Denver Broncos at San Francisco 49ers - A Few Good Questions with John Bena from MileHighReport

by Fooch on Aug 12, 2009 11:30 AM PDT in Preview Comment 48 comments

As some of you might recall from past seasons, we like to do some cross-blogging with our opponents each week. My man The Sports Guru over at Mile High Report is always up for this kind of thing and was already kind enough to answer a lot of your questions via a FanPost. I had a few specific questions of my own that I wanted to pull out and have John answer. Once the season gets here we'll be asking more specific matchup questions, but for now we can ask broader questions we've always wanted answers to (like what's up with Josh McDaniels???). So, thanks to John for taking the time to answer these questions. Also, I answered a few of his questions over at MHR. If you feel like adding in your own two cents head on over.

Fooch:I won't make you rehash the Jay Cutler fiasco. However, I would like to know what you as a knowledgeable Broncos fan, as well as the less intelligent ones (sports talk radio maybe), think about Josh McDaniels in his short but interesting tenure so far as Broncos head coach?

JB: I think there was a knee-jerk reaction to everything that has happened. On the surface, that would make sense, a 33-year old, first time Head Coach, not bowing down to his 25 year old "star" quarterback. I think Cutler/Bus Cook took advantage of McDaniels and the Broncos a bit knowing that fans would react that way. Plan and simple, the guy was coddled by Mike Shanahan. He was made to be the reason everything good happened in Denver and everything negative was the fault of everyone else. When Shanny got fired, Cutler wanted out. There was going to be accountability. I think as time has gone on, especially now that people get to see and hear McDaniels on a daily basis they are beginning to realize what he is about - and that’s winning.

Fooch: Along the same lines, what are your thoughts on Mike Nolan at this point? Even with the whole Nolan v. Alex Smith storyline, it really doesn't mean much the first game of the preseason. Rather, I'm curious what kind of defensive scheme Nolan is instituting and how he has come off to the public?

JB: I have been thoroughly impressed with Nolan as a coach and teacher. The Broncos defense was historically bad, so moving to the 3-4 should be that big of a transition(they can’t get any worse). Watching Nolan work with the defense, especially the linebackers, has been a joy. He is enthusiastic and you get the sense that players really enjoy playing for him. I think his defense is going to be aggressive and tough, something that Broncos haven’t been in recent years. The guy has had success everywhere he has been a coordinator, so I am excited about what he can bring.

Fooch: With a new coach, will we still see something like Mike Shanahan's fantasy killing RBBC, or will the Broncos settle on one guy (such as Knowshon Moreno) going forward?

JB: Perhaps the biggest fault Shanahan had was believing the hype surrounding the Broncos running game. "Anyone can run for 1000 yards in Denver". While the Broncos running game has been dominant, that domination was becoming less and less apparent the past few years. Sure, injuries had something to do with it, but so does talent. Terrell Davis was obviously a steal as a late round pick, but those guys don’t come along very often, if ever again. Shanny tried with Clinton Portis, and failed with Tatum Bell. From then on it was late round, journeymen types that either had injury histories(Selvin Young/Ryan Torain) or just weren’t very good.

McDaniels gets that. Not only has he improved the depth with more known commodities but he drafted Moreno, the best back in the draft. McDaniels knew he could fix everything that was wrong with the defense in one off-season, so he took steps to improve the strength of the team, the offense. Moreno will have every opportunity to be the main ball carrier, but the Broncos will utilize other backs when the opponent calls for it. Much like Kevin Faulk in New England, the Broncos have Peyton Hillis/Correll Buckhalter to make plays out of the backfield, especially on 3rd Down when a running back needs to be able to pass protect.

Fooch: It's hard not to look at Kyle Orton without laughing (not in terms of his football abilities, just the neck beard and pictures like this (http://content.ytmnd.com/content/3/c/9/3c966dacdef985be894c30ae242ddc13.jpg) and this (http://media.photobucket.com/image/kyle%20orton%20jack%20daniels/patroto/ortonmontage.jpg) . However, given the skills of Jay Cutler, how are Broncos fans handling the Kyle Orton/Chris Simms experience?

