Mile High Report - Gameday 2013 Preseason Week 1: Broncos at 49ersBy Fans, For Fans....Your Source For Denver Broncos News and Commenthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50905/mhr-fav.png2013-08-09T15:19:11-06:00http://www.milehighreport.com/rss/stream/43657132013-08-09T15:19:11-06:002013-08-09T15:19:11-06:00Broncos 10, Niners 6: Game Balls
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<figcaption>Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>After every Broncos win, the MHR Staff gets together to give out Game Balls! Here are who the staffers felt deserved praise following Denver's 10-6 win over the 49ers in preseason week one action.</p> <h4><span>Duke Ihenacho</span></h4>
<p>This guy was all over the place. If I could think of one player who absolutely came from nowhere to shock everyone it would be this Nacho dude. In one half of play he notched seven tackles, a force fumble and a pass defense. I'll take that for an entire game easily, but in a half? I must see more. <br><i>- Tim Lynch</i></p>
<h4>Julius Thomas</h4>
<p>Thomas did everything the Broncos asked him to do and he did it well. He was asked to play the role of the H-back coming out of the backfield as a lead blocker and he successfully sealed off the backside defender more than once. He proved to be a tough matchup for the Niners moving the chains on several occasions with tough catches on the sideline or down the middle. I am confident in saying the Broncos would be perfectly fine with Thomas as a starting TE (if the injuries to Tamme and Dreessen linger) SO LONG as he continues his progress. He may not have had a ton of catches, but he caught my attention with his superb blocking. <br><i>- Bronco Mike</i></p>
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<a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604416/broncos-10-49ers-6-preseason-scores-results">
<h2>FINAL: Denver Broncos 10, San Francisco 49ers 6</h2>
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<span style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604416/broncos-10-49ers-6-preseason-scores-results">Recap</a> | <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604630/2013-nfl-preseason-denver-broncos-san-francisco-49ers-game-notes">Notes</a> | <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604830/denver-broncos-at-san-francisco-49ers-photo-gallery">Photos</a></span>
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<h4><span>Brock Osweiler</span></h4>
<p>Big Brock didn't have a lot of help out there - his offensive line was a sieve for the most part, and it wasn't until the third quarter that the running game really got going. There the 6-foot-8 quarterback stood, the pocket crashing around him, with little to no time to throw.</p>
<p>Somehow, Osweiler completed his firs six passes amid the chaos, finishing the night with a solid 13 of 18 for 105 yards, playing 67% of Denver's offensive snaps. Was he fantastic? No. But for his first preseason action in his second year, I'll take solid, and careful with the football, any day of the week.<br><i>- Monty</i></p>
<h4><span>C.J. Anderson</span></h4>
<p>On a night where no Broncos runners really did much of anything, the un-drafted rookie really stood out. He showed good vision, power, cut back ability, and just showed the fight you like to see a guy show while fighting for a roster spot. He was going against lesser talent, but it's good to see him perform well against that. Excited to see if he continues playing like this. Could make it interesting come final cuts.<br><i>- Scotty Payne</i></p>
<h4><span>Rahim Moore</span></h4>
<p>Moore seems to have "exorcised the demons" so to speak. He was never out of position, never out of control, and he was always right where he had to be in order to make plays (if Nacho didn't hog up all of them to begin with). Lets not forget that Ihenacho created a fumble, but it was Moore who scooped it up. Our two young safeties have me all gitty inside. The future is bright with Moore and Nacho playing together!<br><i>- Big Pete</i></p>
<h4><span>Nate Irving</span></h4>
<p>Even casual fans were observing that <span>Colin Kaepernick</span> and the starting <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> defense was picking on <span>Stewart Bradley</span>, who started at middle linebacker for whatever reason. Then Colt McCoy came in and he too picked on Bradley. Then Nate Irving came in at strong side linebacker and boom, causes a fumble and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> score their first and only touchdown via <span>Shaun Phillips</span> scooping up the ball and running into the end zone. Irving capped off his first game atop the depth chart at middle linebacker with four tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. Not bad for a guy who can cover better than Bradley, missed practice time for personal reasons and seems to have been punished for whatever reason.<br><i>- Ian Henson</i></p>
<h4><span>Kayvon Webster</span></h4>
<p>The rookie third round pick debuted in a big way Thursday night, intercepting Steve Tolzien in the third quarter for Denver's fourth and final takeaway of the night. "It was just me doing what I was supposed to do," Webster told me in a one-on-one interview that will drop on MHR Saturday. "The receiver went in motion, I backed up a little bit. He went upfield vertical, so I kind of sat on it. When he broke down, you know, I saw the ball released, then I just dove and caught it." A terrific catch, but an even smarter play.<br><i>- Monty</i></p>
<h4>Who do you got?</h4>
<p>Who gets your Game Ball? Let us know in the poll and in the comments!</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4606844/denver-broncos-10-san-francisco-49ers-6-game-ballskmonty2013-08-09T10:56:21-06:002013-08-09T10:56:21-06:00Missed the Game?<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="/rss/stream/4365713">Missed the&nbsp;Game?</a></h3>
<div class="description"><p><p>Missed the game? We've got you covered. A subsequent re-air will be next Wednesday at midnight ET (10pm MT Wednesday).</p></p></div>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4606036/missed-the-gamekmonty2013-08-09T09:00:15-06:002013-08-09T09:00:15-06:00Broncos at 49ers: Winners and Losers
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<p>Who helped and hurt their stock after the first preseason game?</p> <p>One down, three to go for the Broncos this preseason. The Broncos defeated the NFC Champion <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Francisco 49ers</a> 10 - 6. It was a sloppy game as one would expect for the first preseason game, but there was a lot of positives in this game. Lets take a look at who helped their stock and who hurt their stock.</p>
<h3>Winners:</h3>
<p><b><span>Duke Ihenacho</span>: </b></p>
