2012 Denver Broncos season explained

Team:Denver Broncos
Year:2012
Record:13–3
Division Place:1st AFC West
Coach:John Fox
Owner:Pat Bowlen
General Manager:John Elway
President:Joe Ellis
Stadium:Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Playoffs:Lost Divisional Playoffs
(vs. Ravens) 35–38
Shortnavlink:Broncos seasons

The 2012 season was the Denver Broncos' 43rd in the National Football League (NFL), their 53rd overall and their second under head coach John Fox. The offseason was marked by the signing of former Indianapolis Colts' quarterback Peyton Manning on March 20, leading to the team trading incumbent quarterback Tim Tebow to the New York Jets. The Broncos did not have a first-round selection in the 2012 NFL draft, and selected defensive end Derek Wolfe as the team's first pick in the second round of the draft.

After a 2–3 start to the season, the Broncos finished the regular season on an eleven-game winning streak, and with a record of 13–3, the team exceeded their win total from the previous two seasons combined. The Broncos won their second consecutive AFC West division title, sweeping their division, as well as earning a first-round bye for the first time since 2005 and homefield advantage throughout the playoffs for the first time since 1998, but lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional round by a double-overtime score of 38–35.

During the season, Manning set numerous individual, franchise and league records, including 300-yard passing games and game-winning drives in the fourth quarter or overtime. Second-year linebacker Von Miller also set a franchise record for sacks at 18.5.

Coaching and front-office changes

Roster changes

Free agents

Position Player 2012 Team Notes
ERFA Denver Broncos assigned tender on March 13,[9] re-signed March 20[10]
UFA None
UFA New Orleans Saintssigned with the Saints on March 21[11]
ERFA Denver Broncos assigned tender on March 13, re-signed April 6
ERFA Denver Broncos assigned tender on March 13, re-signed April 4[12]
UFA None retired on April 23[13]
UFA None
UFA signed with the Rams on May 15[14]
UFA None
UFA signed with the Chiefs on September 26[15]
DE UFA None re-signed March 29,[16] placed on injured reserve August 27[17]
UFA None
DT RFA assigned tender on March 13, tender rescinded April 16,[18]
signed with the Ravens on May 7[19]
LB UFA Denver Broncos re-signed March 18,[20] placed on injured reserve October 30[21]
Denver Broncos assigned franchise tag on March 5,[22] signed 4-year contract on July 2[23]
UFA signed with the Chiefs on March 18[24]
UFA Denver Broncos re-signed March 22[25]
TE UFA signed with the Chargers on March 21[26]
UFA San Diego Chargers signed with the Chargers on March 15[27]
DT UFA None
UFA None
WR RFA Denver Broncos assigned tender on March 13, re-signed April 16[28]
LB UFA Denver Broncos re-signed March 22

Signings

Position Player 2011 team Notes
signed March 15,[29] on final roster
signed April 11,[30] on final roster
signed August 6,[31] on final roster
signed March 22, on final roster
signed February 15,[32] waived September 11,[33]
assigned to the practice squad on September 13[34]
promoted to active roster September 18,[35] on final roster
signed March 23,[36] on final roster
signed May 10,[37] released August 31[38]
signed March 24,[39] released September 8,[40]
re-signed September 11, on final roster
signed November 26,[41] on final roster
WR signed February 15, released August 31
claimed off waivers from the Texans on October 11,[42] on final roster
WR Cameron Kenneysigned August 1,[43] waived August 27
signed September 11, on final roster
S signed August 4,[44] on final roster
QB claimed off waivers and signed to a five-year contract on March 20,[45] on final roster
LB Practice squad player promoted to the active roster on September 29, waived October 1[46]
CB signed March 22,[47] on final roster
DT Practice squad player promoted to the active roster on September 8, on final roster
WR signed April 16,[48] on final roster
TE Indianapolis Colts signed March 23,[49] on final roster
Indicates that the player was a free agent at the end of his respective team's season.

Signing of Peyton Manning

On March 20, 2012, the Broncos reached an agreement with former Indianapolis Colts' quarterback Peyton Manning on a five-year, $96 million contract. Manning missed the entire season following multiple neck surgeries, and was released by the Colts two weeks earlier on March 7, one day before the Colts were due to pay him a $28 million roster bonus.[50] The Seattle Seahawks,[51] Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee Titans were also mentioned as possible destinations for the former long-time Colts quarterback; however, Manning informed Broncos' personnel to begin contract negotiations with the team on March 19,[52] and he was introduced as the Broncos' new quarterback in a press conference at the team's headquarters in Dove Valley the following day.[53]

The language of the contract contained the following conditions: Manning did not suffer a setback in his recovery from neck surgery prior to the end of the season; therefore, the Broncos owed Manning $18 million for the 2012 season. Manning passed a physical exam at the beginning of the league year,[54] and the Broncos owed Manning $40 million through the season. The fourth (and eventual final) year of the contract – $19 million for – was dependent on Manning passing a physical exam.[55] Manning retired on March 7, 2016, one month after the Broncos won Super Bowl 50.[56]

Departures

Position Player Notes
released April 13[57]
retired April 17[58]
released August 27

Trades

Draft

See main article: 2012 NFL draft.

2012 Denver Broncos Draft
Round Selection Player Position College Notes Trades
1None
2 36signed May 21[61]
57signed July 24[62]
3 67signed July 24
4 101Arizona State signed May 17[63]
108signed June 1,[64]
placed on injured reserve September 18
5 137signed May 18[65]
6 188signed May 22[66]
7None
Draft trades

Undrafted free agents

All undrafted free agents were signed just after the 2012 NFL draft concluded on April 28,[67] unless noted otherwise.

2012 Denver Broncos Undrafted Free Agents
Player Position College Notes
waived August 31,
assigned to practice squad September 11,[68]
released from practice squad October 13[69]
on final roster
Elliot Coffeywaived August 27[70]
LB waived August 31
waived August 31,
assigned to practice squad September 1,[71]
promoted to active roster September 29,[72]
waived October 11,
assigned to practice squad October 13,
promoted to active roster October 30,
waived November 13[73]
LB on final roster
waived July 25[74]
Anthony Miller waived August 27
waived July 25
waived August 27
S Anthony Perkinssigned July 28,[75] waived August 27
WR waived August 31
waived August 31,
assigned to practice squad September 1,
released from practice squad September 11
G Austin Wuebbelswaived August 27

Suspensions

Injuries

Preseason

WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueRecap
1at Chicago BearsW 31–31–0Soldier FieldRecap
2Seattle SeahawksL 10–301–1Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
3San Francisco 49ersL 24–291–2Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
4at Arizona CardinalsW 16–132–2University of Phoenix StadiumRecap

Regular season

Schedule

WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueRecap
1September 9Pittsburgh SteelersW 31–191–0Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
2at Atlanta FalconsL 21–271–1Georgia DomeRecap
3September 23Houston TexansL 25–311–2Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
4September 30Oakland RaidersW 37–62–2Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
5October 7at New England PatriotsL 21–312–3Gillette StadiumRecap
6at San Diego ChargersW 35–243–3Qualcomm StadiumRecap
7Bye
8October 28New Orleans SaintsW 34–144–3Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
9November 4at Cincinnati BengalsW 31–235–3Paul Brown StadiumRecap
10November 11at Carolina PanthersW 36–146–3Bank of America StadiumRecap
11November 18San Diego ChargersW 30–237–3Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
12November 25at Kansas City ChiefsW 17–98–3Arrowhead StadiumRecap
13December 2Tampa Bay BuccaneersW 31–239–3Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
14at Oakland RaidersW 26–1310–3O.co ColiseumRecap
15December 16at Baltimore RavensW 34–1711–3M&T Bank StadiumRecap
16December 23Cleveland BrownsW 34–1212–3Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
17December 30Kansas City ChiefsW 38–313–3Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap
Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text.

