Madden 09: Broncos Roster Updates

Not that this is official Denver Broncos news, but is exciting to many of your readers, I am sure, I've put the parts below that will directly affect your team in bold:


EA Sports has released the breakdown of all the changes within the roster update for Madden 09 that will be out by (or on) release day. An update has already been done taking care of many of the changes that are detailed even as they continue to add to the upcoming one to make it the most accurate possible.

Last year there was an average of just below two updates a month which would seem sufficient. The problem was a long painful stretch from mid-November to mid-January that lacked any. If they can keep the consistency up this year than everyone should be pleased with the post-release roster support.

One thing that isn’t noted in this list is the fixing of player numbers. I immediately noticed that Julian Peterson had gone from the #59 of last year to the #98 of this year. Continue on to view the complete list of transactions, ratings adjustments, new contract lengths, and injured reserve placement.

Transactions
HB Cedric Benson – Released to Free Agents
HB Kevin Jones – Signs with Bears
CB Blue Adams – Released by Bengals (Removed)
HB Kenny Irons – Released by Bengals
HB DeDe Dorsey – Added to Bengals
LT Demetrius Bell – Released to Free Agents
LB Donnie Spragan – Signs with Bills
HB Mike Bell – Released by Broncos DT Carlton Powell – Released to Free Agents (IR) DT Kenny Peterson – Added to Broncos FB Peyton Hillis – Added to Broncos FS John Lynch – Released by Broncos
C LeCharles Bentley – Released by Browns
QB Ken Dorsey – Released to Free Agents
C Marvin Philip – Added to Browns
WR Kevin Kasper – Added to Browns
LB Ryan Nece – Added to Bucs
TE Troy Bienemann – Released by Cardinals
RT Kelly Butler – Signs with Cardinals
LG Jasper Harvey – Added to Cardinals
LG Scott Peters – Removed (IR)
HB Marcel Shipp – Released by Cardinals
WR Eric Parker – Released by Chargers
K Billy Cundiff – Released by Chiefs
FB Oliver Hoyte – Released to Free Agents
FB Chris Manderino – Added to Chiefs
K Nick Novak – Added to Chiefs
LB Nate Harris – Released by Chiefs (Removed)
FS Brandon Condren – Added to Colts
WR Terry Glenn – Released by Cowboys
RT Julius Wilson – Released by Dolphins
RT Trey Darilek – Added to Dolphins
DE Quentin Moses – Added to Dolphins
DT Dan Klecko – Released to Free Agents
DT LaJuan Ramsey – Released to Free Agents
DT Kimo von Oelhoffen – Signs with Eagles
FB Jason Davis – Added to Eagles
FS Jimmy Williams – Released by Falcons
CB Wilrey Fontenot – Added to Falcons
DT Grady Jackson – Signs with Falcons
LG Qasim Mitchell – Released to Free Agents
RT Shane Olivea – Signs with Giants
DE Renaldo Wynn – Signs with Giants
TE Michael Matthews – Added to Giants
RT Adam Koets – Released to Free Agents
LT Barry Sims – Added to 49ers
S Darnell Bing – Released by Jets (Removed)
QB Chad Pennington – Released to Free Agents
SS Cameron Worrell – Signs with Jets
WR Devale Ellis – Added to Lions
QB Brett Favre – Traded to Jets
FB John Kuhn – Released to Free Agents
HB Alex Haynes – Released by Panthers
FB Kyle Eckel – Released to Free Agents
LB Jon Alston – Released to Free Agents
S Greg Wesley – Signs with Raiders
WR Todd Watkins – Added to Raiders
RT Seth Wand – Added to Raiders
RT Mark Wilson – Released to Free Agents (IR)
HB LaMont Jordan – Released by Raiders/Signs with Patriots
LB Vince Hall – Released to Free Agents
LB David Vobora – Added to Rams
FS Eric Bassey – Added to Rams
FS Stuart Schweigert – Released by Redskins
DE Jason Taylor – Traded to Redskins
TE Tyler Ecker – Released to Free Agents
TE Jeremy Shockey – Traded to Saints
SS Mike Green – Released by Seahawks
SS Jamar Adams – Signs with Seahawks
HB Najeh Davenport – Released by Steelers
P Paul Ernster – Signs with Steelers
LT Tony Hills – Released to Free Agents
HB Gary Russell – Added to Steelers
QB Quinn Gray – Released by Texans
LT Jordan Black – Released by Texans
WR Mike Williams – Released by Titans
DE Sean Conover – Added to Titans
HB Travis Henry – Suspended
DT Claude Wroten – Suspended
LB Ian Gold - Retires
DE Michael Strahan – Retires
G Gene Mruczkowski – Retires
DT Quinn Pitcock – Retires
S Artrell Hawkins - Retires

