Can the Denver Broncos return to the NFL Playoffs and win Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa, Florida?

Because ending their three-year playoff drought should be their top priority.

Three years without a playoff appearance for Mike Shanahan and the Denver Broncos is absolutely disappointing. Worse, there are good players on this roster but not many exciting names or potential stars. Sure, the new 2008 NFL football season gives them new hope but the fact of the matter is, they can't expect things to get easier.

The Denver Broncos averaged 24.7 points per game, good for 12th in the league while allowing a disappointing 26.6 points in a very tough schedule featuring five games against playoff teams.

STILL there are some things that Broncos fans can look forward to like their still solid running game. That area of their offense is still considered to be a successful formula. With their conditioning, zone blocking and no nonsense cut and go style, Denver will always produce great system runners though we still have no idea if the altitude at INVESCO Field has something to do about it.

Denver needs a little luck in terms of injury for a change and a back that thoroughly understands the one cut and go system. Although as solid as their running game already is, a playoff stint was still nowhere in sight. They're hoping their runningbacks can finally carry them over the hump and if they get that guy who finally understands these intricate running schemes, finally making a return to the playoffs shouldn't be that hard.

Key additions to the team like LB Boss Bailey, who can instantly provide productive minutes alongside D.J. Williams, the Broncos are hoping their defense can pick up the pace as well.

The loss of center Tom Nalen, who is having a surgery on his knee, is a big blow to their running game. Add to that the disappointing season that runningback Travis Henry had last year.

Ryan Torain will be the key factor for the success of the Broncos' running game this season with Henry struggling. Selvin Young also did pretty well as a backup last year and the Broncos are expecting the same production from this guy.

They're hoping that they finally end up in the playoffs in this campaign.

Who will win Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa, Florida? Bodog sportsbook has the odds.

New York Giants 17.00

New England Patriots 4.50

Dallas Cowboys 7.00

Indianapolis Colts 8.50

Want more odds? Visit Bodog sportsbook for more football betting odds and the best betting lines on some of today's biggest sporting events.

2008 NFL Season Denver Broncos