The days are long past since we have seen good old Number Seven march on to the field and take the game into his own hands. It was a sight that basically gave any true Broncos fan, man or woman, a since of excitement that couldn't be easily matched by their significant other. That time has passed and we are now in the era of a new Broncos team all together. Our new leader is the ex-Wolverine I call the "Gries-ball," he has shown smarts and talent that needs to be appreciated. Some say he is not a team player, and often compare him to Mr. Elway. In this reporter's opinion he has not been given a fair chance. Even after a season when he

posted the best QB rating in the league of 102.9, throwing 19 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions, which is the second best TD ratio in NFL history, Griese was still ridiculed. He has since then declined in production due to injury, and what I think is lack of faith from fans as well as teammates. I agree with most critics that say he has yet to prove that he is a complete team player but I also feel that, that will come once he has gained trust from both parties mentioned above. The criticism that upsets me the most is the insinuation that Griese has a drinking problem. With one DUI under his belt, and the most recent story of knocking himself out during a party at TD's house where he had a spill after putting a few back; reporters start making speculations that he is a full blown alcoholic. If I do recall Johny Boy liked the sauce as well, and by all rights he should have. I would like to see any one of those critics take as many shots, verbally and physically, that these two take and not want to go home have a little juice to dull the senses. The main point of this article is not to give praise to the Broncos' young quarterback or try to persuade fans to like him, but rather to point out how truly spoiled we were with Elway, and that his time is past. It is time only to look forward and stand by our team. Colorado may have some of the greatest fans but, it seems that they are only at there best when our teams are winning, but that is a different column all together.