Ratings Up
RT Stacey Andrews – Bengals – 78 to 83 – Franchise tagged. A versatile lineman that can play 4 positions.
LB Brandon Johnson – Bengals – 67 to 71 – Has impressed with 1st round pick Keith Rivers holding out.
HB Chris Perry – Bengals – 80 to 82 – Early word is that he has recovered from injuries that cost him the better part of his first 4 seasons.
LG Andrew Whitworth – Bengals – 82 to 86 – Mammoth body at LG for the Bengals. Just received a contract extension.
HB Kenny Watson – Bengals – 82 to 83 – Underrated backup in Cincy behind Rudi Johnson.
WR Steve Johnson – Bills – 71 to 75 – 4 year College player from Kentucky drafted in the 7th round has been good so far in camp. HB Ryan Torain – Broncos – 71 to 76 – An torn ligament to his elbow put this budding Denver backs campaign for the starting position on hold for now.
WR Michael Clayton – Bucs – 78 to 79 – Gruden says he looks like the old Michael Clayton again and looks to be in the mix this season.
LB Bertrand Berry – Cardinals – 82 to 84 – Injuries have cost Berry the past two seasons. He looks to regain his pass rushing form that netted him 26 sacks in 03’ and ’04.
HB Tim Hightower – Cardinals – 71 to 74 – Marcel Shipp was cut to give this guy the backup tailback job to this rookie 5th rounder from Richmond.
WR Marvin Harrison – Colts – 94 to 96 – Early word is his knee is fine and the old Marvin is back.
LB Clint Session – Colts – 70 to 75 – In a battle for a starting linebacker spot with the injured Tyjuan Hagler.
WR Isaiah Stanback – Cowboys – 66 to 68 – The Cowboys have continued to speak highly about this former college QB’s transition to WR. This is his second season at WR.
HB Ricky Williams – Dolphins – 83 to 85 – Ricky looks like “a beast” and is running very hard and should get plenty of carries this year in Miami.
WR Derek Hagan – Dolphins – 72 to 76 – Has jumped Ernest Wilford on the depth chart. Not likely to stick but he has drawn praise on his growth from last season.
DE Victor Abiamiri – Eagles – 75 to 79 – In a position battle with Juqua Parker to start opposite Trent Cole in Philly.
DT Mike Patterson – Eagles – 84 to 87 – Averaging over 50 tackles and 3 sacks a season his first three years in the NFL out of USC.
HB Lorenzo Booker – Eagles – 77 to 79 – Looks to be in the mix for touches in Philly this year and has passed Tony Hunt on the depth chart after being acquired from the Dolphins for a 4th round pick in the offseason.
LB Akeem Jordan – Eagles – 64 to 69 – Is the Eagles 4th LB this year and should be more involved.
CB Brent Grimes – Falcons – 68 to 72 – His role just got bigger as the Falcons lost free agent CB Von Hutchins for the year.
RG Max Jean-Gilles – Eagles – 80 to 82 – Keeps drawing praise for his play while Shawn Andrews was out after a strong finish to last season.
HB Michael Robinson – 49ers – 77 to 79 – Fighting off free agent pickup DeShaun Foster for backup touches in San Francisco.
TE Delanie Walker – 49ers – 73 to 77 – “Freakishly athletic” TE for the Niners. Looks to be in line for some playing time as Martz loves him so far.
WR Mike Walker – Jaguars – 71 to 75 – Looks to have recovered from a knee injury last year and has looked good early.
CB Leigh Bodden – Lions – 90 to 91 – Acquired from Cleveland for Shaun Rogers in the offseason. Is one of the leagues underrated corners now playing in the Tampa 2.
DE Cliff Avril – Lions – 76 to 79 – This guy is gonna be a problem for tackles for a while. Looks to be a real threat coming off the edge in his rookie year.
CB Tramon Williams – Packers – 75 to 78 – Fighting off rookie Pat Lee for the nickel job in Green Bay. Also is an explosive returner in the return game.
LB Desmond Bishop – Packers – 73 to 75 – Has past Abdul Hodge for the backup MLB job behind Nick Barnett.
HB Brandon Jackson – Packers – 81 to 83 – Did his play in camp get Ryan Grant to rush back? Looks to be improved from his rookie season.
WR Sam Aiken – Patriots – 68 to 73 – Has risen up the Patriots WR depth chart after being signed from Buffalo in the offseason.
LB Ricky Brown – Raiders – 62 to 71 – Currently penciled in as the Raiders starting strong side linebacker.
QB Andrew Walter – Raiders – 76 to 78 – If given time offers a more than serviceable backup in Oakland.
DT Cliff Ryan – Rams – 74 to 77 – Had 30 tackles and 2 sacks his rookie year. His role just got bigger with the loss of DT Claude Wroten to a yearlong suspension.
QB Troy Smith – Ravens – 73 to 76 – In the fold to start at quarterback for the Ravens. Consistently struggles with accuracy but might be a good manager for a team that might make one more run before surefire rebuilding begins.
WR Derrick Mason – Ravens – 87 to 89 – Has had 1,000 yards 6 out of the past 7 season, and 2 out of 3 in Baltimore. Had one of his best season last year.
FS Haruki Nakamura – Ravens – 72 to 77 – Has been a true “ball hawk” in camp and will be in the field this year it looks like.
HB Willis McGahee – Ravens – 91 to 92 – Rushed for 1,200+ yards with 7 TD’s and 40+ catches on a team with a limited passing game. Knee injuries have been bothering him this far in camp.
QB Colt Brennan – Redskins – 73 to 74 – Looks like everyone was hard on him for getting met in the backfield by two SEC ends on every play in the bowl game. Looked sharp in his preseason debut.
WR Adrian Arrington – Saints – 68 to 71 – Doesn’t have a great shot at making the team but is guaranteed to be on the practice squad if he doesn’t make the team over any of Devery Henderson/Lance Moore/Terrance Copper.
DT Red Bryant – Seahawks – 74 to 78 – An injury derailed his strong start to camp.
DT Brandon Mebane – Seahawks – 80 to 82 – Very strong DT who bull rushed his way to 29 tackles and 2 sacks his rookie season.
LB Lawrence Timmons – Steelers – 75 to 78 – Has drawn a lot of praise so far as he transitions to MLB for the Steelers after an ineffective rookie year.
WR Santonio Holmes – Steelers – 85 to 86 – Looks to take another step in becoming an elite WR.
CB Fred Bennett – Texans – 82 to 84 – K.C. Joyner voted him the best cornerback last year, and he was a rookie.
HB Steve Slaton – Texans – 72 to 75 – As long as he can hold onto the ball he should get touches in a crowded Texan backfield.
LB Stephen Tulloch – Titans – 79 to 80 – Has delivered bone crushing hits in camp and is still penciled in as the backup behind Ryan Fowler.
WR Brandon Jones – Titans – 80 to 81 – Looks to be the most talented Titan receiver on a cast of thousands.
DT Fred Evans – Vikings – 68 to 71 – Should get more playing time with the departure of free agent DT Spencer Johnson.