JB: Fans are apprehensive about it, and for good reason. Cutler has physical tools that only a couple of guys in the NFL have. It does take more than that rocket arm to be successful, however, and the Broncos are banking on more of a team approach. I have focused on the first 7 games of last season when it comes to Orton, simply because it was the first time he was the quarterback through a training camp. He was having a solid year until he got hurt and never really got right. Here are Orton’s stats through those 7 games –

Kyle Orton, 2008 through seven games

1,669 yards
10 touchdowns
4 interceptions (5 games without an interception)
143 completions
230 attempts
62.2 completion percentage
7.26 per attempt
4-3 team record

Meanwhile, Jay Cutler’s were very similar –

Jay Cutler, 2008 through seven games

1,862 yards
13 touchdowns
7 interceptions (2 games without an interception)
163 completions
254 attempts
64.2 completion percentage
7.33 per attempt
4-3 team record

I’m not saying that Kyle Orton has the physical tools Jay Cutler has. Not by a long shot. But I do know, through watching him at Purdue, as well as last season when he wass the starter throughout camp, that he can be successful.

Fooch: As you asked, what will you be paying particular attention to this Friday?

JB: The progress the team is making, especially on offense. The Broncos are not going to scare anyone with their defense so the offense has to be efficient and score points. I’ll be watching to see if the quarterbacks are getting the ball out of their hands quickly and making the right decision. That will tell me whether or not they are getting more comfortable with the offense.

On defense, I’ll be keeping my eye on the Front-7 to see if they are picking up the 3-4. Are the linebackers breaking back into coverage quickly. Is the line gaining leverage and keeping the gaurds from getting to the second level. I’ll be looking for someone on the D-Line to stand out.

Honestly the score means little to me.

Fooch: I liked your other question as well: surprise cut and surprise player that will make the team.

JB: Josh MCDaniels has made it known that every position on the field is up for grabs. The players believe it and this Training Camp has been as competitive as any I have seen. That said, there are areas that the team simply has too many players. I think one of the veteran running backs has to go. Right now, the odd-man out appears to be LaMont Jordan. I know McDaniels likes Jordan, but Peyton Hillis can do a lot of the same things, as can Correll Buckhalter.

As for a player that will make the team, keep an eye on Rulon Davis along the D-line. He’s a former Marine and plays that way. He has great size and will get a lot of reps during the preseason to show what he’s got. Ryan McBean is another.

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Comments

I've said it before and I'll say it again

Kyle Orton, neckbeard and all, is a good QB.

I also always thought Nolan was better as a DC than he would ever be as an HC

by foosball4949 on Aug 12, 2009 11:47 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs

I agree

…and great article.

by blako on Aug 12, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

We all know that McDaniels is a total bufoon and in WAAAAAAY over his head. One huge mistake after another after another etc etc etc.
After his pathetic start and his continued ineptness (hiring Nolan as DC,and alienating more and more players and fans etc) and having one of the worst records in the NFL in 2009,will he keep his job or will the owner wait until mid way or even after 2010 to fire him,that is really the ONLY question?

by TOP_CAT on Aug 12, 2009 1:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

My mind was beginning to change about the actual football intelligence of the average 49er fan, but you sir, have made me realize I was right all along!

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 3:14 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs

Not all of us are that bad.

Plus I’ve seen you flash some low intelligence at times.

by Mullester on Aug 12, 2009 3:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I am quick to admit when I am wrong...

I am also smart enough to know when I know less about a certain team or player (Chiefs and Montana) when chatting with a 49er fan who obviously adores his former QB enough to watch him play in KC. ;-)

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awwww....

It’s beautiful thing were all getting along, good luck on friday hope for zero injuries and penalties.

by Mullester on Aug 12, 2009 4:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can agree and drink to that.

No injuries for anyone!

Peyton Hillis is also referred to in early Greek mythology by his other names such as Zeus or Poseidon.

by Joe Medina on Aug 12, 2009 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's make a few points clear for all 49er fans to read and be advised.

1. Jay Cutler demanded—not asked—demanded a trade when Mike Shanahan was fired. That was 2 weeks before Josh McDaniels’ name was ever brought up.

2. Josh McD isn’t alienating anyone. He’s been upfront and honest to the team and people are buying into it. It starts at the top with the vets, who coincidentally have ALL believed in him as a head coach.

