On This Day in Broncos History: October 7

October 7, 1984 - This date will most likely always hold a special place in the memories of Denver DE Rulon Jones, for this was the first -- and only -- time in his career that Jones had the experience of returning a fumble for a touchdown. Jones was in his fifth year as a DE for the Broncos, when Denver traveled to Detroit to play the Lions.

The Broncos entered the game with a 4-1-0 record. Detroit was struggling with a 1-4-0 start to their season. Detroit had won the toss and elected to receive. Denver's defense forced a 3-and-out and the Lions punted. The Broncos drove 69 yards and capped the drive with a touchdown on a 1-yard run by RB Sammy Winder. After the ensuing kick off, and a Detroit holding penalty, the Lions started first and ten at their own 10 yard line. The first play from scrimmage was a 1-yard loss. Denver's official Game Book of that game describes the 2nd and 11 play this way:

2/11/9/L - Sims couldn't handle Danielson's handoff, was hit for a four-yard rushing loss (Wright), the ball bounced into the air and Jones grabbed the ball on the seven and ran into the end zone for a seven-yard fumble-return touchdown. Make it a four-yard loss to the five, and Jones gets a five-yard fumble-return touchdown, not seven.

Denver went on to win that game 28-7.


Broncos Birthdays: None