<p><b></b>Wow. I read all the reports raving about Duke. Read how he was all over the field, having a nose for the ball and making big hits all over the field. Nacho lived up to those expectations. Duke who played a little over a quarter finished the game with 7 total tackles and a forced fumble.</p>
<p>To me there's no question that he is the starter. I have been saying that <span>Rahim Moore</span> was the best safety "by far" on the roster. I have have to change that. Moore AND Duke are the two best safeties on the roster. I am excited to see what he can do from here on out</p>
<p><b><span>Nate Irving</span>:</b></p>
<p>Keep on the defensive theme here, but Nate Irving caught my eye. I was disappointed to see that he wasn't starting at Inside Backer during the Niners first series(more on that later) but he sure made his mark throughout the game. Irving was credited with 4 tackles, 1 sack and 1 forced fumble It seemed like he made more plays then that though. Irving blew up a run in the backfield that lead to a fumble and the only touchdown of the game. <span>Shaun Phillips</span> recovered the fumble and took it to the house</p>
<p>It'd be curious to see why Irving wasn't starting in the middle, and saw most of his action at outside linebacker. This strong performance should put him back with the number one defense. I think we have a solid player in Irving.</p>
<p><b>Overall Defense: </b></p>
<p><b></b>The defense from the 1's to the 3's looked pretty good. Yes the Niners 1 offense did go down the field, but the defense held them to 3 points. The Pass rush looked good for the 1's too. Miller, Ayers and Wolfe all could have had sacks if the QB wasn't <span>Colin Kaepernick</span>.</p>
<p>Overall the Broncos created 4 turnovers on defense. Two forced fumbles and two interceptions from Mike Adams and rookie <span>Kayvon Webster</span>. The Broncos defense also did not allow a touchdown. So overall a good showing from this group.</p>
<p><b>Julius Thomas:</b></p>
<p>Like Duke Ihenacho, Thomas had a lot of raving reports about his performance in camp. Like Nacho, he did not disappoint. Thomas started with the ones and looked good. He finished the game with a team high 4 catches for 35 yards in limited action. Thomas also saw time as a blocker.</p>
<p>Thomas is your starting TE this year. It's good to see him on the field and making plays. He looked like a legitimate option for the Broncos in the passing game. The same Broncos passing game that has the great <span>Peyton Manning</span> distributing the ball to the likes of <span>Demaryius Thomas</span>, <span>Eric Decker</span> and <span>Wes Welker</span>. Add in the big athletic Thomas? Wow, good job trying to stop that NFL defenses.</p>
<h3><b style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">C.J Anderson: </b></h3>
<p><b style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"></b><span>While on twitter i saw a few "who?" when Anderson took over in the second half, but at the end of the night Bronco fans now know the name of the undrafted rookie. Anderson was by far the best back on the team tonight. Anderson finished with 15 carries for 69 yards. Yes Anderson was going against the 2nd and 3rd team defenses, so that should be noted, but the fact that he performed well bodes well for the rookie. </span></p>
<p>I was excited to watch Anderson and listed him as a "Dark Horse" in the running back position battle. He did not disappoint and i'm excited to see how he builds off this performance.</p>
<p><b><span>Brock Osweiler</span>: </b></p>
<p><b></b>Brock is another one of those guys who are enjoying a strong training camp. Tonight he made the best of a bad situation. Brock finished the game with 13/18(72% completion percentage) for 105 yards. Brock was continuously under pressure from the Niners defense but showed good patience and nice pocket awareness to make some plays.</p>
<p>For me it was hard to truly gauge Osweilers performance because of the offensive lines poor play. I'd like to see him with the 1's and see how he does. He does look much improved from his rookie year though. Maybe Brock can really be the future of the Broncos.</p>
<p><b>Injuries:</b> The Broncos made it out of the game healthy. One of my personal worries during the preseason is injuries to key players in a meaningless game. Thankfully the Broncos made it out completely healthy. So good news there.</p>
<p><b>A Win: </b>Yes it's a "meaningless" Victory, but the Broncos are well on their way to be the first team to finish 23-0!</p>
<p><b>Football is back!: </b>Just preseason football, but it was nice to finally be able to watch some football again. Especially our own <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Denver Broncos</a>.</p>
<p><b>Other Notables: </b>Malik Jackson, Special Teams play, <span>Robert Ayers</span> and Mike Adams</p>
<h3>Losers:</h3>
<p><b><span>Stewart Bradley</span>: </b></p>
<p><b></b>While watching the only drive by the Niners 1st team offense I noticed one Broncos player continuously standing out, and not for good reasons. Bradley was being targeted by the Niners offense it seemed. A few passing plays went his way and to the man he was covering, a few good runs up the middle where he should be making stops. Maybe i'm being unfair, but i did not like what i saw.</p>
<p>I think Nate Irving should be starting, and he showed why he should be tonight. I'm not sure if the Broncos wanted to see what Bradley could do with the 1's or what, but lets hope he doesn't stay there.</p>
<p><b>Second and Third team offensive line: </b></p>
<p>It seems like i have typed "second and third team offensive lines" under losers after a preseason game for the past 3 years. It looked bad. Running backs didn't have many lanes to run in, and were usually met by multiple defenders in the backfield when they got the handoff.</p>
<p>Yes i understand that the broncos are banged up on the O-Line, and when they get Clady, Kuper, Walton back, and get Lilja back into form that the line will look better. Tonight though, very bad.</p>
<p><b><span>Ronnie Hillman</span> and <span>Montee Ball</span>:</b></p>
<p>Tonight i was looking for one of these guys to separate themselves from the pack. Unfortunately neither did that. Hillman finished the night with 3 carries for 9 yards and Ball with 5 carries for 9 yards.</p>
<p>Yes i understand they were facing a very good Niners defense and Ball was behind a poor offensive line, but it was a disappointing night, at least i thought so. I'd like to see a strong performance from one of these guys(ideally both) next week.</p>
<p><b>Offense:</b></p>
<p>It wasn't a good night for the Broncos offense. The first team offense, all be it one series didn't look overly impressive. Probably my expectations were a bit too high, but i was hoping to see more from Manning and company. Outside of Osweiler, Anderson and Thomas no one else on the offense really stood out to me all that well. I'm hoping to see more from these guys next week against a tough Seattle team.</p>
