The last champion to repeat was New England in the 2004 season.  Eight different teams have won over the past eight years.  With quarterback Peyton Manning expected to retire, Denver will be the latest champion forced to regroup. 

Even Las Vegas oddsmakers believe next season is wide open, and apparently they weren’t impressed by the Broncos’ title run.  Westgate SuperBook lists Seattle, New England and Pittsburgh as 8-to-1 favorites to win next year’s Super Bowl.  Carolina is 10-to-1 along with Green Bay and Arizona.  Denver and Cincinnati are next at 14-to-1. 

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Washington?  The defending NFC East champions are 40-to-1.  Fortunately, the Redskins’ roster makeup is somewhat similar to the Broncos’.  Denver’s defense was built on its pass rush, and Washington has linebacker Ryan Kerrigan leading a talented group.  If the Redskins can re-sign Junior Galette, who tore his Achilles tendon in training camp last summer, Washington’s pass rush could resemble Denver’s balanced unit. 

Then again, the Broncos’ top-ranked defense also featured something the Redskins don’t have: a star-studded secondary.  Denver completely shut down Ben Roethlisberger, Tom Brady and Cam Newton in the playoffs, allowing just one passing touchdown in three games. 

The Redskins need more secondary help, especially at safety — even if DeAngelo Hall makes a permanent switch from cornerback.  The Redskins may address that problem in the draft.  A secondary boost would give the pass rush even more time to get to opposing quarterbacks. 

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Denver also showed that a running game is still important in a pass-oriented league.  With Manning, 39, clearly lacking his past arm strength, the Broncos relied on C.J. Anderson for 90 yards on 23 carries.  Denver grinded out the final quarter much like Washington did during its three Super Bowl championships decades ago. 

Washington will likely look for a new lead running back with Alfred Morris becoming a free agent.  Expect the Redskins to put more emphasis on their running game next season to create a more balanced attack. 

Maybe Matt Jones will improve after a disappointing rookie season.  Using a high pick on a running back is also possible.  After all, St. Louis picked running back Todd Gurley with the 10th overall pick last year and he went on to be offensive rookie of the year.  The Rams were criticized after the draft for choosing a running back so high, but Gurley’s success may have brought some renewed interest to the position. 

The Redskins have seen the path to victory.  Now they need to adopt some of Denver’s traits to win a championship.