Broncos RB. (2 Viewers)

[Buffaloes]

Which one of the running backs would you use in each of these situations?

Third and short: Hillman or Moreno, but Ball has also taken reps as third down back

Third and long: Hillman

I don't think it's safe to assume that the smallest and probably least effective short-yardage RB will get the call on most 3rd and short situations.

Also, 3rd and long, the team will likely want its strongest pass blocker and pass catcher in the game. At this point, that is Moreno.

But I really feel like this discussion is getting way too in depth and there is a lot of over-analysis going on in here. I think Gase and Fox will ride the hot hand a lot of the time and there won't necessarily be a rigid situational depth chart.

Denver has made many indications they want to play at a very fast tempo. So regardless of situation, if the o is on a roll, the back in the game will likely get the calls on that drive.

 

[FDC]

Also, 3rd and long, the team will likely want its strongest pass blocker and pass catcher in the game. At this point, that is Moreno.

As a pass protector Hillman drew cheers from the crowd when he stonewalled Von Miller and stopped him from getting to the QB. After practice Hillman talked about his improved pass protection ability. “It wasn’t the blocking part. It was just more of seeing what was going on. Now I’m seeing a lot more and it’s just being able to stand them up and being able to stall them.”

 

[Biabreakable]

I do think being 3rd on the depth chart at this juncture means it's officially "put a fork in him" time for Moreno. Moreno's best hope was to start at the top and try to hold off the young guys. If he's starting at the bottom, I don't think he's got the talent to force his way up the chart.

So when both coach Fox and Hillman are saying how they list them on the depth chart does not mean anything, that they are still evaluating them all (all would include Moreno) through the preseason before making a decision, yet you are willing to jump to the conclusion that Moreno is done?

It very may well be that you are right but the information available is not saying that. Your bias against Moreno cannot be trusted.

Where is this bias of mine supposedly coming from?

When you say Moreno is done stick a fork in him that suggests you think his career is over, at least to me and I think a lot of people that is what that statement means. It does not seem to be over yet. He has had injuries that quite possibly have taken away some of his speed/quickness but he does not seem done, the Broncos did not cut him.

So now I think I am understanding this statement of Moreno being done to mean you do not like his fantasy prospects? Why not say that then instead of saying he is done stick a fork in him? I don't like his fantasy prospects that much either, I just do not see him being done, I see him having a significant enough role that it will limit the opportunities for the other RB. Perhaps these 2 things are the same to you? To me they are pretty different. I will give you an example.

If I say that Johnathan Stewart is done, stick a fork in him, I would be saying that because I think that Stewart will never be healthy enough to get many carries in the NFL again. I think that is possibly the case and I could make a stronger case for that I think than I could for Moreno but I am not quite willing to go that far in regards to him yet. There is still a chance he gets healthy enough to be relevant again. I seriously doubt that, but it is possible. So excuse me for taking your statement to mean something other than you meant? When you use the fork metaphor.. it is pretty serious bidness no?

The bias is what I saw from last season and you are still saying it now is that Moreno is only there to be a back up. I totally agree that the Broncos would like Monte Ball to become 2nd coming of TD and that they do not want to count on Moreno as their starter. Their actions clearly show that is the case. But Moreno is still on the team for a reason. They do not seem done with him at all. He has a role in the offense and is a nice insurance policy.

You also seem to think that the reason Moreno was inactive for so many games last season is because they dont like Moreno. I have shown you that is not the case. Moreno was still injured and not capable of playing his best because of that. Fox stated this when he was reactivated and played out the rest of the season after Willis got hurt. Fox has said he is proud of Moreno's professionalism while rehabbing and being inactive, doing everything they asked him to get healthy and stay prepared in case they needed him. They did and he did. Moreno has been a trooper and team player. He does not seem be in forking status to me. Yet you still seem to think this is because the Bronco's do not want Moreno to have a role in the offense, rather than because he was still injured/recovering. That is where I have seen bias from you in regards to Moreno. You do not seem to think the reason he was inactive was because he was still recovering from the injury.