3. He’s not in over his head. He’s been around coaching his whole life, and he’s been in football his whole life. Yes, he’s never been a head coach, but Mike Singletary hadn’t been a head coach until midway through last season. He seems to be working out pretty well for you guys I’d say. I love him as a coach.

4. Josh McDaniels DID NOT alienate Jay Cutler and push him out the door. Jay Cutler alienated himself by not answering (owner) Pat Bowlen’s phone calls. If you don’t answer your boss’ call, you’re out the door, no matter who you are or what job you do.

5. Jay Cutler made up his mind within hours of Shanahan’s departure from the team.

6. The only fans being alienated are the ones that swear up and down that Jay Cutler is the best quarterback to ever wear shoulder pads, when in reality, he’s not even close.

7. Retired for John Elway.

8. Denver simply will not have the worst record in the NFL. Period. I’d be willing to wager a bet that we will be ahead of KC and Oakland in our division alone. No way in hell is this team getting less than 6 wins this year.

Peyton Hillis is also referred to in early Greek mythology by his other names such as Zeus or Poseidon.

by Joe Medina on Aug 12, 2009 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs

Ummm

Saying that Jay Cutler DEMANDED to be traded right after Shanahan’s firing is . . . FALSE!!!!!!!

Please, however, if you are going to stick to that story, find some supporting documentation (it shouldn’t be too difficult with Google).

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 7:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Calijoefornia

Shanahan was fired 12-30-08.
McDaniles was hired 1-11-09.

Please, if you are going to make this (ludicrous) claim

Jay Cutler demanded—not asked—demanded a trade when Mike Shanahan was fired. That was 2 weeks before Josh McDaniels’ name was ever brought up

then kindly BACK IT UP!

BTW: Can’t do it.

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 7:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll answer a challenge with a challenge.

Prove to me that McDaniels pushed Cutler out the door.

Bet mine’s easier to prove than yours is.

Peyton Hillis is also referred to in early Greek mythology by his other names such as Zeus or Poseidon.

by Joe Medina on Aug 12, 2009 7:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

OK

You surrender.

You made a comment:

Jay Cutler demanded—not asked—demanded a trade when Mike Shanahan was fired. That was 2 weeks before Josh McDaniels’ name was ever brought up

That:

A) Was FALSE!

and

B) You COULDN’T back-up.

You lose!

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 8:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look in MHR's archives.

I’m not going to dig it up for someone that probably won’t read what I have to say. So if you want some honest information, go look for yourself.

Peyton Hillis is also referred to in early Greek mythology by his other names such as Zeus or Poseidon.

by Joe Medina on Aug 12, 2009 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Never happened son

He expressed his disappointment when Shanahan was fired but he NEVER demanded a trade before McDaniels tried to trade for Cassell.

Period.

I don’t have to look in any archives . . . I follow the NFL everyday.

Prove me wrong (LOL). YOU dig up something to justify your absurd comment..

Really.

BTW: You’ll be looking for a LONG, LONG time . . cause it (your assertion) NEVER happened!

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 8:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

he never demanded a trade

publicly.

Peyton Hillis is also referred to in early Greek mythology by his other names such as Zeus or Poseidon.

by Joe Medina on Aug 12, 2009 8:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're kidding

That’s the best you can do. He never demanded it PUBLICLY (which essentially means he demanded it ‘behind the scenes’).

If, and I stress IF, he did that (behind the scenes) how the H++L would YOU know?

Did you eavesdrop on Bronco HQ’s? Do you have friends in the organization?

Honestly, the more you talk, the less sense you make!

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 8:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh get over it..

This crap happens behind closed doors and is done long before it is made public so what are you going to do.. cry about it all day.. move on dudes..

So what do you expect from the game on Friday?

by WC-Ninerhead on Aug 12, 2009 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Huh?

When a guy says this, (quote):

Jay Cutler demanded—not asked—demanded a trade when Mike Shanahan was fired. That was 2 weeks before Josh McDaniels’ name was ever brought up

It’s up to him to substantiate it. Which (of course) he’s been unable or unwilling to do.

Lesson learned? Don’t make ignorant comments unless you can back them up!

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Kettle called...

He wants his color back.

Well, we're waiting....

by drummer on Aug 12, 2009 11:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Too funny

Name one ‘ignorant (read factually incorrect)’ statement ever from me.

