Tommy (Nalen).’ I’m excited because I got to play with him – we were on the together a long time ago. He stayed for a minute, I stayed the whole year. So I don’t really like him, plus he got drafted so I don’t really like him (laughing).”

On all the Ring of Famers being together “You know what, especially because we won Super Bowls together and that right there is what makes it special. When you go out there and you do what your design was from the beginning – which was to win it all – and being a part of this whole entire plaza, a part of this organization is absolutely amazing. I’m really excited for Tom. I really am. His birthday is actually two days before mine, Keith Burns' birthday is one day after mine and we’re always celebrating. Tommy never shows up though for some reason. Hopefully now his wife will let him get out of the house.”

On if he would have thought when they were on the practice squad they’d be Ring of Famers “No. We were just hungry, we were trying to make the team. Like I said, Tommy got drafted. He was right next to Mr. Irrelevant but he was irrelevant because he got drafted. Our friendship has a flaw. He got drafted and I didn’t but we came in together in '94 and I’m just excited for him. The guy worked very, very hard. Extremely hard. He’s one of those guys that honestly, he played the game the way it’s supposed to be played. He never talked, of course they couldn’t. You know they had this gag rule with the lineman. He just, he played with his heart. I just love the guy, what he meant to this organization and to have both of us now in the Ring of Fame, coming off of the practice squad. Terrell Davis is here, he was a sixth-round pick. So we have a lot of guys from those two Super Bowl teams that are now going to be inducted not only into this place but we are also on the inside as well.”

On how many owners would do something like this “You know what, I don’t know. I just know Mr. Bowlen would. I haven’t worked for anybody else and I’m so proud of that, thankful for that. He changed my entire family’s life. When I see my grandsons, my grandson’s legacy started with a guy like Mr. Pat Bowlen giving us a chance and the coaches and staff that we had it’s been awesome.”

FLOYD LITTLE

On the unveiling of the Ring of Fame Plaza “I have to tell you, I was a little bit emotional. I look down at Pat and what he’s done in 30 years he’s owned this franchise is unbelievable. The only disappointment I’ve had tonight is Pat’s name is not in the Ring of Fame. And somehow, for all he’s done for all of us and for our community he deserves to be in the Ring of Fame. There should be a bust of Pat. But I am just so thrilled to come back and be a part of this and when they said I was the first one, that was even more exciting and more enjoyable but its so good to be back home. I may reside someplace else but Denver is truly my home.”

On if it's fun getting everyone together “It is. To see Haven (Moses) and BT (Billy Thompson), you know we played together and Rod Smith and guys that I’ve admired -- Smith and all of the guys that are here. I played with quite of few of them but to see them all and embrace them and congratulate them for being in the Ring – this has just been an unbelievable opportunity. For players who played, a lot of players play but they don’t get this kind of exposure or excitement or opportunity so what Pat Bowlen has done for the team and players – even players that didn’t play for him. This has been beautiful.”

On his likeness on a pillar “That thing's going to be there forever when I’m gone. When people walk up that ramp, they’ll see mine first. They’ll have to come down that ramp to see the other guys so I’m happy that they put me first and I’m honored that they would include me in this celebration. I’m just so proud to have been the number one draft choice that ever signed with the Broncos and they certainly treated me well.”

NEIL SMITH

On seeing so many former teammates in the Ring of Fame “It’s well deserved. Tommy was a great, great guy. He was one of the backbones of our offensive linemen and it’s great to see him get in. There’s a lot of guys on our teams that are deserving and he’s well deserving of it, too. I’m happy for him and his family, and happy to have the opportunity to come back and see it.”

On playing against Nalen and Zimmerman when he was with the Chiefs “Very tough, very tough. They always had a tough line with Zimmerman and all those guys. They were tough up front. We battled when I was in Kansas City. It was so good to see them on the other side, to come and join them. I knew what I was getting into when I first got here.”

On returning to Denver “Oh, I love it, man. There’s no weather that’s going to turn (the fans) away. I’m pretty cold today, no doubt about that. Remember playing in it (laughing).”

TOM NALEN

On his Ring of Fame bust “Pretty fat. I think I used to look like that. Not much you can do about it now.”

On what the honor means to him “It’s the best honor I could get. It’s your team and people that know you, know how you played football, know how you carried yourself. And they decided that you were good enough to be in this select group, so it’s the highest honor you can get as a football player.”

On whether having all of the Ring of Famers together is a powerful feeling “Yeah, it’s seeing these guys. I met some of them last year at the Ring of Fame dinner. Seeing these Ring of Fame guys, guys that I have been looking at their names over the years and wondering who they were – and to put a face with that name and what they meant to the franchise is pretty awesome.”