Who needs the most reps with the 1st team offense in TC? Moreno has already mastered the playbook and protections. They for the most part know what he can do for them. The younger RB do need the reps yet you draw the conclusion that Moreno is done because of being listed 3rd on the depth chart in the context of an article where Fox and Hillman are saying to not read too much into that.

Step back for a second and ask yourself if that sounds biased or not? As far as where that bias comes from? You would have to answer that. I do not know. You certainly have enough information about the situation.

ETA- I see Moreno having a role in the offense and he will likely get 30% of the snaps or more. If he were done and purely a backup as you seem to be suggesting how many snaps does that mean? 10%? I think people may be expecting too much for Hillman/Ball if they are not taking into account that Moreno will have more snaps than that in the offense. They might project Hillman/Ball for too many carries if they agree with you that Moreno is done.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

ESPN Broncos beat writer Jeff Legwold predicted on SportsCenter that Denver's 2013 running back situation will "frustrate" fantasy owners.
"I think all year they're gonna frustrate fantasy players with their rotation," said Legwold. Legwold also predicted Ronnie Hillman will be Denver's Week 1 starter assuming he passes through preseason without any ball security woes. We'll see. There are many types of running back committees, and most of them have a pretty clear lead back. We'll know more after 2-3 preseason games.

 

[ShaHBucks]

I feel like Moreno earned the job vs Hillman/Ball being giving the job. I'm not one to favor potential over good/great production. Play Hillman and hope he does what Moreno did?? I'll never understand that. Regardless, I'd still gamble on Knowshon in hopes he's a shock starter or at least the proper HC to either Hillman/Ball. This flyer worked out for me last year. That's why I'm not attending his funeral. At the same time I'm not getting too cute. He's clearly not a fan/organization favorite.

 

[Buffaloes]

Also, 3rd and long, the team will likely want its strongest pass blocker and pass catcher in the game. At this point, that is Moreno.

As a pass protector Hillman drew cheers from the crowd when he stonewalled Von Miller and stopped him from getting to the QB. After practice Hillman talked about his improved pass protection ability. “It wasn’t the blocking part. It was just more of seeing what was going on. Now I’m seeing a lot more and it’s just being able to stand them up and being able to stall them.”

that's great news, but he has a long way to go to being Denver's best pass blocker imo. Various articles have said he's done better in camp pass blocking, but I think it needs to be proven in game situations esp considering the guys he's going to be trusted to protect.

 

[toastedgnome]

I like this C.J. Anderson kid, re-read Lammy's reports and it seems like this kid is standing out most every day.

Dug this up from after the draft, Lammy liked Anderson then: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1621417-denver-broncos-2013-undrafted-free-agents#/articles/1621417-denver-broncos-2013-undrafted-free-agents/page/2

John Elway still adding talent after the draft through priority free agents
Doug Pensinger/Getty Images The 2013 NFL draft wrapped up today, but that doesn't mean teams are done adding players to the roster. Each team was in a frenzy right after the draft to add undrafted free agents.

These priority free agents may have had mid-round grades, but for one reason or another they went without hearing their name called during the draft.

Several stars have come from the undrafted ranks including (but not limited to) Arian Foster (Texans), Antonio Gates (Chargers) and Tony Romo (Cowboys).

The Broncos have a Ring of Fame player, former wide receiver Rod Smith, who was an undrafted free agent back in 1994. Smith went on to win two Super Bowls with the Broncos in 1997 and 1998. He's the only undrafted player to reach 10,000 receiving yards (11,389) and finished with 68 touchdown catches in his career.

Denver added 15 undrafted free agents today. Here's a look at some of the players who stand out to me.

C.J. Anderson, RB, California

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
Anderson has a compact build (5'8", 225 lbs) and was a co-starter for the Golden Bears with Isi Sofele in their "Thunder and Lightning" backfield in 2012. After transferring from Laney College, Anderson played in all 25 possible games during his two years at Cal, including two starts.

Even though Anderson was the bigger back in the Bears running back-by-committee, he still had his share of big plays. His longest career run was a 68-yard scamper against UCLA in 2012, while his longest reception came on a 74-yard catch and run against Arizona State in 2011. Anderson finished with a healthy average of 5.73 yards over the course of his college career.

