Montee Ball with a Breakout Game for the Broncos

Broncos running back Montee Ball (28) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Sean Smith (27) and linebacker Tamba Hali (91) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver won the game 35-28. (John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports)

We said it after last week’s game. There was no way Knowshon Moreno could handle 37 carries every week. He’s not that type of back. The fact that he was on crutches leaving Gillette Stadium proved it.

That’s why it was so good to see rookie Montee Ball step up in Sunday’s win over the Chiefs. After fumbling for the third time this season and being benched against the Patriots last week, not only did Ball not fumble, but he ran for 117 yards on 13 carries (with a long of 45).

“For me it was show-up-or-shut-up time today,” Ball said after the game. “Sit on the bench and shut up if I don’t make plays for my teammates.  I was just really focused today, and I just told myself to just be decisive.”

The Broncos need more of that from Ball. Because he performed so well, it was body-saving for Moreno, who only had to carry the ball 15 times.

His play against the Chiefs is exactly why the Broncos drafted him in the 2nd round (58th overall).

If Ball can be that other piece to the Broncos running game, then the team’s backfield will be incredibly strong heading into the playoffs.

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