Ratings Down
WR Mark Bradley – Bears – 77 to 75 – Has never cracked it in the NFL. Can’t move up a bad Bears wide receiver core.
FB Jeremi Johnson – Bengals – 87 to 86 – Has continued to unimpress in Cincy.
WR Jerome Simpson – Bengals – 76 to 71 – Looks like at least this year will be a learning season in the NFL, feedback has not been good so far.
RT Willie Anderson – Bengals – 92 to 89 – Tries to hold off Stacey Andrews and looks to be near the end of his fine career.
DE Igor Olshansky – Chargers – 86 to 83 – Chargers appear content to let him walk after this year after resigning Luis Castillo.
RG Mike Goff – Chargers – 88 to 86 – The tandem of Goff and RT Clary are not nearly as effective as the Pro Bowl left side of the Charger line.
LB Napoleon Harris – Chiefs – 84 to 80 – Whether its camp head games or not has dropped to 2nd at MLB behind a guy 99.5% of people have never heard of (Pat Thomas).
LB Bobby Carpenter – Cowboys – 80 to 78 – Doesn’t appear to be an ideal fit for a 3-4 defense and they appeared to be unsuccessful in trading him this offseason.
FB Reagan Mauia – Dolphins – 89 to 88 – Has drawn heavy criticism for the bricks where his hands are supposed to be.
WR Ernest Wilford – Dolphins – 84 to 83 – Cannot get open in practice and has been passed on the depth chart by consistently disappointed Derek Hagan.
QB John Beck – Dolphins – 78 to 77 – His nickname is “Checkdown” by a local Miami writer. Guess that is what happens when you are accustomed to having 0.6 seconds to throw.
WR Mario Manningham – Giants – 78 to 76 – Has looked slow and can’t get open in New York so far.
DT Justin Harrell – Packers – 77 to 74 – This guy has bust written across his forehead.
DE Cullen Jenkins – Packers – 92 to 90 – A talented and versatile defensive lineman, but not 92 OVR talented.
DT Terdell Sands – Raiders – 83 to 79 – Can’t start over big money Gerard Warren. He seems to be unmotivated.
RG Fred Weary – Texans – 77 to 74 – Currently a backup behind undrafted Mike Brisiel in Houston. Could be cut.

Contracts
DT Tommie Harris – Bears – 5 years total
LB Brian Urlacher – Bears – 5 years total
WR Devin Hester – Bears – 6 years total
LG Andrew Whitworth – Bengals – 6 years total
DT Kyle Williams – Bills – 5 years total
HB Earnest Graham – Bucs – 4 years total
RG Brad Butler – Bills – 5 years total
HB Earnest Graham – Bucs – 4 years total
FS Ken Hamlin – Cowboys – 6 years total
TE Delanie Walker – 49ers – 5 years total
RG Chris Snee – Giants – 6 years total
DE Paul Spicer – Jaguars – 3 years total
CB Leigh Bodden – Lions – 6 years total
LB Brady Poppinga – Packers – 5 years total
HB Ryan Grant – Packers – 4 years total
DE Will Smith – Saints – 7 years total
WR Marques Colston – Saints – 4 years total
RT David Stewart – Titans – 6 years total

Injuries - IR
LB Alvin Bowen – Bills - Knee
CB Von Hutchins – Falcons - Foot
DE Phillip Daniels – Redskins – Knee
DT DeMario Pressley – Saints – Foot
P Daniel Sepulveda – Steelers - Knee

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Denver Broncos at Houston Texans: 4th Quarter Notes

• Matt Prater makes his second field goal on the second play of the 4th quarter. Denver 13 Houston 16. 14:52 remaining in the game.
  
  
• WR Clifford Russell makes the tackle on the ensuing kick off return. I'd like to see this guy in at WR.
  
  
• Darius Walker's bell is run by Wesley Woodyard. A nice clean hit. I can't figure out if Woodyard's playing linebacker or safety.
  
  
• Jack Williams is called for holding, giving Houston a first down.
  
  
• Josh Barrett is once again in on a tackle, that's five that he's been in on.
  
  
• Denver's third-team defense can't figure out whether they want to be good or bad against the run. They've had flashes, but so far the bad is out weighing the good.
  
