Last Updated on July 21, 2010 9:00 am by Anthony Rome
Broncos Season Odds
After collapsing in the second half of the year last season, the Denver Broncos are looking to finish stronger in 2010.
Denver’s biggest decision this offseason was to trade disgruntled receiver Brandon Marshall to the Dolphins. The deal netted the Broncos a second round pick, but they lost their biggest offensive playmaker in the process. They also signed defensive linemen Justin Bannan from the Ravens and Jarvis Green from the Patriots, and signed 2009 NFL sack leader Elvis Dumervil to a restricted free agent deal.
Some of the position needs for the Broncos heading into April’s draft were linebacker, receiver, tight end, defensive line and cornerback. They had five picks in the first three rounds, including two first round selections. With the No. 22 pick, they nabbed Georgia Tech receiver Demaryius Thomas and with the No. 25 pick, they took Florida quarterback Tim Tebow.
In the second round, Denver took offensive tackle Zane Beadles from Utah and in the third, they selected center J.D. Walton from Baylor and Minnesota receiver Eric Decker.
Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com have made the Broncos 50/1 to win the 2011 Super Bowl and 25/1 to win the AFC. They’re also +600 on the moneyline to win the AFC West Division and have a season win total of 7.5 games.
While the Broncos have scattered talent, it’s hard to predict whether or not they’ll make a playoff run this year. Quarterback Kyle Orton is steady but unspectacular, while losing Marshall definitely hurts unless Thomas can make huge strides as a rookie. Running back Knowshon Moreno is talented, but needs to stay healthy. (The defense is also a big question mark with the departure of coordinator Mike Nolan.)
On the bright side, the offensive line is solid and head coach Josh McDaniels is an innovative offensive mind. But it remains to be seen if he and his team have the mental fortitude to win over the course of a 16-game season. (Although having the Raiders and Chiefs on their schedule twice a year certainly helps.)
2011 Super Bowl Odds: Denver Broncos 50/1
Odds to Win AFC: Denver Broncos 25/1
Odds to Win AFC West: Denver Broncos +600
2010 NFL Season Win Totals: Denver Broncos O/U 7.5
Posted: 7/21/10 9:00AM ET