<p><b>49ers Broadcast: </b>They weren't terrible, but man i hate watching Broncos games on the opposing teams telecast. Way too much 49er homerism for my liking.</p>
<p>Go Broncos!</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604700/recap-winners-and-losers-of-broncos-vs-ninersScotty Payne2013-08-09T07:00:13-06:002013-08-09T07:00:13-06:00Broncos at Niners: Game Notes
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<p>Hello folks, here to add another perspective to what happened last night in the Broncos first action of the 2013 season. </p> <h3>Offense</h3>
<h4>QB's:</h4>
<p><b><i><span>Peyton Manning</span></i></b> Arm looked a bit stronger. In fact on his deep ball to <span>Demaryius Thomas</span> on 1st down, he put a little too much juice on it, was also solid/tight coverage. Both times I've seen Peyton run the offense from the pistol, he's handed the ball off. To be sure there is a play action component to this, perhaps even a reverse with one of the speedy guys.</p>
<p><i><b><span>Brock Osweiler</span></b> </i> Showed great poise under heavy pressure all night. Was able to slide well in the pocket and scramble to avoid rushers. A couple times I thought he took off too quick. Other times he stayed strong inside the pocket and delivered strikes for first downs. The 1st Q pass on a sideline route to Julius Thomas was beautifully placed and the ball arrived just as JT came out of his break.</p>
<p>On a screen pass on 3rd and long, I felt like Oz panicked and threw a bad ball into the turf. On a comeback route to King, Oz threw the ball behind, should have been a first down. Noticed a few times that Brock checked into a different play--good to see the young kid start to grasp the audible system. Loved seeing the bootleg and the fact that he can throw accurately on the run.</p>
<p><b><i><span>Zac Dysert</span></i></b> Played better than I expected. Showed poise under pressure and the ability to make plays outside the pocket. Took a bad sack near the redzone, has to learn to throw the ball away.</p>
<p><i>Overall</i> The biggest impression Brock Osweiler left me after last night is that he will take care of the ball and find ways to avoid pressure. His accuracy is pretty good but to judge any of that I have to see a little bit more.</p>
<h4>HB:</h4>
<p><b><i><span>Ronnie Hillman</span>/<span>Montee Ball</span></i></b></p>
<p>I group them together because the blocking up front was so terrible, it was hard for either to get much traction. I'm still not sold on Hillman as a guy who can run inside, I'm still not sold on Ball as the next TD. I saw more from the reserves than I did from them--competition level aside.</p>
<p><b><i><span>Knowshon Moreno</span></i></b></p>
<p>Picked up a blitzer on a double A gap blitz...problem is someone missed the other guy. Not Knowshon's fault, he did his job.</p>
<p><b><i><span>Jacob Hester</span></i></b></p>
<p>Was used a couple of plays as a pure FB. Saw some time blocking for Hillman on the offenses' 2nd series of the game. To my recollection, never carried the ball--an interesting development for someone who supposedly was earmarked for the #4 spot on the depth chart.</p>
<p><b><i>CJ Anderson</i></b></p>
<p>What I didn't see from the two feature backs, I saw from this guy. He hit holes quickly and decisively. In fact that 4th and 1 that should have been converted sums up his effort. He was stonewalled by the rush in the backfield and still fought, slithered, and reached for what should have been a first down. He also showed speed to the edge something that both Knowshon and Montee struggle with.</p>
<p><b><i><span>Lance Ball</span></i></b></p>
<p>Missed a wide open cut to the backside that could have gone for a first down. The time is ticking on his tenure as a Bronco.</p>
<p><b><i>Overall</i></b></p>
<p>The line play in general makes it tough to praise or admonish too much. However when Anderson entered the game, I saw a hardnosed runner who made decisive cuts and that was something that had been lacking before that point in the game. If he keeps running like this, he will create the possibility that the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a> keep 4 RB's plus a 1 FB on the active roster. That also puts the 9th OL spot or the 4th TE spot in play for a roster position.</p>
<h4>TE:</h4>
<p><b><i>Julius Thomas</i></b></p>
<p>I most certainly see his value and potential as the receiving/H-back type player. And he was used as such. He may have only caught 4 balls for 35 yards but he did everything he was asked to do and he did it well. Julius got separation, made tough catches, helped move the chains a couple times, and blocked pretty well. In fact on that biggest cutback run of the night, Thomas sealed off the backside defender coming from the FB spot in the backfield. I want to see more of what he's capable of but at this point you know he will get you some tough catches and move the chains which is what you want from this position.</p>
<p><b><i><span>Virgil Green</span></i></b></p>
<p>Virgil also impressed me with a couple of tough catches--one where he caught the ball on the sideline and took a hard hit but still managed to hold on to the ball and maintain possession. Virgil is a very aggressive blocker--someone who I saw drive his defender until the very end of the play.</p>
<p><b><i>Overall</i></b></p>
<p>I have seen the future and it is good. It was a thing of beauty how Adam Gase went to 12 personnel when the Broncos were having issues with the edge rush and how it effectively shut it down. These two shifted in and out of motion to opposite sides of the formation, making blocks, and remaining so disciplined in their movement as to not cause an illegal procedure penalty. If for some reason Dreessen and Tamme could not start the season, I would feel totally comfortable with this tandem getting the start.</p>
<h4>OL</h4>
<p>I didn't focus enough on individual players, unless they caught my attention for the wrong reasons. Before I get into the player that stood out for the worse, I have to say that until the Broncos get Clady back and get some stability along the front, this offense is going to sputter and struggle to stay in rhythm. What I saw against the starting Niners D-line was terrible. No push upfront, no running lanes, no time for deeper patterns down the field, penalties, hurry after hurry, it was bad.</p>
<p>And on the top of my bad list goes 6th round pick <span>Vinston Painter</span>. I know of two sacks he allowed for sure and there might have been more, he definitely allowed more pressures. In my notes I marked down #70 and had to check who it was after the 3rd terrible pass blocking attempt he made. On this particular play, he had a terrible base stance, reached out which gave him terrible leverage, which allowed a speed rusher to bull and overpower him to his back before wrapping up Oz for the sack. This guy is practice squad bound for sure--way too raw to make the active roster at least at this point.</p>