Game summaries

Week 1: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Broncos kicked off their season at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football, in a rematch of their 2011 Wild Card playoff game. After a scoreless first quarter, the Steelers grabbed the lead, with a 21-yard field goal by placekicker Shaun Suisham. The Broncos responded, with running back Knowshon Moreno rushing for a 7-yard touchdown, but the Steelers countered, with a 4-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to tight end Heath Miller just before halftime. In the third quarter, the Steelers added to their lead, with a 35-yard field goal by Suisham. The Broncos grabbed the lead, when quarterback Peyton Manning threw his 400th career touchdown pass—a 71-yarder to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, but the Steelers responded early in the fourth quarter, when Roethlisberger threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Mike Wallace (with a failed two-point conversion attempt). With 9:23 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Broncos claimed the lead for good, when Manning threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jacob Tamme (coupled with running back Willis McGahee receiving a pass from Manning for a two-point conversion), then added to their lead with a 26-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater, followed by cornerback Tracy Porter returning an interception off Roethlisberger 43 yards for a touchdown (with a failed two-point conversion attempt).[89]

Week 2: at Atlanta Falcons

Following their season-opening win over the Steelers, the Broncos traveled to the Georgia Dome to face the Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football. The Falcons converted three Broncos' turnovers into a 20–0 lead, with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Michael Turner, followed by field goals of 37 and 42 yards by placekicker Matt Bryant—the latter in the second quarter—and a 1-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matt Ryan to tight end Tony Gonzalez. The Broncos got on the scoreboard just before halftime, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. The Falcons responded in the third quarter, with a 4-yard touchdown pass from Ryan to wide receiver Roddy White. The Broncos tried to rally in the fourth quarter, with running back Willis McGahee rushing for a pair of 2-yard touchdowns. However, the Falcons would run out the clock.[90]

Week 3: vs. Houston Texans

Hoping to rebound from their Monday Night loss in Atlanta, the Broncos returned home for an AFC duel with the Houston Texans. The Broncos jumped out to a 5–0 lead in the first quarter, with defensive end Elvis Dumervil sacking Texans' quarterback Matt Schaub in the end zone for a safety, followed by a 32-yard field goal placekicker Matt Prater. However, the Texans would reel off 21 unanswered points, with Schaub throwing three touchdown passes—a 60-yarder to wide receiver Andre Johnson, followed in the second quarter by a 3-yarder to running back Arian Foster and a 52-yarder to wide receiver Kevin Walter. The Broncos narrowed the Texans' lead to 21–11 at halftime, with a pair of field goals by Prater—from 23 and 53 yards. The Texans increased their lead in the third quarter, with a 41-yard field goal by placekicker Shayne Graham, followed by a 14-yard touchdown pass from Schaub to tight end Owen Daniels. Trailing 31–11 with 10:20 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Broncos tried to rally, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a pair of touchdown passes—a 38-yarder to wide receiver Brandon Stokley and a 6-yarder to tight end Joel Dreessen to narrow Houston's lead to 31–25 with three minutes remaining. After forcing a Texans' punt, the Broncos got the football back with 20 seconds remaining, but the Texans' defense stood their ground.[91]

Notes

Former wide receiver Rod Smith, who played with the Broncos from 1994 to 2007, was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame during halftime. Smith is the Broncos' franchise leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns.[92]

Week 4: vs. Oakland Raiders

Hoping to snap a two-game losing streak, the Broncos remained on home ground for an AFC West duel against the Oakland Raiders. The Broncos grabbed the early lead, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a 22-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joel Dreessen. The Raiders responded, with a 38-yard field goal by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski, but the Broncos countered, with a 21-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater at the end of the first quarter. A 24-yard field goal by Janikowski just before halftime was the only scoring play of the second quarter. The Broncos' offense exploded in the third quarter, with Manning connecting on a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eric Decker, followed by a 2-yard touchdown run by running back Willis McGahee and a 14-yard touchdown pass from Manning to running back Lance Ball. Prater added field goals of 43 and 53 yards in the fourth quarter.[93]

Notes

With the win, the Broncos snapped a four-game home losing streak against the Raiders.

Injuries

Center J. D. Walton suffered a dislocated ankle late in the second quarter, and was placed on the season-ending injured reserve the following day (October 1).[85]

Week 5: at New England Patriots

Coming off their dominating win over the Raiders, the Broncos traveled to Foxborough, Massachusetts to face the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. This was the 13th meeting between quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Tom Brady since . The Patriots grabbed the early lead, with Brady connecting on an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Wes Welker. The Broncos responded early in the second quarter, with Manning tossing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joel Dreessen. However, the Patriots reeled off 24 unanswered points, with running back Shane Vereen rushing for a 1-yard touchdown, a 23-yard field goal by placekicker Stephen Gostkowski just before halftime, followed in the third quarter by Brady scoring a 1-yard touchdown on a quarterback sneak and running back Stevan Ridley rushing for an 8-yard touchdown. The latter touchdown occurred after a Manning fumble deep in Broncos' territory. The Broncos responded, with Manning throwing a pair of touchdown passes – a 2-yarder to wide receiver Eric Decker, followed in the fourth quarter by a 5-yarder to wide receiver Brandon Stokley to close the gap to 31–21 with 6:43 remaining. Following a Patriots' fumble, the Broncos were attempting to rally, however, running back Willis McGahee fumbled the football at the Patriots' 14-yard line with 3:48 remaining, halting the Broncos' rally attempt. The Patriots subsequently ran out the clock.[94]

Week 6: at San Diego Chargers

Hoping to rebound from their loss at New England, the Broncos traveled to Qualcomm Stadium for an AFC West duel with the San Diego Chargers on Monday Night Football. The Chargers jumped out to a 10–0 lead in the first quarter, with a 32-yard field goal by placekicker Nick Novak, followed by a 15-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Philip Rivers to tight end Antonio Gates. Both scores came off Broncos' miscues on special teams—the former occurred after Trindon Holliday muffed a punt return, while the latter occurred after Omar Bolden coughed up the football on a kickoff return. The Broncos were attempting to narrow the Chargers' lead midway through the second quarter, but wide receiver Eric Decker stumbled near the Chargers' 30-yard line when it appeared that he was headed to the end zone for an easy touchdown, after receiving a 55-yard pass from quarterback Peyton Manning. Three plays later, Manning threw an interception that was returned by Chargers' cornerback Quentin Jammer 80 yards for a touchdown. The Chargers increased their lead to 24–0 just before halftime, with Rivers connecting on an 11-yard touchdown pass to Gates.[95]

The Broncos then staged one of the most memorable comebacks in Monday Night Football history. On the opening drive of the second half, Manning led the Broncos on an 8-play, 85-yard drive, culminating with a 29-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. On the Chargers' next possession, Broncos' defensive end Elvis Dumervil forced a fumble off Rivers, and cornerback Tony Carter scooped up the football and returned it 65 yards for a touchdown. After the Broncos' defense forced a three-and-out, Manning hooked up with Decker on a 7-yard touchdown pass to pull the Broncos within 24–21 early in the fourth quarter. On the Chargers' next possession, Carter picked off Rivers, and four plays later, Manning tossed a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokley to give the Broncos a 28–24 lead with 9:09 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Chargers were attempting to rally, but Rivers was intercepted by cornerback Chris Harris, Jr. with 6:54 remaining. However, the Broncos were forced to punt seven plays later, giving the Chargers' offense the football with four minutes remaining. The Chargers once again tried to rally, but six plays later, Harris stepped in front of another Rivers' pass, returning an interception 46 yards for a touchdown, sealing the win for the Broncos.[95]

