Worst Stats
The Broncos defense that was allowing opposing offense to convert only 31 percent of their third downs crumbled against the Colts. They nearly doubled that number, allowing Luck and the offense to convert 12-of-20 attempts for 60 percent.
On offense, the Broncos failed to create any balance of run and pass. Entering the game the Colts were equally terrible against both, but were allowing an average of 124.9 rushing yards per game. The Broncos ended with 35 yards rushing on only 14 attempts.
As a result of these inadequacies, the Broncos held the ball for only 21:21 of the game.
Best Stat
Manning, after a terrible start, completed 12-of-14 of his second-half throws to bring the Broncos back from a 10-point deficit. As a result, the offense scored on three of their four second-half drives after going zero for their first six. The defense also forced the Colts into four consecutive punts which allowed the offense to score 17 second-half points.
Up Next
The Broncos will host the Kansas City Chiefs (3-5) next Sunday and will look to erase this game from their memories. The Chiefs are coming off of a bye week and a huge 45-10 win over the Detroit Lions in Week 8. The next contest will provide a glimpse into the Broncos’ true selves. If they can shake off the defeat and return to stellar play on defense and a recently found balance on offense, than Indianapolis may have been just a bump in the road. If they struggle against their division foe then alarms may start to go off.
Email Sam at sam@milehighsports.com and follow him on Twitter @SamCowhick
