Julius Thomas runs for the end zone in the second quarter against the Colts on Sunday. (Joe Amon, The Denver Post)
The Broncos defeated the Colts 31-24 in their season opener against the Colts at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on Sunday. Here’s a look back at some notable players, and moments, from the win.
GAME BALLS
Julius Thomas, Broncos TE: Thomas made a mess of the Colts’ linebackers and safeties.
DeMarcus Ware, Broncos DE: Ware had a sack and a half and played with elentless energy.
Rahim Moore, Broncos S: In is first regular-season game since November, Moore changed the momentum with a diving first-quarter pick and clinched the game with a second interception in the fourth quarter.
MORE: Complete coverage Broncos vs. Colts
THUMBS UP, THUMBS DOWN
Offense: With Wes Welker suspended and Eric Decker gone to New York, Peyton Manning lacked his two favorite red-zone targets from last season. They combined for 16 touchdowns inside the 20. No matter, Manning turned to Julius Thomas, who caught three first-half touchdowns passes. Thumbs up
Defense: The biggest indictment of the Broncos’ defense last season: not enough takeways. The new faces changed that as Aqib Talib, while blanketing a receiver, tipped a first-quarter pass into Rahim Moore’s hands. Thumbs up
Special Teams: Already without Welker and Matt Prater, special-teams captain David Bruton exited in the second quarter with a potentially serious shoulder/clavicle injury. A Colts player dangerously targeted Bruton on a touchback. Kicker Brandon McManus showed strength on kickoffs and made a short field goal in the first half. Thumbs up
Coaching: Offensive coordinator Adam Gase maximized mismatches on Thomas, and Jack Del Rio deftly rotated defensive linemen and defensive backs and timed blitz calls well on goal-line stands. Thumbs up
YOUR TURN: How would you grade the Broncos?
