Denver Broncos
2007 Record: 7-9
ATS: 5-11
Super Bowl Odds: 40-1
The usually-competitive Broncos found themselves on the wrong side of the .500 mark last season, as they lost four of their last six contests to end the year out of the playoffs. Still, in a division that features a pair of doormats (the Chiefs and the Raiders), the Broncos will be looking to gain some ground and at least make a run at a Wild Card spot.
For that to happen Denver will need a good season out of Qb Jay Cutler, who is adjusting to life as a diabetic and will be looking to better manage his conditioning. Cutler threw 20 touchdown strikes in 2007 (compared to 14 interceptions) and compiled over 3400 passing yards. Brandon Marshall returns as Cutler’s top target (102 receptions, 1325 yards, 7 TDs last season), while free agent acquisition Darrell Jackson should bolster the receiving corps. WR Javon Walker was released and joined the rival Raiders. The Broncos released running back Travis Henry in June, so Selvin Young now takes over as the team’s starter and Michael Pittman will be his backup.
Denver’s defense was terrible in 2007, as they gave up more points than every AFC team other than the lowly Dolphins. Tasked with turning around that unit will be new defensive coordinator Bob Slowik and he will have new additions in LB Boss Bailey, LB Niko Koutouvides, and tackle Dewayne Robertson to work with. The Broncos aren’t likely to suddenly morph into a Super Bowl contender this year, but if they can at least show some improvement on the defense, they should get back over .500.
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