  
• Denver's finally able to stop Houston's run, Wesley Woodyard again in on the tackle. Eight men were in the box.
  
  
• 3rd and 4, off set I, Steve Slaton is stopped once again by Wesley Woodyard, stopping him three yards shy of the first down. Woodyard is in fact playing linebacker.
  
  
• Glenn Martinez is in at punt returner, he's wrapped up immediately at the 20. 10:19 left in the game.
  
  
• Tony Scheffler has a false start to begin the drive with a negative five yards.
  
  
• Anthony Aldridge gains two on 1st and 15.
  
  
• WR Samie Parker catches a Darrell Hackney toss and it's good for about 10 yards. Hackney showed poise in the pocket.
  
  
• Clifford Russell and Tony Scheffler were both moving at the same time, Scheffler kind of fell. This negates Michael Pittman's first down catch. It's 3rd and 9.
  
  
• Darrell Hackney from the shot gun, Hackney connects with Tony Scheffler who is pulled down at the 48 yard line. Hackney had to scramble from the five man rush and floats it to Scheffler. A gain of 38.
  
  
• Holding again on Denver. 10 yards back, fourth holding call on Denver. Mitch Erickson's second holding of the night.
  
  
• Hackney's in the shotgun again, pressure leads to him running, then going air born, picks up again 16 yards, but there's another flag. Penalty's illegal contact on the defense, Denver gets a first down.
  
  
• Hackney's obviously no longer content on the practice squad, rolls out on a bootleg, over throws Clifford Russell, but there's a flag- pass interference inside the five yard line. Tony Scheffler was open in the flat. 07:11 left.
  
  
• Delay of game on the Broncos.
  
  
• First and goal from the eight, Anthony Aldridge gets sandwiched by two defensive linemen who are not blocked at all. Loss of three.
  
  
• Hackney's in the shotgun, but is forced to call a timeout as the play clock pushes towards zero.
  
  
• Hackney throws behind Michael Pittman in the flat. Making it 3rd and goal from the 11.
  
  
• Deep drop, screen pass to Anthony Aldridge, who only gets three yards. Bring on Matt Prater, 06:12 left in the 4th. 26 yard attempt.
  
  
• Matt Prater is good and is 3 of 4 on field goals today. 16 all, 05:50 left in the game.
  
  
• Matt Prater's kickoff is returned at the goal line, Steve Slaton returns it out the the 39 yard-line. Prater actually makes the tackle.
  
  
• Denver's cornerback Christian Morton has looked more than good this game.
  
  
• Wesley Woodyard is another player who has looked impressive for Denver. Woodyard showed great closing speed tracking down Steve Slaton from behind.
  
  
• LB Jordan Beck sacks the quarterback! 2nd and 15.
  
  
• Jordan Beck is called for holding on the next play preventing what would have been 3rd and 15. 03:44 left.
  
  
• Wesley Woodyard again in on a solo tackle, as Houston's QB Shane Boyd rushes for a first down.
  
  
• Christian Morton hogties a Houston receiver preventing a first down. However Houston now has the ball on the Broncos 29. 2nd and 1.
  
  
• Steve Slaton runs for the first and the clock runs, Houston's slow to break their huddle.
  
  
• Steve Slaton gains 16 yards Denver safety LaMont Reid prevents the touch down.
  
  
• Two minute warning and Houston's scarily close to scoring, whether it be on a touchdown or field goal.
  
  
• A four-yard gain by Steve Slaton is stopped by new Bronco safety Vickiel Vaughn.
  
  
• A couple Broncos who's numbers have been consistently in on tackles this quarter: Christian Morton, LaMont Reid, Wesley Woodyard and Jordan Beck.
  
  
• 3rd and 4 Houston gets the first off of fullback Jamiel Cook's run, but there's a late flag.
  
  
• Denver's Jordan Beck leads the Broncos to a negative three yard stop.
  
  
• Steve Slaton is spun to the turf by Wesley Woodyard. The clock continues to tick down at sixty seconds and counting. Houston calls a timeout with 00:27 left on the clock.
  
  
• Denver prevents a bootleg, rookie safety Josh Barrett stays home and prevents a Shane Boyd rushing touchdown.
  
  
• Houston's Kris Brown kicks a game winning field goal as the clock ticks to zero. 19-16 Houston wins.

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Denver Broncos at Houston Texans: 3rd Quarter Notes

• Rookie Wesley Woodyard starts off the half with a special teams tackle inside the 20 yard-line.
  
  
• LB Niko Koutouvides gets beat by David Anderson. Makes up for it on the next play by almost stripping the ball.
  
  
• DE Jarvis Moss jumps offsides, but that didn't stop Houston from moving the sticks.
  
  
• Houston's (and former CSU Ram) David Anderson looks very good.
  
  
• Jarvis Moss may have injured his left arm on a tackle.
  
  
• Sage Rosenfels throws deep to Jacoby Jones covered by Roderick Rogers, 41 yards inside the Broncos 10. Jarvis Moss nearly had the sack.
  
  
• Rookie CB Jack Williams gets lucky that Sage Rosenfels didn't see David Anderson wide open. Williams had left Anderson wide open in poor coverage.
  
  
• 3rd and Goal from the six, Rosenfels bubble screen to David Anderson does not score. Denver's defensive tightening up when they have to. Houston settles for a field goal. 16-7 Houston.
  
