New Blog Address

I found out that WordPress is better for responding to comments. Come visit me over there!

http://nativebroncosfan.wordpress.com/

Miller Time in Dallas

As the Broncos take the field against the Dallas Cowboys in tonight's preseason match up, I have just one thing on my mind - the defense. I'm eager to see how the team has improved since the 2010 season, which included a pummelling by the dreaded Raiders at home (final score 59-14). The 471 points allowed by the D last season ranked us dead last.

Von Miller will likely play in a limited role tonight, but let's see what our top draft pick (No. 2 overall) can do. I hope that John Fox and Dennis Allen let Miller loose tonight. I can't wait to see this kid on the field.

Likewise, along with most of Broncos Nation, I missed Elvis Dumervil last season. With Miller and Dumervil together on the field together, I'm optimistic about our defense this season.

ESPN's new QB rating system

My sister Karen shared the Freakonomics post about the ESPN's new quarterback rating system. It was a great post and I'm so happy that she brought it to my attention. I didn't realize that the NFL's official Quarterback Passer Rating System was created in the 70s. I think it's time for a change and I think ESPN is on the right track.

1. I like that the new QBR attempts to take a more comprehensive view of the QB. The 4 basic components of the passer rating system seem to exclude the rushing game, sacks and fumbles.
2. Sometimes I just don't know if a passer rating is good or bad because the numbers don't start at 0. It seems like it will be easier to figure the QBR.
3. Last, but not least, I'm tickled that Jay Cutler looks "less effective" under the new system.

What do you think of the new system? Is it an improvement? Should it also look at defense as part of the rating system?

Shannon Sharpe Quotes

Here's a great summary of quotes by Shannon Sharpe. My favorite:

On earning his degree in criminal justice from Savannah (Ga.) State:
“I was a terrible student. I didn’t graduate magna cum laude, I graduated ‘Thank you, Lawdy!’

Broncos Release First Depth Chart

The Denver Broncos have released their first depth chart, which will change throughout the preseason. My take (steering clear of the QB story):

• Love that Spencer Larson is ranked first as a FB. Hope this is the season season that he gets a rushing TD.
• Hope that Perrish Cox will be kicked off the team soon. For now, he's listed as third on the depth chart for Left Cornerback.

Rule Changes for the 2011 Season

Watch this video to learn about the new rule changes for the 2011 season. A couple of thoughts:

• Incidental contact with a quarterback's helmet is no longer penalized. I think this is an improvement because in years past, the defense couldn't even touch a QB without getting a penalty.
• Both offense and defense players will be penalized equally following a facemask call. In the past, defensive players were commonly penalized for this, but offensive players were rarely called. This equalizes the penalty, which is an improvement.
• Kick offs moved up to the 35 yard line. Obviously, improving player safety was a great consideration here. I will miss long kick off returns, as most balls will go deep and we'll see more touchbacks.

I'm not sure how to interpret the new defenseless player rules. It could be an improvement or it could really slow the game down. As much as I want players to be safe, I love a great hit.

What do you think? Do you like the new rules?

Welcome!

Welcome to my Native Broncos Fan blog! I am excited and thrilled for the 2011 NFL season to begin. I will be using this space to share my thoughts about the Denver Broncos, including game day live tweets, tailgating recipes, pre-game rituals and the highs and lows from the season.

Here's to a great season where our players stay healthy and the 12th man stands strong at Invesco Field at Mile High.

I look forward to your comments and feedback throughout the season.

Go Broncos!

~Joanie