For Denver Broncos, Why Montee Ball over Eddie Lacy? Here’s Why

Jan 1, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Montee Ball (28) during a touchdown run against the Stanford Cardinal during the 2013 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 NFl draft is finished and we as Bronco fans have ourselves a few shiny new toys to play with this offseason. I personally was keeping a close eye on what we did at the running back position through this draft. I’ve had a lot of friends ask me ‘why Montee Ball over Eddie Lacy? Wasn’t he supposed to be the best back in this draft?’ Well sports fans, you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Here’s what I’ve got to say about Montee Ball vs. Eddie Lacy.

Father Elway has said in a post draft interview that “It was real close, but it really came down to the medical.” I mean that answers the bulk of your question right there, but to give you a bit more depth on Montee:

Lacy ran behind what was widely regarded as the best O-Line in the NCAA and was still not as productive as Montee (who also ran behind a stellar line, but was still able to produce more.)

One thing I love about him is that this kid loves Terelle Davis. He grew up idolizing him and modeling his game after him. He runs a lot like TD did and I’m sure that that was at least a small factor in the decision making process.

Montee has just about the most beautiful one-cut move I’ve ever seen. If you take a look at the 3:09 mark in this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vk7aLzbwBb8 You’ll see exactly what I’m talking about.

The kid has about the best vision of any player in this draft which is great on its own, but he also has the football IQ to know how to use it which will make his transition into the NFL much easier.

Lacy was unable to improve his stock at his pro day after not being able to work out at the combine. Ball on the other hand (who blamed his ‘poor’ combine numbers on a sinus infection) Posted better numbers in every single exercise. The most tangible of which for most is the 40. At his pro day he posted between 4.43 and 4.49 depending on where you read. Can’t tell me that’s not some top end speed.

Last but not least, the kid is smart, well spoken, very articulate and hard working. The Denver bronco organization likes people that fall under those categories.

I spent a couple days reading up on this kid and watching what film I could find available on the internet and the more I see of him the more I absolutely love him. I can’t wait to see how he steps up this season.

United in Orange!

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