I have typed in about 3 or 4 comments and deleted them because they just don’t correctly express my frustration with this competition. We are arguing between a journeyman who is meh and a young qb who has only shown a few flashes in his first two years. I want Drew,
despite the fact that I was ready to kick him to the curb at the end of last season. I know he probably wouldn’t become Josh Allen, but I’d like to at least know for sure.

So now we are left with Vic Fangio to make this decision. I think that’s the roughest part of this whole thing, Vic is making the decision. He’s a coach coaching for his career and thinking of what is best for saving his job and not what’s best for the franchise.

Matt Nagy is another coach who is in the same position. He has stated that he wants to do what’s best for his players, the Bears and not ruin Justin Fields despite the fact his coaching career would be better off starting Fields from day 1. If Fields struggles but comes on strong then he probably gets another year but he’ll probably start Dalton because of their difficult schedule to start the season. This is a decision I don’t think Vic would make.

So despite my frustration with the competition I guess I’m just more frustrated with Vic and wonder if maybe we would have been better off finding a new coach last off-season and let the new GM pick his guy instead of the other way around.

The three wide sets with the backup O line was a death sentence for Drew. The fix is in.
Not going for it on 4th down with Drew? Come on!

I love some me some Teddy but Drew got done dirty. I’m so done with Fangio. I’ll say it right here – he’s a terrible head coach. He’s living in fear and we suffer the consequences year after year.

That having been said I’m stoked about his defense and this team in general.

Go Broncos

Love
The Count

A common argument from Drew Lock supporters is that he deserves the first chance because of his age and upside. Denver can then just always move to Teddy later in the season if Drew blows it with the chance he’s given.

But I think Denver HAS to go into the season with the QB who they think gives them the best chance to win (whoever that is, and regardless of situation) because of how easy the start to the their schedule is. Giants, Jags, Jets. Maybe the 3 easiest games on their schedule. They HAVE to go 2-1 in 3-0 to start the season, or the playoffs are almost already lost.

What do you think about the QB competition in regards to that easy early schedule?

I feel like we are watching a reboot of the 2011 Broncos.

Bridgewater is cast in the role of Orton. The steady quarterback that can keep the ball moving between the 20s but fades in the red zone.

Lock is cast in the role of Tebow. An exciting gunslinger quarterback who isn’t very consistent. One that a lot of fans think can win if only he’s given the chance.

As in 2011 the real star is a good defense and a reliable kicker. A team that is just good enough to get them into the playoffs no matter who the quarterback is.

To top it off Rodgers is waiting to be cast in the role of Manning. The aging veteran with something to prove. A quarterback who is ready to take a team that believes in him to the Championship.

I’ve seen this movie before. It’s a good movie. I’m happy to watch it again!

What are the odds Teddy Bridgewater is the Broncos starting QB for the 2022 season if the Broncos make the playoffs but lose in the Wild Card round?

What I’m getting at is this: we all seem to think that if the Broncos make the playoffs, it’s likely going to have a lot more to do with the defense and the offensive skill position players than either QB.

What’s the better long term outcome for the Broncos: they make the playoffs with Teddy and then attempt to upgrade the QB position next offseason or they make the playoffs with Lock and have to stick with him another year or two even if we’re still not sure he’s “the guy”?

I worry that Lock’s success could be a monkeys paw scenario where we get stuck with him because of the rest of the teams success. This could be a Mitch Trubisky in Chicago scenario where regular season success winds up being bad for the team long term

If Teddy is named starter do you let Drew play in the final preseason game?

Y’all got me! Treated myself to a membership for my 28th birthday thanks to the training camp promo offer. Howdy from Fort Worth TX but originally from upstate NY. Been a die hard Broncos fan since 2007 thanks to my first NFL game experience when I got to watch cutler and the Broncos take down Vince Young and the Titans. The atmosphere at the stadium was electric and you could feel the energy from the crowd. I’m sure it’s been asked before but what was y’all’s first live Broncos game as a fan you attended and also covered as media. Keep up the great work and look forward to commenting more on future pods #broncoscountry

Based on what we’ve seen, I’d make Teddy the starter. To me, he just seems more consistent and looks more comfortable. However, I do think it’s unfair that we haven’t seen Drew with the full starting offense. If the coaching staff wants to wait till after the 3rd preseason game, here’s what I think they should do.