<p>71 also made it into my notes for the wrong reasons. T <span>Paul Cornick</span> also gave up pressures from the edge.</p>
<p>For that matter, pray that <span>Ryan Clady</span> heals up fine and faces no setbacks because <span>Chris Clark</span> almost got Peyton killed by <span>Aldon Smith</span> off the edge.</p>
<h4>WR</h4>
<p>Didn't focus on individual players here either, except <span>Tavarres King</span> made it into my notes on a couple of occasions. On the first, he totally whiffed on a downfield block on a WR screen to the flat. On the other, he caught a nice ball from the slot and wiggled inside for an extra couple of yards and a first down. I vaguely remember a play in the redzone at the end of the game where the play should have went for a first down but a hesitation and a slip stopped it one yard short. Not sure who this was but I'm pretty sure it was the play that ended up setting Anderson's failed 4th and 1 attempt.</p>
<h3>Defense</h3>
<h4>DL</h4>
<p>The starting group of Wolfe, Sly, Vickerson/Knighton, and Ayers was absolutely pushed around by the Niners front. The Niners have a killer line for sure, but I was very disappointed by the beef in the middle. On a personnel note, Sly got the most snaps with the other two big men rotating the first couple of drives. He also caused one false start from their RG because of his quick first step--something to keep an eye on going forward. The Niners RB's had good holes to run through and good running lanes. They chewed up almost half of the first quarter on their first drive. Once the reserves came in, they fared better.</p>
<p>The line still seemed to get more pressure from the edge as I can only remember a few instances later in the game with <span>Mitch Unrein</span> where the DT pushed the pocket straight back. With the edge, rookie <span>Quanterus Smith</span> got some pressure from the left edge on the Niners reserve QB. <span>Shaun Phillips</span> had a few pressures and also scooped up the forced fumble by <span>Nate Irving</span> (more on this later). Phillips also looked a bit out of shape, sucking wind on the very first series. Malik Jackson had a few pressures as well.</p>
<p>I'll pay better attention to this position group the next time around.</p>
<h4>LB</h4>
<p>The first thing I noted was <span>Stewart Bradley</span> as the Mike and not Nate Irving. It threw me for a loop, but I also remember that with the possible suspension of <span>Von Miller</span> for the first few games, and Irving's experience as the backup Sam last year that perhaps this was also to prepare the team for this possibility. Anyway some 5-2 defense to begin the game with Bradley and Trevathan as the LB's (I'm not sure that WW played--if he did it was only a few snaps). Also predictably, the Niners went after our LB's with the pass. Bradley gave up a first down over the middle on pretty good/tight coverage, and then gave up a big gain on a crosser.</p>
<p>We better accept this fact right now. None of the starting MLB candidates are suitable in coverage--though they may be upgrades on <span>Joe Mays</span>. This is still an issue and teams like SF will give us problems.</p>
<p>On that note there were a few surprises, Trevathan PI when he got beat down the seam. Von Miller still lacks in coverage. Was sucked down the line on playaction with <span>Vernon Davis</span> coming out the opposite way for an easy catch and first down. Von looked a little slow to me. He had issues on the edge against a few <span>LaMichael James</span> runs, and also trouble tracking down Kaepernick on a beautiful inside spin move that flushed the QB out of the pocket. Not what I expected at all.</p>
<p>Oh, I saw it coming a million miles away. This is preseason, the Broncos are running a vanilla scheme. If we face this team in the future, especially on 3rd and long (or any other team with a mobile QB for that matter) expect us to use a spy. Man free is a no no against a scrambling QB, and Colin made us pay for it tonight.</p>
<p>When Von came out after that first series and Irving replaced him at the SAM, he absolutely lit up the ball carrier in the backfield, slicing through the gap before a blocker even knew what hit him. I think we will be fantastic in run support and make do with blitzes in different spots if Von has to serve a suspension--that is definitely one brightspot I see. On another play, Irving came up in coverage and sacked the QB as he was flushed to his right side. Another savvy play and decision by the young player.</p>
<h4>DB's</h4>
<p>Duke with a TFL, Duke with a tip in pass coverage, Duke with a tackle in run support, Duke forced fumble....Duke Duke Duke. This kid is for real! He had his nose around the ball making plays the entire time he was in the game. He's a starter now, and he'll be just as good in coverage as he is in run support, as he is in playmaking ability. He's a keeper.</p>
<p>Bolden had a mixed day. On a short comback route near the goalline, he overpursued the receiver and allowed an easy first down on what should have been a no gain. On a called blitz, he showed beautiful timing but also managed to take a bad line and run himself out of the play on what should have been a sure sack. He had a nice leaping pass break up on the left sideline, and also played some terrible zone coverage along with <span>Mario Butler</span> on a deep pass to the middle of the field during the 2-minute drill before halftime. He flashes that ability, just isn't quite sound enough in his technique or execution.</p>
<p>The only time Jammer made it into my notes, he got lost in zone coverage as the deep safety and allowed a reception he shouldn't have.</p>
<p>I noticed Bruton have good recognition in zone coverage against a deep crossing route, broke on the play and disrupted the pass. Mike Adams made a nice play coming from deep centerfield to pick off a rainbow.</p>
<p><span>Kayvon Webster</span> got beat down the seam near the end of the game when the Niners were marching for the potential go ahead score. He got turned around with bad leverage. He also made a nice play diving for a tipped throw to make an INT.</p>
<p>All in all, am very happy with the 4 forced turnovers.</p>
<h3>Special Teams</h3>
<p>Colquitt: some nice punts that could have been downed by the coverage units.</p>
<p>Prater: Hopefully his make from 46 (I believe) is the start of a new trend whereby he's automatic from this range</p>
<p>Bolden/Irving/Bruton: All made great tackles on coverage units</p>
<p>Holliday: I'll give him a pass on fielding a kick from the 1. If you remember last year Jim Leonard was the guy with those responsibilities because Trindon was not trusted. I'm guessing he was told to field the punts deep in Broncos territory as live practice run to show he is capable of fielding back there without fumbling the ball.</p>
<p>I will not give him a pass for being horse collared by the Punter;)</p>