Take your time (you’ll need it).

by GeoMak on Aug 13, 2009 8:02 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

How about..

When you said you wouldn’t post here anymore?

Well, we're waiting....

by drummer on Aug 13, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nominee for Most Pathetic Retort: 2009

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 12, 2009 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's the lamest explanation of the 'Cutler fiasco" ever

On the surface, that would make sense, a 33-year old, first time Head Coach, not bowing down to his 25 year old “star” quarterback

.
Not a word about the new HC attempting to bring in his own QB.

If QB is the most important position in the NFL (if not all of sports) a

and

If ‘Franchise type QBs’ (which Cutler has long been considered) are the exception, rather than the rule

Then . . . it’s kind of ignorant to underplay the fact that the new HC made an attempt to replace the guy (Cutler) who was the established QB in Denver and who was considered to be one of the best young QB’s in the game.

Weak.

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 1:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Solid Argument

But based entirely in fiction.

Read up on it, do a little research— all sorts of credible mainstream media articles about the ‘saga’ are available— and then you might be able to make an argument. The problem is, there is a huge divide between the pundit spin and the actual reality of the situation.

No harm, no foul. Everybody is saying the same stuff. Can’t blame you. But it just ain’t true.

There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance-- that principle is contempt prior to investigation."
-- Herbert Spencer

by PredominantlyOrange on Aug 12, 2009 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Say What?

What research didn’t I do.

Bottom line: At the end of the 2008 season (two days before Shanahan was unexpectedly fired) I heard nary a word of real, genuine, discontent about Jay Cutler (feel free to find and post articles BEFORE Shanahan was fired relating to the fan’s discontent with Cutler).

Ain’t gonna happen.

To most people (in Denver and league-wide) the Broncos had one of the best young QB’s in the NFL . . . (their biggest problem concerned their pathetic defense).

Tell me. Where was all this criticism of Cutler BEFORE the arrival of Mr. McDaniels?

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Feel free to listen...

to any of my podcasts for the past year. My discontent with Cutler is long established. I definitely supported him as the quarterback of the Broncos, but there were definitely issues.

That said, there are so many things about that whole situation that the MSM blew over. Feel free to head to MHR and look at the archives from February, March and April. It’s all documented.

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
or
Call Me! (303)731-5605

Follow MHR on Twitter!
Follow MHR on Facebook!

by John Bena on Aug 12, 2009 3:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

What issues, BEFORE the 'blow up'

That’s all I am wondering about.

Unless your name is Tom Brady or Peyton Manning, EVERY QB had issues.

What issues were there witht Culter (B4 the trade)?

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Go check it out!

It is better to keep silent, and appear to be wise, then to ramble on and remove all doubt! The Wisest Man, Solomon.

by metalman5050 on Aug 12, 2009 4:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cutler's skill wasn't what I was getting at.

Its the idea that McD set out to replace him. That is pure fiction.

They took a call. Who knows, maybe they were thinking: Hershell Walker and the Cowboy Dynasty?. Who knows how desperate TB might have been what they might have paid…had Cassell even been available…which he wasn’t by time the idea was floated.

by PredominantlyOrange on Aug 12, 2009 3:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look

I understand ‘Taking a phone call.’

But when you take that call . . . about the QB you just COACHED the previous season . . that’ a little different..

Jerry Burns (or Mike Lynn) had NEVER coached Hershel Walker before (the trade).

Big, big difference. I can’t help it if you can’t see it.

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 4:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I lost all hope for him

when he blew, BLEW that game against Buffalo last year. Choke artist. Our defense was bad, but played well that day….and Cutler blew it.

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 4:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+ 100 on that Zappa

That was most disgusting!

It is better to keep silent, and appear to be wise, then to ramble on and remove all doubt! The Wisest Man, Solomon.

by metalman5050 on Aug 12, 2009 4:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You lost all hope for Cutler

Because he blew one game?!?! That seems a bit… harsh. Peyton Manning used to be a “choke artist” too.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 13, 2009 12:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are listening to Jaime Dukes...and those types who want the "drama".

Do a little research, perhaps you might realize that the entire fiasco was a media fantasy that Cutler tried to capitalize on. Good riddance.

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

READ THE QUESTION...

He wasn’t asking me to re-hash the Cutler saga….

