Best Statistics
The best statistic that came out of Sunday’s game was Denver’s continued record in close games. The Broncos improved to 10-3 this season in games decided by seven points or less. The fact was not lost on Manning, who has become accustomed to such wins since week one.
“I think it helps playing a lot of close games during the course of the season, starting with the very first one against Baltimore. That was a dog fight, grinder and went down to the last drive. If you can be in a lot of those games and win those games, it certainly gives you confidence and, hey, it’s playoff football,” he said.
The balanced offensive game plan was also a welcome sight. Despite their inability to convert third downs (20 percent success rate), they stayed true to their game plan and it ultimately paid off. The Broncos called 38 pass plays and 32 runs. Their late touchdown drive consisted of 10 runs and three passes and seemed to wear down the Steelers.
“I think it is one of those things where it [wore] them down,” Daniels said after the game. “You have to stay committed to it, even when you are not getting big chunks, continue to wear them down and trust that it is going to pay off.”
On defense, the Broncos held the Steelers to one touchdown and three field goals despite allowing several big plays. They buckled down on third downs, allowing the Steelers to convert just two-of-12 attempts.
As a team, the Broncos were flagged for just four penalties and after a team effort won both the turnover battle (1-0) and time of possession, holding the ball for 31:33 of game clock.