<p>Thats all I have MHR, hopefully between your own viewing experience, as well as the work done by BigPete, Scotty, Kyle, and myself, you have a pretty clear picture of the Broncos first preseason game. If you have any questions--shoot!</p>
<p>GO BRONCOS!!!</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604630/2013-nfl-preseason-denver-broncos-san-francisco-49ers-game-notesBronco Mike2013-08-09T06:00:19-06:002013-08-09T06:00:19-06:00Broncos at 49ers: Photo Gallery
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<figcaption>Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Photos from the Denver Broncos preseason game at the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, August 8, 2013.</p> <h4>More from Mile High Report:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4603874/von-miller-appeal-will-be-heard-by-nfl-on-august-15th">Von Miller appeal will be heard by NFL on August 15th</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604416/broncos-10-49ers-6-preseason-scores-results">Broncos defense stifles 49ers to 10-6 preseason victory</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4603912/broncos-10-niners-6-instant-reaction">Broncos 10, Niners 6: Instant Reactions</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4603654/come-and-chat-with-fellow-bronco-fans-on-mhr">Come and chat with fellow Bronco fans on MHR!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4602408/mhr-radio-with-special-guest-avery-schlereth">MHR Radio with Special Guest Avery Schlereth</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604830/denver-broncos-at-san-francisco-49ers-photo-gallerykmonty2013-08-09T05:00:12-06:002013-08-09T05:00:12-06:00Horse Tracks: Knocking Off The Rust
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<figcaption>Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>To sum up my feelings about last night's game, I'll just name the names the POP from my mind in a positive way. Nacho. Orange Julius. Anderson...shifty little running back needs to get more playing time next week for sure!</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604416/broncos-10-49ers-6-preseason-scores-results">Broncos defense stifles 49ers to 10-6 preseason victory - Mile High Report</a><br>It was a sloppy, conservative game that will in no way represent a potential Super Bowl between the 2013 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> and San Francisco 49ers, but the Broncos, led by a stifling defense, came away with the win.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Starters-Get-First-Taste-of-Football/dd8e92e3-b04c-4f41-9529-62fbd5ba68dc">Starters Get First Taste of Football | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>A look at how the Broncos' starting offense and defense fared in the preseason opener against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a>.</p>
<h3>Denver Broncos Videos</h3>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/videos/BTV-Highlights-Broncos-at-49ers/1e9d9e07-56ff-4f11-9f69-adcc60e0a4dd">BTV Highlights: Broncos at 49ers | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>Pregame sound and field level highlights from Denver's 10-6 win over the 49ers.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/videos/Broncos-at-49ers-Highlights/71a6cda5-066b-4cf5-b057-3aa00e9c0606">Broncos at 49ers Highlights | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>Watch highlights from the Broncos' preseason-opening victory at San Francisco.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/videos/Fox-on-Preseason-Opener-Beating-the-49ers/e3a8dc29-bfd8-40e2-afb2-738a2d61549a">Fox on Preseason Opener, Beating the 49ers | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>Coach Fox talks the press after Thursday's win in San Francisco.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/videos/Manning-on-First-Reps-Preseason-Opener/04b7b675-9d4d-4002-bbdc-3a7071ce9856">Manning on First Reps, Preseason Opener | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>Quarterback <span>Peyton Manning</span> talks to the press after Thursday's win over the 49ers.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/videos/Sounds-from-the-Locker-Room/0a350d6d-7474-4f62-baa4-bd7c8a429e22">Sounds from the Locker Room | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>Player reaction following Thursday's preseason opener against San Francisco.</p>
<h3>Denver Broncos News & Blogs</h3>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_23826380/how-broncos-fared-preseason-opener-vs-49ers">How the Broncos fared in preseason opener vs. 49ers - Denver Post</a><br>A look at how the Broncos fared in their five goals, as set by beat writer Mike Klis, for their preseason opener Thursday night against the San Francisco 49ers.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_23826781/broncos-duke-ihenacho-impresses-at-safety-against-49ers">Broncos' Duke Ihenacho impresses at safety against 49ers - Denver Post</a><br><span>Duke Ihenacho</span> was asked to show up when it counted for the Broncos on Thursday night, and he didnt disappoint.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_23826477/broncos-win-at-san-francisco-brock-osweiler-shows">Broncos win at San Francisco; Brock Osweiler shows offseason growth - Denver Post</a><br>A strong thread through the history of a Peyton Manning-led team is his team has been awful whenever Manning hasnt been leading. But in <span>Brock Osweiler</span>, Manning may have something with the Broncos he never had in 14 years with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> — a quality backup.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/multimedia/photo-gallery/Broncos-at-49ers-Gallery/bbde2bb9-80c5-4ab2-b738-cb282df58c46">Broncos at 49ers: Gallery | DenverBroncos.com</a><br>View images from the Broncos' preseason opener at San Francisco.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://photos.denverpost.com/2013/08/08/photos-denver-broncos-face-san-francisco-49ers-in-preseason/">Photos: Denver Broncos face San Francisco 49ers in preseason</a><br>Photos from the preseason NFL football game between the Denver Broncos and the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, August 8, 2013, in San Francisco.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_23824609/broncos-lb-von-millers-appeal-four-game-suspension" target="_blank">Broncos LB Von Miller's appeal of four-game suspension set for Aug. 15 - The Denver Post</a><br>NFL officials will meet Aug. 15 with representatives of Broncos linebacker <span>Von Miller</span> to discuss his case of an alleged drug violation, according to a league source.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFP-preseason-power-rankings.html" target="_blank">NFP preseason power rankings | National Football Post</a><br>1. Denver Broncos [89.0]: A spot in February’s <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> boils down to whether or not Peyton Manning and John Fox can exorcise their playoff demons, as the 14-year veteran quarterback boasts just a 9-11 career postseason record while the head coach’s ultra-conservative game plan in January’s Divisional Round loss to Baltimore bordered on the absurd. Make the necessary corrections in 2013 and the Broncos are the team to beat in the AFC.</p>
