For the first time this season, the Denver Broncos rushed for more than 100 yards in a game. And they did it with a patchwork offensive line that was assembled late in the week.
The result was a 23-20 win against Minnesota that puts Denver in the driver’s seat at 4-0 in the AFC West, now one-quarter of the way through the season.
For all the doubt and skepticism they were due (and perhaps justifiably), the offensive line responded with its best effort of the year.
Denver rushed for 144 yards and a touchdown, averaging 6.0 yards per carry. Ronnie Hillman led the way with 103 yards and the score.
The line also held up in protection, allowing just two sacks on Peyton Manning.
Michael Schofield allowed one of those two sacks, but also opened up a crucial running lane for Ronnie Hillman on the go-ahead scoring drive late in the fourth quarter.
Here’s a recap of how the team at Mile High Sports and the greater-Denver media at large viewed the play of the o-line, especially Schofield, as it unfolded on Sunday against the Vikings.
Protection fantastic so far.
— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) October 4, 2015
Interesting. Pass, pass, pass to open the game. With this new O-line. Thought for sure, they try to establish run early. #broncos
— Les Shapiro (@LesShapiro) October 4, 2015
After Hillman run, offensive line congratulated by Manning on sideline. Related, Max Garcia went with the man bun today.
— Paul Klee (@bypaulklee) October 4, 2015
Broncos already with more yds. rushing this game than any of their previous three games. #ILookedItUp #broncos
— Les Shapiro (@LesShapiro) October 4, 2015
Just a quick stunt past Schofield. No chance.
— Vic Lombardi (@VicLombardi) October 4, 2015
https://twitter.com/JoshPennock/status/650783689979265024
#Broncos Hillman 72 yd. TD is covering up a lot of warts…
Take it away.. 10 yards rushing and 106 total yards… and likely losing.
— Eric Goodman (@EricGoodman) October 4, 2015
Both OTs have been called for illegal formation penalties today.
— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) October 4, 2015
Now, THAT was a hole. Biggest one we've seen all year on a Broncos running play. And CJ hit it. #broncos
— Les Shapiro (@LesShapiro) October 4, 2015
Michael Schofield had the one bad play in pass protection, but he's had some solid moments. Getting more confident as the game goes on.
— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) October 4, 2015
In other good news, Michael Schofield retains his lunch money.
— Zach Fogg (@zachfoggsports) October 4, 2015
Following the game, Manning had some positive words for the group…
Peyton talking about offensive line today vs Vikings #MINvsDEN —> pic.twitter.com/64ntIFO4Oc
— Lionel Bienvenu (@lionelbienvenu) October 5, 2015