The Denver Broncos are off for what looks like a great start, due in no small part to their best performance in a season-opener in recent memory. We should be careful to not overestimate the importance of this victory, after all, Pittsburgh was short a few key players. Nevertheless, in the Broncos 31-19 victory over the Steelers, they showed strength on all three sides of the ball.
Special Teams: Colquitt is already averaging 45 yards per punt, this is a solid average if he can maintain it, last year Colquitt averaged 47 yards per punt, the 30th best season average ever. The Broncos punting crew showed some real promise. They are fast and demonstrated good containment as the Steelers' average punt return was only 11.5 yards.
Defense: Despite what was initially reported as a tepid performance, the Broncos Defense have started the season very hot. We can't say enough about the quickness of Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil. Having given up only 4 yards per play, the Broncos were 3rd in defense for the week. The rushing defense allowed only 2.9 yards per play, placing the Broncos at 8th for the week. In passing defense the Broncos lead the league in sacks, 5, and gave up only 209 yards by Roethlessgerber, one of the best quarterbacks in the game today. Porter ended the game with a 43 yard pick-six. Finally, Bailey has a reliable corner-back to cover him up on the other side of the field.
Offense: The one aspect of the Broncos game that might need refinement is offensive rushing. The Broncos rushed for 94 yards, 19th for the week. McGahee was okay, rushing for 64 yards on 16 attempts, averaging 4 yards per run. If McGahee can keep this average up all season he will continue to make a big difference for the offense. Moreno continues to struggle, rushing for only 13 yards, 2.6 yards per rush. For the Broncos to capitalize on Moreno's speed, they'll need to design, and executive plays which allow him to get out into the flat.
Manning met the most optimistic expectations of his fans. He only threw for 240 yards, 19th among starting quarterbacks for the week, but in time of possession the Broncos offense only had control for 24:55. Manning was, however, 7th in completion percentage (73%), and 4th in quarterback rating (129.2). Moreover, Manning hit 7 different receivers (including McGahee). If the pass offense continues to protect Manning and play as efficiently as they did in week 1, the Broncos will continue to win.
Final remark: I almost forgot what its like to feel optimistic when the Broncos have the ball.