<p><a href="http://broncoplanet.com/forum/week-2-thoughts-from-broncos-training-camp/" target="_blank">Week 2 Thoughts From Broncos Training Camp | Bronco Planet</a><br>Denver Broncos football returns this evening as our favorite team gets ready to beat up on someone other than themselves. There have been plenty of injuries so far and we haven’t even gotten to the games that mean something.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/09/sports/ncaafootball/star-college-quarterback-who-went-missing-died-of-pneumonia.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Pneumonia Is Blamed In Quarterback’s Death - NYTimes.com</a><br>The autopsy results for <span>Cullen Finnerty</span>, the star college quarterback found dead in the Michigan woods in late May, revealed Thursday that he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or C.T.E., the degenerative brain disease found in the autopsies of several former N.F.L. players.</p>
<h3>AFC West Rival Roundup</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.arrowheadpride.com/2013/8/8/4602854/kansas-city-chiefs-strongest-position" target="_blank">Where are the Kansas City Chiefs the strongest? - Arrowhead Pride</a><br>Where are the 2013 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Kansas City Chiefs</a> the strongest? I see four position groups that are in the discussion.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.silverandblackpride.com/2013/8/8/4603628/ranking-the-afc-west-running-back" target="_blank">Ranking the AFC West: Running back - Silver And Black Pride</a><br>Another position in the AFC West without much in the way of elite talent is running back.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2013/8/8/4603434/greg-cosell-talks-san-diego-chargers-with-darren-smith" target="_blank">Greg Cosell talks San Diego Chargers with Darren Smith - Bolts From The Blue</a><br>Darren Smith had Greg Cosell from NFL Films on his radio show to discuss what fans can expect from the 2013 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">San Diego Chargers</a>.</p>
<h3>NFL News & Blogs</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2013/8/8/4602368/michael-vick-to-start-philadelphia-eagles-preseason-opener-vs-new-england-patriots" target="_blank">Michael Vick to start Eagles preseason opener vs New England Patriots - Bleeding Green Nation</a><br>Well... only for the opening preseason game against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a> on Friday night. It's official: <span>Michael Vick</span> will be the first QB up.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2013/8/8/4600512/chicago-bears-jay-cutler-nfl-season-2013" target="_blank">It's still all about Jay Cutler - SBNation.com</a><br>As the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Bears</a> quarterback enters a contract year, his excuses are running out. It's all part of the plan.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/2013/8/8/4598028/mark-sanchez-jets" target="_blank">You come to this party for the crying, not the cake - SBNation.com</a><br>Statistically speaking, <span>Mark Sanchez</span> might have the worst career in the history of NFL quarterbacks. Please, please don't miss out on how beautiful this is, and please, may it keep on going.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Hypocrisy-The-College-Football-Scholarship.html" target="_blank">Hypocrisy: The College Football Scholarship | National Football Post</a><br>While Johnny Manziel is being currently being investigated by the NCAA for potentially selling autographs, I want to ask if you’ve ever noticed that we never hear of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-baseball">college baseball</a> players getting suspended for violating NCAA rules?</p>
<p><a href="http://mmqb.si.com/2013/08/08/desmond-trufant-robert-alford/" target="_blank">Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford looking like smart Atlanta Falcons draft choices | The MMQB with Peter King</a><br>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> defied conventional draft logic again by doubling down in the secondary, and it's about time we trust them.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.footballperspective.com/is-sam-bradford-poised-to-to-have-a-breakout-season/" target="_blank">Is Sam Bradford poised to to have a breakout season? | Football Perspective</a><br>Since <span>Sam Bradford</span> was drafted by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> in 2010, the only consistent force in St. Louis has been change. Tackle <span>Rodger Saffold</span>, drafted in the second round of the same draft, is the only other player on the 2010 Rams offense who is still on the team.</p>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fblog%2F2013%2F08%2F08%2Fpof-best-singles-games-wide-receivers%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2013%2F8%2F9%2F4604354%2Fdenver-broncos-news-horse-tracks-8-9-13" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">PoF: Best Singles Games - Wide Receivers | ProFootballFocus.com</a><br>Welcome to the Pro Football Focus Page of Fame for wide receivers, where only the best one-off performances during our time grading (2007 – Present) are mentioned.</p>
<h5><b>For Daily Denver Broncos News Updates: <a href="https://twitter.com/TimLynch1978" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</a></b></h5>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604354/denver-broncos-news-horse-tracks-8-9-13Tim Lynch2013-08-09T01:06:50-06:002013-08-09T01:06:50-06:00Broncos defense stifles 49ers to 10-6 victory
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<p>It was a sloppy, conservative game that will in no way represent a potential Super Bowl between the 2013 Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers, but the Broncos, led by a stifling defense, came away with the win.</p> <p>If you were hoping to be entertained by a pair of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> favorites, by the high-flying offenses of <span>Peyton Manning</span> or <span>Colin Kaepernick</span> this Thursday, you might have been better off watching a DirecTV commercial.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p>Peyton Manning play time tonight: 2 mins, 48 seconds. Football On Your Phone play time: 2 mins, 56 seconds.</p>
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoveTheSticks/statuses/365670564280541185">August 9, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
