Big Interceptions Spare Manning's Pick

The second of Sky Sports' NFL triple header saw my Broncos side host the Baltimore Ravens. The week building up to the game saw many experts begin to doubt Manning's dwindling arm strength at quarterback. After turning 39 in March, the former Colts man could be forgiven an interception today after a superb defensive display gave Denver a 19-13 win.

Two field goals gave the Broncos an early lead of 6-0 with Kicker Brandon McManus converting two 50+ efforts. However, these field goals highlighted the problem of Manning failing to lead his side to another set of downs. The Ravens were not offering much of a threat either as the DeMarcus Ware sacked quarterback Joe Flacco (who in truth was not in the best of form).

After being frustrated to a field goal of their own despite promising field position and eventually conceding a further three points, the Ravens once again foundtheir defence on the back foot. Manning, however, threw an uncharacteristic intercepted pass which led to the first touchdown of the game. Baltimore added a field goal and took the lead on the night despite their patchy form.

Broncos' #8 McManus was in fine kicking form.

However, the Broncos were able to hit back through their excellent defence. It will be no surprise to readers to learn this defensive line was the second best in the league last year. Cornerback Aqib Talib was able to pick off Flacco's sloppy pass attempt and run the ball into the end zone for a touchdown for the home side. Still no passing score for either side at this stage but there was still time for Flacco to hit back.

With the clock running down, Flacco was to attempt a penultimate pass on third down into the end zone. Knowing a touchdown would win the day, Broncos fans waited with baited breath as the opposition receivers rose for possession and a gamewinning score. Step up free safety (the position which covers the deepest parts of the defence) Darian Stewart who was able to retrieve the ball off an incomplete pass and win the game. Although this doesn't score any points in the sport, it's essentially the equivalent of saving a last-minute penalty in football. Stewart's interception was priceless to his side's victory and allowed new coach Gary Kubiak to enjoy an opening-day victory on his first Broncos match day.

Stewart's game-winning play.

While fans may be concerned that the passing game never really got going today, the Manning-Thomas combo should be in full swing by the time  Denver hit Kansas in three days. Until then, fans can reflect on anotherstellar  defensive performance that ultimately provided Kubiak with a 1-0 record.