Anderson performed well at the scouting combine earlier this year. He ranked top three (tied) at the event in the 20-yard short shuttle. Anderson runs in the 4.5 range but it's his burst that makes him an intriguing prospect. He gets to top speed in a hurry and he can change direction and explode out of his cuts.

 

[moleculo]

CJ was a standout tonight for sure.

 

[Courtjester]

CJ was a standout tonight for sure.

I don't know if they keep 5 active backs, but the way CJ was running it could spell some trouble for Lance Ball.

 

[moleculo]

CJ was a standout tonight for sure.

I don't know if they keep 5 active backs, but the way CJ was running it could spell some trouble for Lance Ball.

I certainly hope so.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

ESPN's Jeff Legwold says "EVERY indication" from the practice field is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball will "share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations."
At this point, it's clear the Broncos will use some kind of a committee. What's not clear is exactly how the carries will be divided. Although Ball played behind Hillman in the preseason opener, he still has plenty of time to seize the starting job/majority of inside runs and relegate Hillman to change-of-pace/outside duties. This remains a position battle with just over three weeks to go before the Broncos open the season against the Ravens.

Related: Ronnie Hillman

Source: ESPN.com

 

[kinglochness]

Different people see different things. Tom Brady was once a 6th rd. draft choice.

Was he really? I hadn't heard that. I figured he must have been a first rounder. Huh. He's pretty good.

 

[Adam Harstad]

Rotoworld:

ESPN's Jeff Legwold says "EVERY indication" from the practice field is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball will "share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations."
At this point, it's clear the Broncos will use some kind of a committee. What's not clear is exactly how the carries will be divided. Although Ball played behind Hillman in the preseason opener, he still has plenty of time to seize the starting job/majority of inside runs and relegate Hillman to change-of-pace/outside duties. This remains a position battle with just over three weeks to go before the Broncos open the season against the Ravens.

Related: Ronnie Hillman

Source: ESPN.com

Like I said... Knowshon Moreno, meet fork. Fork, Knowshon Moreno.

 

[monk]

Moreno got the nod over Hillman and played like a vet, running hard and protecting Peyton when Mcgahee went down last season ... in fact they didnt miss a beat until Moreno got hurt again.

Ball is unimpressive and Hillman is a change of pace back with no physicality ... by the time the season starts they will go with tried and true to protect Peyton.

As long as he proves he is healthy ... it's Knowshon !

 

[ILUVBEER99]

Has Ball been improving his blocking? All reports i've read are that he's been very weak in that department. Doubt they risk Manning taking needless shots, so he better get up to speed.

HIllman seems to be the safest and best value at this stage.

 

[ShaHBucks]

Rotoworld:

ESPN's Jeff Legwold says "EVERY indication" from the practice field is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball will "share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations."

At this point, it's clear the Broncos will use some kind of a committee. What's not clear is exactly how the carries will be divided. Although Ball played behind Hillman in the preseason opener, he still has plenty of time to seize the starting job/majority of inside runs and relegate Hillman to change-of-pace/outside duties. This remains a position battle with just over three weeks to go before the Broncos open the season against the Ravens.

Related: Ronnie Hillman

Source: ESPN.com

Like I said... Knowshon Moreno, meet fork. Fork, Knowshon Moreno.

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

 

[Buffaloes]

Has Ball been improving his blocking? All reports i've read are that he's been very weak in that department. Doubt they risk Manning taking needless shots, so he better get up to speed.

HIllman seems to be the safest and best value at this stage.

the same question asked of Ball here applies to Hillman who was absolutely abysmal in pass protection last year on top of being ~5'9". There wasn't much to glean from the preseason game with regard to the running game aside from Hillman still seeming like he wants to bounce everything outside, Ball made 2 decisive cuts, and Moreno looking like the most polished RB there. 1st game of the preseason, sure, but I think Hillman's a change of pace RB. I'm not trying to knock Hillman.

 

[ILUVBEER99]

Has Ball been improving his blocking? All reports i've read are that he's been very weak in that department. Doubt they risk Manning taking needless shots, so he better get up to speed.

