Can the Broncos win without John Elway?
Denver hasn’t won a playoff game without the Hall of Fame-bound No. 7 since 1978. After a two-year absence from the playoffs, the Broncos try again, this time with quarterback Jake Plummer, who has become increasingly comfortable in Mike Shanahan’s offense. Since throwing three interceptions and posting a 21.7 passer rating in the season opener, Plummer has been picked off just four times. But as Elway found in Terrell Davis, Plummer will benefit if running back Clinton Portis returns to form after missing two games with ankle and knee injuries. The Broncos have shown much grit, making the playoffs despite losing 10 players to season-ending injuries. The defense, such a question mark entering the season, has been tough, too, reversing course to become one of the league’s best on third downs. But to go all the way, Denver must win three playoff games away from home — something that only the 1985 New England Patriots managed to get to a Super Bowl. Can anybody beat the Patriots in the sn
