Why I Still Love the Broncos

I’ll admit that I probably put a little too much confidence in the magic that is Peyton Manning and his band of Broncos. In my mind, the Super Bowl was just a formality and we were already the champs. Then things took an immediate harsh turn and my optimism slowly gave way to crushing disappointment throughout the remainder of the game. But my distress was short-lived, as I quickly realized that there are still many reasons to love and celebrate the Broncos. With a Colorado craft beer in hand for inspiration, I was easily able to come up with a few reasons to look forward to next season with the same all-encompassing excitement as always.

Peyton is the Man

Peyton Manning has absolutely exceeded the lofty expectations we all had for him going into this season. I don’t think there’s an easier pick for MVP if the category was Destiny’s Child and Beyoncé was an option. And let’s not forget that amongst the wreckage that was yesterday’s game, Peyton still managed to pull a world record for most completed passes in a Super Bowl (he threw 34). Nothing but praises from me, Peyton.

Colorado Craft Beer Rocks  

When it comes to hoppy Super Bowl companions, it’s tough to beat Colorado’s homegrown selection. And with a cold Colorado brew wrapped up in your blue and orange Denver Broncos koozie, you really don’t have any reason to complain, even with the game self-destructing in front of your eyes. My family’s choice this year was Odell Brewing Company’s  5 Barrel Pale Ale, a floral, hoppy number, and Breckenridge Brewery’s Avalanche Ale, an easy-drinking, long-time favorite. No disappointment there – although we probably threw back a few extras during that first half.

Colorado Is In Our Blood

Even though I currently reside (and write about craft beer for ACB) in Madison, Wisconsin, I was born and raised in the Rocky Mountain state and it’s as much a part of me as it is for most that have lived there. The fact remains that I am lucky enough to be a Coloradan, and that alone is enough to keep my spirits up even when the team I love collapses on the world stage. When you can catch some rays on the slopes before cozying up with some good friends and great beers to watch the game, you’re doing okay.

We Are Broncos Fans

And nothing will change that. So fill your glass to the brim with something nice from Avery and make a toast to what wasn’t meant to be (at least not this year) – and we’ll see you next year in Arizona, NFC!