HIllman seems to be the safest and best value at this stage.

the same question asked of Ball here applies to Hillman who was absolutely abysmal in pass protection last year on top of being ~5'9". There wasn't much to glean from the preseason game with regard to the running game aside from Hillman still seeming like he wants to bounce everything outside, Ball made 2 decisive cuts, and Moreno looking like the most polished RB there. 1st game of the preseason, sure, but after attending camp and seeing Hillman in action against the 9ers, I still think he's a change of pace RB.

He does look tiny, but everything i've read from Cecil seems to point to Hillman being vastly better in pass protection. I know nothing first hand on that topic, just basing it off Lammeys reports.

 

[N Zone]

Moreno got the nod over Hillman and played like a vet, running hard and protecting Peyton when Mcgahee went down last season ... in fact they didnt miss a beat until Moreno got hurt again.

Ball is unimpressive and Hillman is a change of pace back with no physicality ... by the time the season starts they will go with tried and true to protect Peyton.

As long as he proves he is healthy ... it's Knowshon !

Absolutely.

 

[Adam Harstad]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

 

[ILUVBEER99]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

i think Ball sucks, but i agree all signs point to HIllman/Ball combo. Eventually i do think the Broncos will admit the Ball mistake and Moreno could take his role.

 

[N Zone]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

 

[bonesman]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

 

[ShaHBucks]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

Because Lance Ball is better

 

[moleculo]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

1. He wasn't completely healthy.2. He doesn't play special teams.

3. His role is not change-of-pace back like Hillmans was.

 

[Bronco Billy]

We need a drinking game for every time Lammey reports on Ball and uses the term "swallowed up".

 

[We Tigers]

I come here looking for Ball/Hillman and find a couple people still clinging to Moreno? Just another handcuff--and probably destined for only half the work if someone ahead of him gets hurt. Invest in Lance Dunbar or Joique Bell or someone similar instead.

 

[bostonfred]

We need a drinking game for every time Lammey reports on Ball and uses the term "swallowed up".

Or that Hillman "got skinny"

 

[ShaHBucks]

We need a drinking game for every time Lammey reports on Ball and uses the term "swallowed up".

Or that Hillman "got skinny"

he's already skinny.

 

[Adam Harstad]

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/60618/camp-confidential-broncos-3

• Folks can wish it were different, especially as they wrestle with their fantasy lineups each week, but every indication on the practice field -- as in EVERY indication -- is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball are going to share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations. And Knowshon Moreno and Jacob Hester figure to at least be in the third-down mix as well at times.

Also worth noting that C.J. Anderson has been getting some reps with the second-string offense, although he's been getting them at fullback. Denver's offense doesn't actually use a fullback (no team played fewer snaps with 2 backs on the field than Denver last year), so I imagine this is just the coaching staff giving him a longer look. I also think Anderson's ascension is worse news for Hester than Moreno.

 

[Cecil Lammey]

Knowshon Moreno missed practice today.

John Fox said Moreno had a bruised right knee: https://twitter.com/cecillammey/status/367727480632668160

On the injury report

“Nothing really new to the injury report. [WR] Lamaar Thomas had a concussion, he did not participate today. [RB] Knowshon Moreno has a bruised right knee. Those are the new guys that did not participate.”

I asked John Fox is Montee Ball is showing better decisiveness as a runner, if things are slowing down for him.

On the game starting to slow down for rookie RB Montee Ball

“Yeah, I think this game is about playing fast. The more and more you get comfortable with the play calls, the plays, the reads, the better you play. So he’s definitely grown as we’ve gone forward.”

 

[Cecil Lammey]

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/60618/camp-confidential-broncos-3

• Folks can wish it were different, especially as they wrestle with their fantasy lineups each week, but every indication on the practice field -- as in EVERY indication -- is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball are going to share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations. And Knowshon Moreno and Jacob Hester figure to at least be in the third-down mix as well at times.