On whether it’s tough to speak in front of the fans after rarely talking to the media during his career “I don’t think that’s going to be very difficult. It’ll be brief. It shouldn’t be a problem. I don’t have a problem speaking in front of people, I just felt in my career it didn’t really serve a purpose for me. To promote myself, to say dumb things that may come back to haunt me, say things about players on other teams – no, I didn’t really see a point in that.”

KARL MECKLENBURG On Ring of Fame Plaza “I was excited and I think it’s a great opportunity for all of us. What a wonderful thing for Mr. Bowlen to do for us.”

On getting together with all of the Ring of Famers “Oh, yeah. It’s always fun to come back and see the guys, spend a little time with them. Once again, Mr. Bowlen has been unbelievable with the way he has reached out to the alumni guys – even guys that didn’t play under him – and bring them all back once a year for this event.”

On what it will mean when Mr. Bowlen gets his 300th win “That’s going to be special. It really is. If you think about that, 300 wins in 30 years – that’s huge. That’s a real testament to his dedication of winning football games and his foresight in bringing in the right coaches and the right players.”

On whether it’s nice that the Ring of Fame is outside the stadium and open to the public “Yeah, that’s great. It really is. I know there are some other organizations that have kind of squares or halls or whatever honoring players and allowing people to come in without having to go in the stadium. So that’s really cool.”

SCULPTOR BRIAN HANLON

On what he thinks of the Ring of Fame Plaza “I think the entire design is very unique. It has it’s own edge. It’s engaging, and most of all, kudos to the owner [Pat Bowlen] for creating something for the fans. A lot of hall of fames are created and they’re inside the building and they’re not accessible to the fans. This piece is accessible to everyone in the city and I think that makes it unique.

On the players’ reactions to the pieces “I think the players seem to love the pieces. Floyd Little gave a big hug (laughs), which is – that’s a good day for me.”

On what the sculptures are made of “The sculptures are constructed – the pillars are constructed in corten steel, which was the material your original building was made out of, and that’s why it was so loud. So the design was amazingly creative that the architect and the designer came up with the idea that they should be this material that intimidated so many other teams. Because when the fans pounded on that material, it was so loud that the other team couldn’t even hear themselves. So that’s what the pillars are made of. The rest of the features – the portrait, the number, and the information and his name – is all bronze.

On which person was the most difficult to sculpt “We sculpted Rod Smith three times. And he was the last one finished, and in fact, it’s the largest piece now (laughs). Floyd said, ‘Hey! How come his portrait is a little bit bigger than mine?’ But they were messing with each other, it was great fun.”

Gray Matter Mailbag: Containing the Eagles

By Gray Caldwell DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

This week's mailbag answers fan questions on slowing down Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles and center J.D. Walton's recovery.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Plenty to discuss in this week's Gray Matter mailbag, from containing Michael Vick and the Eagles to J.D. Walton's recovery to my lack of Breaking Bad knowledge.

As always, you can tweet me your questions every week at @GrayCaldwell using the hashtag #GrayMatter.

Let's get to it.

Gray Caldwell@GrayCaldwell That time again -- what questions do you have for this week's #GrayMatter mailbag?

Metal Mushin@metalheadmushin @GrayCaldwell #GrayMatter After watching how the Broncos played against Pryor, what are the main concerns of playing Vick and the Eagles? 11:07 AM - 26 Sep 2013

First of all, thanks for the questions every week, Metal. Always appreciated. Well, Defensive Coordinator Jack Del Rio said on Thursday that Terrelle Pryor and Michael Vick are "really completely different," but acknowledged that the mobility of both quarterbacks is one similarity. The biggest difference between the two offenses is that the Eagles use a faster tempo and like to spread the field, while the Raiders often slow things down and use two backs -- Darren McFadden and Marcel Reece -- in the backfield. The fact that the Broncos held the Raiders' rushing attack in check (McFadden had 9 yards) and kept Pryor from using his legs for the most part (barring one 23-yard scamper) should give the defense confidence going into this week. The key, as Del Rio says it always is, is sound tackling. It's just that much more difficult when Vick has such a weapon at receiver in DeSean Jackson and the league's leading rusher behind him in LeSean McCoy. "We’ve got to make sure that we corral these guys and gang tackling, that’s going to be the key thing this week," defensive captain Wesley Woodyard said.

Gray Caldwell@GrayCaldwell That time again -- what questions do you have for this week's #GrayMatter mailbag?

