There was a noticeable dropoff in 2010 after Max Hall left. It seems like Bronco was never able to achieve the same level of success after that which he enjoyed during his glory years. No one will ever accuse Bronco of being Nick Saban or Vince Lombardi, but I also think he was a much better coach than we gave him credit for.
I tell you what, going 8-5 would feel like a special season right about now.