Week 8: vs. New Orleans Saints

Coming off their miraculous comeback in San Diego and subsequent bye week, the Broncos returned home for an interconference duel against the New Orleans Saints. The Broncos grabbed the lead in the first quarter, with running back Willis McGahee rushing for a 1-yard touchdown. On the Broncos' next possession, McGahee committed a fumble, and the Saints responded early in the second quarter, with quarterback Drew Brees throwing his 300th career touchdown pass—a 29-yarder to running back Darren Sproles. On the Saints' next possession, Brees was intercepted by linebacker Wesley Woodyard, and the Broncos dominated the remainder of the game. Quarterback Peyton Manning tossed a 13-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eric Decker and placekicker Matt Prater nailed a 33-yard field goal to close out the first half. The Broncos increased their lead in the third quarter, with Manning connecting on a 1-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, then pulled away in the fourth quarter, with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Manning to Decker and another 33-yard field goal by Prater. The Saints scored a late touchdown, with Brees connecting on an 18-yard pass to wide receiver Jimmy Graham, but the game had already been decided in the Broncos' favor.[96]

Notes

Linebacker Joe Mays suffered a fractured fibula on a kickoff return during the fourth quarter, and was placed on the season-ending injured reserve the following day (October 29).[21] Drew Brees surpassed John Elway for sixth on the NFL's all-time list for touchdown passes. However, Brees' personal record dropped to 0–7 in games played at Denver.[96]

Week 9: at Cincinnati Bengals

Coming off their dominating win over the Saints, the Broncos traveled to Paul Brown Stadium for an AFC duel with the Cincinnati Bengals. A 43-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater gave the Broncos an early lead, but the Bengals countered in the second quarter, with a 28-yard field goal by placekicker Mike Nugent. The Broncos responded, with a 13-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Peyton Manning to wide receiver Eric Decker. The Broncos added to their lead, when return specialist Trindon Holliday took the opening kickoff of the second half 105 yards for a touchdown. However, the Bengals would reel off 17 unanswered points, consisting of a 10-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Andy Dalton to wide receiver A. J. Green, a 49-field goal by Nugent followed in the fourth quarter by running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis rushing for a 2-yard touchdown, with the latter two scores coming off Manning interceptions. This gave Cincinnati a 20–17 lead early in the fourth quarter. The Broncos re-claimed the lead on their next possession, with Manning connecting on a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joel Dreessen. Ten plays into the Bengals' next possession, Dalton was intercepted by cornerback Champ Bailey at the Bengals' 46-yard line, and the Broncos subsequently added to their lead eight plays later, with a 4-yard touchdown pass from Manning to Decker. Trailing 31–20 with 3:36 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Bengals tried to rally, with Nugent nailing a 41-yard field goal with 52 seconds remaining, but the Broncos recovered the onside kick in the game's final minute and subsequently ran out the clock.[97]

Notes

Peyton Manning improved his personal record to 8–0 all-time in games against the Bengals.[97]

Week 10: at Carolina Panthers

Hoping to add to a three-game winning streak, the Broncos traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina for an interconference match-up with the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. In the first quarter, the Panthers struck first, with quarterback Cam Newton connecting on a 4-yard touchdown pass to tight end Greg Olsen. However, the Broncos would reel off 29 unanswered points and dominate the remainder of the game. Quarterback Peyton Manning threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokley. The Broncos grabbed the lead in the second quarter, with return specialist Trindon Holliday returning a punt 76 yards for a touchdown, followed by a 53-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater, then in the third quarter, cornerback Tony Carter returned an interception off Newton 40 yards for a touchdown. Prater added a 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, followed by safety Mike Adams sacking Newton in the end zone for a safety. The Panthers responded in the fourth quarter, with a 5-yard touchdown pass from Newton to Olsen, but the Broncos put the game out of reach, with running back Ronnie Hillman rushing for a 5-yard touchdown.[98]

Notes

The Broncos' defense harassed Cam Newton throughout the game, sacking Newton seven times. This was Broncos' head coach John Fox's first visit to Carolina, where he served as head coach of the Panthers from 2002 to 2010.[98]

Week 11: vs. San Diego Chargers

Hoping to add to a four-game winning streak, the Broncos returned home for an AFC West rematch with the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers grabbed the lead in the first quarter, with safety Eric Weddle returning an interception off Broncos' quarterback Peyton Manning 23 yards for a touchdown. The Broncos responded early in the second quarter, with Manning connecting on a 13-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. On the Chargers' next possession, quarterback Philip Rivers was intercepted by Broncos' safety Jim Leonhard deep in Chargers' territory. However, the Broncos had to settle for a 19-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater. On the first play after the two-minute warning, Broncos' linebacker Nate Irving blocked Mike Scifres' punt, and on the next play, Manning threw a 31-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokley, giving the Broncos a 17–7 lead. The first points of the third quarter came from the Chargers, with linebacker Shaun Phillips sacking Manning in the end zone for a safety. After linebacker Wesley Woodyard recovered a Rivers' fumble deep in Chargers' territory, the Broncos increased their lead, with Manning throwing a 20-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eric Decker. However, the Chargers responded late in the third quarter, with Rivers connecting on an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Danario Alexander. A pair of field goals by Prater in the fourth quarter—from 30 and 32 yards—gave the Broncos a 30–16 lead with 4:14 remaining in the game. The Chargers tried to rally, with a 21-yard touchdown pass from Rivers to Alexander with 1:24 remaining. However, the Broncos' recovered the onside kick, and subsequently ran out the clock.[99]

Notes

With the win, the Broncos earned their first season sweep of the Chargers since 2005, and snapped the Chargers' three-game winning streak in Denver. Nate Irving's block of a Mike Scifres' punt marked the first time since 2007 that the Broncos' special teams blocked a punt.[100] This was the only game during the season in which the Broncos wore their alternate navy blue jerseys.[99]

Injuries

Running back Willis McGahee suffered a ruptured MCL and compression fracture in his right knee during the second quarter, when his knee was hit by the helmet of Chargers' cornerback Quentin Jammer.[101] On November 21, McGahee was placed on the injured reserve/designated for return list.[86]

Week 12: at Kansas City Chiefs

Hoping to add to a five-game winning streak, the Broncos traveled to Arrowhead Stadium for an AFC West duel with the Kansas City Chiefs. Two field goals by Chiefs' placekicker Ryan Succop—from 34 and 22 yards—game Kansas City a 6–0 lead in the first quarter. The Broncos grabbed the lead just before halftime, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a 7-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jacob Tamme. The Chiefs re-claimed the lead in the third quarter, with a 49-yard field goal by Succop, however, the Broncos responded, with Manning connecting on a 30-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. For the last 4:41 of the third quarter and the first 8:36 of the fourth quarter, each team proceeded to trade punts, until the Broncos' offense got the football with 6:24 remaining in the game. The Broncos drove 68 yards in 12 plays, eating up 6:10 off the clock, culminating with placekicker Matt Prater nailing a 34-yard field goal with only 14 seconds remaining to give the Broncos some breathing room. The Broncos' defense thwarted the Chiefs' last desperation drive.[102] With the hard-fought win, the Broncos matched their win total from 2011.