Don Ward@Don__Ward @GrayCaldwell @DenverBroncos What is the status on the Injuries? 10:46 AM - 26 Sep 2013

The players to keep an eye on this week were Duke Ihenacho (questionable), Tony Carter (probable), Champ Bailey (questionable), Joel Dreessen (questionable) and Paris Lenon (doubtful). Carter had the most interesting progression this week -- he didn't participate on Wednesday, was limited on Thursday and had full participation on Friday, leading to his "probable" designation. You can check out the full injury report, which lists 14 Broncos, here.

Gray Caldwell@GrayCaldwell C J.D. Walton is out here off to the side working with Strength and Conditioning Coach Luke Richesson.

Robbie Raffii@robbie_raffii @GrayCaldwell With Manny playing so well and receiving his extension, will JD ever get a chance to get the job at Center back when healthy? 11:31 AM - 25 Sep 2013

This question came after we saw J.D. Walton on the field during practice this week, working off to the side with Strength and Conditioning Coach Luke Richesson. Walton isn't eligible to practice until after the first six weeks of the season are completed. Starting Oct. 15 and up to Nov. 19, Walton can start practicing. From there, the team has a 21-day window to determine whether Walton will return to the active roster -- he can be called up at any point over those 21 days of practice.

It's a good question, as Offensive Coordiantor Adam Gase noted Thursday that Ramirez is getting more and more comfortable every game. Ultimately I think the answer is yes, he will have a chance to win his job back through competition, as is the case at every single position on the roster. Walton started 36 consecutive games to start his career, so obviously the Broncos like what the former third- round pick brings to the table. But they also like Ramirez, as was evidenced by his two-year contract extension. It's a good problem to have, and Ramirez also has starts under his belt at guard. The more depth on the offensive line, the better. The first step is getting Walton healthy again. Gray Caldwell@GrayCaldwell That time again -- what questions do you have for this week's #GrayMatter mailbag?

Ryan@5280Orange @GrayCaldwell Why did Walt really leave #GrayMatter? Who gets the ricin? What about that machine gun? 10:50 AM - 26 Sep 2013

OK I get it, I need to watch Breaking Bad. I believe a Netflix subscription is in order this offseason. In the meantime, Homeland is back on Sunday. I hope it will wash the bad taste out of my mouth from that Dexter finale.

Gray Caldwell@GrayCaldwell That time again -- what questions do you have for this week's #GrayMatter mailbag?

I'm my own Clique@LaBellaTee2 @GrayCaldwell @DenverBroncos mmm can you fly me out from va, pay for hotel & give me tickets? 10:48 AM - 26 Sep 2013

All free travel, free hotel and free ticket-related questions should be directed to Chris Hall at @BroncosTV Broncos-Eagles Final HealthONE Injury Report

By Gray Caldwell DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

A look at the final injury reports for Denver and Philadelphia.

DENVER BRONCOS

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Status

S Duke Ankle Did Not Did Not Limited QUESTIONABLE Ihenacho Participate Participate

LB Paris Thigh Did Not Did Not Did Not DOUTBFUL Lenon Participate Participate Participate

CB Champ Foot Limited Limited Limited QUESTIONABLE Bailey

CB Tony Foot Did Not Limited Full PROBABLE Carter Participate

TE Joel Knee Limited Limited Limited QUESTIONABLE Dreessen

RB C.J. Knee Full Full Full PROBABLE Anderson

CB Omar Shoulder Full Full Full PROBABLE Bolden

LS Aaron Rib Full Full Full PROBABLE Brewer

S David Neck Full Full Full PROBABLE Bruton

WR Eric Shoulder Full Full Full PROBABLE Decker T Orlando Shoulder Full Full Full PROBABLE Franklin

G Chris Ankle Full Full Full PROBABLE Kuper

WR Ankle Full Full Full PROBABLE Demaryius Thomas

WR Wes Ankle Full Full Full PROBABLE Welker

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Status

S Patrick Shoulder Did Not Did Not Did Not DOUBTFUL Chung Participate Participate Participate

T Jason Finger Full Full Full PROBABLE Peters

Pre-Game Traffic Advisory

By Brandon Moree DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

A Race For the Cure will cause some Sunday morning road closures around Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – Sunday morning, before the Broncos take on the Eagles, a Race for the Cure will take place in the area around Sports Authority Field at Mile High and will cause some road closures.

