Oct 18, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
The Denver Broncos lead the Cleveland Browns 10-0 going into the half. It has been a defensive battle for the most part, but the Broncos defense has not given up an inch when it has mattered the most. Let’s take a look at the key moments and my reactions from the first half.
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— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) October 18, 2015
Shane Ray carted off with a knee injury
With Demarcus Ware already out with a back injury, the Broncos appeared to have suffered another injury to the edge rusher position. Derek Wolfe was blocking and his defender landed on Shane Ray.
He fell to the ground in pain and held his knee. Ray would later on be carted off the field. He has been ruled out of the game with the knee injury.
This is tough for the Broncos. I will say that this Broncos team might be relieved after this game with the bye coming up. They are clearly banged up and things have not been easy for this unit who has helped carry the team.
Here is hoping Shane Ray’s injury is not serious.
Another Aqib Talib Pick Six
The Broncos defense continues to impress. Early in the second quarter, Aqib Talib jumps a pass from Josh McCown and returns it 63 yards for the touchdown. The score is the only touchdown of the game on either side.
The Broncos defense might be the savor of the season yet. The Broncos offense only has 48 points while the Broncos defense and special teams has 75 points. That is great for the defense but alarming for the offense.
I really have enjoyed the play of Aqib Talib and he has recorded three interceptions this season. And he was questionable with an ankle injury. He is quite the baller.
Brandon McManus misses his first kick
Brandon “McMoney” McManus has been quite the player for the Broncos. However, towards the end of the first half, he missed his first field goal of the season, a 51 yard attempt.
I, for one, am not upset with McManus at all. He has been one of the players to lift the team. And the fact that it was his first miss with 10+ attempts under his belt, he has done well.
First Energy Stadium is a tricky place to kick and it is windy. He had the leg for it, he just hooked it. If I am Brandon, I would not let it get to me.
The Cleveland Browns will receive the ball to start the second half. Let’s keep up the lead! Go Broncos!