  
• Clifford Russell returns the kickoff out to the 27 yard return.
  
  
• Anthony Aldridge's first carry is negated by a holding penalty on Denver rookie guard Mitch Erickson.
  
  
• Anthony Aldridge fumbles his next play, a pass from Patrick Ramsey, Denver recovers.
  
  
• 2nd and 15 wing right slot left, Anthony Aldridge gets another run, does nothing, gaining two yards. 3rd and long.
  
  
• Patrick Ramsey from shotgun hands off on a draw play to Michael Pittman, gets to the thirty. Denver will punt.
  
  
• A crazy punt return by Houston's Jacoby Jones that must have been at least 65 total yards of running from right to left, end in a fumble in which Denver's fullback Cecil Sapp recovers the ball. Sapp narrowly made it onto the field in time, looking like he wasn't aware he was supposed to be in on coverage.
  
  
• Denver lucks out starting this drive on the Texans 24.
  
  
• Patrick Ramsey passes for four yards to Michael Pittman who was playing fullback.
  
  
• Ramsey throws behind Pittman on the next play, now third down.
  
  
• From shotgun, Houston showing blitz, protection great, Ramsey's throw was tipped at the LOS by Gabe Long, almost intercepted, but Darrell Jackson just misses the catch.
  
  
• K Matt Prater attempt number two, splits the uprights from 38 yards. Field goal is
  good! 16-10 Houston.
  
  
• Houston's Steve Slanton is tripped up by Wesley Woodyard again at the 20 on the kickoff return. Woodyard was crawling on his hands and knees to make the tackle.
  
  
• Houston QB Shane Boyd fakes a toss, the entire defense bites and he gains 16 yards going the opposite way.
  
  
• Denver's defense stops Houston on 4th and short, taking over on their on Houston's 49.
  
  
• Darrell Hackney comes in just under three minutes left in the 3rd quarter. PJ Alexander is in at center.
  
  
• Hackney swings it out to Anthony Aldridge and picks up the first down.
  
  
• Anthony Aldridge takes a hand off and splits to the sideline for a gain of 20 yards.
  
  
• Darrell Hackney makes a good move, holding onto the ball and tossing it out of bounds on a broken play.
  

3rd Quarter Notes:

Positives: Darrell Jackson, Josh Barrett has been all over the field, Wesley Woodyard looks like he's going to make an immediate impact on ST. Darrell Hackney continues to look better than Patrick Ramsey. Cecil Sapp had a very heads up ST play.

Negatives: Anthony Aldridge didn't look too good before his 20 yard run. Keary Colbert needs to do something quick.

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Denver Broncos at Houston Texans: Half Time Notes

• Still no word on Boss Bailey's injury, Denver may be in trouble.
  
  
• Denver is most definitely in trouble at kicker. Matt Prater has now missed his last three field goal attempts in the NFL.
  
  
• Jay Cutler 8-10 for 59 yards, one carry for 15 yards and one touchdown.
  
  
• Patrick Ramsey 4-7 for 23 and two interceptions.
  
  
• Andre Hall 8 for 43 yards.
  
  
• Selvin Young 4 for 3 yards.

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Denver Broncos at Houston Texans: 2nd Quarter Notes

- Marquand Manuel made a big hit on WR Tim Carter, but Carter was able to hold on for a gain of 16.

- Cornerback Jack Williams was beat for a short gain.

- On 3rd and 7 Denver's pass defense was able to hold.

- Houston K Kris Brown is good on a field goal from 52 yards.

- RB Andre Hall subbing in for Eddie Royal to return kicks for Denver, he runs one back for 23 yards.

- Patrick Ramsey comes in for Jay Cutler, Andre Hall in for Selvin Young, Tony Scheffler comes in at TE.

- Tony Scheffler catches a 12 yard pass before being knocked out of bounds, he lined up in the slot.

- Andre Hall runs back to the line of scrimmage.

- Denver's running attack looks anemic.

- Patrick Ramsey is picked off by former Bronco safety Nick Ferguson, returning the ball 32 yards to the Bronco 26. Ramsey over threw Keary Colbert.

- Marlon McCree stopped a walk-in touchdown by Chris Taylor.

- Former CSU Ram WR David Anderson catches a TD in front of CB Karl Paymah, toe tipping it in at the pylon. A play familiar to Denver fans, Houston QB Sage Rosenfels bootlegged out to easily hit an open Anderson.

- Clifford Russell and Anthony Aldridge back to take the kick, Aldridge receives for

- WR Keary Colbert misses a big block, which would have set off HB Andre Hall for a large gain, he's negated to six yards.

- Same play, Hall gains three yards.

- Double tight end set, Andre Hall needs short yardage and got the one yard he needed for the first.

- Patrick Ramsey passes to Andre Hall for no gain. Could have been picked off by Houston's corner.

- Andre Hall could have broke a big run, ends up getting 14 getting tackled by the last player that could have done so.

- Andre Hall on his sixth consecutive play getting the ball gains one yard on the next play.

- 2nd and 9 Houston pass interference on Keary Colbert, automatic first down Denver.

- Quick throw to WR Darrell Jackson, he's wrapped up quickly, gaining three.

- Quick throw to Tony Scheffler, same result three yards.

- Andre Hall runs on 3rd and 4 and gets the first down, gain of nine. Hall showed patience waiting for the line to collapse and opens up the soft spot in Houston's D. 04:40 left in the 2nd Quarter.