Play the starting offense again for at least half way through the 2nd quarter, but maybe the whole first half, and split the time between Drew and Teddy, with Drew going first.

I know you don’t normally play the starters this much in the preseason, but frankly the offense has been so bad the last few years that they haven’t earned the right to sit out.

What are your guys thoughts on if this would even make a difference at this point?

Happy Victory Monday!!! Once again, really encouraging to see the team win in another blowout, again it’s preseason and we had a lot of 1s playing against backups, but I’m encouraged that they looked the way they SHOULD look against MIN and SEA 2s and 3s. Very few mental/executional mistakes, no penalties, offense finding rhythm, these are all things that we haven’t seen even at the preseason level dating back to VJ, so it gives me hope that this year Vic and the team have grown into each other per se.

On the quarterback front, it’s hard to imagine Vic calling it for Drew based on last nights game and Vic’s comments/demeanour. Is it the choice I’d make? Maybe not, but watching Teddy play makes me wonder we’re overestimating Drew’s ceiling in Vic’s eyes. Conventional wisdom says Drew has a higher chance than Teddy of being the long term guy based on tools but he’s been so wildly inconsistent I’m finding it harder and harder to envision him as a franchise quarterback. As much as I love Drew, he’s really profiling to me as one of those high talent developmental guys who eventually plateaus as an inconsistent low end starter/high end backup that can get you some flashy spot starts.

Likewise, maybe we’re underestimating Bridgewater’s ceiling in Fangio’s eyes too. Is it possible that Vic could see Teddy’s ceiling as what he produced in New Orleans? Yes he doesn’t have Sean Payton calling plays but you could argue we have a better supporting cast and defence than the 2019 Saints where in 6 starts he threw for 1,384 yds, 9 tds, 2 ints, and a 68% completion percentage. Projected over a 17 game season that’s 3,910 yds, 26 tds, 6 ints, with a 68% completion percentage.

If I’m Vic Fangio, it’s not that crazy to have more faith in the idea of Teddy regaining his NO form (or close to it over a full season) than a guy we’ve never seen string together two games in a row turn into a franchise QB in his 3rd year.

Teddy reminds me of Peyton a la 2015 with the 2 gloves and wobbly throws; but also with the feeling of absolute calm that washes over me knowing he is rarely going to make a bad decision and the accuracy is mostly on point.

With this defense and if the Broncos can run the ball well, this team could surprise. I think I’m beginning to become a Teddy Stan.

Hey guys one more thing I don’t think is being discussed enough is how many times we went for it on 4th down with Teddy. Do you think Vic goes for those 4th downs in a regular season game? Personally, I doubt it, and if that is the case then why would you call the game that way if you’re in a QB competition? I get you want to get a better look at Teddy on extended drives, but I don’t know how valuable those snaps are when those drives would likely have ended in punts or FG in the regular season.

To me, *puts on to foil hat* THAT is the biggest tell that Fangio/ Shurmur are stacking this for Teddy, if they’re giving him chances to put up stats/points that he wouldn’t get in a real game scenario. At this point, I kind of wonder if deep down George Paton regrets giving Vic Fangio final say after looking at the way this competition has panned out.

Fangio needs to watch some Ted Lasso episodes. Do what I’d right for the team and the players and not what is right for him. The club is bigger than any one man. Especially an out of touch old fart like him.

Saturdays game was very interesting. I am a Lock fan, but Teddy looked very sharp and confident. Do you think that the defense can carry Teddy like they did Peyton. I understand that you really can’t compare Peyton and Teddy talent wise, but Peyton was more of a game manager during our Super Bowl season. I also believe that Teddy could win 11 games with the offensive talent around him. Awesome pod and excited to see how the year goes!

I have been listening to your podcasts for more than two years now and I really appreciate your knowledge, insight and encouragement. I became a member of DNVR this spring, living and wearing my DNVR t-shirt in Norway, and looking forward to visit your bar and the Mile High one day in the future.

My question:
Last season you guys expressed frustration concerning the Broncos’ game management and play calling, in several of the games. How do you expect game management and play calling to be different for the Broncos this season, compared to last season (if any difference is to be expected at all)?