The following roads will be closed until approximately 11 a.m. Sunday morning:

• Auraria Parkway from I-25 to 14th Street

• Speer Boulevard from Larimer Street to Federal Boulevard

• 29th Avenue from Zuni to Hazel Court

• Federal from 32nd to 14th Avenue

• Colfax from Irving Street to Kalamath

• 15th Street from Delgany Street to Market Street

The following exit ramps from roadways around the stadium will also be closed:

• Colfax and Federal

• Colfax and Auraria

• I-25 and Colfax

• I-25 and Speer

Fans wanting to arrive at the stadium before 11 a.m. should plan on arriving at the stadium by way of I-25 and via the 23rd/20th Avenue exit (No. 211) if coming from the north and the 17th Avenue exit (No. 210 C) from the south.

Tailgating spaces will be open at 8:00 a.m. and all stadium lots will be open at 9:00 a.m. Stadium gates open to the public at 12:00 PM. Gate #2 and #7 open for United Club and suite ticket holders 11:00 AM. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:25 PM MST. Manning Wins FedEx Air Award

By Mike Morris DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

Peyton Manning was named the Week 3 FedEx Air Award winner.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Peyton Manning’s record-setting effort against the Raiders on Monday night has garnered another honor.

Manning was named FedEx Air Player of the Week after completing 32 of 37 passes for 374 yards and three touchdowns against the Raiders – becoming the first player in NFL history to throw for 12 touchdowns in the first three games of a season in the process.

The quarterback also earned AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors for an NFL- record 25th time earlier this week, and he was named both FedEx Air Player of the Week and AFC Offensive Player of the Week after his seven-touchdown performance against the Ravens on Sept. 5 in the season opener.

“To think about what he’s been able to do week-in and week-out – we just shake our heads,” tight end Julius Thomas said. “He’s playing at such a high level right now. He continues to get better and make everybody around him better.”

Manning completed 86.5 percent of his passes in the game and finished with a quarterback rating of 135.8 – etching his place into the NFL annals with both achievements.

Manning became just the sixth player in NFL history to throw for 350 yards and complete more than 85 percent of his passes in a single game. And his aerial showcasing also marked the 15th consecutive regular season game that Manning has finished with a QB rating higher than 90.0 – extending his own league record.

Manning has posted a quarterback rating of over 100.0 in all three games this season, helping guide a Broncos offense that is averaging a league-high 42.3 points per game.

“Guys are making good plays in the passing game and we are doing a good job getting yards after the catch,” Manning said. “That makes a big difference.”

Manning leads the NFL in passing yardage (1,143 yards), completions (89), completion percentage (73.0 percent), touchdowns (12) and quarterback rating (134.7) after three games. He is also one of only two quarterbacks with over 100 passing attempts who have not thrown an interception this season. “He’s obviously a great player and doing a great job,” wide receiver Wes Welker said. “That’s what we need and we expect that out of him all the time.”

“You can’t (put it into words),” wide receiver Demaryius Thomas added. “That’s unbelievable.” Longhorns Honor Jammer

By Mike Morris DenverBroncos.com September 27, 2013

Broncos will be inducted into the University of Texas Men's Athletics Hall of Honor later this fall.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- In addition to his decorated 12-year NFL career, Broncos cornerback Quentin Jammer’s sensational showings on Saturdays etched his place as a Longhorn legend – and now he will be enshrined in the University of Texas Men’s Athletics Hall of Honor.

Jammer will be inducted into the Hall later this fall, and he will join seven other members in this year’s class – as well as a storied lineage of Longhorn greats.

“It means a lot to me because the tradition of all the guys that have come before me and made it into the Hall, it’s just awesome,” Jammer said. “We’ve been known as DBU – and there were a lot of great defensive backs who came through before me who paved the way for me.”

During his four-year career at Texas, Jammer set what was at the time a Longhorn record with 57 career pass breakups. As a senior in 2001, he was the 14th unanimous All-American in the history of Texas football, also becoming the program’s first-ever Thorpe Award finalist.

He did not allow a single touchdown pass that season and yielded only one in his 28 collegiate starts – that sustained level of excellence made Jammer a two-time All- Big 12 first-team selection in 2000 and 2001.

Jammer’s excellence on the field in college made him a fifth-overall selection in the 2002 NFL Draft. He has registered 719 tackles, 127 passes defensed and 21 interceptions in his NFL career.

Jammer is joined by his former teammate , who starred as a wide receiver at Texas and played in the NFL from 2004-11, as well as Longhorn basketball great T.J. Ford, who later played eight NBA seasons – among others.

“I worked my tail off to be the best that I could be and it paid off,” Jammer said.