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<p>This wasn't about a Super Bowl preview. This wasn't about Peyton Manning. This wasn't even about the young Colin Kaepernick. This was about everyone else.</p>
<p>Manning was briefly efficient then efficiently benched as backup <span>Brock Osweiler</span> took over early in the first quarter of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a>' preseason Week One opener against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> Thursday night. Manning went 2 for 4 for 13 yards, while Kaepernick was 4 for 4 for 38 yards with one six-yard rush. Manning led his Broncos to a punt; Kaepernick advanced his 49ers to a field goal.</p>
<p>That lack of offensive production was a sign of things to come.</p>
<p>The Broncos offense, vanilla in scheme and hampered by injuries on the offensive line, would go on to punt and then punt again. They did not put a dent on the scoreboard until the fourth quarter.</p>
<p>The starting 49ers offense was efficient, but ultimately stalled and had to settle for a field goal in their one series. San Francisco was able to exploit matchup advantages throughout that first series - <span>Vernon Davis</span> with a step on <span>Von Miller</span> in a misdirection play action rep, <span>Anquan Boldin</span> twice being covered by middle linebacker <span>Stewart Bradley</span> - to move the ball down the field. In the end, though, sloppy play and a stifling Broncos defense prevented the 49ers from reaching the end zone.</p>
<p>In fact, neither offense scored a touchdown all game long. Hardly the Super Bowl preview some hyped the game up to be.</p>
<p>Four takeaways by Denver's defense, including a fumble return for a touchdown, ultimately gave the Broncos the edge in a preseason snoozer that saw Denver defeat San Francisco 10-6.</p>
<p><b>Brock Osweiler efficient despite o-line woes</b></p>
<p>The majority of offensive snaps for the Broncos was taken by second year quarterback Brock Osweiler, who started the exhibition game with six straight completions and a handful of scrambles before the offensive line struggles caught up with him. Osweiler played from Denver's second series in the first quarter deep into the second half.</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3030307/brockosweiler.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Brockosweiler_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3030307/brockosweiler.jpg" width="100%"></a><br>Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) looks to pass the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Candlestick Park. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports)</p>
<p>San Francisco 49ers pass rushers were constantly beating Denver blockers on the outside, and Osweiler's pocket was often crowded from in front of him as well. Neither Manny Ramirez (first team center) nor <span>Ryan Lilja</span> (second team) were particularly impressive, and <span>Chris Clark</span> and <span>Vinston Painter</span> were each abused on the outside at different times. Osweiler finished 13 of 18 for 105 yards - respectable stats given the sieve of an offensive line he was dealing with.</p>
<p><b><span>Duke Ihenacho</span> carries training camp momentum into preseason</b></p>
<p>Duke Ihenacho has been the surprise of training camp, emerging from the depths of Denver's roster to starting for the Broncos at strong safety in their first preseason game. He made the most of his opportunity, leading the team with seven tackles in the first half while also notching a forced fumble and a pass defense.</p>
<p>On the third play of the game, Ihenacho made it clear his ascension was justified. A handoff to <span>LaMichael James</span> looked to go long as James shot through a decent hole in Denver's defense. Out of nowhere Ihenacho launched at James, completing halting his forward motion and bringing him to the ground for a hard stick. The second-year safety's lateral speed and instincts were on fine display on that play and the many to come.</p>
<p><b>Manning targets two Thomases: Julius, Demaryius</b></p>
<p>Manning's two completions were both to jerseys with "Thomas" on the back - his first pass was to tight end Julius Thomas, who finished the night as Denver's leading receiver with four catches for 35 yards. A few plays later, Manning found <span>Demaryius Thomas</span> on a short cross who ran the ball for a seven-yard gain. <span>Wes Welker</span>, the Broncos' newest weapon, was targeted once but had no catches in his one series.</p>
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<a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4603912/broncos-10-niners-6-instant-reaction">
<h2>Broncos 10, 49ers 6: Instant Reactions</h2>
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<span>Big Pete chimes in with his instant reactions from Denver's preseason win.</span>
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<p><b>Defense forces four turnovers</b></p>
<p>The first turnover by the Broncos was the biggest, netting them seven points and ultimately making the needed difference on the scoreboard. <span>Nate Irving</span> pummeled Harper deep behind the line of scrimmage, knocking the football loose and allowing <span>Shaun Phillips</span> to scoop up the loose ball and run into the end zone for atouchdown.</p>
<p>Minutes later, Duke Ihenacho put a definitive exclamation point on his first night as Broncos starter, dislodging A.J. Jensen's reception for a forced fumble that was picked up by <span>Rahim Moore</span>. The chemistry those two talked about having with one another was on fine display Thursday night.</p>
<p>Just before halftime, Mike Adams read <span>Colt McCoy's</span> eyes and found himself the recipient the gift of a deep ball, intercepting the pass with ease.</p>
<p>Finally, minutes into the third quarter, rookie cornerback <span>Kayvon Webster</span> netted himself an interception following good coverage of Chuck Jacobs, thrown by Steve Tolzien. </p>
<p>"You have four turnovers and you win every time," safety Mike Adams <a target="new" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/news/denver-defense-stymies-49ers-preseason-035619033--nfl.html">said</a>. "That's what you want to do. As a defense, you want to set the tone, and give the offense a boost. When you get turnovers like that, that's the way it's going to go for you."</p>
<p><b><span>C.J. Anderson</span> leads running backs, lights up third teamers</b></p>
<p>The competition at running back will still require a few preseason games to settle itself, but one thing is certain, a new name has gone from the periphery to the main discussion: C.J. Anderson. The undrafted rookie led Broncos rushers with 69 yards on 15 carries, showing quickness and toughness the Broncos hadn't seen from him in camp - and that they can't ignore.</p>