Week 13: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Hoping to add to a six-game winning streak, the Broncos returned home for an interconference duel with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Broncos grabbed the early lead, when defensive tackle Mitch Unrein, lining up as a fullback, caught a 1-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Peyton Manning. The Buccaneers responded, with a 31-yard field goal by placekicker Connor Barth, then grabbed the lead at the end of the first quarter, with quarterback Josh Freeman connecting on an 11-yard touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Clark. After a scoreless second quarter, the Broncos re-claimed the lead for good with 21 unanswered points, consisting of two Manning touchdown passes to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas—from 8 and 10 yards, followed by linebacker Von Miller returning an interception off Freeman 26 yards for a touchdown. After a Manning interception late in the third quarter, a 50-yard field goal by Barth to begin the fourth quarter narrowed the gap to 28–13, but the Broncos countered with a 31-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater. With 4:37 remaining in the game, the Buccaneers tried to rally, with a 55-yard field goal by Barth, followed by a 5-yard touchdown pass from Freeman to wide receiver Mike Williams with 2:39 remaining. However, the Buccaneers' onside kick attempt was unsuccessful, and the Broncos subsequently ran out the clock.[103]

Notes

With the win, the Broncos exceeded their win total from 2011, and also clinched their second consecutive AFC West division title. This was the 12th division title in the Broncos' franchise history, tying the Oakland Raiders for the all-time lead in AFC West championships since the 1970 AFL–NFL merger.[104] The Broncos also clinched consecutive division titles for the first time since 1986–87.[105]

Week 14: at Oakland Raiders

Hoping to add to a seven-game winning streak, the Broncos traveled to the O.co Coliseum for an AFC West rematch with the Oakland Raiders. The Broncos jumped out to a 13–0 lead, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a 6-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joel Dreessen, followed by field goals of 43 and 34 from placekicker Matt Prater, with the latter field goal occurring early in the second quarter. The Raiders got on the scoreboard late in the first half, with quarterback Carson Palmer throwing a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Darren McFadden. The Broncos added to their lead in the third quarter, with a 20-yard field goal by Prater, a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Knowshon Moreno and a 33-yard field goal by Prater. A 56-yard touchdown pass from Palmer to wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey (with a failed two-point conversion attempt) was the only scoring play of the fourth quarter, and the Broncos ran out the final 5:36 of the game.[106]

Notes

With the win, the Broncos earned their first season sweep of the Raiders since 2006, and also swept their division rivals on the road for the third time in four seasons.

Week 15: at Baltimore Ravens

Hoping to add to an eight-game winning streak, the Broncos traveled to M&T Bank Stadium for an AFC duel with the Baltimore Ravens, where the Broncos had never won in four previous regular-season meetings. A 27-yard field goal by Broncos' placekicker Matt Prater was the only scoring play of the first quarter. The Broncos increased their lead in the second quarter, with fullback Jacob Hester rushing for a 1-yard touchdown. The Ravens were threatening to narrow the Broncos' lead just before halftime; however, Broncos' cornerback Chris Harris, Jr. stepped in front of a pass from Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco, returning an interception 98 yards for a touchdown. The Ravens finally got on the scoreboard in the third quarter, with a 45-yard field goal by placekicker Justin Tucker. However, the Broncos added to their lead, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing a 51-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eric Decker, followed by a 6-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno to give the Broncos a commanding 31–3 lead. The Ravens finally got into the end zone early in the fourth quarter, with Flacco connecting on a 31-yard touchdown pass to tight end Dennis Pitta, but the Broncos responded with a 36-yard field goal from Prater. The Ravens added one more score, with a 61-yard touchdown pass from Flacco to Pitta, but the Broncos' lead was too much for the Ravens to overcome.[107]

Notes

This was the Broncos' first-ever, and, to date, their only win in Baltimore.[108]

Week 16: vs. Cleveland Browns

Hoping to add to a nine-game winning streak, the Broncos returned home for an AFC match-up with the Cleveland Browns. On the game's opening drive, quarterback Peyton Manning threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. The Browns got on the scoreboard, with a 27-yard field goal by placekicker Phil Dawson. A 10-yard touchdown pass from Manning to wide receiver Eric Decker was the only scoring play of the second quarter. The Browns narrowed the Broncos' lead early in the third quarter, with a 53-yard field goal by Dawson, but the Broncos would add 17 unanswered points to their lead, with an 8-yard touchdown pass from Manning to Decker, followed in the fourth quarter by a 27-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater and a 1-yard touchdown run by fullback Jacob Hester. The Browns finally scored a touchdown midway through the fourth quarter, with quarterback Colt McCoy connecting on a 6-yard pass to wide receiver Greg Little, but the Broncos' lead was too much for the Browns to overcome. Prater added a 41-yard field goal to close out the scoring.[109]

Notes

The Broncos matched their win total from the two previous seasons combined, and also swept the AFC North division. The Broncos won their 10th consecutive game against the Browns, dating back to the 1991 season, and improved their all-time series record against the Browns to 22–5 (including the playoffs).[110]

Week 17: vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Hoping to add to a ten-game winning streak and gain momentum into the playoffs, the Broncos remained at home for an AFC West divisional rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs, in the regular season finale. The Broncos grabbed the early lead in the first quarter, with running back Knowshon Moreno rushing for a 3-yard touchdown. The Chiefs got on the scoreboard early in the second quarter, with a 23-yard field goal by placekicker Ryan Succop, in what would be the Chiefs' only scoring play of the game. The Broncos later added to their lead, with quarterback Peyton Manning throwing three touchdown passes—two to wide receiver Eric Decker—from 11 and 16 yards, followed in the third quarter by a 13-yarder to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. The Broncos added another touchdown late in the third quarter, with running back Lance Ball rushing for a 1-yard touchdown. A 42-yard field goal by Broncos' placekicker Matt Prater in the fourth quarter was the last scoring play of the game.[111]

Notes

With the win, the Broncos exceeded their win total from the two previous seasons combined, swept their AFC West division rivals for only the second time in franchise history, and earned their first season sweep of the Chiefs since 2007.[111] The 35-point margin was the Broncos' largest margin of victory over the Chiefs in the 53-year history of this rivalry.[112] The win was also the 100th in John Fox's coaching career (including postseason games).[113] By virtue of the Houston Texans' 28–16 loss to the Indianapolis Colts earlier in the day, the Broncos clinched a first-round bye and homefield advantage throughout the AFC playoffs.[114]

Standings

Conference

Postseason

See also: 2012–13 NFL playoffs.

Schedule

RoundDateOpponent (seed)ResultRecordVenueRecap
Wild CardFirst-round bye
DivisionalBaltimore Ravens (4)L 35–38 0–1Sports Authority Field at Mile HighRecap

Game summaries

AFC Divisional Playoffs: vs. (4) Baltimore Ravens

See also: Mile High Miracle.

Following a first-round bye, the Broncos kicked off the divisional round of the 2012–13 NFL playoffs at home by welcoming the Baltimore Ravens, whom the Broncos defeated in Baltimore four weeks earlier. A 90-yard punt return for a touchdown by return specialist Trindon Holliday gave the Broncos the early lead. However, the Ravens quickly responded, with quarterback Joe Flacco connecting on a 59-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Torrey Smith, followed by cornerback Corey Graham returning an interception off Broncos' quarterback Peyton Manning 39 yards for a touchdown. The Broncos tied the game, with Manning throwing a 15-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokley, then re-claimed the lead midway through the second quarter, with Manning connecting on a 14-yard touchdown pass to running back Knowshon Moreno. The Broncos had an opportunity to add to their lead just after the two-minute warning, but placekicker Matt Prater missed a 52-yard field goal, giving the Ravens excellent field goal position with 1:16 remaining until halftime. Three plays later, Flacco connected on another touchdown pass to Smith – this one from 32 yards.[115]

