I am sending this message expressing my concerns and frustrations as a longtime Broncos fan. The Broncos’ performance against the Bears was one of the most embarrassing I have seen. I have been a Broncos fan since the ’80s. I have endured three Super Bowl losses and enjoyed two Super Bowl victories; therefore, I have earned the right to express my frustration. To begin with, Denver needs to get rid of punter Todd Sauerbrun. He was responsible for 21 of the Bears’ points (two touchdowns by Devin Hester on returns and one blocked punt that led to a touchdown). The Broncos also need to get rid of Champ Bailey and Dré Bly. They have been labeled as “shut-down corners,” but anyone who follows the Broncos closely has seen how costly they are to the team. Trade them for fifth- or sixth-round draft picks. They can give up big plays for other teams. The performance of the team reflects on the coaching staff. Mike Shanahan has not been able to perform as a coach since John Elway retired. He has a bright young quarterback in Jay Cutler, but he needs to make better decisions with the rest of the team. I am sure that I am not the only Broncos fan who shares these frustrations.
Frank Rios, Denver
Bates deserves to stay
Mark Kiszla’s “Time to put a stop to Bates” is totally off target. The Broncos’ defense did not give up 37 points. Ever since the defense gave up the concept that seven big men in the box could stop the run, the defense has played pretty well. The real problems are in the red zone and on special teams. Those problems are placed squarely at the feet of Mike Heimerdinger, Rick Dennison and Scott O’Brien. Fire them all, but don’t fire Jim Bates.
Jerry Rhodes, Parker
