Seven & Shadows: Broncos Shock Shanahan

Iconic coaches and quarterbacks. Dynasties unite them. Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. Chuck Knoll and Terry Bradshaw. Vince Lombardi and Bart Starr. Bill Walsh and Joe Montana. Separately, they could have won. Together, they owned eras.

On Tuesday, the Denver Broncos fired Coach Mike Shanahan. “I was talking to Mike yesterday about personnel moves,” said Jay Cutler. “I'm as shocked as anybody else. I think it's the wrong move.”

During his tenure, Shanahan amassed a 146-91 record. He won Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII. He accrued three division titles. He secured seven playoff appearances. Ultimately, Owner Pat Bowlen fired him. However, he respects Shanahan. “A change in our football operations is in the best interests of the Denver Broncos,” said Bowlen. “This is certainly a difficult decision, but one that I feel must be made and which will ultimately be in the best interests of all concerned. I appreciate the 21 years that Mike Shanahan has given to the organization as an assistant and head coach, and the two Super Bowl wins in that time. His contributions hold a special place in Broncos history.”

Without Shanahan, John Elway posted a 121-82-1 record. Elway scored six playoff appearances. Without Elway, Shanahan posted a 92-73 record. Shanahan scored four playoff appearances. Obvious question… which advanced the other’s career?