On This Day in Broncos History: December 9

December 9, 1972 - In 1968, the Broncos had drafted a DB out of the University of Colorado by the name of Charlie Greer. Greer played his entire career for Denver (1968-74) appearing in 88 games with 84 starts. He intercepted 17 passes and recovered 11 fumbles during his career. He also returned 55 punts and 2 kick offs. It is one of his punt returns that is of interest here.

The Broncos were hosting division rival San Diego. The Chargers came into the game with a 4-7-1 record while Denver's record stood at 3-9-0. The Broncos took a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter. San Diego crept back a bit with a field goal in the second before Denver scored a second touchdown to increase their lead to 14-3. The Chargers' next drive started at their own 20 yard line. After an incomplete pass, San Diego QB John Hadl connected on a pair of passes that picked up 19 yards and a first down. The drive stalled as he had receivers drop passes, sandwiched around a sack by Denver's Lyle Alzado. On 4th and 20 at their own 29-yard line, the Chargers punted. Broncos DB Charlie Greer field the punt at his own 35-yard line, then returned the kick 65 yards for a touchdown.

This was Greer's first, and only, punt return for a touchdown in his seven year career.