Major news flash: In today’s parity party known as the NFL, the team that wins the turnover battle usually wins the game.
Which brings us to the Boys of Bowlen, who committed as many turnovers (30) as they forced in 2006. Is it any wonder they finished 9-7?
Now for a closer look at the numbers: The Broncos were plus-11 in their nine wins, committing 13 turnovers and forcing 24. In their seven losses, they were minus-11, with 17 turnovers committed and six forced.
Their record in games in which they committed fewer turnovers than their opponents? That would be 6-1. Only once, against the sad-sack Raiders, did they commit more turnovers than an opponent and win the game.
Mike Shanahan doesn’t need to be reminded of those numbers. He was proactive during the offseason, firing most of the defensive staff, including coordinator Larry Coyer, and hiring Jim Bates, whose M.O. is forcing turnovers by getting pressure on the quarterback.
For all the attention Jay Cutler is getting, the Broncos’ season could come down to turnovers. If they force more than their opponents, they could win the division. If not, they may not make the playoffs.
Jim Armstrong issues regular reports from training camp throughout the day along with video takes from the sidelines and snippets where fans get to do the talking. Visit .