Holliday took the opening kickoff of the second half 104 yards for a touchdown, but after a Manning fumble, the Ravens tied the game late in the third quarter, with running back Ray Rice rushing for a 1-yard touchdown. After each team's offense subsequently went three-and-out, the Broncos marched down the field on a 10-play, 88-yard drive, culminating with Manning throwing a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas midway through the fourth quarter. The Ravens, on their next possession, marched 44 yards in eight plays, but turned the ball over on downs with 3:12 remaining in regulation. The Broncos achieved one first-down with 2:23 remaining, which forced the Ravens to start using the last two of their three remaining timeouts on defense. After the two-minute warning, the Ravens had exhausted all of their team timeouts, however, the Broncos failed to convert a critical third-down run, and were forced to punt, giving the Ravens the football with 1:15 remaining in regulation. Three plays later, and with no timeouts, Flacco launched a 70-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jacoby Jones to tie the game at 35 with 31 seconds remaining to force overtime.[115]

The Ravens won the overtime coin toss. Both teams were forced to punt on their first possessions. The Ravens once again were forced to punt on their next possession, and the Broncos' offense got the football with 3:37 remaining in the first overtime. However, seven plays into the Broncos' second overtime possession, Manning was intercepted again by Graham in Broncos' territory, giving the Ravens the football at the Broncos' 45-yard line with 1:01 remaining in the first overtime. Six plays later, Ravens' placekicker Justin Tucker nailed a game-winning 47-yard field early in the second overtime.[115]

Statistics

Team leaders

CategoryPlayer(s)Value
Passing yards 4,659
Passing touchdowns Peyton Manning 37
Rushing yards 731
Rushing touchdowns 4
Receptions 94
Receiving yards Demaryius Thomas 1,434
Receiving touchdowns 13
Points 133
Kickoff return yards 358
Punt return yards Trindon Holliday 334
Tackles 117
Sacks 18.5 *
Forced fumbles Elvis Dumervil
Von Miller 		6
Interceptions Chris Harris, Jr.
Wesley Woodyard 		3
Indicates a new single-season franchise record.[116]

League rankings

Offense
CategoryValue NFL rank
Total yards397.9 4th
Yards per play5.86th
Rushing yards114.5 YPG16th
Yards per rush3.823rd
Passing yards283.3 YPG5th
Yards per pass7.95th
Scoring30.1 2nd
Pass completions402/588 (.684)2nd
Third downs96/213 (.451)3rd
Possession average8th
Fewest sacks allowed212nd
Turnover differential−117th
Defense
CategoryValue NFL rank
Total yards290.8 YPG2nd
Yards per play4.61st
Rushing yards91.1 YPG3rd
Yards per rush3.62nd
Passing yards199.6 YPG3rd
Yards per pass6.45th
Scoring18.1 PPG4th
Pass completions321/559 (.574)7th
Third downs66/216 (.306)1st
Sacks52T−1st
Forced fumbles194th
Fumble recoveries8T–22nd
Interceptions1613th
Special Teams
CategoryValue NFL rank
Kickoff returns23.1 18th
Punt returns9.3 YPR18th
Gross punting46.3 17th
Net punting43.3 YPP5th
22.1 YPR7th
6.2 YPR2nd

Records and milestones

Numerous individual, franchise and league records and milestones were either tied, reached or broken during the season:

Team

Peyton Manning

Other players

Awards and honors

RecipientAward(s)
Champ BaileyNamed to the USA Football All Fundamentals Team[129]
Zane BeadlesNamed as the team's Walter Payton Man of the Year[130]
Ryan CladyNamed to the USA Football All Fundamentals Team
Trindon HollidayWeek 9: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week[131]
Peyton ManningWeek 6: AFC Offensive Player of the Week[132]
October: AFC Offensive Player of the Month[133]
Week 17: AFC Offensive Player of the Week[134]
December: AFC Offensive Player of the Month
Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Athlete of the Year[135]
season: AFC Offensive Player of the Year[136]
2012 season: FedEx Air Player of the Year[137]
2012 season: Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year
Von MillerWeek 11: AFC Defensive Player of the Week[138]
November: AFC Defensive Player of the Month[139]
Voted to NFL.com's All-Under-25 Team[140]
Knowshon MorenoWeek 15: AFC Offensive Player of the Week,[141] FedEx Ground Player of the Week[142]
Tracy PorterWeek 1: AFC Defensive Player of the Week[143]
Matt PraterWeek 4: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week[144]
Brandon Stokley2012 season: DISH Unbeatable Value Player of the Year[145]
Wesley WoodyardWeek 8: AFC Defensive Player of the Week[146]
Voted to USA Today's All-Joe Team
TeamWeek 6: GMC Never Say Never Moment of the Week (come-from-behind win)[147]

Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections

Seven Broncos were elected to the 2013 Pro Bowl. Cornerback Champ Bailey, quarterback Peyton Manning and linebacker Von Miller were named as starters, while offensive tackle Ryan Clady and defensive end Elvis Dumervil were named as reserves.[148] Guard Zane Beadles and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas were later added to the game as injury replacements.[149] Clady and Miller, however, each withdrew from the game due to injuries.[150] [151]

Clady, Manning and Miller were also voted to the All-Pro First Team, while Bailey was named to the Second Team.[152]