- Hall again up the gut for nine yards. Houston SS Glenn Hall makes the TD saving stop.

- HB Michael Pittman subs in and picks up the first down.

- Tony Scheffler catches the ball on the ten yard-line, making it to the eight yard-line.

- Denver showing a power running game.

- Michael Pittman was swarmed on 1st down and loses four yards.

- 3rd and 9 Ramsey over throws the well covered Nate Jackson, Ramsey was hit as he threw.

- K Matt Prater is out for his first field goal ever, attempt of 30 yards. He misses his first attempt as a Denver Bronco.

- Back on Defense, 2nd and 4 Houston's Sage Rosenfels hits David Anderson for the first down. Dre Bly was in for the first time.

- Denver's pass rush, led by Tim Crowder leads to a hurried pass, Marquand Manuel blitzing from his blind side.

- Next play, cornerbacks Chrisitan Morton and Dre Bly both blitz, Morton blindsides Sage Rosenfels, who fumbles the ball Houston's HB Chris Brown recovers the ball. Morton came in untouched.

- Eddie Royal gets his first punt return opportunity finally, yet the punt rush penetrates quickly and Houston's 39 year-old punter Matt Turk runs the ball for a first down. The referees review the play.

- After review the ball was one yard short of the first down. Denver gets the ball just inside Houston territory with 00:42 left in the half.

- Darrell Jackson catches a quick screen taking it 14 yards inside the 30 yard line. 00:13 left in the half. Play is negated on an offensive holding play, Ryan Harris now has three penalties in one half. Though it didn't look like holding on Harris. Back to the 45 yard line.

- Patrick Ramsey dumps off the ball to Andre Hall, flags fly and right tackle Ryan Harris is again called on holding. The ball goes back over the 50 yard line.

- Trips left, Darrell Jackson wide right, Patrick Ramsey throws deep ball is picked off, then lateraled, finally Darrell Jackson tackles the carrier. Half is over.

2nd Quarter Notes:

Positives: Andre Hall, Darrell Jackson, Denver's corner blitz.
Negatives: Matt Prater, Patrick Ramsey (2 int's), Ryan Harris (4 penalties, one half).

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Denver Broncos at Houston Texans: 1st Quarter Notes

Here's the annoying part about the National Football League... Okay, DirectTV has the monopoly on the NFL games, if I'm out of market. So I abide and get Direct TV, guess what? It's cloudy outside, no reception for my satellite.

- SLB Boss Bailey down with a right ankle injury on the first Houston possession. Then was carted off after making it to the sideline. He has a sprained ankle and is questionable to return.

- SLB Louis Green collided with another Bronco and was injured two plays later, while subbing in for the injured Boss Bailey. He was moving around, but he was taken off the field on a stretcher and gave two thumbs up as he left the field.

- FS Marquand Manuel is everywhere early.

- CB Domonique Foxworth was boxed out completely by Houston WR Andre Davis, for a nine-yard catch.

- SS Marlon McCree nearly picked off a Matt Schaub pass, in his own end zone that would have gone yard had he made McCree secured the catch.

- Denver's defense wins out the battle at the goal line to hold Houston to a field goal.

- Backup SLB Louis Green was diagnosed with a concussion and an injury to his head and neck, taken to the hospital in an ambulance.

- WR Eddie Royal makes his first catch as a Bronco, going five yards in the slot.

- LT Ryan Clady, thus far is losing the battle to Houston's DE Mario Williams.

- WR Brandon Marshall made a nice catch for Denver's first first-down.

- QB Jay Cutler and Eddie Royal has some miscommunication around 5:20 in the 1st Quarter. Royal went post and Cutler tossed it ouside.

- Where Selvin Young is looking shaky (mainly due to the poor offensive line) as a runner, he's making it up as a capable receiver.

- On back-to-back plays, Cutler drops it off to Selvin Young for a total of 23 yards on two plays.

- TE Nate Jackson lined up in the slot catches a quick first-down.

- Next play, Eddie Royal makes his second catch for a gain of eight yards.

- The offensive line is protecting very well in pass situations and Jay Cutler's looking poised.

- RB Selvin Young makes his first positive yardage on a seven yard run.

- Cutler narrowly missed TE Daniel Graham for a touchdown. The ball bounced off his finger tips at 01:47.

- 3rd and 8 Jay Cutler in the shotgun, takes off, running 15 yards and leaping for a Denver touchdown. 00:56 left in the 1st Quarter.

- Domonique Foxworth knocked back Houston RB Chris Taylor for a loss of five yards to wrap up the 1st Quarter.

1st Quarter wrap up:

Positives: Denver's passing offense.
Negatives: Denver's rushing defense/rushing offense.

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Former Denver CB joins Patriots

The Associate Press is reporting that former Denver Broncos corner back Jeff Shoate has been signed by the New England Patriots. The corner was the Broncos fifth round pick in 2004 and played a total of 14 games for the squad.

Denver released Shoate on December 5, 2007. He was signed to the Baltimore Ravens practice squad and then joined the New York Giants practice squad during the playoffs.

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Report: Montrae Holland to Return Monday

The Rocky Mountain News is reporting that last year's starting right guard Montrae Holland will return to practice on Monday. Holland has been the but of more than a few jokes around the Bronco message boards, but has persevered through his own private hell. Holland's efforts working one-on-one with strength and conditioning coach Rich Tuten led to him losing anywhere from ten to twenty pounds in two weeks.