Also worth noting that C.J. Anderson has been getting some reps with the second-string offense, although he's been getting them at fullback. Denver's offense doesn't actually use a fullback (no team played fewer snaps with 2 backs on the field than Denver last year), so I imagine this is just the coaching staff giving him a longer look. I also think Anderson's ascension is worse news for Hester than Moreno.

Anderson has been getting second team reps as a runner and as a blocker. Monday it was only as a blocker, Tuesday and Wednesday they were at RB and FB.

 

[Cecil Lammey]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

1. He wasn't completely healthy.2. He doesn't play special teams.

3. His role is not change-of-pace back like Hillmans was.

By Moreno's own accounts he was fully healthy during the time he was inactive. he was running with the scout team during that time.

 

[bonesman]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

1. He wasn't completely healthy.2. He doesn't play special teams.

3. His role is not change-of-pace back like Hillmans was.

4. He sucks and as not RB1 material.

 

[Buffaloes]

I think Anderson's play last week warrants him getting some better reps this week against Seattle. not necessarily w/ the starters yet, but I'd like to see substantial reps w/ 2nd teamers this week. also, would like to see Hillman make a play on an inside run and break more than an arm tackle this week.

 

[N Zone]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

He was coming off ACL tear / surgery.

 

[bonesman]

As he rushes for more yards than Hillman and Ball combined in the first game. There's still a chance they go with experience over hype. Don't be so cocky.

C.J. Anderson rushed for more than all three of them combined. It's the first preseason game- usually the guys that play the most are the guys at the end of the roster. Hillman played two drives and then was done for the game, then Ball played a drive and was done for the game, and then Moreno came in, just like you'd expect from a 3rd string RB in the first preseason game.

I'm not being cocky, I'm just saying it's time to call it. We keep seeing sign after sign after sign that Moreno's not the guy. He's third on the depth chart, he was third into the game against San Francisco (only entering after both Hillman and Ball had been shut down), he's hardly getting any reps with the first team in practices, and the coaches and beat writers barely ever mention him. How much more evidence is needed before everyone believes Moreno really is the third string back?

But it's preseason. I'll wait until week1, and if they don't start or play Moreno more than the others, than I'll think to myself that coach Fox made a poor running back decision, then eventually they will realize Moreno is the best back they have and he'll start, or an injury to M Ball, Hillman, or both will allow Moreno to shine, just like last year. You realize Moreno is coming back after an injury in last year's playoffs, so maybe that's why he's not RB1 right now. The only other option is Hillman or Ball play at a high level, but until I see it with my own eyes, Moreno is on every one of my f.f. teams.

And what was the reason all the first half of last year when he was a healthy scratch?

He was coming off ACL tear / surgery.

So were Peterson and Charles

 

[dmac37]

I'm not sure how this will play out but I keep thinking of the history with Fox and young RB's, they tend to give way to a veteran RB come game time. Also protecting Manning is a very high priority and that also points to Moreno. Is there a history on how Fox uses his RB's & depth chart during pre-season vs regular season?

I will not be surprised at all if Moreno is in a 1A/B split with one of the other 2 guys

 

[Riffraff]

Just because Hillman is the youngest of the 3, doesn't mean he's not a veteran.

 

[N Zone]

Just because Hillman is the youngest of the 3, doesn't mean he's not a veteran.

Just because he's a young veteran running back in the NFL, doesn't mean he's very good at it.

 

[Beerguzzler]

I'm not sure how this will play out but I keep thinking of the history with Fox and young RB's, they tend to give way to a veteran RB come game time. Also protecting Manning is a very high priority and that also points to Moreno. Is there a history on how Fox uses his RB's & depth chart during pre-season vs regular season?

I will not be surprised at all if Moreno is in a 1A/B split with one of the other 2 guys

Worst part about Fox is what he did in Carolina with his RB's. Neither of them ever had enough value. Starting to think the same thing is going to happen. Not to mention it's a predominantly passing offense now.

 

[citsalp]

Fox isn't taking over a new nor rebuilding franchise...Manning has limited years to play, the best RB will play

 

[Bronco Billy]

Fox isn't taking over a new nor rebuilding franchise...Manning has limited years to play, the best RB will play

This. This isn't a team that needs to protect the passing game with running & D like those QB'd by Delhomme, Moore, Weinke, and Peete. This is Manning's team loaded with vets in full blown Super Bowl or bust mode.