Other news and notes

External links

Notes and References

  1. News: Jones, Lindsay . Matt Russell gets promotion in Broncos personnel department . The Denver Post . January 17, 2012 . January 17, 2012.
  2. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos strength coach Rich Tuten not returning in 2012 . The Denver Post . January 17, 2012 . January 17, 2012.
  3. News: Legwold, Jeff . Raiders hire away Dennis Allen from Broncos for head coach job . The Denver Post . January 24, 2012 . January 24, 2012.
  4. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos hire Jack Del Rio as defensive coordinator . The Denver Post . January 27, 2012 . January 27, 2012.
  5. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' John Elway hires new salary cap guru Mike Sullivan . The Denver Post . February 3, 2012 . February 3, 2012.
  6. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos, GM Brian Xanders agree to part ways after four years in Denver . The Denver Post . May 7, 2012 . May 7, 2012.
  7. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' Wayne Nunnely, longtime assistant coach, retires from NFL . The Denver Post . May 14, 2012 . May 14, 2012.
  8. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos hire new defensive coaching assistant . The Denver Post . May 29, 2012 . May 29, 2012.
  9. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos tender restricted free agents McBean, Willis, Ball, Colquitt, Clark . The Denver Post . March 13, 2012 . March 13, 2012.
  10. Denver Broncos Transactions, Signings, Cuts - Pro Football - SI.com . Sports Illustrated . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  11. News: Bena, John . Saints Sign Brodrick Bunkley To 5-Year Contract . Mile High Report . March 21, 2012 . March 21, 2012.
  12. News: Colquitt Signs a 1-year deal to stay a Bronco . Mile High Report . April 4, 2012 . April 4, 2012.
  13. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos safety Brian Dawkins retires after 16 years . The Denver Post . April 23, 2012 . April 23, 2012.
  14. News: Silva, Evan . Rams sign Barry Richardson, Mario Haggan . ProFootballTalk.com . May 15, 2012 . May 15, 2012.
  15. Web site: Gantt, Darin . Chiefs sign veteran guard Russ Hochstein . . September 26, 2012 . September 26, 2012.
  16. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos re-sign defensive end Jason Hunter . The Denver Post . March 29, 2012 . March 29, 2012.
  17. News: Hunter to Injured Reserve . Denver Broncos . August 27, 2012 . August 27, 2012.
  18. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos part ways with DT Ryan McBean . The Denver Post . April 16, 2012 . April 16, 2012.
  19. News: Klis, Mike . Ryan McBean signs with Ravens . The Denver Post . May 7, 2012 . May 7, 2012.
  20. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos re-sign linebacker Joe Mays to three-year contract . The Denver Post . March 18, 2012 . March 18, 2012.
  21. News: Broncos place linebacker Joe Mays on injured reserve . The Denver Post . October 30, 2012 . October 30, 2012.
  22. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos put franchise tag on kicker Matt Prater . The Denver Post . March 5, 2012 . March 5, 2012.
  23. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos sign kicker Matt Prater to four-year contract . The Denver Post . July 2, 2012 . July 2, 2012.
  24. News: Klis, Mike . Brady Quinn, deciding not to wait on Broncos' pursuit of Peyton Manning, signs with Chiefs . The Denver Post . March 18, 2012 . March 18, 2012.
  25. News: Caldwell, Gray . Caldwell, Woodyard & Ramirez On Board . Denver Broncos . March 22, 2012 . March 22, 2012.
  26. News: Associated Press . Chargers agree to 1-year contract with TE Dante Rosario . The Washington Post . March 19, 2012 . March 19, 2012.
  27. News: Wilson, Bernie . Eddie Royal leaves Broncos to sign with rival Chargers . The Denver Post . March 15, 2012 . March 15, 2012.
  28. News: Bedinger, Sayre . Denver Broncos Re-Sign Wide Receiver Matthew Willis . Mile High Report . April 16, 2012 . April 16, 2012.
  29. News: Klis, Mike . Legwold, Jeff . Broncos sign safety Mike Adams from Cleveland Browns . The Denver Post . March 15, 2012 . March 15, 2012.
  30. News: Zaas, Stuart . Bannan Back with Broncos . Denver Broncos . April 11, 2012 . April 11, 2012.
  31. News: Broncos sign five-time Pro Bowl veteran LB Keith Brooking . The Denver Post . August 6, 2012 . August 6, 2012.
  32. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos sign former Jacksonville WR Jason Hill . The Denver Post . February 15, 2012 . February 15, 2012.
  33. News: Caldwell, Gray . Multiple Tuesday Transactions . Denver Broncos . September 11, 2012 . September 11, 2012.
  34. News: Broncos Add C.J. Davis to Practice Squad . Denver Broncos . September 13, 2012 . September 13, 2012.
  35. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' Brock Osweiler was ready to replace Peyton Manning . The Denver Post . September 18, 2012 . September 18, 2012.
  36. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos agree to terms with tight end Joel Dreessen . The Denver Post . March 23, 2012 . March 23, 2012.
  37. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos add former Buffalo Bills cornerback Drayton Florence . The Denver Post . May 10, 2012 . May 10, 2012.
  38. News: Broncos Set 53-Man Roster . Denver Broncos . August 31, 2012 . August 31, 2012.
  39. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos sign Caleb Hanie to be Manning's backup . The Denver Post . March 24, 2012 . March 24, 2012.
  40. News: Klis, Mike . Hanie released; Siliga promoted to 53-man roster . The Denver Post . September 8, 2012 . September 8, 2012.
  41. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos sign Jacob Hester to add bulk at running back vs. Buccaneers . The Denver Post . November 26, 2012 . November 26, 2012.
  42. News: Zaas, Stuart . Broncos Add Holliday . Denver Broncos . October 11, 2012 . October 11, 2012.
  43. News: Mason, Andrew . Broncos claim ex-Seahawks WR Cameron Kenney . Max Denver . August 1, 2012 . August 1, 2012.
  44. News: Broncos sign veteran safety Jim Leonhard . The Denver Post . August 4, 2012 . August 4, 2012.
  45. News: Klis, Mike . Legwold, Jeff . Peyton Manning's deal with Broncos: 5 years, $96 million . The Denver Post . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  46. News: Bianchi, Chris . Broncos waive linebacker Mike Mohamed . Mile High Sports . October 1, 2012 . October 1, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121202084024/http://milehighsports.com/2012/10/01/broncos-waive-linebacker-mike-mohamed-on-monday/ . December 2, 2012 . dead . mdy-all .
  47. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos sign CB Porter . The Denver Post . March 22, 2012 . March 22, 2012.
  48. News: Zaas, Stuart . Stokley Signed . Denver Broncos . April 16, 2012 . April 16, 2012.
  49. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos add second tight end with Jacob Tamme deal . The Denver Post . March 23, 2012 . March 23, 2012.
  50. News: Farrar, Doug . Peyton Manning, Broncos make it official: Five years, $96 million . Yahoo! Sports . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  51. News: Renck, Troy . Seattle Seahawks were among the contenders to sign Peyton Manning . The Denver Post . January 25, 2014 . January 25, 2014.
  52. News: Chenoy, Ron . With Manning on board, can Broncos win now? . USA Today . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  53. News: Peyton Manning introduced as next Broncos QB in Denver . The Denver Post . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  54. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' Peyton Manning cements spot on roster to draw $40M guarantee . The Denver Post . March 12, 2013 . March 12, 2013.
  55. News: Inside the Peyton Manning contract . ProFootballTalk.com . March 20, 2012 . March 20, 2012.
  56. News: Renck, Troy . Peyton Manning retires from football: "I love the game...I will miss it." . The Denver Post . March 7, 2016 . March 7, 2016 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20160309045655/http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_29606293/peyton-manning-retires-from-football-i-fought-good-fight . March 9, 2016 .
  57. News: Caldwell, Gray . Goodman Released . Denver Broncos . April 13, 2012 . April 13, 2012.
  58. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos and former University of Colorado linebacker Brian Iwuh retires . The Denver Post . April 17, 2012 . April 17, 2012.
  59. News: Klis, Mike . Tim Tebow traded: New York Jets get Broncos QB, give up two picks . The Denver Post . March 21, 2012 . March 21, 2012.
  60. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos trade Cassius Vaughn to Colts for FB Chris Gronkowski . The Denver Post . May 23, 2012 . May 23, 2012.
  61. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos agree to $5.2 million deal with top pick Derek Wolfe . The Denver Post . May 21, 2012 . May 21, 2012.
  62. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos sign Brock Osweiler, Ronnie Hillman to complete rookie roster . Denver Broncos . July 24, 2012 . July 24, 2012.
  63. News: Caldwell, Gray . Bolden First Draft Pick to Sign . Denver Broncos . May 17, 2012 . May 17, 2012.
