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Broncos vs. Steelers: Divisional Round Preview

By Tylor Walden

Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) leaves the field following the game against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chargers 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) leaves the field following the game against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chargers 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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C.J. Anderson Ronnie Hillman
Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (left) celebrates with Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson (right) after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

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C.J. Anderson/Ronnie Hillman

The last time these two teams faced off, the running game was nowhere to be found. This could be for a number of reasons. The Steelers have a solid run defense and the offensive line just could not give the running backs the holes they needed.

I am looking at the two running backs here for the sole purpose of the gameplan. We may not see Manning throw the ball as much and the run game looked a lot better in the San Diego game once he took the field.

I am going to point out a key point that Brandon Marianne Lee talked about in this week’s Fanzone article.

“If Manning can keep to the game script, lean on the run and the defense, then we are good to go.”

This is a big chance for Anderson and Hillman to step it up this weekend. Have a solid game, and for the love of all things good Hillman, hold on to the football. I have not forgotten what happened in Pittsburgh a few weeks back.

Limit the turnovers and these two should have a solid day on the ground.

Chris Harris Jr.

If there is one player who wants this game more than anyone other than Manning, it is Chris Harris Jr. After getting burned in the last meeting by Antonio Brown, he is looking to prove that it was an off day and perform like he has in the past.

We are uncertain if Brown is going to play, but we know that he will need to keep whomever he covers in check. He is one of the best in the league when it comes to covering the wide out.

I look for him to have a great game and to be ready to give his all. While an underrated player to most, he has proven time in and time out that he defines the “Shutdown Corner” role.

Next: Prediction

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