Anytime a team accomplishes something meaningful for the first time in 5 years, it results in a huge morale boost. Denver's first win in Kansas City since 2002 could not have come at a better time, as the Broncos were in need of some momentum after a 44-7 thumping at the hands of Detroit last week. This win stands out for Denver because it was one in which they played a complete game from start to finish on both sides of the ball.
Offensively, the Broncos got into rhythm early, with an opening drive highlighted by Selvin Young's 34 yard run. Young did not slow up the rest of the game, finishing with 109 yards on 20 carries and a touchdown. The passing game also performed well, as Cutler had a steady day with 192 yards and a mostly mistake-free game. Their success is reflected by the overall efficiency of Denver's offense, only had 2 3-and-outs on 11 drives. The Broncos capitalized on opportunities, scoring 2 quick touchdowns off Kansas City turnovers early in the second half. For an offense that has been unpredictable week to week this year, a 27 point performance on the road against the Chiefs may be that start of something good.
Defensively, the Broncos looked like they did in 2005, bringing back the bend, don't break style of play. Kansas City had 4 drives of over 50 yards on Sunday, but every time they advanced deep into Denver territory, the Broncos held up, keeping the Chiefs out of the endzone all game. Part of the reason for this was the dominance of the run defense, which held Priest Holmes to 65 yards on 20 carries. They also pressured Damon Huard and Brodie Croyle throughout the day, resulting in 4 sacks and 4 turnovers. Denver's defense came into the game in the bottom quarter of the league, and came out of the game with a stellar performance and renewed confidence.
Something worth mentioning about this game is what happened to Brandon Marshall at the end of the first half. After a short completion from Cutler, Marshall was going to stretch out for extra yardage when Kansas City's Tyron Brackenridge made his hand into a fist, swung at, and connected with Marshall's groin. For the skeptical people out there, find tape of the play, and watch it. There is no doubt that the shot was intentional. Denver had to take a timeout because of this, and it ended up killing the drive. It was one of the most bush league plays in recent memory, and it is a sad reflection on the Chiefs and on the league if they do not take action against Brackenridge.
On a positive note, this quote from Selvin Young was a memorable one. He poured his heart and soul out to the press when he said, "Before the game, if you got a close up of me, I had tears coming out of my eyes. I mean, just, so long, so much dreaming, wishing, working hard... I've got my mindset on trying to help a football team win, and take it to the next level, and I'm getting an opportunity to live my dream, so I'm really enjoying it." Here's a humble guy who loves the game of football and is a team player. Players like Selvin Young are the reason why the NFL is as great as it is.
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