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
or
Call Me! (303)731-5605

Follow MHR on Twitter!
Follow MHR on Facebook!

by John Bena on Aug 12, 2009 3:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Too Optimistic

I’ve read this interview and checked out Fooch’s QB on Denver’s board. I don’t think they see a potential drop off in QB between Cutler and Orton. I think they see that that receivers won’t be as effective with Orton’s limited tools. I don’t think they see how a good QB makes the offensive line and their numbers look much better. I don’t think they see that Shannon is a better offensive mind than McDaniels. Bill Belichick diagnosed and dictated a lot of plays on offense for the Patriots so this is going to be a step up for McDaniels.

I’m not sure there changes on defense will make an immediate impact this year. Besides Dawkins their personnel switch isn’t that drastic. Mostly the replaced so-so guys with different so-so guys and the switch 3-4 isn’t easy. Not to mention they still don’t think much of the Chiefs or Raiders and are already counting those games as wins. Both those teams have been piling up high picks the last few years. Even with Al Davis picking the accumulation of talent will improve team.

by bignerd on Aug 12, 2009 3:04 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

You didn’t watch many Bronco games last year. Cutler killed us many times, simply because he is too risky. I expect Orton to be safer with the football. Cutler is the main reason we didn’t make the playoffs last year…that Buffalo game was a total choke job by Cutler.

Either way, I’ll miss the excitement of all or nothing…but if it means playoffs instead, I’ll take it. :)

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gosh, I'm waiting to find out that we don't know how to spell futball.

I think its the air that makes us so dumb.

by PredominantlyOrange on Aug 12, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL...We can only hope!

It is better to keep silent, and appear to be wise, then to ramble on and remove all doubt! The Wisest Man, Solomon.

by metalman5050 on Aug 12, 2009 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The people here that you think are idiots...

the rest of us all have the same opinion of. It’s just unfortunate that morons tend to have a louder voice than people who might actually know what the hell they’re talking about.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 12, 2009 8:40 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs

Bill Belichick diagnosed and dictated a lot of plays on offense for the Patriots so this is going to be a step up for McDaniels.

That transition will be the most interesting part of Denver’s “rebuild.” Coming out from behind the shadows of one of football’s greatest minds ever certainly isn’t an easy thing to do.

by sfgfan on Aug 12, 2009 4:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually...

(sports talk radio maybe),

You are incorrect, the one dumbass would be JAIME DUKES.

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Aug 12, 2009 3:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Beyond the "stats'

here is the difference between Jay Cutler & Kyle Orton.

Kyle started 15 games for the Chicago Bears last season. I watched 14 of those games.

Here is the rundown:

Kyle played VERY well for the Bears (at least B4 he injured his ankle). The problem for the Bears in 2008 was FAR more their defense than their offense.

That said:

A). Orton struggles on the deep ball. According to Larry Mayer, there were 14 times in 2008 when Devin Hester was WIDE open and was either underthrown (or overthrown), resulinting in an Incompletiion (usually underhtrown). Those were big plays that were (unfortunately) missed by the Bears offense. Not good.

B) Scrambling. Did Ben Roethlisberger play a GREAT game in the 2008 SB? Not really. What he did do (especially on the final drive) was to roll out of the pocket and make BIG plays in the passing game while running for his life.

This is one of Cutler’s strengths. Orton (and Grossman) were pretty terrible when the pocket broke down.

Jerry Angelo and the Bears didn’t trade Kyle Orton and two #1 draft picks for a QB who was ‘statistically’ pretty much the equal of Kyle Orton.

They made that trade for a guy with a superior throwing arm and for a guy who is MUCH BETTER when the pocket collapses.

There’s a big difference between the two.

by GeoMak on Aug 12, 2009 5:40 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

TOPCAT

Please don’t listen to him. He just likes to stir up crud. See him on Barrow’s blog, he is a mess.

by hudd07 on Aug 12, 2009 9:38 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Why?

Out of curiosity, why are we arguing about Orton Vs. Cutler, or even why or when Cutler wanted to be traded on Our Niner Pages? For any of my fellow Niner Fan’s that want to be involved with dumb arguments about any to do with the Broncos then take it over to MHR. We have enough to talk about our own team. By the way, I loved the cross talk with Fooch and JB on both sites.

by Ten-Man on Aug 13, 2009 8:05 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs