Week 14

Indianapolis Colts 28, Denver Broncos 16

Once again, Peyton Manning and the Colts got the best of the Broncos. After falling behind 21-0, the Broncos fought their hearts out and almost pulled off the improbable comeback. Brandon Marshall broke the single-game reception record and the Broncos defense forced three interceptions by Peyton Manning. But in the end, the Colts proved to be too much, and beat the Broncos, 28-16. Here are a few observations from todays game:

There is no quit in the Broncos.

Early in the game, the Broncos looked to be in big trouble. They couldn't move the ball on offense and Manning was having his way with the defense, as the Colts jumped out to a 21-0 lead. But, unlike some of the play-off butt-whoopings that the Colts have handed the Broncos in recent years, this time the Broncos never quit. Even though they lost the game, the Broncos showed a lot of heart and in my opinion, out-played the Colts. After falling behind early, they controlled the final 38 minutes and finished the game with more yards and time of possession than the Colts. You can question a lot of things about the Broncos performance today, but you can't question their effort. Clearly, they have the will to win, now they just need to find the way.

Short yardage woes continue.

There are so many things about Josh McDaniels offense that make sense. Control the ball, minimize the mistakes and take what the defense gives you. But, why he insists on calling conservative and predictable running plays in obvious running situations is beyond me. Time and time again today, the Broncos faced third or fourth and short and ran the ball straight up the gut for no gain. For all of the success that the Broncos running game has had this season, they have struggled to get one or two yards when they need it. It's one thing to be committed to the run, but when you are trailing by double-digits and can't get any push from the O-line, you've got to take some chances.

Mr Bowlen, it's time to pay Brandon Marshall.

Never before have I seen a wide receiver carry an offense the way Brandon Marshall carried the Broncos today. Marshall had a record-breaking 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns. Amazing numbers, when you consider that Kyle Orton only completed 29 passes for 277 yards for the game. Even before the season began, I felt Marshall deserved to get paid. He is the Broncos best offensive player and has been one of the most productive receivers in the league for the last three seasons. He was a fourth-round draft pick, and has played his rookie contract into it's final year. I understand why the Broncos were hesitant to throw money at him early in the season. But now, if they're not careful, they are at risk of losing him and getting nothing in return. After today's record breaking performance, if I were Pat Bowlen, I would be waiting in the locker room after the game, standing right next to Marshall's locker, sporting a number 15 jersey with a blank check in my hand. It's time to give "the beast" the pay-day he deserves, before someone else does.

Bottom line: The way the Broncos responded to adversity today was a very good sign moving forward. I have no doubt that with a few adjustments and a few breaks, this Broncos team could beat the Colts if they were to meet in the play-offs. The defense is playing top-notch football. If the offense can just realize it's potential, the sky is the limit for this team.

--- SONNY PLATT.