Teddy Two Gloves! 6 points per possession really say all that you need to say IMO. I’m glad he’s played so well, I truly think he can lead this team deep in the playoffs. I feel bad for Drew, especially because he has made visible positive strides this offseason. Live isn’t fair, unfortunately.

On a personal note, I will be covering the best football program in the PAC-12 South!! I’m covering Arizona State football for ASU’s student newspaper, The State Press, on top of working from the Cronkite News Los Angeles Bureau covering sports! I’ve said it every time I make a personal announcement and I will continue to say it every time I make a personal announcement, I couldn’t have done it without my idol, Mase! The first journalist I followed and the guy whom I have looked up to since 8th grade! Love ya, man!

Dear Broncoscountry

There was a point and time where we were #inelwaywetrust and we rode thought thick and thin until we couldn’t protect elway anymore and had to hold him accountable .

With that said ?

If drew loses the starting Job THATS ON HIM !!!! It sucked when we let go of the ward … But man Justin Simmons looked awesome !!!! And was great …. Hated the petty was of Chris Harris when Kareem came and Chris ended up leaving but hey look what Kareem did for us ……if drew can’t beat out teddy Bridgewater given how poorly we think of teddy that’s on drew !

Ryan Made and Zac uve been out there !!! Drew could a took the job in camp but he didn’t ! He had the games and he didn’t do ENUFF that’s on him !!!!! U think Kareem doesn’t realize Caden sterns is coming ??? U think Fuller and Callahan don’t see PS2 could be following in the oath of bronco great DBS like champ, aqib, Chris ???

There is talent all up and down this roster competing and the best man will play

If Drew lost he lost !

Make sure u encourage him to be ready to play and cheer for this team

We haven’t lowed a td all pre season

Dude we have like 3 ints , a pick six a LITANY of pbu ….strip sack fumbles and 0 TDs allowed ….. Dude let drew go and rally behind teddy I wanted drew to and the check downs make me wanna shake teddy sometimes but drew didn’t cease the opportunity it is what it is …..

I’m Soo excited for this team and for fantasy cuz if teddy is the starter Jerry jeudy noa can’t and Melvin’s stock is through the roof !

Let’s goooo

One question tho …… Zac, Ryan …… How confident are u in Melvin Gordon if u don’t get to draft javonte Williams as well how good do u feel about Melvin this year ?

Ryan said before the games if you told him Bridgewater would throw 19 times, he would expect 14 completions and 2 TDs. Throwing for 2 TDs in 19 attempts is a VERY high rate, Aaron Rodgers last season as the MVP threw a TD pass every 22 attempts. If those are the expectations, Ryan must have expected Teddy to play at an extremely high level and play like a top 10 QB in the league (even though some of it was against second teamers). That doesn’t seem consistent with viewing Teddy as average.

I’m not saying Teddy should be crowned the guy, but we should acknowledge Teddy’s playing exceptionally and showing a high ceiling. Statements people make like ‘the team goes 8-9 or 9-8 with Teddy’ is just an opinion, a declarative statement about what someone thinks the future is. If someone HAD to make a declarative, guess-the-future statement about this team’s potential record with Teddy and that person sincerely looks at Teddy’s play, the teams he’s had, injuries, everything they REALLY should say this team is probably 9-8 or 10-7 with Teddy, could be 1 or 2 wins better or worse depending on injuries, etc. I would rather Lock get the start I think but the hatred of Teddy, especially on Twitter, is getting so ludicrous it’s almost seems like a parody.

It’s crazy the toxicity in the live streams you guys are dealing with from fans on all sides, your guys’ reporting and resolve is appreciated!

What a time to be a Broncos fan!
This week I was fortunate enough to attend the Pacquiao vs Ugas fight Saturday night which was electric! I still had my phone streaming the Broncos game for every break between rounds. Of course when in Vegas I had to place some bets. I noticed that the AFC teams have beaten their NFC opponents in 28 out of 31 preseason matchups over the last two weeks. Just had to share because it blew my mind. What do y’all think?

Hi guys,
It’s Monday 6.30pm down under, im hoping when i wake up in the morning and get in the car, i hear you guys telling us all the Teddy is the QB. And I just hope everyone gets behind him. Bring on the Jets!

hey guys!

a couple of things i wanted to talk about that aren’t getting much attention;

1) the broncos had zero penalties against seattle. that was really impressive considering they were playing with backups and rookies for the most part and were playing on the road, in a loud and hostile environment. i feel like vic doesn’t get enough credit for having his team ready to play and disciplined.