This isn't good news to everyone, Chris Kuper has been filling in for Montrae Holland while he was out. Kuper was the expected starting right tackle going into training camp, with Holland out Kuper was pushed over and second-year tackle Ryan Harris jumped at the opportunity for first-team reps on the offensive line.

My best guess is that Montrae Holland will not return immediately to the first-team and Chris Kuper will continue to take reps, maybe even beating Holland out. However, if Chris Kuper is not able to push Holland from his starting position, he still stands a fighting chance of locking Ryan Harris out at right tackle.

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What to Watch?: vs. Houston

Throughout the preseason and possibly into the regular season we will feature a column called "What to Watch?" it will point out the inside stories that Denver fans should be aware of. Hopefully adding value (as if there needed to be) to the game the Broncos will be playing this week.

According to Mike Shanahan the following players will not suit: Champ Bailey, Tom Nalen, DeWayne Robertson, Hamza Abdullah and Dre Bly will only be out on nickel formations.

On Saturday the Denver Broncos will play at the Houston Texans, here is a few notes on potentially interesting sidebars.

Mario Williams vs. Ryan Clady: Mario Williams, the controversial number one draft pick from three seasons ago, held his coming out party last season against Denver, sacking quarterback Jay Cutler three times. Reversing many fans protests, who had previously felt that Reggie Bush may have been a much better choice with that draft pick. Denver fans are ready to proclaim Ryan Clady the next Gary Zimmerman, but the first quarter on Saturday will be the first challenge that Clady will face. Will, 'Sweet Feet,' hold true to his nickname and dominate Mario Williams or will he be rudely welcomed to the NFL by the future prototype at defensive end?

Eddie Royal: We've heard the reports and Mike Shanahan has given the start at wide receiver to the rookie Eddie Royal. Though Houston itself is young and very inexperienced in their secondary, they still have more experience than Royal and they will be looking to impress early. Denver is very heavy at wide receiver and a lot of players need to get looks at that position and Eddie Royal has veteran receiver Darrell Jackson breathing down his neck. It's an uphill battle and the rookie will probably only get a quarter, along with whatever opportunities that brings, to look good. That means perfect pass routes, blocking and hands. Dropped passes are a killer and can quickly lose a young receiver's confidence, along with the confidence of a quarterback and the coaching staff.

Selvin Young/Andre Hall battle: Selvin Young has proclaimed himself the number one back in Denver, but Andre Hall has been quiet and very impressive so far in training camp. As fans have seen neither lost an opportunity to shine when given the option last season. The battle is Young's to lose, but Hall will be facing less talented defenses. That being the case, Selvin Young will need to continue his 5.2 yard per carry average. Mostly where Young will win or lose the position battle is picking up blitzes in pass blocking and in catching the ball out of the backfield. Where Hall will need improve is in short yardage situations, we know that Hall can break a forty-yard run, we need to see constant four to six yard runs from him. Where both backs can prove their are the uncontested number one is in goal line situations. That's where the Denver Broncos were counting on rookie Ryan Torain to have an impact, his injury leaves a gap that either Andre Hall or Selvin Young will need to fill.

Jay Cutler: No, you'll find no mention of the quarterback's diabetes. Where Jay Cutler will need to improve is in his check offs. Yes, we've seen the, "No look pass," in training camp, but camp goers have seen that Cutler stares down a wide receiver. This doesn't work with Champ Bailey or Dre Bly in practice and it won't work for any of the lesser corners in the NFL. The expectations for Jay Cutler this season are sky high and the prophecy is that Cutler will help coach Mike Shanahan six-pete on quarterbacks having career years in their third season in Shanahan's offense.

Ryan Harris: There has been loads of disinformation on the internet regarding last year's third-round draft pick. Here will be Denver's first chance to see what the truth is. Ryan Harris will most likely get at least two-quarters this game.

Marcus Thomas: The second-year defensive tackle earned his spot on the first-team in training camp. Now he'll have to prove he deserves it and starting next to DeWayne Robertson might be the easiest chance he gets to do that. Robertson will draw double-teams leaving Thomas one-on-one with a guard. It wasn't easy for anyone to look good on Denver's defensive line last season, but this season there won't be any excuses. A year wiser, Marcus Thomas needs to prove that Denver doesn't need to target a highly regarded and highly paid defensive tackle (Albert Haynesworth) next off-season.

Niko Koutouvides vs. Nate Webster: Their two day rotation in training camp isn't exactly encouraging. Both are talented and all though Nate Webster started last season in Denver a lot of his impressive production was a due to the defensive scheme funneling backs to the linebackers. Niko Koutouvides has been a skull cracker on special teams his whole NFL career and has played the last several seasons in Lofa Tatupu's shadow. Early observations from camp show Nate Webster to play with reckless abandon, which allows him to light someone up, at the same time leaving him very vulnerable to missed tackles. Niko Koutouvides, appears to lack a bit of closing speed, but flourishes in pass coverage.

Dre Bly vs. Domonique Foxworth: Though this game will most likely not be the game to judge, as Dre Bly will reportedly not play outside of nickel formations. This opens up the door even farther of Domonique Foxworth, who can now go up against the Houston Texans first-team offense. With Champ Bailey out and Dre Bly seeing very limited action Domonique Foxworth, Karl Paymah and rookie Jack Williams will all see plenty of action in the secondary going against the very talented quarterback duo of Matt Shaub and Sage Rosenfeld.