  64. News: Caldwell, Gray . Blake Fifth Draft Pick to Sign . Denver Broncos . June 1, 2012 . June 1, 2012.
  65. News: Alper, Josh . Broncos sign fifth-rounder Malik Jackson . ProFootballTalk.com . May 18, 2012 . May 18, 2012.
  66. News: Alper, Josh . Broncos sign another draft pick . ProFootballTalk.com . May 22, 2012 . May 22, 2012.
  67. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Broncos Pick Up 12 CFAs . Denver Broncos . April 28, 2012 . April 28, 2012.
  68. Web site: Payne, Scott . Report: Broncos make multiple transactions today . Mile High Report . September 11, 2012 . September 11, 2012.
  69. Web site: Oates, Russ . Denver Broncos practice squad: Duke Ihenacho signed, Jamie Blatnick released . Denver SB Nation . October 13, 2012 . October 13, 2012.
  70. News: Paxton Released; Roster Trimmed to 75 . Denver Broncos . August 27, 2012 . August 27, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120829000350/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Paxton-Released-Roster-Trimmed-to-75/2fbcdee7-a47c-4a81-b844-8475956c8505 . August 29, 2012 . dead .
  71. News: Klis, Mike . Ben Garland heads practice squad . The Denver Post . September 1, 2012 . September 1, 2012.
  72. News: Klis, Mike . Quinton Carter to have season-ending knee surgery . The Denver Post . September 29, 2012 . September 29, 2012.
  73. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos waive Duke Ihenacho; roster spot opens for D.J. Williams . The Denver Post . November 13, 2012 . November 13, 2012.
  74. Web site: Klis, Mike . Broncos cut rookies Page, Judie . The Denver Post . July 25, 2012 . July 25, 2012.
  75. News: Mason, Andrew . Broncos Add Ex-CU Safety Perkins . Max Denver . July 28, 2012 . July 28, 2012.
  76. News: Three Broncos suspended for performance enhancing substances . https://web.archive.org/web/20120312213633/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8277ef5a/article/three-broncos-suspended-for-performance-enhancing-substances?module=HP11_headline_stack . dead . March 12, 2012 . NFL.com . March 9, 2012 . March 9, 2012.
  77. News: Appeals court upholds Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams' suspension . The Denver Post . August 27, 2012 . August 27, 2012.
  78. News: Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams' suspension increased by NFL . ESPN . October 5, 2012 . October 5, 2012.
  79. News: Klis, Mike . D.J. Williams to get his first $1 million of 2012 . The Denver Post . November 17, 2012 . November 17, 2012.
  80. News: Jones, Lindsay . Broncos linebacker Joe Mays suspended for Matt Schaub hit . denverpost.com . September 25, 2012 . September 25, 2012.
  81. News: Broncos RB Mario Fannin out with torn Achilles tendon . The Denver Post . August 5, 2012 . August 5, 2012.
  82. News: Broncos' Chris Kuper to miss six weeks with broken forearm . The Denver Post . August 14, 2012 . August 14, 2012.
  83. News: Klis, Mike . Chris Kuper starting at right guard; Keith Brooking at middle linebacker . The Denver Post . October 15, 2012 . October 15, 2012.
  84. News: Broncos' Jason Hunter out at least two months with triceps tear . The Denver Post . August 15, 2012 . August 15, 2012.
  85. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' J.D. Walton to IR; Joe Mays back on active roster . The Denver Post . October 1, 2012 . October 1, 2012.
  86. News: Caldwell, Gray . Zaas, Stuart . McGahee Placed IR, Designated for Return . Denver Broncos . November 21, 2012 . November 21, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121127202918/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/McGahee-Placed-IR-Designated-for-Return/7575e3a7-88f4-4c5d-9f31-acdaa3a42530 . November 27, 2012 . dead .
  87. News: Caldwell, Gray . Porter Dealing with August Seizure . Denver Broncos . October 25, 2012 . October 25, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121027092902/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Porter-Dealing-with-August-Seizure/e00c17c5-c1bf-4a40-a599-019caff6428f . October 27, 2012 . dead . mdy-all .
  88. News: Davis, Sam . Injury Update . Denver Broncos . December 23, 2012 . December 23, 2012.
  89. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning leads Denver Broncos to strong first win over Steelers . The Denver Post . September 9, 2012 . September 9, 2012.
  90. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning outgunned by Matt Ryan as Broncos lose to Falcons . The Denver Post . September 17, 2012 . September 17, 2012.
  91. News: Caldwell, Gray . Comeback Falls Short Against Houston . Denver Broncos . September 23, 2012 . September 23, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120927013825/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Comeback-Falls-Short-Against-Houston/cf847e02-048a-45f0-b9f8-76b1e2cc3178 . September 27, 2012 . dead .
  92. News: Chambers, Mike . Rod Smith inducted into Denver Broncos Ring of Fame . denverpost.com . September 23, 2012 . September 23, 2012.
  93. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos, Peyton Manning rout Raiders in Denver with big offensive day . Denver Broncos . September 30, 2012 . September 30, 2012.
  94. News: Klis, Mike . Tom Brady tops Peyton Manning as Patriots beat Broncos in track meet . Denver Broncos . October 7, 2012 . October 7, 2012.
  95. News: Caldwell, Gray . California Comeback . Denver Broncos . October 16, 2012 . October 16, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121018030842/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/California-Comeback/4e99f38e-d957-41d3-b441-e45b433e9ded . October 18, 2012 . dead .
  96. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning, Broncos defense stuff Brees, Saints for AFC West lead . The Denver Post . October 28, 2012 . October 28, 2012.
  97. News: Caldwell, Gray . Broncos Outlast Bengals 31–23 . Denver Broncos . November 4, 2012 . November 4, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140102193955/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Broncos-Outlast-Bengals-31-23/51ac1844-189f-48d2-ae9d-c7b917660614 . January 2, 2014 . dead .
  98. News: Klis, Mike . Denver Broncos blow out Panthers in Carolina, as Manning ties Marino . The Denver Post . November 11, 2012 . November 11, 2012.
  99. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning's Broncos bury Chargers to extend AFC West lead . The Denver Post . November 18, 2012 . November 18, 2012.
  100. News: Williamson, Bill . AFC West blog . ESPN . November 18, 2012 . November 18, 2012.
  101. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos' Willis McGahee out 6–8 weeks with MCL tear; compression fracture . The Denver Post . November 19, 2012 . November 19, 2012.
  102. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos escape Kansas City with a win behind Peyton Manning's veteran eye . The Denver Post . November 25, 2012 . November 25, 2012.
  103. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos clinch AFC West with win over Tampa Bay; Manning throws 3 TDs . The Denver Post . December 2, 2012 . December 2, 2012.
  104. News: Zaas, Stuart . Inside the Numbers: Week 13 . Denver Broncos . December 2, 2012 . December 2, 2012.
  105. News: Krier, Chris . Mile High Monday: Broncos Beat the Buccaneers and Win the AFC West . Predominately Orange . December 3, 2012 . December 3, 2012.
  106. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning, Broncos' star power enough to beat Raiders in Oakland . The Denver Post . December 6, 2012 . December 6, 2012.
  107. News: Klis, Mike . Broncos, Peyton Manning run over Ravens for ninth straight win . The Denver Post . December 16, 2012 . December 16, 2012.
  108. News: Boxscore finder: Denver Broncos vs Baltimore Ravens . pro-football-reference.com . December 16, 2012 . December 16, 2012.
  109. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning, Broncos streak past Cleveland with AFC No. 1 seed in sight . The Denver Post . December 23, 2012 . December 23, 2012.
  110. News: Boxscore finder: Denver Broncos vs Cleveland Browns . pro-football-reference.com . December 23, 2012 . December 23, 2012.
  111. News: Caldwell, Gray . Recap: 38–3 Win Clinches AFC's Top Seed . Denver Broncos . December 30, 2012 . December 30, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130103164109/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Recap-38-3-Win-Clinches-AFCs-Top-Seed/43bc1f10-680c-4b0e-93e3-afad54b82f16 . January 3, 2013 . dead .
  112. Web site: Mason, Andrew . 2013 Game-by-Game: Week 11 . Denver Broncos . July 8, 2013 . July 8, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130712035001/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-5/2013-Game-by-Game-Week-11/d8cba3f5-858a-4b09-a95a-0866e7473d03 . July 12, 2013 . dead .
  113. News: Everett, Tyler . Fox Notches Win No. 100 . Denver Broncos . December 31, 2012 . December 31, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130103200810/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Fox-Notches-Win-No-100/23e2bd24-fdf4-4e09-8fa1-4638ff1754ea . January 3, 2013 . dead .
