Before Sunday’s Broncos game Robert Garner hosted his usual tailgate alongside a signature orange firetruck and fellow diehard fans in Lot C at Sports Authority Field. Sunshine, smoke from the grill and an impromptu appearance from Ring of Famer Karl Mecklenburg created feel-good vibes that contrasted with the tumult within the franchise.
Garner glad-handed and back-patted other Broncos fans who strolled by, offering them free food and drink. He did this knowing full well that inside the stadium, the atmosphere would likely be markedly different.
“This year, especially in the last few weeks, it’s become way harder to sell my extra season tickets,” Garner said.