Broncos vs Lions First Half: Reactions and Analysis
By Tylor Walden
Sep 27, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) scores a touchdown during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
The Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions are in a battle right now. The Broncos lead the Lions 14-6 as the first half comes to a close. Here is our reactions and analysis from the first half.
Offensive line looks solid in first half
The Denver Broncos offensive line has been the subject of extreme ridicule in the first two games. The line has surrendered seven sacks in those first couple games. The ten day break might have done them wonders as they have looked like an elite offensive line.
Ty Sambrailo has been, in my opinion, the most impressive player on the offensive line. He has set up some nice blocks while also protecting Peyton Manning’s blind spot well. The unit as a whole has not allowed a sack.
If the Broncos can keep this up as far as the offensive line is concerned, this could become a dangerous line when the running game gets going and give Manning more time to find the open receiver.
Bennie Fowler making his presence known
While Broncos fans are still waiting for Cody Latimer to become a factor in the offense, Bennie Fowler has made his presence known in his home college state. The second year undrafted free agent out of Michigan State has recorded three receptions for 37 yards.
This makes me wonder if Bennie Fowler has surpassed Cody Latimer on the depth chart. While all six wide receivers are active for the game, Cody Latimer has not gotten a whole lot of looks while Bennie Fowler is having a mini coming out party.
Three scores in the last five minutes
For the first 25 minutes of the first half, it was clearly a defensive battle between the two teams. But the two teams exchanged touchdowns in the final five minutes.
The Broncos opened up the scoring with an 80 yard drive that ended with a Ronnie Hillman touchdown. The Lions would storm back and score on a touchdown run. However, former Broncos kicker Matt Prater had his PAT blocked by Aqib Talib and almost returned by Chris Harris Jr. for extra points.
The Broncos would respond with a Peyton Manning to Demaryius Thomas connection as Thomas strutted into the end zone with five seconds left in the half to give the Broncos a 14-6 lead.
The Broncos will receive the ball to start the second half! Go Broncos.