With his popularity never lower and second-guessing of his strategy seldom higher, Shanahan must now contemplate what was unthinkable when his team was winning Super Bowls.

If the decision were left to Shanahan, would he definitely want to coach the Broncos again next year?

"What I'd like to do," said Shanahan, deftly sidestepping the inquiry, "is really talk about the Dolphins."

There is an NFL coaching vacancy in Miami, but somehow I don't think Shanahan was seeking a Florida address to mail his résumé and references.

The reeling Broncos have a home game Sunday against the Dolphins.

Where Shanahan will be coaching in 2005 is a topic he would most definitely like to avoid.