Broncos, Chargers Impress During Preseason Opener

Just as quickly as Peyton Manning took the field in his first game as the Broncos’ new hope, San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Matthews may have squashed that very same promise with one play on Thursday night. 

After a long summer of optimism and expectations surrounding the Chargers, a team that is notorious for hiccuping early in the season, Matthews received his first meaningful handoff of the year, gained five-yards, and then broke his clavicle.

1,733 miles away, Manning on the other hand was as cool as ever. His arm looked fine, and even though he completed just one drive on the night resulting in an interception, the Denver Broncos‘ offensive line bought him enough time to quickly  acquaint himself with wide receiver Eric Decker – even if it was only briefly.

Only Week 1 of the preseason is in the books for these two teams and there’s already plenty to think over for John Fox and Norv Turner.

There was more to talk about aside from just those two headlines.  Quarterback Jay Cutler failed to start for the Bears, instead allowing for backup Josh McCown to throw for 56 yards and six completions.

Chargers backup Jarrett Lee also put up some big figures, throwing for 235 yards and a touchdown next to his name.  Meanwhile, the Broncos and Bolts had two draft picks stand out successfully. Second rounder Derek Wolfe secured two sacks for the Broncos, while the Chargers’ Melvin Ingram caused issues for Aaron Rodgers early forcing him into an interception.

Follow @RyanCook13, Co-Founder, Senior Writer of @GridironGrit on Twitter!

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