If Fox won't put the most consistently productive RB on the field, Manning & Elway are going to be all up in his grill. It's pretty obvious that at least Elway with likely some input or at least advice from Manning thought Ball was a complete RB who can play 3 downs and be a bell cow. He is also - unlike Hillman or Moreno - a RB who is unlikely to leave you in 2nd or 3rd and long, as well as being dominant at the goal line. That makes Manning and the passing O even that much more dangerous. The running game doesn't need to risk a 1 yd loss to try to gain 15 yds on a run - Manning can get the yardage in larger chunks when needed. What the passing game wants to do is apply pressure every down by being in 2nd and 6 or 3rd and two, where a guy like Welker will be money to move the chains. That allows for a high percentage O that can move very quickly. Get 4 yds on 1st, get up to the line without a huddle and attack, run yourself into 3rd and 1, get up to the line without a huddle, and attack. That's how I see the 2013 DEN O.

Right now all I am seeing is DEN waiting for the game to slow down a little for Ball. They aren't moving him back in the pecking order and they are feeding him play and info in reasonable chunks rather than throwing the whole Manning O at him at once and seeing if he sinks or swims. But it seems obvious to me that they are clearly giving Ball a chance to catch up and are willing to wait for him.

Ball is definitely talented enough to fill the exact role that DEN has allocated for him - solid, consistent, do his job, get the tough yards, and only occasionally be expected to put up a bigger play - just like what Shanahan carved out for TD. TD just happened to be a much more exceptional RB than almost anyone expected.

We'll see, but I'm seeing a lot of jumping the gun in this thread when we're just a week into PS - and that despite how DEN is working Ball. Bail on him if you don't have the patience to stick it out, but I have the feeling you'll regret that decision come crunch time in your FF season.

 

[rascal]

CJ Anderson carted off field, not good. knee or ankle, cant put weight on it

 

[Adam Harstad]

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/60618/camp-confidential-broncos-3

• Folks can wish it were different, especially as they wrestle with their fantasy lineups each week, but every indication on the practice field -- as in EVERY indication -- is that Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball are going to share the workload in a variety of down-and-distance situations. And Knowshon Moreno and Jacob Hester figure to at least be in the third-down mix as well at times.

Also worth noting that C.J. Anderson has been getting some reps with the second-string offense, although he's been getting them at fullback. Denver's offense doesn't actually use a fullback (no team played fewer snaps with 2 backs on the field than Denver last year), so I imagine this is just the coaching staff giving him a longer look. I also think Anderson's ascension is worse news for Hester than Moreno.

Anderson has been getting second team reps as a runner and as a blocker. Monday it was only as a blocker, Tuesday and Wednesday they were at RB and FB.

Have they been coming at Moreno's expense, or has it mostly been in place of Hester, Lance, and the rest of the end-of-the-bench guys?

 

[FDC]

This situation sucks

Could very well make or break some fantasy seasons yet it seems almost 50-50 now. Hopefully things clear up soon.

 

[Buffaloes]

CJ Anderson carted off field, not good. knee or ankle, cant put weight on it

 

[Donnybrook]

Rotoworld and KFFL reporting that Anderson is out 6 weeks.

I don't know how they could determine that so quickly.

Edit to add: Denver post now reporting it to be an MCL not an ACL injury. 2-4 weeks.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

ESPN Broncos blogger Jeff Legwold considers Montee Ball "slightly" behind Ronnie Hillman in Denver's tailback battle.
Ball got no action with Denver's first-team offense in the preseason opener, although the Peyton Manning group only played seven snaps. Hillman failed to separate himself with nine yards on three carries. Ball's efficiency was even worse (nine yards, five runs), but the second-team offensive line's blocking was brutal. The Broncos' next preseason game is at Seattle on Saturday night.


Source: ESPN.com

 

[purestrength]

Looks like Moreno will miss Saturday's preseason game against Seattle with a bruised right knee. That won't help his chances of starting anytime soon, not that he had much hope anyway.