Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos Use ’35’ To Motivate Team In 2014

The Denver Broncos are still bitter about their 35-point defeat in Super Bowl XLVIII. So much so, that the margin of defeat is their new catchphrase as they open up offseason workouts.

“Whenever someone gets tired, you just say ’35,’ and they just start picking it up again,” defensive end Malik Jackson said via the Broncos’ official website. “We know we have to come back strong this year. We had a disappointing loss. But that’s last season. We’re ready to move on.”

Peyton Manning recently told reporters at a function for the Boy Scouts of America’s 38th Annual Sports Breakfast in Denver, that the 35-point loss to the Seahwawks still hurts:

“I don’t really have a word for it,” Manning said. “Obviously it was disappointing, and we’ll use that to fuel us this offseason and hopefully it will make us better. I know the front office has addressed some offseason needs via free agency and of course the draft is coming up.”

Speaking of the NFL Draft, the Broncos have been mentioned as part of NFL trade rumors. Teams generally look to fill needs before drafting young talent for roster depth and the name that’s been mentioned with the Broncos is that of Mark Ingram, the Saints running back.

It’s not surprising considering the Denver Broncos recently lost starter Knowshon Moreno to Miami in free agency. In an article on Digital Journal, the site explains why GM John Elway might be looking to add another player before the NFL Draft and why Ingram makes sense:

“Rumors from Sports World Report have indicated that Elway could have interest in New Orleans Saints Mark Ingram. The former Heisman Trophy winner is entering his fourth year in the league and despite not making a splash like many experts had predicted, the Saints aren’t exactly known for running the football and a change could help the youngster.”

If a trade between the Broncos and the Saints for Ingram falls through, many pundits are expecting Denver to add depth to the defensive side of the ball with the 31st pick in the draft. The latest mock draft from Bleacher Report suggests the Broncos will go after C.J. Mosley, an ILB from Alabama, adding this superb rundown of the player:

“Mosley is arguably the only three-down inside linebacker in this draft class. He can close quickly on the run, plus he can also turn to cover in the open field. Adding Mosley would be a dream-come-true for many Broncos fans.”

Whomever they draft, Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos will be looking to that rookie to help avenge their 35-point defeat in the Super Bowl.