<p><span>Ronnie Hillman</span> had a solid nine yards on three carries, but still doesn't quite pass the eyeball test as far as size is concerned. <span>Montee Ball</span> didn't struggle at the line of scrimmage as he had at camp, but the holes didn't open for him, and he was left with a disappointing nine yards on five carries. Finally, <span>Knowshon Moreno</span> saw work in the third quarter and busted an 11-yard gain at one point; he finished with 23 yards on six carries, faring alright.</p>
<p><b>Malik Jackson, Nate Irving each make presence felt</b></p>
<p>Two names that stood out on the defense in reserve work are Malik Jackson and Nate Irving. Jackson lined up at both defensive end and defensive tackle and was consistently hassling San Francisco QBs. Nate Irving, who had played most of camp at starting middle linebacker, played with the two's and flew all over the field. At one point he was on or around the tackles of three consecutive plays, and let's not forget he also had the game-deciding forced fumble.</p>
<p><b><span>Trindon Holliday</span> a rollercoaster, but that is to be expected</b></p>
<p>Holliday's first return was solid, but thereafter, poor decisions and execution saw him get the Broncos pinned deep in enemy territory. The Broncos know this about Holliday: he's a feast or famine returner. On Thursday the Broncos were left hungry more of ten than not.</p>
<p><b>Broncos escape with a win</b></p>
<p>Is winning in the preseason important? Not really, no, but I found reports about <a href="https://twitter.com/MichelleBeisner/status/365680932465807360" target="new">Peyton Manning's attention late in the game</a> interesting. No one would have been more justified in blowing off the last few minutes of preseason football than Peyton F Manning, but there he stood, attentive and focused on his teammates and the game.</p>
<p>And in the end, a win doesn't feel so bad, does it?</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3030411/peytonmanning.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Peytonmanning_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3030411/peytonmanning.jpg" width="100%"></a><br>
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/9/4604416/broncos-10-49ers-6-preseason-scores-resultskmonty2013-08-08T21:53:53-06:002013-08-08T21:53:53-06:00Broncos 10, Niners 6: Instant Reactions
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<p>What are my instant reactions to tonight's Broncos vs 49ers game? Read them here!</p> <p>Ah, preseason games are finally amongst us. It's time to crown our 4th string linebacker the next Lawrence Taylor. For the next 3 weeks, we will notice a trend: The people with the best stats will be the ones the farthest down the depth chart. There is a reason for this; It's because they are playing against the lower competition! With that being said, here are my Instant Reactions to tonight's game:</p>
<p>First and foremost... DUKE FREAKING IHENACHO!!!! Holy Cow, are you kidding me? This dude came to play! I was kinda made fun of in the staff chat room for saying he looks like Dennis Smith because of his nose for the ball, but man, Duke looks like Dennis Freaking Smith because of his nose for the ball. I honestly don't see how this kid isn't our opening day starter next to Moore. I think we are about to enter the Atwater/Smith golden years all over again! Way to go Duke, you sir, are the MVP of tonight's game!</p>
<p><span>Robert Ayers</span> put on pretty good pass rush pressure. Had they been playing a team without a very mobile QB like Kaepernick is, he'd have at a minimum of 1 sack in the 1st quarter, and probably more. Ayers (as I predicted and reported) has really stepped up his pass rushing game. He looks a lot like Dumervil out there, but that is coming at the expense of the running game. It's appearing as if you really can't have the best of both worlds in today's NFL.</p>
<p>Hillman is what we thought he was... Not very impressive. Averaging 3 yards per carry, he really didn't impress me at all. Sure, it's the preseason, our OL is banged up, and he got limited carries in a vanilla offense, but he just didn't look to bring very much to today's matchup. While I'm on this RB kick, <span>Montee Ball</span> didn't show me much either, but that was more because the backup OL was so horrible that they damn near took the handoffs instead of Ball. He did have a nice gain on a run though, but man, our Offensive Line was atrocious!</p>
<p>John Fox is pissing me off by putting Holliday in harm's way. He took a very hard hit while running out of bounds on a punt in the 1st half, and he got blown the F up in the 2nd half. Then, in the 4th, he got horse collared (non call) and appeared for about 5 seconds to jog off the field a little funny. I've said it before and I'll say it again, he is much too valuable to be put in harm's way!</p>
<p>Man, how horrible was our offensive line? The term "horrible" doesn't quite describe it, as it is much too kind of a term for how they look. We need the starters to get healthy ASAP! If we trot out week 1 with the current offensive line, we're in trouble. it's a good thing Clady and Franklin will be back to 100% soon. Our 2nd string OL is a joke. I'd take pee-wee football players over our current crop of backups simply because I'm willing to bet that the defense would have pity on the little kids and thus ease up against them! Man, this is a sad sack of players we have as backups!</p>
<p>I came away impressed overall by Osweiller. It was hard to tell sometimes because our OL was so horrible, but he did throw good and didn't really seem lost out there, so I'll give him his props. When he could actually stand up and pass from the pocket, he was fairly accurate. He did get happy feet a few times, but hey, behind that line, who can blame him, right? While he isn't starting material yet, he appears to be on his way to being a good candidate to pass the torch to in a few more years.</p>
<p>11 first half yards... REALLY? REALLY?!?! (pointed out by <a target="_blank" class="poster" href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/alacy9513">alacy9513</a> that it was a graphic error and the Broncos really had 106 yards.</p>
<p>Julius Thomas seeing a LOT of playing time. He played into the 4th quarter. The coaching staff must really want to see what he has to offer, that, and like our offensive line, our Tight Ends are also banged up. Thomas did make the most out of his opportunities though. Dude stepped up!</p>
<p>CJ Anderson looked good, real good, but we need to temper our excitement by remembering that he was paying against 3rd and 4th string players. You know, the guys who only their parents could pick out of a lineup.</p>
<p>Last but not least... <span>Matt Prater</span> made a 46 yard Field Goal. No, this isn't a typo! There was a 40-49 yard FG attempt that Prater MADE! Wow! Just Wow!!! Way to go Matt! Keep it up and we just might win a playoff game!</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2013/8/8/4603912/broncos-10-niners-6-instant-reactionBig_Pete1999