NFL: The Denver Broncos deny the Kansas City Chiefs at the death
Monday 15 September 2014 12:07, UK
Some desperate defence helped the Denver Broncos remain unbeaten as they claimed a 24-17 win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Alex Smith’s fourth-and-goal pass to Dwayne Bowe with 15 seconds left was batted away by Terrance Knighton to ensure the Broncos moved to 2-0 for the season.
The Broncos had twice thought they had stopped the Chiefs earlier on in the drive. Aqib Talib had intercepted and raced 41 yards for a touchdown only for the score to be overruled due to Quanterus Smith's infringement, while DeMarcus Ware's sack on Smith saw Nate Irving recover the ball but it was as ruled an incomplete pass after a replay
The Broncos were deserved winners, with Peyton Manning getting them off to a flying start as he found Julius Thomas with a four-yard scoring pass.
The Chiefs, though, hit back as first Cairo Santos landed a 45-yard field goal while Knile Davis rushed over from two yards.
Held their nerve
But by half-time the Broncos were 21-10 in front as Manning connected with Jacob Tamme from four yards and Demaryius Thomas from 12 yards for touchdowns.
After a scoreless third quarter, the Chiefs pulled themselves back into the contest as Davis scooted over from four yards out.
Brandon McManus gave the Broncos some breathing space with a 20-yard field goal, before the defence held their nerve in the dying moments.
Manning completed 21-of-26 passes for 242 yards, while Emmanuel Sanders made 108 yards from eight receptions.