Nate Jackson vs. Tony Scheffler: This has kind of been the quiet battle of training camp. Nate Jackson has been seeing more time with the first-team offense than Tony Scheffler, often times in practice Jackson is even split out as a wide receiver. When Denver resigned Nate Jackson this off-season, the strength of his contract put pressure on him to perform at a higher level than he has over the past three seasons. The casualty of that signing may have been Tony Scheffler, Jay Cutler's favorite target. Scheffler has constantly stepped up to the plate over the last two seasons though, no matter where he may have been on the depth chart. Both Jackson and Scheffler have been plagued by injuries over their time in the NFL and this may be Denver's way of insuring that no matter who it is playing their second tight end position, they are interchangeable.

Marquand Manuel & Marlon McCree: Marquand Manuel and Marlon McCree are known for their intense hitting ability, which at times borderlines on illegal. That alone makes them worthy of joining the incredible pedigree that his Denver's safety position. While Marquand Manuel is stepping in for the resting Hamza Abdullah, don't be surprised if he is able to push Abdullah down a roster spot. He is officially listed behind Marlon McCree on the depth chart, but will see time along side him this week vs. Houston.

Jarvis Moss: Another player that has been the subject of erroneous training camp reports is defensive end Jarvis Moss. Moss will rotate in at the defensive end position with the first-team defense on rushing downs and with the second-team he should see time during both passing and receiving downs. Fans should get the opportunity to see for themselves what type of player Denver has at defensive end.

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Know Your Opponent: Houston Texans

Denver Broncos record vs. Houston Texans: Home 1-0 Away 0-1, overall 1-1.

Connections: Houston head coach Gary Kubiak played for Denver from the 1983 to 1991 seasons, serving predominantly as a backup quarterback to the legendary John Elway. As a quarterback for the Denver Broncos Gary Kubiak had a record of three wins and two loses as a starter in his eight seasons in the NFL. A little known fact about Gary Kubiak as a player is that he actually filled in as a punter for Denver in 1989, starting once and punting twice that year (averaging 21.5 yards per punt).

After retiring he began coaching for his former college team, Texas A&M serving as a running backs coach for two seasons (1992-1994). He soon joined Mike Shanahan in San Francisco as a quarterback coach, assisting quarterback Steve Young to his second NFL MVP award and first Super Bowl MVP award.

The next season Mike Shanahan took Pat Bowlen's offer to become the head coach in Denver and Gary Kubiak followed. Kubiak was named the offensive coordinator in Denver and worked together with Mike Shanahan and John Elway to lead Denver to winning two Super Bowl. Kubiak stayed beyond John Elway's retirement, following the 1999 season, despite numerous head coaching offers from elsewhere in the NFL.

In 2006 Kubiak replaced Dom Capers as the head coach in Houston, becoming the second head coach in Houston Texans history. Kubiak has been a part of five Super Bowls (as a coach and player) with the Denver Broncos and one with the San Francisco 49ers. He was also been a part of two of his players winning the NFL MVP award (Steve Young in 1994 and Terrell Davis in 1999). Want a real random fact about Gary Kubiak? He is rumored, on the internet, to appear as a reserve quarterback in Madden NFL 2004 for the Indianapolis Colts however that is in correct, it was actually Jim Kubiak.

Kyle Shanahan, as fans will remember is the son of Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan. The younger Shanahan has never coached for Denver, beginning his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers under coach Jon Gruden, serving as the assistant coach for offensive quality control, from 2004-2005. In 2006 Kyle Shanahan joined Gary Kubiak in Houston, coaching first the wide receivers, then in 2007 he was named the quarterback coach and this season Shanahan became the youngest offensive coordinator in NFL history (at 28) in Houston. He is a full three years younger than New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
Alex Gibbs, the assistant head coach/offense for Houston served as an offensive line coach in Denver from 1984-1987 and again from 1995-2003. Gibbs is perhaps most famous in Denver for installing the "Zone blocking scheme," and for insuring that his offensive linemen unite by not speaking to the media.

On Denver's side: Denver Broncos wide receiver's coach Jedd Fisch served as the Houston Texans defensive quality control assistant from 2003-2005. Denver college scout Eugene Armstrong served in Houston for the previous seven seasons. Quarterback Jay Cutler posted his personal best game, as far as pass attempts (39) and completions (27), against Houston last season. Denver strong safety Marlon McCree spent the 2003 and 2004 seasons with the Houston Texans. Denver wide receiver Edell Shepherd was the primary kick returner for Houston in 2006. The Denver Broncos are undefeated (4-0) against the Houston Texans in preseason play.

History: Houston is a relatively new franchise, entering the league in 2001, but Denver has played them four times in the preseason and two times in the regular season. Former Denver offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak has modeled the Houston Texans on the Denver Broncos (earning the Houston Texans the name 'Denver Jr.' around these parts). However, last season, Mike Shanahan's former protege, Gary Kubiak and son, Kyle Shanahan spanked Denver knocking them completely out of the playoff race and lending to Denver's final 7-9 record.

Key contributors: QB- Matt Schaub, WR- Andre Johnson, RB- Ahman Green, DE- Mario Williams, LB- DeMeco Ryans.

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