  114. News: Caldwell, Gray . No. 1 Seed Broncos Prepare for Postseason . Denver Broncos . December 30, 2012 . December 30, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130103172405/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/No-1-Seed-Broncos-Prepare-for-Postseason/e263a69d-846a-4463-97b0-eae8621563a9 . January 3, 2013 . dead .
  115. News: Caldwell, Gray . Zaas, Stuart . Double-OT Heartbreaker Ends Denver's Season . Denver Broncos . January 12, 2013 . January 12, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130116144119/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Double-OT-Heartbreaker-Ends-Denvers-Season/73d0f072-f98d-492d-8348-3551c7b2c516 . January 16, 2013 . dead .
  116. Web site: Davis, Sam . SI's All Pro Team Includes a Pair of Broncos . Denver Broncos . January 9, 2013 . January 9, 2013.
  117. News: Jones, Lindsay . Klis, Mike . Legwold, Jeff . Champ Bailey glad Broncos can finally finish a comeback . The Denver Post . October 16, 2012 . October 16, 2012.
  118. News: Kensler, Tom . Denver Broncos to stay in Denver during week off . Denver Broncos . January 1, 2013 . January 1, 2013.
  119. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning on joining the 400 TD club . The Denver Post . September 9, 2012 . September 9, 2012.
  120. News: Peyton Manning, Broncos cruise past Raiders for eighth straight win . ESPN . December 6, 2012 . December 6, 2012.
  121. News: Saccomano, Jim . Broncos Move Ahead in Special Season . Denver Broncos . December 31, 2012 . December 31, 2012.
  122. News: Associated Press . Peyton Manning matches NFL record . ESPN . January 3, 2013 . January 3, 2013.
  123. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Manning Earns Player of the Month Honor . Denver Broncos . January 3, 2013 . January 3, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130105214425/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Manning-Earns-Player-of-the-Month-Honor/0f679703-2251-4f4b-b8bf-c2157430edcb . January 5, 2013 . dead .
  124. News: Klis, Mike . Peyton Manning sets NFL record as Broncos rout Raiders for AFC's top seed . The Denver Post . December 29, 2013 . December 29, 2013.
  125. News: Davis, Sam . Colquitt Nets Another Record . Denver Broncos . January 8, 2013 . January 8, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130111212955/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Colquitt-Nets-Another-Record/8abcfb31-b13b-4b7b-9ed1-02a89e2cb30d . January 11, 2013 . dead .
  126. Web site: Denver Broncos 2017 Weekly Press Release . Denver Broncos . September 17, 2017 . September 17, 2017 . NOTE: Search for page 17. . September 20, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170920022848/http://media.denverbroncos.com/images/9008/Releases/170924_Buffalo.pdf . dead .
  127. Web site: Caldwell, Gray . Broncos-Record 52 Points Ground Eagles . Denver Broncos . September 29, 2013 . September 29, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20131002151212/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Broncos-Record-52-Points-Ground-Eagles/081da6d0-98e4-4af8-815a-7d18f0f0decb . October 2, 2013 . dead .
  128. News: Everett, Tyler . Holliday Makes History . Denver Broncos . January 12, 2013 . January 12, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130117072723/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Holliday-Makes-History/8d4e39d7-1b77-48a0-b3d5-0c6e838eea5f . January 17, 2013 . dead .
  129. Web site: Everett, Tyler . Clady, Bailey Recognized by USA Football . Denver Broncos . January 7, 2013 . January 7, 2013.
  130. Web site: Caldwell, Gray . Beadles Named Team's Walter Payton Man of the Year . Denver Broncos . December 26, 2012 . December 26, 2012.
  131. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Holliday Earns Weekly Honor . Denver Broncos . November 7, 2012 . November 7, 2012.
  132. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Peyton Manning Named AFC Offensive Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . October 17, 2012 . October 17, 2012.
  133. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Manning Named AFC Offensive Player of the Month . Denver Broncos . November 1, 2012 . November 1, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121103221219/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Manning-Named-AFC-Offensive-Player-of-the-Month/c2f64726-d50f-4565-b5dc-eadeb700a26d . November 3, 2012 . dead .
  134. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Manning Named Offensive Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . January 2, 2013 . January 2, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130105032946/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Manning-Named-Offensive-Player-of-the-Week/6c4e60fb-91b2-4788-9d47-4afffecf8292 . January 5, 2013 . dead .
  135. Web site: Davis, Sam . Peyton Manning, Missy Franklin Named Colorado's Athletes of the Year . Denver Broncos . January 8, 2013 . January 8, 2013.
  136. Web site: Caldwell, Gray . Manning Honored as AFC Offensive Player of the Year . Denver Broncos . January 15, 2013 . January 15, 2013.
  137. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Manning Named FedEx Air Player of the Year . Denver Broncos . February 3, 2013 . February 3, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130206034019/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Manning-Named-FedEx-Air-Player-of-the-Year/0ad6c08d-e56d-4b55-936d-13687e90edf6 . February 6, 2013 . dead .
  138. Web site: Caldwell, Gray . Miller Takes Home Second DPOW Award . Denver Broncos . November 21, 2012 . November 21, 2012.
  139. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Miller Earns AFC Defensive Player of the Month . Denver Broncos . November 29, 2012 . November 29, 2012 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20121202112252/http://blog.denverbroncos.com/denverbroncos/miller-earns-afc-defensive-player-of-the-month/ . December 2, 2012 . mdy .
  140. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Pair of Broncos Linebackers Nab Postseason Honors . Denver Broncos . February 14, 2013 . February 14, 2013.
  141. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Moreno Named AFC Offensive Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . December 19, 2012 . December 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121221012752/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Moreno-Named-AFC-Offensive-Player-of-the-Week/5a027ecb-394b-4aee-ba15-2a8429548f16 . December 21, 2012 . dead .
  142. Web site: Everett, Tyler . Moreno Takes Home FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . December 21, 2012 . December 21, 2012.
  143. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Porter Named AFC Defensive Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . September 12, 2012 . September 12, 2012.
  144. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Prater Named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . October 3, 2012 . October 3, 2012.
  145. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Stokley Voted DISH Unbeatable Value Player of the Year . Denver Broncos . February 20, 2013 . February 20, 2013.
  146. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Woodyard Named AFC Defensive Player of the Week . Denver Broncos . October 31, 2012 . October 31, 2012.
  147. Web site: Everett, Tyler . Broncos Take Home GMC's Never Say Never Moment of the Week . Denver Broncos . October 19, 2012 . October 19, 2012.
  148. Web site: Caldwell, Gray . Zaas, Stuart . Five Broncos Selected to Pro Bowl . Denver Broncos . December 20, 2012 . December 20, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121229134851/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Five-Broncos-Selected-to-Pro-Bowl/09b7ef02-b960-4da7-b910-5fa2d706996d . December 29, 2012 . dead .
  149. News: Zaas, Stuart . Beadles, Thomas Added to Pro Bowl Roster . Denver Broncos . January 21, 2013 . January 21, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170809025652/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Beadles-Thomas-Added-to-Pro-Bowl-Roster/0324ef93-1f42-4b33-82db-8e7062a6a2aa . August 9, 2017 . dead . mdy-all .
  150. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Clady Withdraws from Pro Bowl . Denver Broncos . January 15, 2013 . January 15, 2013.
  151. Web site: Zaas, Stuart . Miller Missed Pro Bowl with Shoulder Injury . Denver Broncos . January 30, 2013 . January 30, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130205071808/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Miller-Missed-Pro-Bowl-with-Shoulder-Injury/0c1498d9-bce7-4dc9-a256-cc66a08f8d8b . February 5, 2013 . dead .
  152. News: Davis, Sam . AP All-Pro Team Features Four Broncos . Denver Broncos . January 12, 2013 . January 12, 2013.
  153. News: Klis, Mike . NFL approves Broncos' switch back to orange uniforms . The Denver Post . October 3, 2011 . October 3, 2011.
  154. News: Legwold, Jeff . Broncos, all other NFL teams get new uniforms for 2012 . The Denver Post . April 4, 2012 . April 4, 2012.
  155. News: Rice, Mike . Eddie Mac is Back . Denver Broncos . July 31, 2012 . July 31, 2012.
  156. News: Zaas, Stuart . Broncos Set Single-Season Home Attendance Record . Denver Broncos . January 4, 2013 . January 4, 2013.

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