Competitive nature, self-interest could spur players in Broncos finale

While the Los Angeles Chargers may have something worth playing for on Sunday in the form of playoff positioning, the Denver Broncos, at least in terms of wins and losses, don’t have much.

But at the very least, the Broncos players competitive spirit should drive them enough to want to perform well in the season finale at home, said “Pritchard and Cecil” co-host Mike Pritchard.

“Any competitor, I think, would want to put on the pads and play,” said Pritchard, who filled in on “Schlereth and Evans” on Thursday morning.

Pritchard’s co-host Thursday, Orlando Franklin, echoed the comments, saying guys should be up for the game because it’ll be a long time before they see the field competitively.

“You’re getting ready to play a game this weekend, and you won’t get to play another competitive football game until next year in September,” Franklin said.

In the end, however, what will motivate players to play hard is likely the name on the back of their jerseys, Franklin said.

“At this point, it is what it is. You’ve got an organization that you don’t know what direction it’s going in with upper management. You don’t know who’s coming in to be the next head coach. You don’t know who your quarterback is.” Franklin said. “You’re playing for that last name in auditioning for other teams.”

And with the prospects of a new head coach likely, Franklin said players are even auditioning for all 32 teams next year.

“Do what you need to do to secure a job and make yourself not expendable,” Franklin said.

Said Pritchard: “I think the guys are going to have the approach that I need to improve my situation. I don’t know what my situation is going to be in the first place, but however I can improve it, I’ve got to show out on Sunday against the Chargers.”

Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.