2) kary vincent jr has been playing really well for the past two games. one of my favorite plays was last week vs minnesota, where it was a 4th and 5, and vincent came flying in and stopped the receiver 2 yards short of the first down. very limited sample size and weak competition, i know but pff currently have him with an 81.1 coverage grade for the preseason.

i know we always tend to overrate our players not clearing waivers, but a young guy with upside, has legit 4.3 speed and has shown he can cover? i don’t want to risk it with him.

what do y’all think?

Over the last 2 off seasons, we’ve talked about how the Broncos are trying to build a team to beat the chiefs, which QB gives us the best opportunity to do so? In my opinion, Drew’s upside gives us a better chance then Teddy’s consistently average play.

Dear mighty three

I really enjoyed watching that game – Broncos making plays all over the field, albeit defending the kick returns needs some work!

Also really enjoyed listening to the post game podcast – I was surprised and saddened to hear Allie mention that some of the YouTube comments were toxic. RK and Zac, I thought you explored all the topics in a really balanced and entertaining way, arguing from multiple points of view and representing the debate that we’re all having (and that the Broncos coaching team must also be having!). Hope you don’t take the toxicity personally – you’re doing a great job.

My questions:
– If TEDDY wins out, do you think it’s the end for Drew as an NFL starter or could his time yet come? And is that more likely to be at the Broncos or elsewhere?
– If DREW wins out initially, but then plays poorly and gets benched a few games in, is that actually WORSE for his future career prospects as a starter?

All the best from the UK, Christopher

PS Shout out to my man Doski in Colorado Springs who I know always listens to the pod!

What’s re the odds they never name a starting QB, just keep alternating halves all season and Vic saying they just need a liiiiiiiittle more information and then they’ll name a starter?

Guys,

Just came here to say that the blitz pickup by Rolls Royce on Teddy’s first TD was some of the best pass blocking we’ve seen from an RB in the past few years. Give the man his credit! Go Broncos!

Hey guys I just want to open with your professionalism. I come here cause the rest of the internet is so toxic and to hear it happen to this family is disheartening. Keep up the good Allie and gents!

On another note other than QB, I’m loving the showcase of RB and WR we’ve seen. If Jeudy is anything like he played in Seattle, I’m positive he will hit his goal!

Why are fans reacting so hostile to one another? Can’t we all just stick together? Why are people so culty supportive of Drew and conversly why are people so fiece in their disdain for him? Here’s a thought, not everone has to agree about everything all the time. Maybe politics has people treating each other this way, I dont know. I just dont get it. Who cares who you want, Teddy or Drew or someone not even in Denver now? It’s fine to believe what you want. I just dont get this whole notion that if you dont support Drew, you need to find a new team like I see on Facebook. These are professional athletes. The NFL ISN’T FAIR. We need to stick together and remember its the Broncos organization that has created this messy situation, not your fellow fans. All we want is to see victories and if you’re like me, I also am tired of hearing about this golden age of passing offense. Im ready to join the party!

My Peoples!

Love the coverage despite what some youtube commenters say.

I was watching some other Broncos content and in the video the guy is explaining why the Broncos will finish last in the AFC West and his argument for the Raiders finishing higher that Denver was and I quote “Henry Ruggs is fast”

That was it. So there you have it guys, Denver sucks because Henry Ruggs is fast. Sorry KJ

I’m honestly surprised how torn I am on the QB debate. I’ve been a Lock nonbeliever for a long time but he showed some decent growth in that first preseason game. Seattle was a little rough, but i’ll give him a pass because of the protection and situation. That being said, Teddy’s 4th down play was something Drew just can’t do yet. Amazing pocket manipulation while also getting to your third read… that’s a really great play. Man this is tough but hats off to both QBs for making it that way. All i want is the Broncos to win.

QB A: 93.5 – QB B: 86.5

QB B has a combined DNVR preseason game scorecard win of 21 – 19points

Trying to be as objective as possible… It feels unfair to not name QB A the starter. We set very clear goalposts before the competition began: Whoever wins the scorecard and the preseason games should be the starter. QB A won in both categories using your own scores.

Unless we want to retroactively add in + 8 points for “potential” to QB B….