Temperature, competition heat up for Broncos in Texas

This week will prepare the Denver Broncos for any heat and humidity they might encounter early in the season.

The Broncos will have two-a-day practices against the Cowboys today and Thursday, then play a preseason game against Dallas on Saturday. According to the Weather Channel, the high temperatures for today and Thursday will be 101 degrees and 95 degrees.

“That’s something we’re going to have to deal with,” quarterback Jay Cutler said. “We had a good offseason program so everyone is in shape.”

The time in Texas will be important for players who are fighting for starting jobs or roster spots — coach Mike Shanahan said the practices will play a key role in coaches’ evaluations. The Broncos had joint practices in Houston with the Texans in 2003 and 2005.

Shanahan said he likes working against a different scheme. The Cowboys run a 3-4 defense — three linemen and four linebackers — that is similar to a few teams the Broncos face each season. San Diego, which saw defensive coordinator Wade Phillips leave in the offseason to become the Cowboys coach, runs a 3-4 defense.

Also, being in a new environment can break the monotony of training camp.

“Usually by the third week of camp you get tired of hitting against each other and you want to see players go against people they don’t know,” Shanahan said. “You can evaluate younger guys and get a little more spirited practice.”

Williams remembered

The last time the Broncos flew to Texas was to attend the funeral of cornerback Darrent Williams, who was shot and killed Jan. 1.

“It’s going to be a little tough,” safety Nick Ferguson said. “Darrent is on our mind.”

Tailback competition

One of the closest competitions in training camp has been between Mike Bell and Cecil Sapp for the backup tailback spot behind Travis Henry.

Sapp is slightly ahead of Bell on the depth chart, and he went in ahead of Bell in Monday’s preseason game. Bell and Sapp traded good runs, with Sapp gaining 50 yards on 11 carries and Bell rushing 10 times for 51 yards.

“Competition is high,” Bell said. “Every day you got to bring your ‘A’ game, and that’s what I’m doing.”