While a letdown was expected eight years ago following back-to-back Super Bowl wins, the Broncos began this season with high hopes after an off-season spending spree and roster shuffle brought in Dre' Bly, Daniel Graham, Travis Henry, Simeon Rice, Sam Adams and Brandon Stokley.

"Obviously, frustration figures in," an embarrassed [John Lynch] said after the Chargers completed their season sweep by a combined 64-6 score. "I think you're trying to put some juice in your team and just playing intense. It is something I've never done in my career. I am embarrassed by it."

"We had very high hopes coming into this year. It's been an extremely frustrating year. And to get whupped a couple of times by a division opponent is no fun, and you're out there trying to do everything you can to win," he said.